A cover letter structure that works
Opening, evidence, motivation and close: four short paragraphs a hiring manager will actually read, with an example for each.
Keep it to one page
A cover letter is not a second CV. It is a short argument for why you fit this role at this company. Aim for 250 to 400 words in four paragraphs, addressed to a named person if you can find one.
1. Opening: the role and your fit
Say which role you are applying for, where you saw it, and the one thing that makes you a strong fit.
Example: "I am applying for the Graduate Trainee Officer role advertised on your careers page. I recently completed a BBA in finance and spent eight weeks in a branch internship, where I learned how much accuracy and customer care matter in banking."
2. Evidence: two examples with results
Pick two requirements from the advert and prove each one with a short example.
- What the situation was.
- What you did.
- What happened, with a number if you have one.
Example: "During my internship I helped the operations team clear a backlog of account opening forms, checking around 40 files a day against the branch checklist."
3. Motivation: why this company
Show that you know something specific about the employer: a product, a programme, a value or a recent project. Avoid lines that could be sent to any company.
4. Close: availability and a clear next step
Say when you can start, thank them, and invite the next step: "I would welcome the chance to discuss how I can contribute. I am available to start immediately."
Common mistakes
- Repeating your CV line by line.
- Starting with "My name is".
- Using the same letter for every job.
- Writing more about what you want than about what you offer.
- Sending it with the wrong company name. Always check before you send.
The CVfor99 cover letter builder walks you through these four paragraphs with example lines for each, and can match your CV's design.