generic cover letter template word

Land the job with cover letter templates

Show hiring managers why you're the perfect job candidate with professional, customizable cover letter templates. find the perfect cover letter template for any industry or career path..

Download free cover letter templates

Stand out from other job applicants with free, professional cover letter templates. Cover letters are a perfect complement to your resume and provide an effective opportunity to show your personality and enthusiasm for a position. Focus on writing a compelling cover letter and let a professionally designed template do the rest.

These free cover letter templates are perfect for any stage of your career, whether you're looking to land an internship or your dream job. If you're applying for a corporate position, you may want to opt for a simple cover letter template. There are a variety of other cover letter designs available, from basic cover letter templates to creative cover letter templates.

Each of these cover letter templates is customizable in Word , so you can add your own text, change design elements, and more. Print out your cover letter or download it for free to use for online job applications. Once you've customized the perfect cover letter, explore resume templates that will match your cover letter design, or download free business cards for your next networking event.

Cover Letter Template

While a resume provides details to show you CAN do the work, a cover letter shows you WANT to do the work. Cover letters are used to introduce you to the prospective employer, highlight the most important details about you, and if well written, entice the reader to seriously review your resume. Continue reading below to learn how to write a cover letter, see examples of cover letters and to download a free cover letter template .

Resume Cover Letter Template

Other Versions

Description.

Looking for a change in employment? Use this free resume cover letter template to help you get started. Looking for help on Resumes? Check out our tips and templates for resumes .

Author : Brent Weight and Jon Wittwer

License : Limited Use

Cover Letter Objectives

Before writing a cover letter, make sure you have a clear understanding of the goals or objectives for the letter. These objectives include:

• Introduce yourself and your resume
• Explain your experience in more detail by providing pertinent stories or experiences
• Provide a sample of your written communication
• Hook the reader so they will want to read your resume

Personalize Your Cover Letter

Cover letters should be personalized as much as possible. Never send out the same cover letter twice. It may require you to do some research and to reach out to your network to make connections and introductions. Here are some things to include.

• Make sure you tailor your letter to a specific individual and greet them by name.
• If you don't have a name, then consider skipping the generic salutation.
• Try to include details specific to the company or the position.
• Provide a reference about how you heard about the job. This may include the date of the newspaper post or the online job reference number.
• If you have had prior contact with the recipient, remind them of it in the introduction.
• Be sure to mention any third parties that are recommending you or referring you for the position.
• Consider listing the job you are applying for in a subject line.

The main body of the cover letter should have appropriate content. Don't use it to simply recreate your resume. Pick 3 or 4 key traits, skills or attributes you really want to highlight and focus on those. Consider picking traits that may be most appropriate based on the job listing. Use experiences, stories and results to demonstrate your use or possession of the traits or attributes.

Make sure you end with a strong closing that is short and to the point. The time for details and stories has passed. Consider inviting them to read your resume and include a request for a response or an interview. You may decide to keep the ball in your court and simply inform them you will follow up with a phone call. And be considerate and thank them for their time.

Additional Cover Letter Writing Tips

• Use a formal business letter structure - You are writing a letter, not a memo or email. Use a formal business letter template .
• Avoid bad grammar and spelling. - Poorly written and edited letters can kill your chances before they even look at your resume. Consider hiring a professional to edit your cover letter.
• Don't sound desperate - Avoid sounding desperate by avoiding phrases such as "I really need this job" or "I hope you pick me".
• Use formatting wisely - Use formatting such as bullets, italics, bold and font changes to draw attention to key items and to increase readability.
• Avoid anything negative - Honesty about issues or special circumstances you face is important, but you don't have to mention it in your cover letter. Use interviews to provide these details.
• Keep it short - Your letter should highlight and demonstrate, not bore and wander. Keep to the main points and be succinct.
• Don't mess up in the delivery - Make sure your letter looks correct when printed. Consider using nicer paper for actual letters. When sending electronically, send it as a PDF since almost everyone has software to read a PDF file.
• Avoid uncommon language - Avoid terms that are specific to past employers and not used my most people. This would include acronyms and company jargon.

Use AI To Help Write a Resume Cover Letter

There are multiple generative AI tools that can help you come up with a draft for a letter. For example, using the Bing AI Chat or ChatGPT, you could use some of these prompts:

• Create a cover letter for this job posting. [Paste job listing here]
• Create a cover letter for a job as a tie fighter pilot in the empire.

BONUS! If you have a ChatGPT Plus account, check out our Letter Writing AI .

Sample Cover Letters

Sample cover letter for recent graduate.

Bill Stevenson 123 Anywhere Street Somewhereville, Best State 88889

Mr. Ryan Francom IT Manager XYZ Aviation Company 456 Somewhere Road Best Town, Best State 88888

Dear Mr. Francom,

In May, I will graduate from Tech University with a Master's of Science in Aeronautical Engineering. I am seeking to pursue my life long goal of becoming an aeronautical engineer for a world-class aviation company. Let me briefly highlight the skills, values and passion I will bring to XYZ Aviation Company.

• Lifelong passion for all things aeronautical including receiving my pilot's license at the age of 15.
• Solid understanding of aeronautical design processes and procedures gained at ABC Corp as a Level 1 engineer.
• Ability to work with others on interdisciplinary design teams in order to meet goals and complete projects on time.
• An aptitude for defining problems and identifying creative solutions while building consensus between all affected parties.
• A hardworking and self-directed work ethic with a dedication to detail.

An interview to further review your needs and my skills would be mutually beneficial. Next week I will contact you to schedule an interview. I look forward to talking to you soon.

Bill Stevenson

Example Cover Letter

Nancy Thompson 123 Anywhere Street Somewhereville, Best State 88889

Ms. Emily Smith HR Manager XYZ Company 456 Somewhere Road Best Town, Best State 88888

Dear Ms. Smith,

Bob Jones, your IT director, suggested that I contact you regarding the recently listed Sales Director position. I would love to be an integral part of your leadership team and contribute my proven management skills, efficiency and productivity to your corporate goals.

Highlights of my 20 year career include

• Over 10 years of experience managing direct sales staff with 20 years of marketing and sales experience.
• Creation and implementation of a direct sales program with annual sales reaching $50 million in less than 4 years.
• Deadlines met on time and in budget with a willingness to work with others to accomplish corporate tasks.
• Led the successful acquisition and merger of ACME Companies catalog sales division with ABC Companies sales division.

I am confident my qualifications will allow me to add significant value to your company as the Sales Director. I will call you directly to schedule an appropriate time for us to speak about the challenges and opportunities your company faces and how I can contribute to your company's future growth and success. Thank you in advance for your time.

Nancy Thompson

More Resume Cover Letter Templates

There are some sample cover letters in the Microsoft Office template gallery, under the category Letters . You can also find templates by opening Microsoft Word, going to File > New, and searching for "resume cover letter." Below are examples of some of the letters you can find this way:

• Resume Cover Letter to Use When Referred by a Colleague
• Cover Letter for an Entry-Level Resume
• Cover Letter in Response to Advertisement
• ... for a Temporary Position
• ... Announcing Your Job Search
• ... for a Functional Resume
• ... with Salary Requirements
• ... for Unsolicited Resume

Additional Resources

Below are some additional resources to help you write a great cover letter for your resume. They contain additional writing guidelines and tips.

• What is a Cover Letter? at purdue.edu - A down-and-dirty guide to writing cover letters.
• 6 Secrets to Writing a Great Cover Letter at forbes.com - Some extra tips
• Cover Letter Tips (PDF) at michigan.gov - Basic cover letter structure and tips with additional examples.
• Cover Letter Writing at northwestern.edu

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18 Free Cover Letter Templates That Will Actually Get You Interviews

Simple Cover Letter

Creative Cover Letter

Professional Cover Letter

Jobscan’s cover letter templates are clean and professional . We intentionally avoided using flashy colors and design elements when creating them. Why?

Because most companies nowadays use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen resumes and cover letters. These systems can struggle to read and interpret visually complex documents.

This means your beautifully designed, eye-catching cover letter might remain stuck in an ATS database, never to be seen by an actual human being.

By using one of our simple, easy-to-read templates, you’ll significantly improve the chances that your cover letter will successfully pass through an ATS and into the hands of a hiring manager.

It’s super easy to get started too! Simply click the download button to get your hands on a Word document that you can customize to fit your unique situation.

When you’re done writing your cover letter, run it through Jobscan’s ATS-friendly cover letter checker to get personalized feedback on how to improve your letter and make it even more compelling to employers.

Basic Cover Letter

Formal Cover Letter

Career Change Cover Letter

Operations Manager Cover Letter

Pharmacy Technician Cover Letter

Project Management Cover Letter

Prospecting Cover Letter

Engineer Cover Letter

Supervisor Cover Letter

Human Resources Cover Letter

Intern Cover Letter

Marketing Cover Letter

Networking Cover Letter

Communications Cover Letter

Changing Careers Cover Letter

What is a cover letter?

It’s a letter of introduction that you send along with your resume when you apply for a job.

The key thing to remember about your cover letter is that it shouldn’t simply regurgitate your resume. Instead, it should support it.

Your cover letter can do this by:

• Explaining why you’re excited about the job opportunity.
• Showing how your skills and experience match the job requirements.
• Addressing any gaps in your work history.
• Showing off your personality (but not too much!).

By highlighting your strengths and showing your passion for the role and the company, your cover letter can make a strong case for why you deserve an interview.

NOTE : Get inspired by our expertly crafted cover letter examples and learn what makes each one shine. Our examples cover a wide range of jobs, industries, and situations, providing the guidance you need to create a winning cover letter.

Are cover letters necessary in 2023?

While some companies may not require one, a cover letter can still set you apart from other applicants and increase your chances of landing an interview.

In one survey , 83 percent of hiring managers said cover letters played an important role in their hiring decision.

In fact, most of the respondents in that survey claimed that a great cover letter might get you an interview even if your resume isn’t strong enough.

So don’t skip the cover letter ! When done correctly, it can be a powerful tool in your job search toolkit.

Why should you use a cover letter template?

Here are the 5 main reasons why you should use a cover letter template .

• It saves you time by creating personalized letters quickly and easily.
• It provides a framework or structure for your cover letter.
• It ensures that all the necessary information is included.
• It makes it easy to customize your cover letters for multiple applications.
• It helps you create a professional and polished cover letter without starting from scratch.

A template helps you streamline the cover letter writing process. This means you can devote more time and energy to other important aspects of your job search, such as networking and researching potential employers.

Generate a personalized cover letter in as little as 5 seconds

Our AI-powered cover letter generator uses GPT-4 technology to create a personalized and ATS-friendly cover letter in one click.

What should you include in your cover letter?

Every cover letter format should include the following information:

Contact information : Your name, address, phone number, and email address should be at the top of the letter.

Greetings : Address the letter to the hiring manager or the person who will be reviewing your application.

Opening paragraph : State the position you’re applying for and explain how you found out about the job. You can also briefly mention why you’re interested in the position and the company.

Body paragraphs : Use one or two paragraphs to highlight your relevant skills, experience, and qualifications that match the job requirements. Provide specific examples of your accomplishments and how they show off your abilities.

Closing paragraph : Repeat your interest in the position and thank the hiring manager for considering your application. You can also include a sentence or two about why you believe you’d be a good fit for the company culture.

Closing : Conclude your cover letter with a professional sign-off, such as “Best regards,” or “Sincerely”.

Do you need a unique cover letter for every job?

Absolutely! Do NOT use the exact same cover letter and simply change the name of the company and the position.

Instead, tailor each cover letter to the position you’re applying for.

You can do this by highlighting how your skills and experience match the specific requirements and responsibilities of the position.

It’s crucial to include the keywords that are in the job posting.

Why? Because your application will most likely go straight into an ATS database. Hiring managers search through this database for suitable job candidates by typing keywords into the search bar.

If your cover letter includes these keywords , it will be seen by the hiring manager. If it doesn’t include these keywords, your cover letter will remain in the database.

Not sure if your cover letter is ATS-friendly? Try running it through Jobscan’s cover letter checker .

This easy-to-use tool analyzes your cover letter and compares it to the job listing. It then identifies the key skills and qualifications that you should focus on in your letter.

How to write a cover letter if you have no work experience

If you don’t have much work experience, writing a strong cover letter can be challenging. But you can still do it!

Here are some tips to help you out:

Hook the reader right away . Introduce yourself and explain why you are interested in the position. If possible, mention a specific aspect of the company or role that especially appeals to you.

Highlight your relevant skills and experience . Focus on the skills you’ve gained through school projects, internships, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities. Be sure to provide specific examples .

Showcase your enthusiasm and willingness to learn . Employers look for candidates who are eager to learn and grow. Use your cover letter to convey your enthusiasm for the role and your willingness to take on new challenges.

Close with a strong call to action . End your cover letter by requesting an interview or expressing your interest in discussing the position further.

Proofread your cover letter carefully and customize it for each position you apply for.

Cover letter do’s and don’ts

• Address the letter to a specific person or hiring manager, if possible.
• Include your contact information at the top of the document.
• Tailor your letter to the company and position you’re applying for.
• Use keywords from the job description.
• Highlight your relevant skills and experiences.
• Use specific, measurable results to demonstrate your abilities.
• Try to inject some of your personality into the cover letter.
• Proofread your letter carefully for errors.
• Run your cover letter through Jobscan’s cover letter checker .
• Use a generic greeting, such as “ To Whom It May Concern .”
• Use a one-size-fits-all cover letter for all your job applications.
• Simply repeat your resume in your cover letter.
• Use overly casual or informal language.
• Write a long and rambling cover letter.
• Use jargon or technical terms that the hiring manager may not understand.
• Include irrelevant information or details.
• Send a cover letter with spelling or grammatical errors.

Q: How long should a cover letter be?

Most cover letters are too long. The ideal length is around 250-400 words. Hiring managers probably won’t read anything longer.

Q: Should I use a PDF or a Word cover letter template?

Either one should be fine. Some older ATS might not accept PDFs, but this is rare these days. Always check the job listing. If it says to submit a Word resume, then do that. Otherwise, a PDF resume works just as well.

Q: Can I email my cover letter instead of sending a cover letter?

Yes, you can email your cover letter instead of sending a physical copy through the mail. In fact, many employers now prefer to receive cover letters and resumes via email or through an online application system.

Explore more cover letter resources

Cover Letter Formats

Cover Letter Tips

Cover Letter Examples

Cover Letter Writing Guide

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Free Cover Letter Templates for Microsoft Word

• Microsoft Word Cover Letter Templates
• Access Letters From Your Computer

Access Templates Online

• Create a Customized Cover Letter

Tips for Writing an Interview-Winning Cover Letter

• More Free Templates

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A good cover letter can mean the difference between catching the hiring manager’s attention and languishing in job search limbo. But many job seekers find it hard to stare down that blank page. How do you summarize your most important qualifications in a way that makes it clear that you’re the best candidate for the job? Cover letter templates can help.

A cover letter template provides a "fill-in the-blank" format. You can use it to create your own letter to send with your resume when you apply for a job.

Using a template saves you a few steps and helps you structure your letter in a professional way.

Free Microsoft cover letter templates are available online from Microsoft Office Online, as a download for Microsoft Word users, or are available within your Word program.

Note that not all templates may work with all versions of Word, so check before you download. There will be a message next to the download button advising if there are restrictions.

Not a Microsoft user? Google Docs also has  free template samples  available for letters and resumes. Using any of these templates can help you to feel confident that you are properly writing and  formatting your cover letter .

Free Microsoft Word Cover Letter Templates

There are a variety of templates available for Microsoft Word. Template options include  general cover letters  and both job- and career-specific cover letter samples. For example, there are cover letter templates for professionals, temporary workers, and candidates who are sending in their resumes unsolicited.

Microsoft Word also offers a variety of different cover letter template designs, with resume templates to match. Note that if you choose one of these fancier template designs, you’ll want to choose a resume template to match.

Be consistent in your application materials, whether it’s matching your cover letter to your resume or choosing a font or format. That way, hiring managers can focus on your work experience—not your stylistic choices.

Access Cover Letters From Your Computer

Open Microsoft Word, then click on:

Then, search for online templates by typing your keywords (e.g., “cover letter”) in the field provided. You can also click on the "Resumes and Cover Letters" category to get more options. Review the available options and choose the design you like best.

If you don’t own a copy of Microsoft Office or a subscription to Microsoft 365, you can still access  cover letter templates . These templates are free and editable online.

Visit the  Microsoft Cover Letter Templates  website, browse the cover letter templates, then click on the title to preview the sample. You'll need to sign up for a free account to edit the document.

Once you find a template you like, click Edit In Browser, then follow the instructions to customize and save your cover letter. There are also sets, which include matching resumes and cover letters, available to use.

Use the Template to Create a Customized Cover Letter

Once you have downloaded or opened  a cover letter template file , type over the text in the file to create your own  personalized cover letter .

The template will include all the relevant information that you need to include in your document. Simply change the generic version to include your personal and professional information.

It's a good idea to include additional details about your qualifications and experience. Take the time to  match your qualifications to the job description . Include  keywords related to your skills and achievements.

To  customize your cover letter  further, look for a contact person at the company, ideally the hiring manager or HR contact, and address the letter to this person. If you have an employee contact at the company who is willing to refer you, be sure to mention them in the first paragraph of your cover letter. Employee referrals carry a lot of weight with hiring managers.

Double-check to make sure there is none of the template information left in your final saved version. Finally, carefully proofread for grammar and typographical errors before saving and sending your cover letter.

To avoid sending a blank template or the wrong version of your cover letter,  choose a file name  that’s easy to remember. It should always include your name and may also contain the name of the position for which you’re applying. 

Avoid version numbers and cutesy nicknames when choosing a file name for your resume.

• Send one.  Even when an employer does not directly ask for one, be sure  always to send a cover letter . The only time you don’t want to send one is when the job listing says not to.
• Review examples . Review cover letter examples and tips for how to write a cover letter , so yours makes the best impression.
• Customize each letter.  It might seem tedious, be it is important to  customize each cover letter  to fit the specific job you are applying for. It will make your letter stand out.
• Highlight relevant qualifications.  In your cover letter, address one or two skills or qualifications that you have that match the job description. Provide a specific example of a time you demonstrated each of these qualifications. These examples will make your cover letter different from your resume, which is important.
• Explain any potential issues.  You can use your cover letter to go into detail about something in your resume that needs explaining. For example, a cover letter is a good place to talk about a  career shift  or  explain an extended gap in employment .
• Carefully edit your letter.  Be sure to edit each cover letter before sending it thoroughly. Consider asking a friend or family member, or a  career counselor , to read over your cover letter.

More Templates for Resumes and Letters

Microsoft letter templates are available as a free download for Microsoft Word users or are available within your Word program, to use to create a variety of letters. There are letter templates for cover letters,  resignation letters ,  reference letters , thank you letters, interview letters, and a variety of business letters.

Additionally,  Microsoft resume templates  are available as a free download for Microsoft Word users to use to create a resume. Microsoft Word resume options include basic resumes, job-specific resumes, and career-specific resumes.

Microsoft Word Cover Letter Templates

Choosing Teal for Your Cover Letter

Choose any cover letter template from above.

Once you get into Teal, your selected template will be applied to both your resume and cover letter for consistency.

Go to the Cover Letter Generator tool

Start writing your cover letter to quickly preview your presentation. Do this in seconds with our AI writing tools.

Customize your cover letter with Design Mode

Design Mode offers dozens of customization options that give you ultimate control over the look, feel, and overall presentation of your cover letters. ‍ Font sizes, colors, margins & spacing, alignment, date formatting, and many other features to explore.

Cover Letter Templates by Job

Explore our cover letter example library, find letters for different job titles, specializations, industries, and more.

Administrative Assistant

Software Engineer

Graphic Designer

Go Beyond a Basic Word Formatting for Your Cover Letters

While Microsoft Word offers familiar tools, Teal's Design Mode provides a comprehensive suite of features specifically crafted for job seekers. Easily customize layouts, fonts, and styles to create a polished, professional presentation that aligns perfectly with your resume and personal brand. With Teal, you're not just formatting a document – you're designing a powerful tool to land your dream job.

• Color Patterns
• Section Order
• Line Heights
• Text Transformations

Pros and Cons of Using Microsoft Word for Your Cover Letters

Microsoft Word cover letter templates have long been a go-to resource for job seekers looking for a quick and familiar solution. These templates offer a basic structure and are widely accessible, making them a popular choice for many. However, as the job market becomes increasingly competitive, it's crucial to consider whether Word templates truly give you the edge you need in your application.

Pros of Microsoft Word Templates:

• Familiar interface for many users
• Wide availability of free and paid templates
• Basic formatting options
• Easy to share and print

Cons of Microsoft Word Templates:

• Limited design flexibility
• Potential compatibility issues across different versions of Word
• Lack of integrated job search features
• No built-in guidance for cover letter best practices
• Risk of using overly common templates that don't stand out

Limitations of Microsoft Word for Cover Letters

When using Microsoft Word for your cover letters, be aware of these potential drawbacks:

• Generic Designs : Many Word templates are overused, making it challenging to create a unique and memorable application.
• Limited Customization : While Word offers basic formatting, it lacks the advanced design features needed to create truly standout cover letters.
• Time-Consuming Edits : Adjusting layouts and ensuring consistency across documents can be tedious and prone to errors.
• No ATS Optimization : Word doesn't offer built-in features to optimize your cover letter for Applicant Tracking Systems.
• Isolated from Your Job Search : Unlike specialized tools, Word doesn't integrate with job search platforms or offer features to tailor your letter efficiently.

Elevating Your Cover Letter Beyond Microsoft Word

To create a truly impactful cover letter that gives you a competitive edge, consider these strategies:

• Use Job-Specific Tools : Platforms like Teal offer templates and features designed specifically for modern job seekers.
• Leverage Advanced Design Options : Go beyond basic formatting with tools that allow for comprehensive visual customization.
• Ensure ATS Compatibility : Opt for platforms that offer ATS-friendly templates and optimization tips.
• Integrate with Your Job Search : Choose tools that connect your cover letter creation with job tracking and application management.
• Get Expert Guidance : Utilize platforms that provide real-time tips and best practices for crafting effective cover letters.

While Microsoft Word can be a starting point, tools like Teal offer significant advantages in creating standout cover letters that align with current hiring practices and technology.

Create Your Cover Letter with Teal

Frequently asked questions, are microsoft word cover letter templates effective for job applications.

Word templates can be a quick starting point, but they often lack the professional polish and customization options of specialized job application tools. For a more impactful application, consider using platforms like Teal that offer advanced design features, ATS optimization, and job-specific guidance.

How can I make my Microsoft Word cover letter stand out?

While Word offers basic formatting, creating a truly unique cover letter can be challenging. For a standout application, consider using Teal's advanced Design Mode, which provides extensive customization options, professional templates, and ATS-friendly formatting to help your cover letter make a lasting impression.

Can I use the same Word cover letter template for multiple job applications?

While you can use the same basic structure, it's crucial to tailor each cover letter to the specific job. Teal offers efficient customization tools and job-specific insights to help you quickly adapt your cover letter for each application, saving time while maintaining a personalized approach.

How do I ensure my cover letter is ATS-friendly when using Microsoft Word?

Microsoft Word doesn't offer built-in ATS optimization features. For better results, consider using Teal's platform, which provides ATS-friendly templates and real-time guidance to ensure your cover letter passes through applicant tracking systems successfully.

Streamline Your Job Applications with the Cover Letter Generator

Generate highly personalized cover letters in seconds. Accelerate your job application process and save yourself hours.

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Top Google Docs Cover Letter Templates for 2024

Praburam Srinivasan

Growth Marketing Manager

August 8, 2024

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Believe it or not, a whopping 77% of recruiters lean toward candidates who send a cover letter—even when it’s optional!

Cover letters are an opportunity to share your motivations, professional goals for work , achievements, and glimpses into your personality with hiring managers.

However, writing a compelling cover letter from scratch can be daunting, especially if you’re unsure where to start. Worry not! We’ve got the perfect solution: cover letter templates!

Tools like Google Docs offer a range of free and highly customizable cover letter templates that make the process easier and more efficient. 

In this blog, we’ll take you through the best Google Docs cover letter templates.

What Makes a Good Cover Letter Template?

Free cover letter templates in google docs, how to write an effective cover letter, tips to remember while writing your cover letter, manage your job search with clickup , get your dream job with clickup.

A good cover letter template helps you create an engaging and professional cover letter introducing yourself and your career path. To do this, it must have:

• A professional design : Go for a template with a clean, uncluttered design that helps you present information clearly. It should have a uniform font, margins, and spacing
• Customization options: Ensure that the template, whether it is a career map template or cover letter template, lets you customize the text, fonts, and colors to match your personal style and job requirements
• A clear structure : Make sure the template has a clear structure, including a header section for your details, a short introduction, a body, and a conclusion
• High accessibility : Choose an easy-to-use template. It should be available in widely used formats (e.g., .docx, .pdf) and be compatible with most popular word-processing software
• A positive tone : Pick a template with a positive, confident, and professional tone to engage recruiters and reflect your enthusiasm

Here are the top free cover letter templates in Google Docs:

1. Google Docs Cover Letter for Resume Template

The Cover Letter for Resume Template is a free cover letter template in Google Docs. Its clear, unfussy structure presents information clearly to readers. It has a dedicated space to add your personal details, such as phone number, email ID, and address. 

You can use this simple template to highlight your experience and skills and explain why you are well-suited to the role you’re applying for. Also, clearly mention why the role attracts you. 

The template is highly customizable. so you can change the formatting, colors, and fonts. It is compatible with Google Slides, Microsoft PowerPoint, and MacOS Keynote. 

2. Google Docs Basic Cover Letter Template

This professional cover letter template offers a clean and elegant design that ensures your cover letter stands out. 

The body of the template contains content that expresses interest in the position and details previous roles and achievements. You can also highlight your career journey with achievements and specific metrics.

There’s a dedicated section to describe why you are drawn to the company. The last lines reference an attached resume, a thank-you note, and your enthusiasm for the role. 

This pre-designed document is easily editable in Google Docs and has a clear structure that ensures readability and professionalism. It is perfect for job seekers looking to make a lasting impression. 

3. Google Docs Job Application Cover Letter Template

This free cover letter template in Google Docs has a user-friendly layout and a sleek design. The best part? It gives you tips on making your cover letter sound more professional so you attract the recruiters’ attention. The tips include proofreading, using a simple font, dividing it into short paragraphs, and organizing the information well. 

It also highlights the importance of not repeating information in your resume and tailoring the letter to each employer. If you believe in making the maximum impact with a few words, the Job Application Cover Letter Template is ideal. 

💡 Pro Tip: Use ClickUp Templates to create the perfect cover letter and resume. ClickUp offers 1,000+ templates in varying degrees of complexity (beginner, intermediate, and advanced), types, and use cases. You can also easily create new templates to meet your needs. 

4. Google Docs Internship Cover Letter Template

Looking for an internship? We have something for you! The Google Docs Internship Cover Letter Template emphasizes your skills, eagerness, academic status, and long-term goals to impress recruiters. 

You can share your interest in the internship with a specific company by highlighting the unique services, reviews, and reputation that drew you to the role. You can also express your career goals and how the internship aligns with these objectives.  

Getting an internship while studying is no easy task, but this template makes the process more efficient and easier. 

Designed to address the common student challenge of limited work experience, this professionally formatted template provides the perfect platform to showcase entry-level skills and aspirations. 

5. Google Docs Professional Cover Letter Template

This is another free option in the Google Docs Template gallery. Unlike other templates on the list, this one uses gray, black, and brown colors to highlight important information. You can include your contact information on the right side, while the hiring manager’s information is right under your name. 

The clean layout helps separate information and makes the letter visually appealing. Edit the template to include information about your previous job roles, reasons for making a career change , skills, achievements, educational qualifications, and reasons for applying for this job. 

Bonus: Applying for a project manager role? Check out our list of project manager resume templates . 

There’s no denying the power of templates. They shorten the work of drafting a cover letter from scratch and are incredibly convenient and effective. However, you still need to know the essential elements of a cover letter to use these templates effectively. 

A cover letter is usually a recruiter’s first impression of you. Therefore, you want to ensure that it accurately depicts your motivations, skills, and interests. 

Here’s how you can write an effective cover letter: 

Research, research, research

Before you start writing the cover letter, conduct thorough research. Visit the company’s website to learn about its mission, values, products, and services. Read recent news articles or press releases about the company to stay updated. 

Carefully read the job posting to understand the required qualifications and responsibilities and highlight the skills the role demands. For example, if the job requires proficiency in Python and project management, emphasize your experience with coding languages like Python and managing projects in your cover letter.

Choose the right template

Next, choose a template suitable for the industry and job role. For example, if you’re applying for a role as a graphic designer, choose a unique and innovative design for your cover letter that highlights your creativity. 

Ensure the template:

• Presents information in a professional and clear structure 
• Matches your resume in terms of font style, font size, and color scheme for a cohesive look
• Allows for easy customization
• Is easy to read, with enough white space, appropriate margins, and a legible font size

List your name and contact information

At the top of your cover letter, mention your name and contact information. Add details like: 

• Full name in a larger, bold font
• Professional title underneath your name
• Your current address
• A professional email address
• Your phone number
• Your city and state/country
• Link to website, LinkedIn profile, or portfolio

Include the recipient’s name

Instead of using “Dear Sir/Madam,” address the cover letter directly to the hiring manager. You can find their name by going to the job posting or by searching the company’s LinkedIn page. Addressing a specific person shows that you’ve done your homework. 

However, if you cannot find the name, address the letter to the company or the department.

Make the introduction interesting

Hiring managers receive hundreds of cover letters. They don’t have enough time to read each one. Therefore, your introduction, the first paragraph of your cover letter, should be catchy, relevant, and memorable. It should express enthusiasm for the role. 

Include the following:

• The position you’re applying for
• Your past accomplishments relevant to the role
• Why do you want this role
• What makes you stand out from other candidates

You can also include a personal connection to the company or a referral, if available. 

Include all the details 

The main body of your cover letter should include everything that makes you a qualified candidate for the role. When writing a job proposal or cover letter, take hints from the job posting. Highlight your skills and achievements that are relevant to the job role. 

Explain how you are a great fit for the role by describing how your values and work style align with the company culture. The idea is to share what you’ll bring to the table if you join the company.

And as tempting as it might be, don’t list all your previous roles. Instead, focus on the most relevant ones. 

Write a strong conclusion 

It is time to conclude your cover letter. Write a strong conclusion that reiterates your enthusiasm for the position and the company. Politely suggest a follow-up, such as a phone call or interview, to discuss your application further. 

Remember to thank the reader for their time and consideration. Use a professional closing, such as “sincerely” or “best regards.”

You can use AI writing tools to craft perfect cover letters. The best tools help you set the tone of a message, edit it, proofread it, and give suggestions for improvement. 

Here are some tips to remember while writing your cover letter:

Customize your cover letter

While using the same cover letter for all jobs may be convenient, generic applications reduce your chances of getting hired. Always take the time to learn about the company and tailor your letter to specific jobs. 

Quantify your achievements

Numbers can make a bigger impact than words, especially when listing your achievements. Give specific examples in your cover letter. Quantify your achievements with numbers.

For example, “I developed a new customer service protocol that reduced response times by 40% and increased customer satisfaction scores by 15%.”

This will help show the impact of your work on your previous employers or projects.  

Keep it short and professional

A cover letter should be concise and to the point. Hiring managers do not have the time to read long essays. Therefore, aim to use fewer words to make the maximum impact.

An ideal cover letter is no more than a single page and should consist of three to four paragraphs. It should avoid fluff and generic statements.

Ensure your tone is conversational yet professional and respectful throughout. Avoid using slang, overly casual language, or jokes that might be misinterpreted. Use clear and simple language without industry jargon. For example:

❌ ” I am writing to express my keen interest in the Marketing Coordinator position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Job board]. With a strong passion for marketing and a proven track record of success, I am confident in my ability to contribute significantly to your team’s goals.”

✅ “ I am applying for the Marketing Coordinator position at [Company Name] as advertised on [Job board]. Your company’s recent campaign, [Specific campaign], demonstrates a strong understanding of a niche [Target market] and aligns with my work at [Relevant experience].”

Follow instructions

If a job ad asks for something specific in your application, it is crucial to follow it. For example, it may give specific instructions on the file format: “Submit your cover letter in PDF format and include your name and the job title in the file name.”

💡 Pro Tip: Use consistent, descriptive file names like “Doe_John_Resume.pdf” for easy identification. This demonstrates professionalism, impressing potential employers.

The job ad or post may also include specific submission guidelines or content instructions. Read it carefully and follow the requirements. Attention to detail is a skill that is always appreciated. 

Address employment gaps

If there are any gaps in your resume, a cover letter is the perfect place to acknowledge it. This will help you provide more context and reassure potential employers. 

Be honest about the gap, highlight any relevant activities you may have undertaken during the gap, and show readiness to get your career back on track .

Proofread before sending

Lastly, don’t forget to proofread your cover letter before sending it. Look for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. Use Grammarly or an AI tool like ClickUp Brain to do that. Also, ensure that the information in your cover letter matches your resume. 

Read your letter aloud to catch errors or awkward phrasing. 

💡 Pro Tip: Use ClickUp Brain to write and polish your cover letter. It can spot writing, grammar, and spelling issues and offer suggestions on adjusting the tone. It can even help you brainstorm for more creative cover letters. 

Looking for a new job can be an exciting process. However, it can also be exhausting and nerve-wracking. This is where a productivity and project management tool like ClickUp can help. 

ClickUp is a versatile productivity tool that greatly enhances your job-hunting process by keeping you organized, focused, and efficient. From organizing job applications to tracking application deadlines, you can do it all with ClickUp. 

For example, ClickUp’s Calendar View can help you set deadlines for each job application and interview. You can visualize your schedule, coordinate events, track tasks, and sync it with your Calendar app.

ClickUp Reminders ensure you never miss a job application deadline. You can also include attachments and dates. These reminders can be managed from any device, including your desktop and mobile devices. 

Kartikeya Thapliyal, Product Manager at Smallcase, has this to say about ClickUp:

Use of calendars to complete tasks before deadlines is always critical. With ClickUp, this is very easy, as your deadlines are visible on your calendars along with the tasks, so planning your day/week bandwidth is super easy and fast.

Let us look into some of its features:

Advanced documentation

ClickUp Docs can help you create, store, and manage all your documents. Write multiple cover letters, edit them, and track changes using Docs. The font type, size, height, page width, and more are fully customizable. 

Create new cover letter templates to keep multiple options handy, and use the collaboration feature to invite your mentor or friends to refine these docs and give their feedback. 

Smart AI capabilities

We touched on ClickUp Brain before and it truly is a powerful writing assistant for drafting unique and effective cover letters. You can write role-specific content, research topics, refine concepts, conduct grammar checks, and polish language for greater readability. 

Ask ClickUp Brain questions about specific skills or experiences you can highlight to improve your letter. It can also help create custom cover letter templates. You can even use AI for interview preparation . For instance, ask ClickUp Brain to summarize industry developments and analyze competitor actions so you’re fully up-to-date on your prospective employer’s industry. 

💡 Pro Tip: ClickUp Brain can be used directly within Docs to help you write and edit your cover letter. 

Ready-to-use templates

ClickUp’s Job Search Template is a must-have tool for job seekers. It helps you capture job postings from different sources in one place. You can organize the applications, track contacts and conversations with recruiters, and find the right job. It’s the perfect way to put those cover letters into action!

The template helps you:

• Visualize progress using views like priority applications, application stage, company list, etc.
• Set goals for your job search
• Create various application documents to match different roles and companies

Google Docs cover letter templates are a practical and efficient solution for job seekers looking to create polished and professional cover letters. By utilizing these templates, you can save time and ensure consistency in your applications. 

However, ClickUp provides an even wider variety of customizable templates that cater to different styles and industries, allowing you to tailor your cover letter to suit the specific jobs you are applying for.

In addition, ClickUp’s project management capabilities can also make your job hunt easier and less time-consuming. Use its comprehensive features to ensure you never miss an application deadline and land your dream job quickly. Sign up for free today! 

And all the very best for your journey!

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Cara Menulis Cover Letter (+Bonus Template Cover Letter Gratis)

Memiliki cover letter yang memberi kesan pertama yang baik itu penting. Lamaran kerja kamu punya kesempatan lebih banyak dilirik oleh perekrut.

Bayangkan cover letter sebagai pembuka perkenalan. Cover letter merupakan cara untuk mengenalkan diri dan menjelaskan bahwa kamu merupakan orang yang tepat untuk posisi tersebut. Resume menjelaskan skill, pengalaman, dan pencapaian-pencapaianmu, sedangkan cover letter menggabungkan semuanya ke dalam dokumen pendek sesuai dengan posisi yang kamu lamar.

Selanjutnya, cover letter merupakan cara yang tepat untuk memberitahu perusahaan alasan kamu melamar. Melalui cover letter, kamu juga bisa memberitahu perusahaan bahwa kamu sudah mencari tahu tentang mereka sebelumnya. Cover letter yang baik akan membuat lamaranmu lebih menarik di mata perusahaan karena mereka akan terdorong untuk membaca CV kamu dan mengetahui hal tentang dirimu.

Baca juga : Template CV Gratis

Berikut beberapa tips yang harus kamu perhatikan ketika menulis cover letter:

1. Sesuaikan skill dan pengalaman dengan posisi yang kamu lamar.

Cover letter berisi rangkuman dirimu yang lebih spesifik, dengan menonjolkan skill dan pengalaman yang relevan dengan pekerjaan.

2. Keep it short. Tulis dengan singkat.

Waktu yang perusahaan perlukan untuk membaca cover letter bahkan lebih pendek dari waktu mereka membaca resume. Tulis dengan singkat dan to the point .

3. Jangan mengulang apa yang ada di resume.

Pilih poin penting yang relevan dengan posisi lamaran untuk ditunjukkan. Jelaskan bagaimana poin-poin ini menunjukkan bahwa kamu merupakan pilihan yang cocok untuk posisi tersebut.

4. Buat cover letter yang berbeda untuk setiap lamaran

Menyesuaikan cover letter dapat mengindikasikan bahwa kamu sudah mempelajari hal tentang perusahaan tempat kamu melamar.

Agar kamu dapat menulis cover letter dengan lebih mudah, JobStreet punya template cover letter yang bisa kamu unduh. Template ini bisa menjadi langkah awal untuk membuat cover letter unggul yang akan membuat lamaran kamu menarik di mata perekrut.

5. Koreksi cover letter kamu

Setelah menggunakan template untuk menulis cover letter, jangan lupa untuk mengoreksinya. Pastikan nama-nama dan penjelasan di dalamnya sudah tepat. Kamu juga bisa meminta orang lain untuk membacanya agar lebih yakin.

Sekarang karena kamu sudah tahu bagaimana tampilan cover letter, kamu juga dianjurkan untuk memperbaiki kualitas resume kamu. Berikut artikel tentang 5 cara memperbaiki format resume dan bagaimana cara membuat resume yang lebih menarik dengan kata kunci yang tepat .

Jika CV dan cover letter sudah siap, ayo mulai pencarian kerja kamu. Perbarui profil kamu di JobStreet dan temukan profesi yang sesuai dengan minat dan tujuanmu.

Jangan lupa kunjungi Pusat Pengembangan Karir untuk melihat lebih banyak saran dan tips ahli tentang membangun karier dan informasi mengenai hak-hak dan benefit karyawan.

Di JobStreet kami selalu berupaya menemukan pekerjaan yang bernilai untuk Anda. Sebagai Partner Karier, kami berkomitmen membantu pencari kerja menemukan passion dan tujuan dalam setiap langkah karier. Sebagai Partner Talent nomor 1 di Asia, kami menghubungkan perusahaan dengan kandidat tepat yang dapat memberikan dampak positif dan berkualitas kepada perusahaan.

Temukan pekerjaan yang bernilai untuk Anda. Kunjungi JobStreet hari ini.

Tentang SEEK Asia

SEEK Asia, gabungan dari dua merek ternama Jobstreet dan jobsDB, adalah portal lowongan pekerjaan terkemuka dan destinasi pilihan untuk pencari dan pemberi kerja di Asia. Kehadiran SEEK Asia menjangkau 7 negara yaitu Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapura, Thailand, Filipina dan Vietnam. SEEK Asia adalah bagian dari SEEK Limited Company terdaftar di Bursa Efek Australia, portal lowongan pekerjaan terbesar di dunia berdasarkan kapitalisasi pasar. SEEK Asia dikunjungi lebih dari 400 juta kali dalam setahun.

Tentang SEEK Limited

SEEK adalah grup perusahaan yang beragam, dengan portofolio yang kuat  yang mencakup usaha lowongan pekerjaan daring , pendidikan, komersial dan relawan. SEEK hadir secara global (termasuk di Australia, Selandia Baru, Cina, Hong Kong, Asia Tenggara, Brazil dan Meksiko), yang menjangkau lebih dari 2,9 miliar orang dan sekitar 27 persen PDB global. SEEK memberikan kontribusi positif kepada orang-orang dalam skala global. SEEK terdaftar dalam Bursa Efek Australia, yang menempatkannya sebagai 100 perusahaan teratas dan telah diperingkat sebagai 20 Perusahaan Paling Inovatif oleh Forbes.

Telusuri istilah pencarian teratas

Populer di jobstreet, jelajahi topik terkait, berlangganan panduan karir.