How to Write a Cover Letter: Your Guide to Standing Out in 2024

Cover letters can make or break your job application. They’re more than just a formality—they give you the chance to showcase your personality, skills, and enthusiasm for the job. Whether you’re new to the job market or looking to move into a new role, knowing how to write a compelling cover letter is essential.

But what exactly is a cover letter, and why should you care about it? In this guide, we’ll break it down for you, step by step, while covering tips, tricks, and examples tailored to help UK job seekers succeed.

What Is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a one-page document you send with your CV to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the job.

It’s your opportunity to connect with hiring managers on a personal level, highlight your most relevant skills, and show how passionate you are about the role.

Cover letters answer three key questions:

1. Why are you interested in the job?
2. What makes you a good fit?
3. Why should they consider you over other candidates?

When and Why to Write a Cover Letter

You might be wondering if cover letters are still necessary in 2024. The short answer is yes. A well-written cover letter can set you apart, especially if a job receives hundreds of applications. If the job advert specifically asks for one or if you’re applying to a company with a traditional hiring process, a cover letter is essential.

Even if it’s optional, it’s always worth the extra effort.

Maximum effort…Got it!

How to Write a Cover Letter (6 Steps)

So, how do you write a cover letter that stands out? Here’s a step-by-step guide.

1. Start with your header
   Include your name, contact information, and the date. It helps the employer know who’s applying and when you submitted it.
2. Include a greeting
   Address the hiring manager by name if you know it. If not, “Dear Hiring Manager” works. A personalised greeting shows you’ve done your research.
3. Write an opening paragraph
   Briefly introduce yourself and state the job you’re applying for. Hook them by sharing your excitement for the role and how your experience aligns with their needs.
4. Add a second paragraph
   Highlight your most relevant skills and achievements. Be specific—don’t just say you’re good at marketing, explain how you increased engagement by 35% in your last role. Numbers and concrete examples grab attention.
5. Finish with a closing paragraph
   Reiterate your interest in the role and thank them for considering your application. Let them know you’re looking forward to the opportunity to discuss your qualifications further.
6. End with a professional signoff
   Use something like “Sincerely” or “Kind regards,” followed by your name. Keep it formal, but friendly.

What Is in a Covering Letter?

A good cover letter has a clear structure:

• Header: Your name, contact details, and date.
• Greeting: Address the recipient appropriately.
• Introduction: State the job you’re applying for and grab their attention.
• Body: Highlight key skills, achievements, and why you’re a good fit.
• Conclusion: Reaffirm your interest and thank the employer.
• Signoff: End professionally.

Cover Letter Format: How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?

A cover letter should be no longer than one page. Keep it short and sweet—around 250 to 400 words is ideal. It’s tempting to go into detail, but remember, hiring managers don’t have time to read long letters. Be concise.

What to Consider Before You Write Your Cover Letter

Before you start, take a moment to:

• Research the company and job role.
• Think about your relevant skills and achievements.
• Tailor each cover letter for the job you’re applying to—generic letters won’t cut it.

Cover Letter Example – Marketing Role

Kyle James
kyle.james@email.com
18th March 2024

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am excited to apply for the Marketing Specialist position at Rose and Steel Marketing. With over seven years of hands-on experience in digital and social media marketing, I’ve developed a knack for understanding what truly resonates with audiences and drives engagement. One of my recent projects involved leading a digital campaign for a small retail client that was struggling to connect with their target market. After a deep dive into their social media metrics, I discovered that the content lacked relevance and wasn’t aligned with their audience’s interests.

I redesigned their social media strategy, introduced new content tailored to their audience’s preferences, and ran A/B tests to fine-tune messaging. Within two months, the engagement rate increased by 35%, and the website traffic grew by 20%. More importantly, the client reported a 15% increase in sales, which reinforced for me the importance of using data-driven decisions to directly impact business outcomes. Through this project, I learned the value of combining creativity with precise analysis to generate real, measurable results.

I’m drawn to Rose and Steel’s dedication to helping small businesses thrive because I’ve seen firsthand the difference that thoughtful marketing strategies can make. My ability to create tailored marketing plans that fit within tight budgets, while still delivering impressive results, makes me confident I can bring real value to your team. I’m eager to apply my skills in campaign management, design, and analytics to help drive even more success for your clients.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to the growth of Rose and Steel Marketing.

Kind regards,
Kyle James

Why this cover letter works

This cover letter works for several reasons, particularly because it follows a clear structure while focusing on specific, impactful achievements. Here’s a breakdown of why it stands out:

1. Specificity in Achievements

• Instead of vague claims like “increased engagement,” the cover letter dives into a real example of a project. Kyle explains how he led a campaign for a small retail client, detailing the process of identifying the problem (content not resonating with the target audience) and implementing a solution (redesigning their social media strategy).
• The impact is also concrete: a 35% increase in engagement, a 20% boost in website traffic, and most importantly, a 15% increase in sales. These numbers show tangible results that demonstrate his effectiveness.

2. Focus on Impact

• The letter highlights not only what Kyle did but how his work impacted the client’s business. The direct link between his marketing efforts and the client’s sales growth is particularly compelling because it shows that his work didn’t just generate engagement for engagement’s sake—it produced real business value.
• Employers want to know how you can positively impact their business, and Kyle makes it clear he can help small businesses succeed through thoughtful, data-driven marketing.

3. Lessons Learned

• This cover letter also works because it demonstrates personal growth. Kyle reflects on what he learned from his work, specifically the importance of blending creativity with data analysis. This insight shows his ability to reflect on his experiences and apply those lessons to future challenges—something that’s valuable to any employer.

4. Alignment with Company’s Values

• Kyle links his experience and passion for helping small businesses to the values of Rose and Steel Marketing. He makes it clear that he’s not just looking for any marketing job—he’s specifically interested in working for a company that shares his vision. This alignment is key because it shows he has done his research and understands what the company stands for.

5. Strong Structure and Flow

• The cover letter is well-structured and easy to follow. It begins with an engaging introduction, transitions smoothly into a specific example of his work, and concludes with a strong statement of his interest in the role and company.
• The length is concise yet covers all important aspects: who he is, what he’s accomplished, why he’s interested in the role, and how he can contribute.

6. Balanced Tone

• The tone is professional but not overly formal. Kyle’s enthusiasm for the role and his confidence in his skills come across clearly, without sounding boastful or generic. It strikes a balance between showing his personality and maintaining professionalism.

Why It Stands Out

• Personalisation: The cover letter speaks directly to the role and company, avoiding generic statements that could apply to any job.
• Proof of Value: Kyle’s example isn’t just a list of skills—it’s a story of how he provided real value to a client, showing potential employers that he can do the same for them.
• Clear Message: The letter communicates Kyle’s skills, experience, and why he’s the right fit for the role in a clear, concise way.

Overall, this cover letter works because it doesn’t just tell the employer about Kyle’s skills—it shows what he’s accomplished, how he made an impact, and how he’s ready to bring that same energy and effectiveness to the new role.

Cover Letter Example – Customer Service Representative Role

Sandra Taylor
sandy.taylor@email.com
12th March 2024

Dear Mrs. Parker,

I am excited to apply for the Customer Service Representative position at Encore Foundation. With over three years of experience in customer-facing roles, including my current position as a Receptionist at Premier Valley Hotel, I’ve developed a strong track record of exceeding customer expectations and delivering efficient, personalised service. My proactive approach and ability to resolve issues before they escalate set me apart from other candidates.

For example, when a booking error caused overbooking during peak season, I coordinated with multiple departments to resolve the issue quickly, ensuring guest satisfaction. This resulted in one of four Employee of the Month awards I’ve received for exceptional service.

I bring a customer-first mindset that focuses on creating positive experiences, not just solving problems. My skills in communication, time management, and handling high-pressure situations align perfectly with Encore’s mission of supporting the community. I’m eager to bring this approach to your team and help enhance your customer service operations.

Thank you for considering my application. I’m looking forward to discussing how I can contribute to the success of Encore Foundation.

Sincerely,
Sandra Taylor

Tips for an Effective Cover Letter

• Customise each letter: Tailor it to the specific job and company. Show them why you want that role.
• Use a professional format: But let your personality shine through.
• Be specific: Share examples of your achievements, rather than vague statements.
• Keep it short and focused: A well-structured letter is more likely to grab attention.
• Always proofread: Spelling and grammar errors can ruin an otherwise strong cover letter.

Cover Letter FAQs

Q: What is a cover letter for a job?

A cover letter allows you to expand on key achievements, skills, and experiences that your CV might not fully highlight. It’s also a perfect space to address any potential gaps in employment by explaining the reasons behind them and how these experiences have contributed to your personal and professional growth. Unlike a CV, a cover letter provides a more personal narrative, showing employers why you’re the best fit for the role.

Q: How should I format my cover letter?

Use a professional format with your name and contact information at the top, followed by a greeting, introduction, body, and conclusion.

Q: Can I use the same cover letter for different job applications?

No. Tailor each cover letter to the specific job and company.

Q: What should I include in a cover letter if I have no experience?

Focus on transferable skills, your enthusiasm, and any relevant coursework or volunteer work.

Q: How can I make my cover letter stand out?

Be specific, concise, and show your personality. A unique cover letter grabs attention.

Q: Is a cover letter the same as a CV?

No, a cover letter is not the same as a CV. While a CV provides a detailed overview of your work experience, qualifications, and education, a cover letter is a shorter, focused document where you explain why you’re applying for the specific role and how your skills align with the job. The cover letter gives you the opportunity to personalise your application and highlight key reasons why you’re the ideal candidate.

Q: How long is a cover letter?

A cover letter typically ranges from 250 to 400 words, about half a page to a full page in length. It should be concise yet informative, usually spanning three to six paragraphs, and focused on highlighting your most relevant skills and experiences for the job.

Conclusion

Writing a cover letter can feel daunting, but following these simple steps can help you create a compelling letter that stands out to employers. Whether you’re applying for your first job or looking for your next big role, a thoughtful cover letter can help you land that interview. Don’t underestimate the power of a well-written cover letter!

With this blog post, you’re equipped with the knowledge to craft a perfect cover letter in 2024. Make sure to personalise it to every job application and always proofread before sending it out.

Happy job hunting!