Job Application in minutes

What is a job application letter?

A job application letter, often called a cover letter, is a one-page document you send alongside your resume when applying for a job. It introduces you to the employer, explains why you're interested in the role, and highlights the experience that makes you a strong fit.

Unlike a resume, which lists facts, a cover letter tells a short story connecting your background to the specific position and company you're applying to.

When do you need one?

Most employers expect a cover letter with every application, even when it isn't explicitly required. Common situations include:

• Applying for a job posted online or through a company careers page
• Reaching out to a company that hasn't posted an open role
• Following up on a referral from someone at the company
• Applying for an internal transfer or promotion
• Responding to a recruiter who requested a written introduction

Types of cover letter

The right approach depends on how you're applying. We adapt the letter based on the situation you select, including:

• Application letter: written for a specific job posting you found online
• Referral letter: mentions a mutual contact who recommended you apply
• Prospecting letter: sent to a company with no posted opening, asking about future roles
• Networking letter: requests information or an introduction rather than applying directly

What to include

A strong cover letter gives the reader everything they need to picture you in the role. Make sure yours covers:

• Your name and contact information
• The date and the hiring manager's name, if known
• The specific job title and company you're applying to
• One or two concrete achievements relevant to the role
• Why you're interested in this company specifically
• A clear closing that invites next steps

How it's structured

A cover letter follows a short, predictable structure: an opening paragraph stating the role and how you found it, one or two body paragraphs connecting your experience to what the employer needs, and a closing paragraph thanking the reader and inviting a next step.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Restating your resume instead of adding new context
• Addressing the letter to the wrong company or hiring manager
• Using the same generic letter for every application
• Writing more than one page
• Leaving out a clear closing or call to action

Tips for a stronger letter

• Mirror language from the job posting where it genuinely applies
• Lead with your strongest, most relevant achievement
• Keep paragraphs short and easy to scan
• Proofread carefully before sending