The best way to learn cover letter writing is to see good examples. Below are seven short letters for different situations. Each one is specific, evidence-based and under 300 words. Adapt the structure, but always replace the details with your own โ or use our cover letter generator to create a first draft.
1. Fresh graduate
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am applying for the Graduate Analyst role at Northfield Consulting. I recently graduated with a first-class degree in Economics, and during a three-month internship at a retail bank I built an Excel model that tracked branch performance across 40 locations โ the model is still used by the regional team.
Your programme's focus on public-sector projects appeals to me because my dissertation examined transport funding in mid-sized cities. I would bring strong analytical skills, clear writing and a willingness to learn quickly.
Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss it further.
Kind regards, Zara Hussain
Why it works: concrete proof (the Excel model), a genuine link to the employer, and a confident but modest tone.
2. Experienced professional
Dear Mr Patel,
I am writing to apply for the Senior Accountant position. In my current role at Delta Logistics I lead month-end close for five entities and recently reduced the close timetable from ten to six working days by standardising reconciliations in SAP.
Your advert mentions preparing for a group audit and IFRS 16 reporting โ I managed both during our 2025 audit, which closed with no material adjustments.
I would value the chance to bring the same discipline to your finance team.
Yours sincerely, Daniel Okafor
3. Career changer
Dear Ms Rahman,
After eight years as a secondary teacher, I am moving into corporate learning and development, and your L&D Coordinator role is an ideal fit. I design and deliver engaging sessions for groups of 30 every day, and last year I created a digital-skills training programme for 45 colleagues that is now part of our staff induction.
To prepare for this move I completed CIPD Level 3 in Learning and Development. I am excited by your plan to launch a leadership academy and would love to help build it.
Kind regards, Imran Ali
4. Internal promotion
Dear Sarah,
I would like to be considered for the Customer Service Team Leader position. Over the past three years in the team I have trained eight new advisers, covered as acting supervisor during peak periods, and consistently achieved quality scores above 92%.
I know our processes and people well, and I have ideas for reducing repeat contacts that I would be glad to discuss.
Thank you, Ahmed
Put this into practice
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5. Internship application
Dear Hiring Team,
I am a second-year Business student applying for your Summer Marketing Internship. As social media lead for our university's entrepreneurship society, I grew our Instagram audience from 400 to 3,000 followers in one year and planned content for five events.
I admire how your brand uses short-form video to explain sustainable products, and I would love to learn from your team while contributing fresh ideas.
Best regards, Hina Javed
6. Email application (short)
Subject: Application โ Warehouse Supervisor โ Omar Sheikh
Dear Hiring Manager,
Please find attached my CV for the Warehouse Supervisor role advertised on LinkedIn. I have six years of warehouse experience, including two years supervising a team of 15 and maintaining 99.7% picking accuracy.
I am available to start with one month's notice and would welcome a conversation.
Kind regards, Omar Sheikh ยท +971 50 000 0000
7. Returning to work after a break
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am applying for the Office Administrator role. Before a two-year career break to care for my family, I spent five years supporting a 20-person sales office โ managing diaries, travel, supplier invoices and CRM updates.
During my break I completed the Microsoft 365 Fundamentals certification and volunteered as treasurer for a local school association. I am now ready to return full-time and would bring reliability, organisation and a calm, friendly approach.
Kind regards, Maria Fernandes
See also: how to explain employment gaps.
What all good cover letters have in common
- They name the exact job and company.
- They include at least one specific, measurable achievement.
- They show why this employer โ not just any employer.
- They are short: three or four paragraphs.
- They end with a polite, confident call to action.
Read the full cover letter guide for structure and opening lines.
Frequently asked questions
Can I copy these cover letter examples?+
Use them as models for structure and tone, but write your own details. Copied letters are easy for recruiters to spot.
Should I write "Dear Sir or Madam"?+
It is outdated. Use the hiring manager's name if you can find it, otherwise "Dear Hiring Manager".
BuildCVFast Editorial Team
This guide is written and reviewed by the BuildCVFast editorial team using current hiring practices, published employer guidance and official government sources where relevant. We update our guides regularly. Read our editorial policy or send us a correction.