We all know the CV is important, but so many people underestimate the importance of a cover letter (some don’t even bother sending one which is mystifying)!
A cover letter is your chance to show off why you’re applying for the role and how your skills match what the company needs, so a well-written and personalised cover letter can be your golden ticket to grabbing a hiring manager’s attention.
In this post, I’ll break down how to write a cover letter that makes an employer say, “We need to talk to this person!”
How to write a cracking cover letter (and keep it fun)
Start by finding the hiring manager’s Name
No more “Dear Sir/Madam” (yawn!). Do a bit of digging to find the hiring manager’s actual name. If that fails, “Dear Hiring Team” is a good alternative. It shows you’ve made an effort.
Keep it friendly
Kick off with a friendly intro. Mention the job title and why you’re excited. Show some enthusiasm—just don’t start telling them your life story or confess your addiction to biscuits.
Example:
“I’m thrilled to apply for the Marketing Manager role at XYZ Company. Your ‘Green Initiative’ campaign was brilliant! I’d love to help keep that momentum going.”
Explain why THIS job at THIS company
Research the company. Mention something specific you admire about them—whether it’s a recent project, a talk you found on YouTube, or a press release.
Example:
“I’ve followed XYZ’s digital marketing efforts, and I’m particularly impressed by your recent partnership with CleanTech. I’d love to bring my content marketing expertise to support your next big project.”
Keep it clear (no fancy jargon)
Use straightforward, friendly English. This isn’t the time for jargon or overly formal language. You want to come across as professional but approachable.
Highlight key skills & achievements
Mention a couple of your key skills and highlight an achievement or two that you’re proud of.
Example:
“With 8 years of experience in marketing, I’ve increased organic traffic by 150% and launched campaigns generating £500k. I’m ready to bring those successes to your team!”
Say thanks (and mean it)
Wrap up by thanking them for their time—because let’s face it, they’re human beings and they’ve spent a few minutes of their life reading all about you!
Example:
“Thanks for considering my application. I’m looking forward to the chance to discuss how I can add value to XYZ Company.”
Keep it short
One page, maximum! Hiring managers don’t need your life story. Stick to the key points and, if needed, use bullet points to make it easy to skim.
Adapt each time (no copy-pasting!)
Personalise each cover letter for the specific job. Yes, it’s a little extra work, but it shows you’ve made the effort. Copy-paste jobs are easy to spot and rarely impress.
Make it fun to read
Let your personality come through. A little humour can go a long way—nobody wants to read a boring letter. Show them you’re not just any other applicant!
Final Thoughts
A personalised cover letter should never be dull and generic. Keep it short, clear, and tailored to the job, and let your personality shine. With a bit of effort and a dash of humour, you’ll have hiring managers wanting to hear more from you.
Need help?
We’re here to help you craft a personalised, stand-out cover letter that’ll get you noticed. Get in touch today!
Charlotte Eve, CEO CK Futures Ltd
Charlotte Eve is an award winning CV Writer, LinkedIn Writer and Interview Coach, helping people internationally to move confidently into new roles. With a background in HR, training and creative writing, Charlotte set up CK Futures to support people most at risk in the job market. Recognised by recruitment agencies, career coaches, charities and back-to-work organisations nationwide as an expert, Charlotte trains recruiters and other writers, and is a regular speaker at careers conferences, podcasts and events. Now specialising in supporting the police transition into new careers, Charlotte is also mum to two young adults, supports survivors of Domestic abuse into work, and is a Youth Mentor. Committed to maintaining CV writing standards and promoting ethical practice in the industry, Charlotte is Co-Founder and Vice Chair of the British Association of CV Writers.