general cover letter for job

How to Write a General Cover Letter (w/ Templates & Tips!)

You're on the hunt for a job, and your resume is all set.

It's the perfect summary of your professional journey so far, and you’re hoping it will land you at least one of the gigs you’re applying to.

There's just one thing left - you need to write a cover letter that fits your resume like a glove.

And, as you’re applying for several positions, you likely don’t want to start your cover letter from scratch every time. Instead, you’d rather learn how to write a general cover letter that you can tweak to fit many applications.

Well, we’re here to help you learn how to do just that.

In this article, we're going to cover:

• What Is a General Cover Letter
• How to Write a General Cover Letter
• General Cover Letter Examples

...and more!

Let's get started.

What is a General Cover Letter?

A general cover letter is a flexible document that’s designed to accompany your CV or resume during a job application.

Unlike a regular cover letter, a general cover letter isn’t tailored to one job.

You can personalize general cover letters without being too specific about a position and easily adapt them to suit applications for different professions and industries.

The structure of a general cover letter makes it more versatile because it includes placeholders (or ‘blanks’) that you can easily swap out for job-specific details.

For example, your general cover letter could have a blank where the company’s name or the specific industry would be written, so you can quickly modify it before sending it out with different job applications.

General cover letters allow you to strike a balance between broad appeal and leaving room for a touch of customization, so you don’t have to struggle against writer’s block every time you try to write a new cover letter during your job hunt .

Still haven’t finished your resume? Check out our full guide on how to make a resume !

General Vs Generic Cover Letter

Writing a cover letter that can be used for different job applications might make you think you should write a generic cover letter.

But there’s a huge difference between writing a general cover letter and a generic cover letter.

A general cover letter is adaptable, and you can customize it to apply for different jobs and industries. The key to a general cover letter is that it has parts that you can easily change, such as the industry you’re applying to or the title of the job you’re after.

These gaps let you quickly tailor each cover letter to the specific position you want. They also manage to show employers that you've thought about how you would fit into their company without having to write a cover letter from scratch.

A generic cover letter, on the other hand, is a cover letter that’s the same for every job application.

Generic cover letters don’t change to match different jobs or companies. Because they aren’t tailored, they rarely impress hiring managers or show them why you’d be a good match for the job.

While generic cover letters are a one-and-done job, they’re not a particularly well-done job at all. Generic cover letters come off as impersonal and forgettable, so we recommend steering clear of them during your job search and instead going for a general cover letter that you can tailor.

Want a Standout Cover Letter? Use a Template!

Making sure your cover letter leaves a good impression on the hiring manager can feel overwhelming.

You have to carefully adjust the layout, tweak the page margins, set the line spacing, choose the most appropriate font, and make sure your text never spills over to page two.

Well, it doesn’t have to be that hard.

Just try one of our cover letter templates !

Each of our templates is made in collaboration with leading HR specialists to make sure your application is industry-friendly 

and stylish. You can even use our resume templates and pick a cover letter template for a matching set.

When Should You Use a General Cover Letter?

There are a few cases when you can use a general cover letter as opposed to a uniquely tailored cover letter for each job application.

These include:

#1. When You’re Applying for More Than One Position

If you’re applying for more than one position with the same employer, a general cover letter can help you showcase your interest in contributing to the company in various roles.

In this case, instead of writing a cover letter to fill in the blanks for separate job applications, you should aim for a single, thorough general cover letter that’s tailored to the different positions in the same company you’re applying for.

You can use your general cover letter to communicate your adaptability and enthusiasm for being part of the organization, not just filling a specific position, which can be a great angle for an entry-level cover letter .

Unlike a regular cover letter, which you tailor to the exact position you’re applying for, a general cover letter allows you to highlight skills and experiences that are relevant across all the roles you’re targeting. Use it to emphasize your overall potential as an asset to the company and demonstrate your ability to fit into multiple teams or projects.

Since you’re not focusing on a specific job, your general cover letter should instead show the employer how your personal and professional values align with those of the company regardless of the specific position. Focusing on your broad compatibility with the employer positions you as a valuable candidate.

#2. When You’re Attending a Job Fair

At a job fair, your goal is to present yourself as a good candidate to multiple employers.

In a dynamic setting like this, you have to interact with various companies, so a general cover letter can help you quickly adapt your approach to each potential employer you meet. If you do it right, you can highlight skills and experiences that are applicable across different industries.

A general cover letter also helps you make a strong first impression. Job fairs see their share of resumes, but having a cover letter ready to go puts you one step ahead of other candidates vying for the same job.

Instead of tailoring a cover letter for each company you might be interested in, you can focus on customizing key sections that are relevant to specific jobs or industries. For example, if you’re looking for a job as an accountant , you can easily write a general accountant cover letter and make minimal changes before applying for another job.

This can save you valuable time, and it lets you engage with more hiring managers at the job fair, so you can cast a wider net.

Not sure what to do at your first networking event? Check out these 75+ questions you can use at networking events to help break the ice.

#3. When You’re Applying Through a Referral

If you’re using your professional network to find your next job, a general cover letter can come in handy.

Applying for a job through a referral often means you don’t have a job ad to reference. So, when writing your cover letter, you should focus on your most impressive skills and relevant professional experiences.

Next, it’s time to remove all those blanks and placeholders and add details that will make the hiring manager notice your application.

The more you know about the company, the better. Researching the employer means that even if you don’t know the exact details of the job, you can still highlight what makes you a great candidate for the company in general.

Take the time to also mention your connection with the person who referred you. This can add a personal touch and show that someone who’s already part of the company thinks highly of you.

Trying to write a cover letter for your first internship ? Check out our detailed guide to learn how!

General Cover Letter Text Template

If you’re not sure how to write a general cover letter from scratch, there’s no need to worry. You can borrow our very own general cover letter text template!

Just copy and paste our free cover letter text template into the cover letter builder, and swap out the variables for your details.

[Your Full Name]

[Your Professional Title]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Location]

[Your LinkedIn Profile URL (optional)]

[Your Personal Website URL (optional)]

[Recipient's Name, e.g., Jane Doe],

[Recipient's Position, e.g., Hiring Manager]

[Company Name, e.g., ABC Corporation]

[Company Address]

[City, State/Country]

Dear [Recipient's Full Name],

As a seasoned [Your Profession] with [Number of Years of Experience] years of industry experience, I am eager to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. With my experience in [Your Industry/Sector] and the successes I've achieved throughout my education and career, I believe I can bring unique value and creativity to your team.

In my current role as [Your Current Job Title], I've taken the lead on more than [Number of Projects/Assignments] projects, some valued up to $[Highest Project Value]. I pride myself on consistently exceeding client expectations and have successfully [Mention a Key Achievement] in just a [Amount of Time] through [Skill] and [Skill].

I've collaborated with various professionals, such as [List Roles], ensuring that all [projects/tasks] meet [relevant standards or objectives]. This hands-on experience, coupled with my dedication to understanding each [client's/customer's] vision, has equipped me to navigate and deliver on complex projects.

My key strengths include:

• Improving [Achievement] by [%] over [Amount of Time] which resulted in [Quantified Result].
• Optimizing [Work Process/Responsibility] which saved [Previous Employer] [Amount of Time/Budget/Other Metric] over [Weeks/Months/Years].
• Spearheading team of [Number of People] to [Task] and achieving [Quantified Result].

Alongside this letter, I've attached my resume. My educational background, a [Your Degree] with a concentration in [Your Specialization], complements the practical skills that I'm particularly eager to share with [Company Name].

I'm excited about the possibility of contributing to [Something Notable About the Company or Its Mission]. I'd be grateful for the chance to delve deeper into how my expertise aligns with your needs.

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Steps to Writing a General Cover Letter

Now that you’ve seen what a general cover letter looks like, it’s time to write your own.

Just follow these steps, and you’ll be done in no time:

#1. Add Contact Information

At the top of your cover letter, you should include all the information required for the hiring manager to reach you.

This includes:

• Full Name. We recommend you bold your name and place it at the top of the page.
• Professional Job Title. If you’re applying for more than one job, you might have to swap this out regularly. Make sure it matches the specific position you're applying for.
• Email Address. Include a professional and straightforward email address, preferably a version of your first and last name. (E.g.: [email protected], not [email protected])
• Phone Number. Make sure there are no typos in your phone number, so the hiring manager can easily contact you.
• Location. Typically, your city and state/country are enough information. But if you're looking for remote work or are willing to relocate, make sure to specify that somewhere.
• Relevant Links (optional). Feel free to add links to any relevant websites or social media profiles, such as your LinkedIn profile, GitHub, or an online portfolio.

Except for the job title, you don’t need to change your contact information between applications. But you also need to add the hiring manager’s contact information.

Customize this for each cover letter you plan to send:

• Company Name. Always include the name of the company you're applying for.
• Hiring Manager's Name. If possible, find the name of the hiring manager for the job you're interested in.
• Hiring Manager's Title. The hiring managers for different companies will likely have different roles. Some will be head of the department you want to join, while others will be part of the HR team. If you want one less thing to swap out, you can simply keep the job title of the hiring manager in your cover letter as “Hiring Manager.”
• Location. The general location of the company, such as the city and state/country, is enough. We don’t recommend going into more detail for your general cover letter.
• Date of Writing (optional). Including the date you wrote your cover letter can add an extra professional touch to your application, so it’s something to consider.

#2. Address the Hiring Manager

Even in your general cover letter, you should skip the impersonal “To Whom It May Concern.”

Instead, give your cover letter a more personalized greeting. If possible, address the hiring manager by name .

You might need to do some research for that. Check the job ad, company website, or LinkedIn page to find out who’s hiring for the role you want. Then, just swap out your placeholder for their full name.

However, you might not have the time to do that. If you’re at a job fair or you just can’t find the name of the hiring manager, you don’t have to worry.

It’s perfectly acceptable to address your cover letter as “Dear Hiring Manager” or even address the company as a whole, like “Dear Company X.”

Take your cover letter to the next level by using these 21+ cover letter tips !

#3. Start with a Strong Opening

Hiring managers tend to skim through cover letters before deciding if they’re worth reading, so your general cover letter should always have an eye-catching opening paragraph.

You should start your cover letter by introducing who you are and why you’re interested in the specific position. Then, mention an impressive achievement or crucial skill that shows you would be an ideal candidate for the role.

We recommend shortlisting several of your most impressive skills and achievements and swapping them out for each other depending on what best matches the specific job you’re tailoring your cover letter for.

Just remember to keep your opening paragraph short and sweet. You’ll have the opportunity to give the hiring manager more details later.

#4. Use the Body for Details

When writing a general cover letter, you might have a hard time figuring out how to craft the body.

This is where all the details about you as a candidate and what you know about the company should go.

But don’t worry! All you need to do is follow these tips:

• Explain what you can do for the employer. Talk about your most impressive skills and how you can use them to contribute to the company’s work.
• Mention what you like about the job or industry. Focus on what you enjoy about the specific job or industry you’re aiming for.
• Be enthusiastic about joining their team. Express genuine enthusiasm about joining their team, as well as confidence that you can make a meaningful contribution.
• Use proactive language. Swap out cliche phrases for eye-catching action verbs and power words to make your cover letter pop.

Depending on how much time you have, you can research each employer in-depth and provide more details that show why you’re the best candidate according to each of these points.

Need more inspiration? Check out dozens of cover letter examples for different professions !

#5. Conclude It Professionally

Once you write the main body of your general cover letter, all you have to do is prepare a conclusion.

The end of your cover letter should leave the hiring manager confident that you’re the right person for the job.

You can do that by either summarizing your main selling points, like your top skills and most impressive achievements or by reminding them how you believe you can contribute to the company.

We recommend leaving a portion of your conclusion blank so you can tailor it for the specific job you’re applying for and leave the best impression possible on the hiring manager.

Next, include a call to action. This can be a polite prompt for the hiring manager to reach out to you and discuss your application or arrange an interview.

There’s no need to personalize your call to action—it can be simple and universal across all your applications. Finally, include a professional closing line and sign your name underneath to seal the deal on your cover letter.

Here’s an example:

I look forward to discussing how I may contribute to your business, so please don’t hesitate to contact me at your earliest convenience.

Best regards,

Cameron Pearson

General Cover Letter FAQs

Still have some questions about general cover letters? Check out the answers to the most frequently asked questions below!

#1. Is a generic cover letter okay?

You should never send a generic cover letter with your job application.

Generic cover letters don’t have any personalization that can show your genuine interest in the specific job or company. In fact, they come across as impersonal and show a lack of effort , which can make hiring managers reject your job application altogether.

You should always tailor your cover letter for each job so you can highlight the relevant skills and professional experiences that will impress the employer. This shows that you've done your homework” and that you’re genuinely enthusiastic about the position.

Even a slightly customized general cover letter is always going to be better than a generic cover letter.

Your general cover letter should still address the employer's needs and make a strong case for your application. It's your best tool for making a memorable first impression, and that’s something a generic cover letter simply won’t help you achieve.

#2. Should a cover letter be simple?

Yes, as a rule, cover letters should be kept simple.

The main focus of any cover letter should be its content. Make sure you keep your formatting clean , with an easy-to-read font and plenty of white space, so the hiring manager can quickly find the essential information.

If you’re applying for a more traditional industry, like law or finance , we recommend sticking to a minimalistic cover letter template. Bold colors or flashy fonts just don’t match those professions.

However, if you’re applying to an industry where creativity is valued, such as graphic design , you can try a more customized template. A strategically placed pop of color could make your cover letter stand out.

#3. How do you format a general cover letter?

A general cover letter is structured with blanks and placeholder information that you can easily swap out depending on the job application.

Make sure you include a place for the hiring manager’s contact information, the company’s name, the date of writing, and the title of the specific position you’re applying for.

Keep the text of your general cover letter separated into neat paragraphs so you can find and swap out the placeholders quickly and the hiring manager can easily navigate and read it later.

#4. Do employers read cover letters?

Yes, employers do read cover letters.

Regardless of whether the job ad explicitly asks for one, you should always submit a cover letter .

Once the hiring manager goes through the initial resume screening, they might use cover letters to decide among candidates they’re on the fence about.

That said, hiring managers might not read the entire cover letter in detail immediately, which is why your opening paragraph is crucial. You want to make sure to catch their attention right off the bat, so they want to read more about you.

If they skim through your cover letter and don’t see any relevant keywords or qualifications, they might skip your cover letter, and your application could get tossed in the ‘no’ pile.

#5. How long should a general cover letter be?

Your general cover letter can range from a half-page to one full page. On average, a cover letter should always be between 250 and 400 words .

The cover letter is your first chance to communicate who you are to the hiring manager and why you’re the right candidate for the job, using your own words. If you don’t consider the standard cover letter length, you could leave the hiring manager with a bad impression.

A good cover letter gets your point across quickly without delving into too many details the hiring manager could get lost in. If you go over the recommended length, the hiring manager might never actually bother reading your cover letter at all.

Key Takeaways

And you’ve made it to the end of our article!

Now you know all there is to know about writing a general cover letter. Hopefully, you feel confident about writing the perfect cover letter and landing your dream job!

But before we go, let’s quickly recap our main points:

• General cover letters can usually be applied to different job openings, industries, and employers with minimal tailoring. We recommend writing one template with placeholders or blanks that you can swap out for details as necessary.
• A general cover letter doesn’t need as much tailoring as writing a cover letter from scratch, but you should still put effort into it. Sending the same generic text to every employer is a huge mistake that could cost you a job opportunity.
• Formatting your general cover letter can be time-consuming. Instead of spending valuable time on the layout, consider using one of our cover letter templates instead.
• You’re most likely to need a general cover letter when applying for more than one job at the same company when applying for a job through a referral, or during a job fair.

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How to Create a General Cover Letter (With Examples and Tips)

In This Guide:

Template for general cover letter, 5 tips to create a master cover letter template, general cover letter examples: entry-level, creative, and career change, how to create a general cover letter: key insights.

You've decided that you're going to strike out in a new direction, hit up several job fairs, and find several new positions to apply for.

But you don't want to spend the time to create a new cover letter from scratch every time you apply.

This is where a general cover letter template can help you out.

Creating a general cover letter, also called a master cover letter, can allow you to minimize the time you take to write each cover letter for each individual job, while also allowing you to create a personalized cover letter which tells your story .

A master cover letter template is a multipurpose document which promotes all of your skills and work experience, while also pointing to major highlights from your resume.

In this article, we will touch on:

• What a  template for a general cover letter looks like.
• How to create a general cover letter without it becoming generic.
• What to do if a cover letter isn't required.
• Examples of different cover letter templates tailored to the needs of entry level, career-change, and creative job positions.

Want to save time by creating a custom general cover letter? Enhancv has over 500+ Cover letter examples updated for 2022 . Check it out, and you'll be able to find tips to create your own master cover letter.

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[your name]

[phone number]

[email address]

[hiring manager's name]

[hiring manager's position within the company]

[Company name]

[Company address]

Dear [Hiring manager's name]

I recently found the listing for [job position title] and I was excited to apply for the position because [company name] is a major player in the field. As I examined more about your company through your website, I learned that my skills and abilities make me a valuable asset to your company. I also feel like my personality and work style would allow me to fit seamlessly into the culture at your workplace.

Let's talk a bit more about why I feel like I'm the perfect candidate. The application for this position that I found on [name of place, i.e. company website, job board] states that the ideal candidate would have proficiency in [mention a unique skill or specilization that you have], which is also an area of expertise that I have gained experience in. I currently work at [name of current company], where I have significantly contributed to the overall organization of the company by [Skill or Task]. In fact, during this [Period of Time], I've worked with a team who has raised our [Relevant Goal] by [%]. This was a major key performance indicator for my team and me, and we significantly contributed to the overall goals of the company.

Over my career, I have prided myself on my ability to problem solve and adapt to any situation, as well as lead groups of team members to complete their goals. Given my track record with [skill], I've helped establish a culture of success at [Current Company].

Thank you for taking the time to read this cover letter. I'm really looking forward to learning more about the [Position name] role. If you need any more information from me on my end, please do not hesitate to reach out to me.

[Your Full Name]

If you want to create a master cover letter, one that you will use for multiple positions, then you should create a personalized document which can be easily altered to add new details which apply to the position.

The best cover letters are ones that showcase both the passion you have for the position, and the relevant skills that you bring to the table that make you the ideal candidate.

You can do this even when keeping 90% of the words the same.

Don’t believe me?

Here are some tips to keep in mind when crafting a master cover letter:

1. Minimize Work By Keeping Most of the Wording

The best thing about having a general cover letter is that you can keep almost 90% of the wording the same, and still create a personalized cover letter.

But how do you do this?

You can do this by creating spots within the document for personalization, like spaces where you can put in your hiring manager's name, the name of the company that you're applying for, as well as the position's name.

If you want to go one step further, skim over the company's vision and values, which you can easily find in a job description.

With an easy-to-follow, plug-and-play cover letter for multiple jobs, you can cut the work down from almost a half an hour to several minutes.

This way, you can crank out several cover letters for different job applications.

2. Show That You've Read the Job Description

Cover letters and resumes are completely different animals.

Your resume is something that is entirely yours: your work experience , your unique skills , and your education.

But your cover letter is for someone else to read.

Essentially, a resume is a one-way street, but a cover letter is an intersection of ideas and personalities.

Show the hiring manager you care within the first paragraph by learning a bit about the company, either through:

• Their website
• Their executive's social media posts
• Promotional material
• Through people that you know who work for them

According to the Harvard Business Review , it's important to do your research before applying for a position. You can glean information about the culture and values of the company, just by looking through the company's website.

More often than not, you can find a lot of information about the company in the job application. You may be able to find the mission statement of the company.

And please, whatever you do, try to find the name of the hiring manager. Try to avoid using the generic, "Dear hiring manager," salutation at the start of your cover letter.

3. Quantify Your Accomplishments

When creating a general cover letter, try to include accomplishments that you can quantify. This isn't always easy to do.

But if you look at your experience with the last company you worked for, what were the exceptional milestones throughout your time.

Did you help contribute to a major financial goal at your company?

For example, if you were on the sales team when you reached a profit increase of 7% for the first quarter of 2020, share about that. You played a role in that achievement, so mention your part.

You can also tie back into a specific skill that helped you lead to a key performance indicator.

Maybe you played an important role with updating the communications of your team by introducing them to a messaging program to help collaboration in the workplace.

You can point out the number of people who adopted using the platform, and show how productivity increased as a result of it.

4. It's Not Always about You

A cover letter is a place to brag about yourself, specifically about the skills and achievements that have led to your success.

However, mentioning your role within a team can show a hiring manager you are a team player, one that loves to collaborate and be involved in projects.

You can also mention your current manager, and the role that they have played in your life.

5.What To Do If A Cover Letter Is Optional

For some jobs that you apply to, cover letters will be optional.

One bit of advice: sending a generic, basic cover letter can hurt your chances of getting the job.

Instead, either send a more personalized cover letter, like a master cover letter, which is personalized to the business that you're applying for, or don't send one at all.

Entry-Level Cover Letter Sample

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am applying for the position of Drug Research Specialist (Entry Level) that I came across at PANDA Corp. I believe that my academic experience matches your requirements.

During my studies, I have gained experience in the field of medicine and pharmaceuticals. Moreover, during my master’s program, I’ve completed my diploma in Pharmaceutical Research, which helped me in better understanding the processes and best practices in drug development.

Additionally, under the ImunoHelp program, I have undergone various professional and self-development training. Each training permanently added to my skill set.

Having spent the last seven years of my life outside the United States, my home country has made me multicultural. My vibrant experience traveling and studying at different institutions, in UAE, USA, Portugal, and France have undoubtedly contributed to my open-mindedness, creativity, and adaptability, as well as working in a diverse and multilingual team.

I’m excited to have the opportunity to discuss how my skills can help your company grow. I’m available for an interview at your convenience.

Anna Kendrick

If you choose to build your general cover letter off of the one listed above, your hiring manager will take one look at it, and hope that another organization hasn't snatched you up yet.

Work experience isn't the only thing that a hiring manager is looking for. Even if you have minimal work experience, you can always highlight your area of studies and why it was effective in gaining skills.

Creative Cover Letter Sample

Dear Mr. John,

Having recently completed my Master of Arts degree in Gender, Feminist, and Women's Studies, I am a passionate advocate for advancing the scholarship, publicity, and works of marginalized communities and underrepresented women of color.

I was excited to see the Publicity and Digital Marketing position at ACME Inc. because it fits well with my PR and communications experience and skills in gender advocacy, social issues, and political science.

With 4 years of experience in social media management and public relations for SaaS companies, here is what I can offer specifically to ACME Inc.:

Using social media, I can bolster the reach and visibility of promotional events and digital media coverage. As the previous communications lead of a gender advocacy center, I can engage young adult demographics by bringing products and events to life using strategic marketing plans and innovative channels.

I can analyze and harness social media analytics to reach demographics most likely to resonate with the ideal ACME customer.

Lastly, my academic experience in political and social sciences has given me a strong attention to detail, research skills, and precise communication skills.

I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to meet with you to discuss how I am the best person for the Publicity and Digital Marketing position at ACME Inc.

Jack Austin

When you check out the example above, you see someone who is excited about the position, and has learned a little about the company to which they're applying.

Give concrete, authentic examples of why you want to be a part of their team because these examples help bolster your credibility.

If you are a social media expert, and you really enjoy the advocacy programs at a company, you can use it as an example of how you are passionate about driving views to the site.

Career Change Cover Letter Sample

My name is Nicholas and for the past 5 years, I’ve been the general manager for Coffi&Biscuits where I managed to increase the YoY revenue of the shop 10x in the past three years.

I was excited to see the Business Development Manager position for Bootstrap IO, as it is a career change that I’m looking forward to making.

Managing a team of 15 taught me a lot about budgeting, planning, and organizing the workload. I can help you with expanding your team in the next quarter and reach your goal of launching your new product across the United States.

I’d love to jump on a Zoom meeting with you to further discuss joining the team. I’m available at your disposal.

Nicholas Costa

When writing a cover letter, like the example above, always explain to the hiring manager how hiring you will help their company.

If you can show a hiring manager through practical examples that you're willing to jump on board the team, and lead them toward success, then you're going to get an interview.

• A properly crafted simple cover letter can save you time, while also sharing your story.
• Try to keep most of the words you use for each cover letter by creating spaces for personalization
• Show that you've read the job description and know a little bit about the company in the first paragraph of your cover letter.
• Quantify your accomplishments
• Share credit when credit is due.If you're interested in crafting a customizable, easy-to-use general cover letter, then Enhancv's Cover Letter Builder is the tool that you need. When using the CL Building you can receive feedback on your cover letter and craft custom cover letters for each position that you're applying to.

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How to Write a General Cover Letter (Complete With Cover Letter Templates and Examples)

3 key takeaways

• What a general cover letter is
• Tips for writing your general cover letter
• A faster way to write a cover letter with Teal's Cover Letter Generator

Keeping a top-notch general cover letter on hand can help you save considerable time and effort when hunting for a new position. A well-written general cover letter is a valuable resource when applying for numerous jobs because it can be repeatedly customized to reflect each role’s unique requirements.

Below you’ll learn what to include in a generic cover letter and how to quickly repurpose and customize a cover letter for multiple roles. You’ll also find multiple cover letter samples to help you create a general cover letter tailor-made for you.

What is a general cover letter?

Unlike a specific cover letter tailored to a particular job opening, a general cover letter can be adapted and customized for multiple job applications, even when applying to more than one job at the same company. Your generic cover letter will showcase your transferable skills , qualifications, and experience in a way that is easily applicable across various industries and multiple jobs. 

When job hunting, an ideal general cover letter can be quickly repurposed many times over, saving the applicant time and energy on their applications.

How to write a generic cover letter 

Use a professional format in your cover letter.

While it’s important to use a warm and friendly tone, it’s more important to remain professional. Employers are looking for evidence that you approach your work earnestly and take your responsibilities seriously. By formatting a cover letter professionally, you’ll afford yourself the leeway to infuse a personal touch, providing hiring managers with more background and insight into your personality and professional brand .

Employ a general greeting for easy editing

Before you begin, it’s important to know how to address a cover letter . You can keep this aspect static while you customize other portions of each application to save time. When the aim is efficiency, you don’t want to be fussing over something as simple as your greeting.

You’ll want to greet the hiring manager by name as often as possible. When you have a contact person’s name, you can address the cover letter:

Example: Dear Ms. Doh,

When a job posting doesn’t identify the hiring manager, make an effort to find out who it is. LinkedIn is a great resource to do some digging; you can also explore the company website or call the company directly and ask to speak to human resources. Briefly explain that you're submitting a job application and would like to address the hiring manager by name on your cover letter.

Some companies may prefer not to disclose the hiring manager’s name; if this is the case, you can use a generic cover letter greeting:

Example: Dear Hiring Manager,

Include your personal contact information in each cover letter

Always include your contact information near the top of the letter. You want to be sure you’re easy to get in touch with should they find you a qualified fit.

While there is no agreed-upon standard on where to place this information, it’s usually somewhere up top. You can place it along the top, where you’d put a header, or in the right or left corners of a generic cover letter for multiple jobs. 

You’ll also want to include the hiring manager's contact information. By providing the hiring manager's details, you can rest assured that your letter will reach the correct recipient, knowing it’s properly addressed.

Introduce yourself and explain why you’re applying

You’ll want to start your general cover letters with a brief snapshot of your professional background, which you can customize with more detail later, and explain what drew you to the role. Your potential employers are looking for someone who cares about and understands their work. 

Showcase your passion

A passionate cover letter will stand out more than all-purpose cover letters that only show mild interest. Highlight a few aspects you enjoy about work in general that would be applicable to multiple positions, enabling you to use your generic cover letter for numerous applications. For example, you might draw attention to your collaborative instincts, passion for mentoring others, affinity for your target industry, or desire for professional growth.

Highlight relevant skills demonstrated in previous roles

When writing a cover letter, showcase your transferable skills from past experiences that would be valuable for any job you’re applying for. Think about valuable competencies like organizational skills, attention to detail, self-starting nature, or the ability to remain focused under pressure. An excellent general cover letter should demonstrate clear value to various roles—which can then be expanded upon and customized for each job application.

Even if you have limited work experience , you can still pull relevant skills from academic projects, volunteer work, group/club leadership, etc.

Express a willingness to adapt and learn in your generic cover letter

Communicating your willingness to learn and adapt to a new job setting can be valuable for a company. Employers want to hire individuals who are open to learning and can adjust to new or fast-paced environments. You can show this by highlighting instances from previous roles where you’ve had to learn unique key skills or adapt quickly. By expressing your welcoming approach to challenges, you can make a strong case for why you would be an excellent fit for the job.

Include “blanks” for both customization and plug-and-play 

While it’s important to include portions that will be valuable to any role, leave space for customization. This lets you tailor your letter each time—and also reminds you to do so. Your generic letter might include something that looks like the following:

I'm thrilled to apply for [ROLE] at [COMPANY]. I appreciate the way [COMPANY] approaches [insert specific market challenge or problem] to provide consumers with [insert notable value]. I am a sales professional with 10 years of experience in outbound sales, inbound sales, renewals, and business development. My experience in [insert applicable experiences] would provide substantial value to [COMPANY] due to my demonstrated ability to [include specific skills].

Show respect through flexibility

In your closing remarks, state that you look forward to hearing from the person and are looking forward to an interview. If your schedule allows for flexibility, make it clear you’re happy to work around their schedule. Hiring managers are often inundated with applications, and by making yourself easy to schedule, you make it easy to confirm your interview.

Tips for writing a general cover letter

Demonstrate enthusiasm and motivation.

Employers want to hire an ideal candidate who is motivated to contribute in a meaningful way. Expressing enthusiasm professionally can help you stand out from other candidates who may have similar qualifications but are less passionate about the work, giving you a leg up in the hiring process.

Keep it concise and error-free

Keep your general cover letter brief yet thorough and, most of all, error-free. A well-written, concise cover letter free of grammatical and spelling errors shows professionalism and attention to detail. Excellent resources commonly used are Grammarly and pretty much any spell-check feature. By keeping the letter concise, you’re not only providing a focused look at your candidacy but respecting the hiring manager’s time.

Use a professional tone

When writing a cover letter, use a professional tone when conveying your interest for the job. A professional demeanor shows that you take the work seriously and put effort and careful planning into your application. You can still be warm and friendly, but it’s best to avoid overly casual terms or colloquial expressions. 

Write your general cover letter with Teal

Want to skip the steps and write a cover letter in seconds? Give Teal a try. Teal's Cover Letter Generator combines your work experience with the details of any job description to write an AI-generated cover letter in less than 30-seconds.

General cover letter example and template 

Dear [Hiring Manager], I am thrilled to express my interest in the [Position] role at [Company]. As an experienced [Industry] professional with [X] years of experience, I’m confident my skill set and qualifications would provide considerable value to this position. In my current role at [Current Company], I have gained valuable experience in [relevant skill or experience]. I am particularly proud of [accomplishment or project], which demonstrates my ability to [skill or trait related to the position]. I am drawn to [Company] because of its reputation for [company values or mission]. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills and experience to a company that shares my passion for [industry or field]. In addition to my experience, I possess excellent [skill relevant to the position], as well as [soft skill or trait]. I am a quick learner, a team player, and I can work under pressure to meet tight deadlines. Thank you for considering my application and enclosed resume. Please let me know a time and day that works best with your schedule to further discuss my qualifications and the role. I’d love to learn more about what you’re seeking in a [Position], I’m happy to work around any time constraints. Sincerely, [Your Name]

You can use AI technology like ChatGPT to generate cover letters or try Teal's AI Cover Letter Generation Tool for different positions and multiple applications.

Cover letter templates for different job titles

Executive assistant.

Dear [Hiring Manager], I am excited to apply for the Executive Assistant position at [Company]. With over [number of years] of experience as an executive assistant, I am confident in my ability to provide comprehensive support to senior executives and make a positive impact on your organization. In my previous role at [Previous Company], I worked closely with the CEO and other senior leaders to manage their calendars, arrange travel, and coordinate meetings and events. I also played a key role in managing projects, preparing reports and presentations, and handling confidential information. My strong organizational and communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment have enabled me to consistently deliver high-quality work and build positive relationships with colleagues and clients alike. I am excited about the opportunity to bring my experience and skills to your team and contribute to your organization's success. Thank you for considering my application. Sincerely, [Your Name]

For more examples, check out these executive assistant cover letter samples .

Marketing manager

Dear [Hiring Manager], I am excited to apply for the Marketing Manager position at [Company]. With my extensive experience in marketing strategy and execution, I am confident that I can lead your team in achieving your marketing goals and driving growth for the company. In my previous role at [Previous Company], I successfully managed a team of marketing professionals to develop and implement effective marketing campaigns that increased brand awareness and drove sales. I am experienced in market research, consumer behavior analysis, and developing comprehensive marketing plans that align with company objectives. In addition to my strategic skills, I have strong project management skills and experience working cross-functionally with teams such as product, sales, and design. I am also proficient in marketing automation tools, CRM systems, and data analytics software. I am passionate about marketing and am excited about the opportunity to bring my experience and skills to your team. Thank you for considering my application. Sincerely, [Your Name]

Click here for more samples of marketing manager cover letters .

Human resources coordinator

Dear [Hiring Manager], I am excited to apply for the Human Resources Coordinator position at [Company]. With my strong organizational skills and experience in HR administration, I am confident in my ability to provide valuable support to your team and contribute to the success of your organization. In my previous role at [Previous Company], I managed HR processes such as onboarding, benefits administration, and employee records management. I also supported recruitment efforts by screening resumes, scheduling interviews, and assisting with the hiring process. I am proficient in HRIS systems and have a deep understanding of HR compliance and regulations. Additionally, my strong communication skills and ability to build positive relationships have enabled me to effectively support employees and management. I am passionate about HR and am excited about the opportunity to bring my experience and skills to your team. Thank you for considering my application. Sincerely, [Your Name]

See more examples of cover letters in these human resources cover letter examples .

Dear [Hiring Manager], I am excited to apply for the Accountant position at [Company]. With my extensive experience in accounting and financial analysis, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your organization's success. In my previous role at [Previous Company], I managed general accounting processes, prepared financial statements, and provided analysis to support strategic decision-making. I am also experienced in tax planning and compliance, payroll processing, and internal controls. I am proficient in accounting software such as QuickBooks, and have strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Additionally, my attention to detail and ability to work collaboratively with colleagues have enabled me to consistently deliver high-quality work. I am passionate about accounting and am excited about the opportunity to bring my experience and skills to your team. Thank you for considering my application. Sincerely, [Your Name]

For more cover letter inspiration, explore these example cover letters for accountants .

Project manager

Dear [Hiring Manager], I am excited to apply for the Project Manager position at [Company]. With my extensive experience in project management and leadership, I am confident in my ability to deliver successful projects and drive growth for your organization. In my previous role at [Previous Company], I managed complex projects from conception to completion, utilizing project management methodologies such as Agile and Scrum. I am experienced in resource allocation, risk management, and stakeholder communication, ensuring projects are delivered on-time and within budget. I have strong leadership skills and experience managing cross-functional teams of both internal and external stakeholders. My ability to foster positive relationships and communicate effectively with colleagues and clients has enabled me to deliver successful projects and exceed expectations. I am proficient in project management software such as Asana and Trello, and have a deep understanding of project management best practices. Additionally, my problem-solving skills and ability to adapt to change make me a valuable asset to any team. I am passionate about project management and am excited about the opportunity to bring my experience and skills to your team. Thank you for considering my application. Sincerely, [Your Name]

Explore these example cover letters for project managers for even more general cover letters.

Software engineer

Dear [Hiring Manager], I am excited to apply for the Software Engineer position at [Company]. With my extensive experience in software development and programming languages, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your organization's success. In my previous role at [Previous Company], I designed, developed and maintained complex software systems utilizing programming languages such as Java, Python and C++. I am experienced in the full software development life cycle including requirement gathering, design, development, testing and deployment. I have strong analytical and problem-solving skills and am proficient in software engineering tools such as Git and Jenkins. Additionally, my ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues and clients has enabled me to consistently deliver high-quality software solutions. I am passionate about software engineering and am excited about the opportunity to bring my experience and skills to your team. Thank you for considering my application. Sincerely, [Your Name]

For more examples, check out these software engineer cover letter samples .

Graphic designer

Dear [Hiring Manager], I am excited to apply for the Graphic Designer position at [Company]. With my strong design skills and experience in visual communication, I am confident in my ability to create effective and impactful designs for your organization. In my previous role at [Previous Company], I designed a wide range of marketing collateral, including logos, brochures, social media graphics, and website layouts. I am proficient in design software such as Adobe Creative Suite and have a deep understanding of design principles such as color theory, typography, and composition. I have a strong creative vision and am experienced in working collaboratively with clients and colleagues to bring their ideas to life. Additionally, my ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet tight deadlines has enabled me to consistently deliver high-quality work. I am passionate about design and am excited about the opportunity to bring my experience and skills to your team. Thank you for considering my application. Sincerely, [Your Name]

Check out more general cover letters in these graphic designer cover letter examples .

Biochemical research assistant

Dear [Hiring Manager], I am excited to apply for the Biochemical Research Assistant position at [Company]. With my strong background in biochemistry and experience in laboratory research, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your organization's scientific research. In my previous role at [Previous Company], I conducted biochemical assays, performed data analysis, and contributed to research publications. I am experienced in techniques such as protein purification, gel electrophoresis, and spectrophotometry. I have a deep understanding of biochemical principles and am proficient in laboratory software such as GraphPad Prism and Excel. Additionally, my attention to detail and ability to work collaboratively with colleagues have enabled me to consistently deliver high-quality work. I am passionate about biochemistry and am excited about the opportunity to bring my experience and skills to your team. Thank you for considering my application. Sincerely, [Your Name]

For more inspiration, check out these cover letter examples .

Social work case manager

Dear [Hiring Manager], I am excited to apply for the Social Work Case Manager position at [Company]. With my strong background in social work and experience in case management, I am confident in my ability to provide effective services to your organization's clients. In my previous role at [Previous Company], I provided case management services to individuals experiencing homelessness and mental health challenges. I conducted assessments, developed treatment plans, and connected clients to necessary services such as housing, mental health treatment, and medical care. I have a deep understanding of social work principles and am proficient in case management software such as HMIS and ClientTrack. Additionally, my ability to build rapport with clients and work collaboratively with colleagues has enabled me to consistently provide high-quality services. I am passionate about social work and am committed to helping vulnerable populations access necessary services and resources. I am excited about the opportunity to bring my experience and skills to your team. Thank you for considering my application. Sincerely, [Your Name]

Click here for more great samples of cover letter examples .

Limitations of a general cover letter for multiple positions

Keep in mind that your generic cover letters are intended as a starting point for further customization, serving as a tool to build upon. Tailoring your generic cover letter to a job description is paramount to an application that indicates your clear suitability and candidacy for the role. Neglecting to mention specifics can come across as lazy and careless. 

When crafting your general cover letter, whether it’s a cover letter for an internship or a full industry shift, be sure to infuse some personality into it so that your cover letter doesn’t fall flat. You want to be professional without sounding robotic while reminding the reader you’re a human. 

Hiring managers read many cover letters, and it’s clear who has put time and consideration into submitting personal, thoughtful cover letters and who has used the same cover letter repeatedly. Employers don’t want to hire someone who is merely looking for their next salary; they want an individual who will be thrilled to join the team and grow with the company.

Craft a customized cover letter with Teal

With Teal, you can select a cover letter template using the AI Resume Builder with AI functionality to help you easily personalize your cover letter to incorporate job-specific phrases and ATS keywords. Teal’s AI Resume Builder and cover letter template feature leverages AI to collect key details from your resume and any job posting to quickly produce a custom cover letter for multiple positions.

Use the AI functionality within Teal’s AI Resume Builder to tailor multiple versions of your cover letter to make it easier to apply to more than one position.

Remember that you have a lot to offer, and Teal can help you identify all your applicable skills. By customizing your cover letters to your desired roles, you will have a better chance of securing an interview and landing your dream job.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do you write in a general cover letter.

In a general cover letter, you write a brief introduction about yourself, your skills, and experiences, how they align with job requirements in your field, and why you are interested in the position or company.

Is it okay to have a general cover letter?

It's acceptable to have a general cover letter, especially when applying to multiple positions, but it should be tailored to each job application to show genuine interest and relevance.

What is the general format of a cover letter?

The general format of a cover letter includes a greeting, an introduction, a body paragraph detailing your qualifications, a closing paragraph expressing your interest and thanking the reader, a call to action for what you'd like the reader to do next, and a professional closing with your name and the best way to reach you.

Rachael Gilpin

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General Cover Letter Sample & Writing Tips

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How to Address a Cover Letter

General cover letter sample, before you send your letter, sending an email cover letter, review more examples.

When you apply for a job, you may be required to submit a cover letter with your resume. Even if it isn't required, it's typically a  good idea to write one when you're applying for jobs . A well-written cover letter helps you stand out in a sea of candidates, making it more likely you'll be selected for an interview. 

Your cover letter should highlight the points on your resume that make you a superior candidate for the position you are seeking. It should not simply recap your resume, but rather point out details and expand on specific key assets that are essential for success in the job.

What Information to Include in the Letter

Think of your cover letter not just as an introduction or a  statement of intent to apply for a job , but as a golden  opportunity to market yourself , your skills, your qualifications, and your training to an employer.

As a powerful marketing document, its primary purpose is to persuade a hiring manager to give a closer review to your resume than the typical quick scan.

You're in charge here, so highlight the accomplishments and experience that will make you a compelling candidate. Be choosy! 

The Body of the Letter

Start off the  body of your letter  with pertinent information about how you were referred to the opportunity and your interest in the position. 

The bulk of the letter, however, should focus on your qualifications for the job, relevant training, and why you would make an excellent candidate. You can cover this ground in a few paragraphs or take advantage of bullet points. 

Ideally, your letter will be easy to read—use action-oriented language, and avoid very long paragraphs, which can be taxing on the eye. Remember, you don't want to duplicate your resume here. Instead, you want to connect the dots for the hiring manager between the posted job and your experience. 

And, aim to "show, not tell"—that is, instead of saying, "I'm very detail-oriented," you could say, "At Company X, I ran the marketing newsletter, sent to 50,000 customers, from start to finish, ensuring that it went out in a timely manner, included all the relevant promotions from 15 departments, and was free from any errors." 

Letter Closing

In closing, you can include your plans for following up with the hiring manager: “I will call next week to follow up on the status of my application.” You should also thank them politely for their time. Use a  business-like closing , such as “Sincerely,” “Best Regards,” or “Yours Truly,” followed by your name and signature (on a hard copy). 

If you're emailing the cover letter, you can include an email signature. 

Keep length in mind . Your cover letter should not be more than a page in length, and a half-page is likely preferable.  

Sometimes a job posting lists the name of the hiring manager, and in that case, you should address your letter to him or her. In cases where a name isn’t listed, you should make an effort to find out the right person to whom to address your letter.

It’s always better to address your application materials to the appropriate hiring manager.

If you can’t find his or her name by reviewing the company's corporate website or calling their front office, you may use the  address of the company  and an alternative salutation, such as “Dear Hiring Manager." Here are tips for how to address a cover letter , along with helpful examples.

You can use this sample as a model to write a cover letter.  Download the template  (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online), or read the text version below. Use this sample as inspiration—do not copy it directly. 

General Cover Letter (Text Version)

Adam Applicant 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345 555-555-5555 adam.applicant@email.com

July 14, 2020

Beauford Lee Head of Academic Affairs Business City College 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321

Dear Mr. Lee:

I am writing in reply to the classified ad you posted seeking to fill the position of Graduate Student Advisor for the Master of Arts in Liberal Studies degree program at ABC College.

Having earned my Master of Arts degree in Academic Advising from XYZ University, I understand the importance for informed academic counseling and program planning in a higher education environment.

I have also experienced first-hand the comforting effect of being able to contact an advisor who genuinely cares for the professional growth and success of students.

During my career as an electrician prior to my graduate studies, I was elected Chairman of the Executive Board where I sat as the union’s representative to the apprenticeship advisory board. In this capacity, I was able to be an effective advisor to apprentices who were experiencing scholastic problems that threatened their future in the industry. I particularly enjoyed working with older apprentices who were seeking a career change and had problems adjusting to the obligations of work, school, and family life.

I believe that both my educational background in Academic Advising and my work-related duties of counseling and advising students enrolled in learning programs qualify me for consideration for the position of Graduate Student Advisor. I look forward to discussing how my skills can be of value to ABC College as it prepares to move into the new millennium. Thank you for your time, consideration, and forthcoming response.

Adam Applicant (hard copy letter)

Adam Applicant

Always carefully proofread your letter. The last thing you want to do is make a typo in the name of the company! Also confirm that you have the email or snail mail address correct. 

It can be helpful to also take one last look at the job posting. Review the job requirements , and then confirm that your letter shows that you fit the bill. For a second opinion, you can reach out to a friend and ask for feedback on the letter. 

When you're sending your cover letter by email you don't need to include the employer contact information or your contact information at the top of the letter. Instead, list your contact information in your email signature under your name.

Looking for more examples of how to write a cover letter? Review  more cover letter samples  for a variety of career fields and employment levels, including an internship cover letter sample, as well as entry-level, targeted, and email cover letters.

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General cover letter example

A job application is much more than a resume. You may be asked to provide a portfolio or other examples of your work, take a skills or personality test, or offer your LinkedIn or other social media profiles as supplemental materials. Most likely, you will be asked to include a cover letter with your documents. 

You know that hunting for a job requires you to put your best self out there. Your resume covers the highlights of your career, but your cover letter has the potential to really give your prospective employer a feel for who you are and what you’ll bring to the organization.

You have a resume you’re proud of (if you’re still working on it, we have a guide to help you there too), but the cover letter can be a more challenging task because it is completely open-ended … or is it? In this guide, paired with an expert-written cover letter example, you will learn how to grab the attention of recruiters so that you get that interview. Keep reading for tips and hints on

• What the purpose of a cover letter is
• How to structure a cover letter and which paragraphs to include
• Getting the most out of each section (header, greeting, intro, body, and conclusion)
• What to highlight in the text of your cover letter
• Avoiding common errors when writing your cover letter.

What’s the purpose of a cover letter?

The main purpose of a cover letter is to round out the basic information you provided in your resume. Within that document, you have only 3-4 lines to express your personality in complete sentences and one or two pages to detail the last decade of your working life.

That’s where a cover letter comes in. A bulleted item in your employment history section cannot do justice to the fact that you taught 10 seventh graders to read during Covid while suggesting politely that they keep their masks over their noses. A cover letter gives you room to express how you accomplished that (and kept your sanity). It also tells your prospective employer what’s important to you by the very fact that you chose to write about it.

Certainly, if you are applying for any kind of job that requires writing or attention to detail, your cover letter is a wonderful showcase. You never know who your witty turn of phrase will impress – as long as you keep it professional.

Your cover letter also affords you the opportunity to explain gaps in your work experience, how the skills from your old career translate to the one you’re embarking on now, or simply why this job at this company. If you’re new to the working world, you can use this page to convince employers that your lack of experience doesn’t mean you lack skills and worth ethic.

Finally, a cover letter gives you yet another opportunity to choose your top three or four achievements and highlight them again.

Does anyone read cover letters?

The answer is a resounding “Maybe.” You can find human resources personnel on both sides of this divide, but ask yourself this question: Why would employers ask for a cover letter if they weren’t going to take it into account?

Perhaps they simply want to see if you read the listing. Even in that case, you still need to write the cover letter, so you may as well make it count.

Going the extra mile probably won’t hurt, but if there’s only one case where your prose gets you an interview, that’s one more opportunity than you had before.

Best format for a cover letter

Now that you know you’re going to write that cover letter, you need to know that while it may seem unstructured, there are parts it must contain. 

The format of a cover letter should contain the following elements:

• The cover letter header
• The greeting (or salutation)
• The cover letter introduction
• The middle paragraphs (body of the letter)
• The ending paragraph of your cover letter (conclusion and call-to-action)

Resume.io is an expert resource for job seekers in all fields and at all levels of their careers. For general information on putting together a cover letter, read our comprehensive cover letter guide or check out our collection of 180+ adaptable cover letter examples and writing guides!

If you are just starting out in your career, you can use your academic accomplishments, volunteer activities, or extracurriculars to show your skills. Your letter should focus more on why you chose the career, your goals for your first job, and the interpersonal and general job skills you have already demonstrated.

This cover letter example will give you a blueprint for writing your own cover letter:

Dear Mr. North,

My experience of managing teams through change has taught me that if you put people first, everything else will fall into place. I led a team through a turbulent 18 months of downsizing at Labsworth, while a blistering period of growth at Pine Inc. provided an entirely different experience. No matter what the trajectory of the company is, there are lessons to be learned. Upon the completion of my MBA last year, I understood that I wanted to pursue a management role with an international dimension. I have never used my native Spanish in a business context and feel that your expansion into South America will allow me to employ my change management skills in a cultural setting that is familiar to me. In a start-up, it is important to employ people with both operational and commercial expertise. I have negotiated contracts worth $9.5m, improved delivery efficiencies by 12%, redesigned warehouse packing flows, overseen staff disputes, and driven profitability to industry-leading levels. In my last year at Pine, I spearheaded three initiatives to improve the net profit from 5.2% to 6.1%. Profits improve when everything is considered. I believe in letting my teams dictate the direction of their development. I have experience working with HR to design training modules, something that is particularly useful in a start-up. I enjoy the creativity and challenge of working out how to get the most out of a diverse set of professionals. 60% of my former team have enjoyed promotions over the past five years.

I cannot wait to find out more about your international expansion plans and hope that I am well-placed to assist.

Lara Fernandez

Cover letter header

The cover letter header has two functions: it presents your contact information and it gives a design flourish to this otherwise black and white document.

Display your name prominently and legibly, along with the phone number and email you check regularly. You definitely don’t want to wait too long or even miss the opportunity when a recruiter reaches out to schedule an interview or ask a few follow-up questions.

If you are new to the job market, make sure you acquire a professional email address. Use first name dot last name or first initial dot last name if possible. You may need to add your middle initial or a few numbers if your name is more common. There’s no better way to negate your professional image than with that jokey email you created for your college friends.

The goal of the header: Create an eye-catching design that also allows recruiters to get a hold of you easily.

Align document styles

Your resume and cover letter are part of a complete application package so they should have a cohesive look. Coordinate the fonts and colors you use in all your documents. That looks more professional, but also means that if the pages in your file get separated, they are easily reunited.

If you don’t want the hassle of formatting and designing your own application, try a tool builder such as the one at Resume.io, which offers resume templates and cover letter templates to match.

Cover letter greeting

Although it is only a few words, those words count. The cover letter greeting sets the tone for the rest of your document, but it also gives you a chance to start off on the right foot by naming the person to whom you are writing.

Brain imaging studies have shown that our brains involuntarily respond to the sound of our own names. Take that well-known quote from Dale Carnegie to heart: “Remember that a person’s name is to that person the sweetest and most important sound in any language” when you start your cover letter.

Do your due diligence to find out who will be reading your letter. Some job listings include the name of the person to whom you should direct your application. If not, you can often find this information on the company website under “About Us,” “Leadership,” “Staff Directory” or a similar category. LinkedIn is another helpful source, especially if you are linked to anyone who works there. If that is the case, you may also choose to let them know you are applying and see if they have any other information they are willing to share.

Get the name right

After you’ve gone through the trouble of finding the correct person to address, make sure you spell their name right! There’s no faster way to turn someone off than to get their name wrong.

More than just the spelling, check on the honorific and title they prefer. Some people list their preferred pronouns in their bios. If not, a phone call can help you there. Also, check to see if the person has earned the title “Doctor.” People can be prickly about this oversight. After all, earning a doctorate is no small feat.

You can always call the company directly and ask. If all your efforts come up empty, You may begin your cover letter with a greeting such as “Dear People Department” or “Dear Editorial Staff.” We do not recommend using the old-fashioned and stilted “ To Whom It May Concern .”

The goal of the greeting: Set the tone for your letter and warm up the hiring person by using their name and correct title.

Cover letter introduction

You’ve gotten off on the right track, with the correct person’s name, now your task is to pique their interest with an intriguing cover letter introduction. This paragraph serves as far more than an introduction to your career, it is the attention-getter that leaves them wanting more.

Right off the bat, you need to set a professional tone. Depending on your career, you may need to be precise and serious or a bit playful and creative. An emotional and passionate tone is appropriate for an elementary school teacher, for example, but not for a bank loan officer. Also, the key to the decision on tone is the company you are targeting. Is it a startup with a foosball table in the conference room or a Fortune 500 company where the managers wear business suits?

The best way to entice an HR professional to read on is to answer the question: Why should I hire you? Don’t be shy here! Explain how you will fill the needs of your prospective employer and how your experience will add value to their team.

The aim of the cover letter intro: Put your most important message out front in a tone that matches that of your profession and the company. Leave them wanting more.

Below are the greeting and introduction from our cover letter sample.

My experience of managing teams through change has taught me that if you put people first, everything else will fall into place. I led a team through a turbulent 18 months of downsizing at Labsworth, while a blistering period of growth at Pine Inc. provided an entirely different experience. No matter what the trajectory of the company is, there are lessons to be learned.

Cover letter middle part (body)

You’ve reached the heart of your cover letter. Within the middle part, or body, you will build on the message you delivered in your intro. The reader may be thinking, “So, you are an excellent software engineer. Of course, you’re going to tell me that. How do I REALLY know?” This is where you convince them.

How do you accomplish that? You choose your greatest achievement – the one that increased company profits, earned you accolades, or made a parent cry for joy – and detail it. Explain the situation you faced, the actions you took (giving proper credit to others on your team), and your outstanding results. Take care to describe the soft skills as well as the hard skills you used to accomplish this success.

Your portfolio, if career appropriate, will play a big role. (Make sure you link to it from your resume or cover letter using an online builder tool such as the one from Resume.io.) 

To avoid a dense page of type, you may choose to enumerate several other career achievements in a bulleted list. These can be more fleshed out than the ones you have developed for your resume, but you don’t need to use full sentences here since space is tight. You may use one of the following phrases to introduce the list:

• Among my other achievements:
• Other career highlights include:
• I am in the midst of the following projects:
• I have received accolades for
• My publications include:

From there, you can launch right into your conclusion.

The aim of the cover letter body: Back up the assertions you made in your introduction and broaden your list of accomplishments to form a convincing argument for employment.

Below is the middle part of our cover letter sample.

Upon the completion of my MBA last year, I understood that I wanted to pursue a management role with an international dimension. I have never used my native Spanish in a business context and feel that your expansion into South America will allow me to employ my change management skills in a cultural setting that is familiar to me. 

In a start-up, it is important to employ people with both operational and commercial expertise. I have negotiated contracts worth $9.5m, improved delivery efficiencies by 12%, redesigned warehouse packing flows, overseen staff disputes, and driven profitability to industry-leading levels. In my last year at Pine, I spearheaded three initiatives to improve the net profit from 5.2% to 6.1%. Profits improve when everything is considered. 

I believe in letting my teams dictate the direction of their development. I have experience working with HR to design training modules, something that is particularly useful in a start-up. I enjoy the creativity and challenge of working out how to get the most out of a diverse set of professionals. 60% of my former team have enjoyed promotions over the past five years.

How to close a cover letter (conclusion and sign-off)

The introduction is more than a simple, “Hello my name is” and the conclusion is more than a “Thanks for your time.” Remind the hiring manager of your key message without sounding too self-aggrandizing or eager, but then add a little something that leaves them wanting more.

By this, we don’t mean you should leave out a key career accomplishment. That would lessen your chances of getting the interview. Instead, offer a story about a tricky situation you navigated or why your love of film noir makes you a better real estate agent (it’s possible) – anything related to the position that you think will get the hiring manager curious to hear more in the interview. After all, your goal here is to speak with a person about the job. 

Before you sign off, make sure you clearly express your desire for the interview with a call to action. Keep it simple and don’t make assumptions. For example, “when I meet you in the interview” is a little presumptuous.

The goal of the conclusion: Remind the hiring manager of your message, leave them curious, and politely request an interview.

Below is the conclusion from our cover letter sample.

I cannot wait to find out more about your international expansion plans and hope that I am well-placed to assist. 

Sincerely, 

Basic mistakes in an application letter and how to avoid them

After putting in all the effort to compile a compelling argument for employment, you don’t want to blow your chances by making an easily avoidable error. Below are some mistakes to keep an eye out for before you hit the submit button on your application.

• Adopt the correct tone: Not every startup is a hotbed for freewheeling hipster fun. Make sure you know the company’s culture before you get too casual.
• Personalize it: If an employer asks for a cover letter, assume they at least want to know that you cared enough to address their specific needs. Yes, your greatest achievement is likely to remain the same, but you may tweak the reason it shows you are a great fit for the company. You may also either reorder or switch out bulleted items to emphasize the skills mentioned in the job listing. Finally, the enticing detail in your conclusion may differ depending on the job description.
• Spelling and grammar count: No matter your profession, employers value the ability to communicate clearly. Typos also say you do not carefully attend to details. Use spellcheck and a grammar check program such as Grammarly. Then, find a trusted friend or colleague to proofread for you.
• Formatting counts: This speaks to attention to detail and the fact that looks count, especially when they make for a first impression. Make sure your paragraphs are aligned and your header is legible, neat, and coordinates with your resume.

Key takeaways

• Whether or not you believe your cover letter will be read by a human resources person, you should write one. Better to be over-prepared than underprepared.
• Keep your main goal in mind: get that interview. To do that, answer the question “Why are you the best person for the job?” in your introduction.
• Maintain a consistent tone throughout and make sure it matches the culture of the company to which you are applying.
• Close with a sentence or two that will lead them wanting more.

Filling a blank screen with an outstanding cover letter is no easy task, but Resume.io’s tools and resources ease the task. Using the tips and tricks you learned in this guide, you may simply click on one of our ready-made and carefully market-researched cover letter templates and start writing. 

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• Generic Cover Letter

Good Generic Cover Letter

Sample generic cover letter. It is always advisable to personalize your general cover letter for the target job opportunity. However, there are  situations when it is appropriate to use a general cover letter. These are usually instances where you are not submitting your resume in response to a specific job posting or to a specific employer.

You can use a general cover letter when you go to a job fair and you are giving your resume and cover letter to a number of potential employers for different jobs.

You can also make use of the generic cover letter when you upload your resume and cover letter to a general job board or submit your resume to a recruitment agency to help you find a job.

If you are respond to an online job posting or networking with a specific potential employer it is important to customize your cover letter to each employer and each job opportunity to show how you fit the job and company requirements.

What is the best generic cover letter greeting?

When you have to use a generic greeting there a number of suitable options.

Dear Employer

Dear Sir or Madam

To Whom it May Concern

Some people use the salutation Dear Hiring Manager. This can be an issue if the person who reads the letter does not have that title. 

In an all purpose cover letter the first section of your cover letter should include all the information on how the employer can contact you.

The body of your generic cover letter should include:

• the special skills and knowledge you have that result in successful job performance
• the education and qualifications that have prepared you to successfully carry out work-related tasks
• the strengths you have that make you an asset to any employer
• your work-related achievements

Good example of a generic cover letter

I am a hard-working and determined professional seeking an opportunity to succeed in a dynamic company such as yours. I am confident that my knowledge, ability and experience allow me to deliver successful results for any company in a range of administrative positions

Please allow me to highlight my key skills:

• able to effectively manage my time through careful planning and organization of work activities
• an aptitude for identifying and resolving problems efficiently
• excellent communication skills that result in positive interpersonal relationships
• a track record of meeting deadlines and producing accurate work of a high standard
• proven ability to make sound decisions based on valid information
• the capacity to learn and and apply new information quickly and accurately
• strong computer skills with proficiency in MS Office

I am convinced that I can be an asset in any position requiring hard work, enthusiasm and reliability and I look forward to hearing from you in the near future.

The enclosed resume expands on my qualifications and experience.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Janet Smith

What to focus on in your general cover letter

When writing a general cover letter for your job application it is best to focus on transferable skills and core competencies that ensure success in a range of jobs and companies.

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Good generic application letter phrases

You can use phrases like these to describe general skills and competencies in your generic cover letter.

Motivation - I am an enthusiastic and self-directed worker looking to join a reputable company who would benefit from an employee who is ready to give his/her all to succeed

Problem solving   - able to collect and analyze information to find workable solutions to problems

Planning and Organizing -  My focus on efficiently planning and organizing my work has proven successful in prioritizing and handling multiple tasks

Communication - Proven ability to effectively communicate with a diverse range of people

Teamwork -   I enjoy working as part of a team and positively contributing to group achievement

Reliability - I approach all my work with focus and commitment to complete the task on time and to standard

Stress Tolerance - I  am accustomed to a fast-paced environment and work well under pressure

Generic Cover Letter Sample 2

All sample cover letters

We provide over 50 job-winning cover letters . Use these sample cover letters for different jobs.

Writing an entry level cover letter can be a real challenge. Use this entry level cover letter sample to get the results you want.

How to start and close your cover letter

Your cover letter introduction should compel the reader to continue to read your cover letter with interest and your closing should compel the reader to continue on to read your resume with serious attention.

Your cover letter intro - good examples

Cover letter closing paragraph - good examples

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4 Cover Letter Examples (Plus Tips on How to Write Yours)

We love having examples. It’s so much easier to decorate a cake, build a model, or yes, even write a cover letter when you know what the end product could look like. So that’s what we’re going to give you—all the cover letter examples and tips you need to make yours shine (unfortunately we’re not experts in cake decorating or model building). 

You'll see that writing a cover letter is all about highlighting your relevant skills, professional experience, and accomplishments, while emphasizing your interest for the role in an engaging manner.

Want to get right down to business? Skip ahead to:

1. The traditional cover letter example

2. the impact cover letter example, 3. the writing sample cover letter example, 4. the career change cover letter example, bonus cover letter examples, a few more cover letter tips, why bother with a cover letter at all.

We bet when you see a job listing that says “ cover letter optional ,” you breathe a sigh of relief, gleefully submit your resume, and move on. But you’re truly doing yourself a disservice by not including a cover letter (or by writing one that’s super generic or formulaic).

“When you’re writing a resume you’re oftentimes confined by space, by resume speak, by keywords—you’re up against a lot of technical requirements,” says Melody Godfred, a career coach and the founder of Write in Color who’s read thousands of cover letters over the course of her career. “In a cover letter you have an opportunity to craft a narrative that aligns you not only with the position you’re applying to but also the company you’re applying to.”

Whether you’re writing a cover letter for a data scientist or marketing manager position, an internship or a senior-level role, a startup or a Fortune 500 company, you’re going to want to tailor it to the role, company, and culture. A strong, customized cover letter will help you explain your value proposition and stand out from the stack of applicants. 

If there’s a gap in your resume , you have the opportunity to explain why it’s there. If you’re changing careers, you have the chance to describe why you’re making the switch. If your resume is pretty dull, a cover letter helps you show some personality . And yes, cover letters still get read.

Deep in the job search, or just browsing? These open jobs on The Muse could be your ideal next step »

What do I write in a cover letter? The 3 basic elements

You'll notice from our cover letter examples that the body of your text can vary a lot depending on factors like the position you're applying for, your career stage, and the type of cover letter requested by the hiring manager. For instance, a writing sample cover letter is different from a traditional professional cover letter (we'll get there soon.)

However, there is some information that you can't leave out. It's important to highlight your most relevant experience, skills, and qualifications for the role in any type of cover letter. Plus, make sure to write an engaging first paragraph to grab the reader's attention, and an effective final paragraph, ideally followed by a call to action, in order to leave a lasting positive impression.

You could say that cover letters are a little like puzzles. When you put each component in its proper place (and remove any parts that don’t fit), you create a complete picture. Even though that picture is always different, the types of pieces are basically the same. We've broken down these three key elements for you:

1. An engaging opener

How you start a cover letter is everything. Your opening lines influence whether someone keeps reading—and you want them to, right? “Starting with something that immediately connects you to the company is essential—something that tells the company that this is not a generic cover letter,” Godfred says. “You have to say something that tells the employer, ‘I wrote this just for you.’”

It can be a childhood memory tying you back to the company’s mission. It can be a story about the time you fell in love with the company’s product. It can be an anecdote from another job or experience showing how hard of a worker you are. Whatever you decide to open with, make it memorable.

2. A clear pitch

Use the next few paragraphs of your cover letter to “hit them with the strongest results you have that are aligned with the opportunity,” Godfred says. Ryan Kahn , Muse career coach and founder of The Hired Group , calls this your pitch. In other words, the part where you’re “selling yourself for the position and why you’re qualified for it.”

Additionally, Godfred says, “If you’re someone who’s transitioning careers, and you need to explain that transition, you do it there.”

This section should have a balance of soft and hard skills . Talk about your experience using Salesforce or doing SEO work, but also highlight your ability to lead teams and communicate effectively.

“Companies are embracing authenticity, they’re embracing humanity, they’re looking for people who are going to fit their culture,” says Godfred. “So what are your values? What do you stand for? These values should be as much a part of your cover letter as the super specialized hard skills.

3. A great closing line

Your closing line could include your next steps or a call to action, Kahn says, such as “ I welcome the opportunity to speak with you more about how I can contribute to the team ,” or, “ I would love to schedule a time for us to discuss this role and my experience. ” But more importantly, “You want to make sure that you’re gracious and thanking them,” he says. While seemingly cliché , it never hurts to end on a simple, “ Thank you for your consideration. ”

Does that sound a bit overwhelming? Don’t panic! We’ve got examples of four types of cover letters below: a traditional cover letter , an impact cover letter , a writing sample cover letter , and a career change cover letter . So let’s take a look at these examples, why they work, and how you can use them to craft your own.

A traditional cover letter is similar to what you’d come up with using position-based cover letter templates . It moves in reverse chronological order through your career history, highlighting parts of your past jobs that make you well suited for this position.

You might want to use this type of cover letter if:

• You’re applying to a more formal company (like a law firm or major healthcare company ) or a more conventional role (like a lawyer or accountant).
• You want to play it safe and conservative with your application materials.

What does the job description say?

Imagine you’re applying to a paralegal job opening at a law firm. The job description might include:

Responsibilities

• Draft routine legal documents for review and use by attorneys
• Coordinate and organize materials and presentations for legal proceedings
• Research legal and related issues and report findings and conclusions to team
• Provide overall legal administrative support to the legal team
• Maintain calendars and ensure timely filings

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent of relevant education and work experience
• Strong communication skills (oral and written)
• Strong organizational , multitasking, and prioritization skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and LexisNexis
• Trustworthy, positive, energetic, and optimistic attitude with a willingness to roll up your sleeves

The cover letter example

Here’s an example of a traditional cover letter you could write for this role—keeping things strictly professional but without sounding too boring or jargon-y:

Dear Ms. Jessica Sanchez,

In my five-year career as a paralegal, I have honed my legal research and writing skills, and the attorneys I’ve worked with have complimented me on my command of case law and litigation support. Spiegel Law Firm’s 20 years in practice proves that the firm has strong values and excellent attorneys, and I’d be eager to join such a talented team.

I currently serve as a paralegal for Chandler, Chandler, and Greene, where I work closely with the partners on a number of high-priority cases. During my time here, I implemented a new calendar system that ensures timely filing of court papers. This system has prevented missed deadlines and allowed for better organization of internal and client meetings.

Previously, as a paralegal for the Neuerburg Law Firm, I received praise for my overall support of the legal team and my positive attitude. While working there, I came up with and implemented a plan for digitizing their old files while still ensuring security and privacy. This led to more efficiency when preparing for client meetings and legal proceedings.

My further qualifications include a bachelor’s degree from Rutgers University, a paralegal certificate, and training in LexisNexis, Westlaw, and Microsoft Office Suite.

I would love the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your legal team. Thank you in advance for your consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Chase Broadstein [email protected] (222) 222-2222

Download this example

Why this works

This cover letter example is short, sweet, and to the point. It shows the candidate has a knack for getting things done in a thorough and timely manner and a track record for helping out wherever needed. The opening lines also express a genuine interest in this specific firm. Plus, there are some important keywords in there like “calendar system,” “bachelor’s degree,” “paralegal certificate,” and “LexisNexis.”

The impact cover letter puts your accomplishments front and center rather than organizing your paragraphs by past roles. You might use a cover letter like this if:

• You’re applying for roles where you’re expected to deliver on certain goals or results (for example, if the jobs involve sales quotas or marketing metrics).
• You haven’t followed a straightforward career path and your past job titles don’t show the extent of your qualifications.
• You want your personality to stand out a bit more than it might in a traditional cover letter.

What does the job description say

Imagine you’ve come across an opening for an email marketing manager . Part of the job description states:

• Manage email marketing strategy and calendar, including copywriting, optimization, monitoring, analyzing, and reporting on campaigns
• Improve campaign success through conversion optimization, A/B testing, and other experiments
• Collaborate with the design team to ensure brand guidelines are followed in emails
• Partner and collaborate cross-functionally with sales, product, product marketing, and data teams
• 3+ years in email marketing
• Experience with Constant Contact, Google Analytics, HTML, CSS, Photoshop, and Microsoft Excel, a plus
• Excellent communication skills (oral and written) and an eye for copyediting
• Strong interpersonal , relationship-building, and stakeholder management skills
• Excellent project management, problem-solving , and time management skills, with the ability to multitask effectively

Here’s an example of an impact cover letter where the writer’s hard skills and successes stand out:

Dear Russ Roman,

I have a problem. See, my inbox currently (and embarrassingly) hosts 1,500 unread emails—including newsletters from at least 50 different brands.

But this problem only fuels my passion for creating emails that are worth opening. Because from my perspective, as someone who can barely get through their own stack of mail, that’s a true win.

I’ve been following Vitabe for years, and can proudly say that I open every single email you send to me. I’m a sucker for a good subject line—“Take a Vitamin-ute—We’ll A-B-C You Soon” being my favorite—and the way your email content feels both fun and expert-backed really speaks to me. This is why I’m thrilled to submit my application for a role as email marketing manager at your company.

I have over four years of experience working in the email marketing space. In my current role at Westside Bank, I was able to implement new email campaigns centered around reengaging churned clients. By analyzing data around the types of clients who churn and the engagement of our current email subscribers, as well as A/B testing headlines and newsletter layouts, we were able to increase email subscribers by 15% and convert 30% of those subscribers to purchase our product, a significant increase from the previous year. 

I also launched a “Your Credit Matters” newsletter focused on educating our clients on how they spend and manage their credit—which became our highest performing campaign in terms of open-rates and click-through to date.

Previously, as a member of the marketing team at Dream Diary Mattresses, I collaborated with the sales and product team to understand how I could best support them in hitting their quarterly goals. One specific project involving creating personalized emails for customers drew more people to come back to our site after 30 days than direct paid ad campaigns, leading to a 112% increase in revenue from the last quarter.

I take the content I write and the calendars I manage seriously, editing and refining beyond detail-oriented and into meticulous territory, and I feel my experience and drive would greatly help Vitabe further develop their email program for success.

Thank you very much for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.

Lad Miller [email protected] (987) 654-3210

This sample cover letter concisely highlights the applicant’s most significant, relevant achievements. By adding context to how their projects were created, monitored, and completed, they’re able to show just how results-driven they are and how they’ve successfully leveraged some of the skills the company is looking for.

One thing worth noting: This person didn’t include keywords such as Constant Contact, Google Analytics, HTML, CSS, Photoshop, or Microsoft Excel—all of which are listed in the job description. But those skills are most likely in their resume already, and leaving them out gives them the space to discuss specific projects and tell a story not visible on other parts of their job application.

For roles where written communication is key, such as PR, copywriting , or journalism jobs, your cover letter will likely be the first writing sample your future employer sees. So it’s just as important to show your skill set in action through eloquent writing.

• Writing or editing is a key component of the role you’re applying to.
• You want to show off your creativity.

Here’s part of a job description for a staff writer position:

• Pitch and write articles, reporting on timely issues and trends
• Collaborate with editorial and other teams to launch each digital issue and other special projects on schedule
• Evaluate content performance and digital trends on a daily basis to constantly adjust pitches and packaging
• Utilize CMS tools, strategically select photos and videos, and request original graphics to optimize all written content for maximum engagement
• At least 2-3 years of experience creating content at a digital-first outlet
• Strong writing and reporting skills, and the ability to write clearly and quickly
• Familiarity working in a CMS and with analytics tools such as Google Analytics
• Deadline-driven, strategic thinker with a knack for crafting click-y headlines
• Strong collaborator who thrives in fast-paced environments

Have fun with this one, but triple-check for spelling and grammar mistakes, and make sure you’re showing off your best writing. Here's the cover letter sample:

Dear Tai Chen,

Since I could walk, I’ve been dancing. And since I could read, I’ve been glued to Arabesque Weekly. At one point, you featured one of my local heroes—a ballerina who struggled with an injury early in her career and went on to become a principal dancer at Pacific Northwest Ballet—and I plastered the article above my childhood bed. It’s still there today.

That article—and so many others you’ve published—taught me that dancing was about more than just pirouettes and arabesques and that the right kind of writer can shed light on aspects of the art that make it surprising, impactful, and universal. I can be that writer.

As an editorial assistant at TheImprovGroup.com for the past two and a half years, my main responsibility was to get all of our content ready to go live on the site. This included fact-checking, proofreading, adding in HTML where necessary, and finding photos, videos, and GIFs that would complement the content and optimize audience engagement. 

As I tinkered with each post, I became intimately familiar with our internal CMS. Reviewing every single article we published and following reactions and engagement helped me gain a deep understanding of what makes a piece really land with our audience.

But by far my favorite aspect of this role has been writing. Each week, I pitch and write at least one article, from 250-word news items to 900-word advice pieces to even longer profiles, features, and personal essays. I love the challenge of developing pitches that align with the trends we see in the data, reflect with the company’s brand and mission, and allow me to flex my creative muscles.

Collaborating with my team to form the best content library we can has been a dream come true. I would be so excited to use my experience to help Arabesque Weekly achieve its goals. And I hope to one day write a story that another little dance lover tapes to their wall forever.

It would be an honor to be a part of your editorial team, and I look forward to the possibility of discussing the opportunity with you.

Hoping to be your next staff writer,

Marlee Wood [email protected] (555) 666-4433

This candidate is clearly passionate about this specific publication and leads with a unique personal anecdote tied to the company’s mission that demonstrates their ability to tell stories in a compelling way. There are relevant keywords and phrases, sure, but they’re not just thrown in there. Their voice comes through in every sentence, proving this person knows how to communicate effectively and creatively.

Cover letters can play a big part in helping career changers prove their qualifications—especially when it’s unclear how their skills transfer over to this new field.

You might write a career change cover letter if:

• You want to highlight the transferable skills you have that relate to the job description.
• You want to explain why you’re making the switch and what’s driving you toward this specific industry, company, or position.

Imagine you’re someone who has experience supporting a sales team as an administrative assistant , and you’re now looking to become a sales representative. You come across a job posting that includes:

• Develop new sales techniques and strategies to build pipeline and hit team goals
• Coordinate with other teams to increase lead-generation efforts
• Assist in the processing of new business, including contacting customers to finalize sales and service transactions
• 1-3 years of successful sales experience
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment
• Ability to work independently to plan, set priorities, and effectively organize work
• Proven ability to be persuasive, persistent, and confident in closing a sale

Typically, this type of cover letter should include a compelling narrative about your career change and how you can transfer your past experiences to this new role. Here’s how you might translate your past experience over to this new (and exciting) prospect:

Dear Maria Russo,

The head of sales at Sunshine Inc. was in a bind. She needed six client meetings scheduled, 18 service transactions processed, and a summary of the team’s new lead generation campaign drafted before getting on a flight to Austin—in three hours. So she turned to her cool-headed, sales-savvy administrative assistant for help. That assistant was me. Not only did I execute everything on her to-do list, I did it all before her plane left the ground.

For three years, I worked in lockstep with a busy, growth-oriented sales leader to support the business development team. As the sole administrative assistant in the department, I balanced a swath of competing priorities, ranging from coordinating meetings and inputting data to contacting customers, finalizing transactions, and creating promotional materials. This role helped me develop a comprehensive understanding of the sales cycle, sales strategy, and pipeline growth.

Like many others, my career path hasn’t been entirely straightforward. After leaving Crabapple Media, I enrolled in a local coding bootcamp. Six months later, I emerged with a certificate in computer programming and a certainty that I did not want to be a coder. But education is never wasted. I’m now an aspiring sales representative with experience supporting a thriving sales team and extensive knowledge of the tech space.

Here’s a little bit more about how my experience would translate into this role:

• At Crabapple Media, I assisted in coordinating three annual sales strategy rollouts, yielding an average increase in pipeline of 26% YoY.
• At Sunshine Inc., I supported 12 independent team members in their lead-generation efforts. I also assisted in processing an average of 300 sales transactions every quarter.
• I thrive in busy, ever-changing environments that require me to communicate clearly and concisely. Supporting a high-volume team and a busy executive helped me to hone these skills—I typically sent more than 200 emails a day!

I would, of course, love to schedule a time for us to discuss this role and my experience, and I truly want to thank you for considering me.

All the best,

Olu Abiola [email protected] (123) 456-789

The opener draws you in and makes you want to learn more. It toots the person’s horn, but in a way that’s substantiated. Then, the next couple sections explain their experience in the sales space and other relevant qualifications, before eventually tying that back to why they’re applying to this specific job. 

Similar to the impact cover letter, the author lists some of the more important qualities they bring to the table, doing a bit of keyword inclusion and resume gap explaining along the way.

To further guide you, check out some more cover letter examples:

• Pain point cover letter example
• Internship cover letter example
• Recent graduate cover letter example
• (Another) career changer cover letter example
• Stay-at-home parent returning to work cover letter example
• Sales cover letter example
• Email marketing manager cover letter example
• No job description or position cover letter example (a.k.a., a letter of intent or interest)
• Example cover letter with no experience

Let’s break down one of our example cover letters real quick

All three professional cover letter examples have some key elements that make them great and able to grab the hiring manager's attention. Check out this handy infographic that breaks down our impact cover letter:

Here are a few more tips to help the cover letter process:

Start with a “brain dump” 

If you’re staring at a blank page, Godfred always recommends that her clients start by getting all their ideas on the page without paying attention to length. Then “ask yourself how you can cut half of it,” she says. You’ll likely find that repeated information and very generic phrases are the first to go. (If it’s still too long, here are some tips for getting your cover letter down to one page .)

Don’t just repeat your resume

You only have so much space to get your point across, so focus on the information that isn’t stated elsewhere rather than simply regurgitating your resume. A good cover letter should complement your resume, so use the opportunity to elaborate your skills and qualifications further, as well as your accomplishments and why you're a good fit for that position.

Focus on quality over quantity 

Target the jobs you’re most closely drawn to and qualified for and give them all your energy, rather than trying to churn out hundreds of cover letters, Kahn says. You may not be able to apply to as many jobs, but you’ll have a better response rate.

Remember the ATS 

Much like your resume, an applicant tracking systems, or ATS , will be sifting through your cover letter. So you’ll want to scatter relevant keywords from the job description throughout your pitch where it makes sense.

Don’t stress over formatting 

You may see flashy cover letter examples across the internet, but for the most part, it just isn’t necessary. An ATS can’t read text that has been formatted beyond using bold, italics, underline, and color, so keep your font and layout simple—especially if you’re submitting your cover letter through an online portal.

Don't forget your contact information

Include your contact information on every page, including your name, phone number, and email. “Imagine you come across a cover letter and you print it out with a bunch of applications to review and it doesn’t have the person’s contact information on it,” Godfred says. “You never want to put yourself in a situation where you’re the right person and they can’t find you.”

Edit your cover letter before submitting

Never submit a cover letter right after you finish writing it—there could be critical errors that you didn't notice while typing. Take some time away from your text, then revisit it like you're reading someone else's letter. Be sure to double-check all the information you've included, paying special attention to:

• The company's name
• The hiring manager's name
• The job title
• Your contact information
• Basic grammar and spelling

You're ready to go

If you've come this far, you're equipped with all the information you need to craft a great cover letter. Hopefully these cover letter examples help as you go to tackle your own. Remember: This is just one small step in the process! Take your time, but learn to move on when you’ve given it your all.

Amanda Cardoso contributed to the latest version of this article.

General Worker Cover Letter: Sample & Guide (Entry Level & Senior Jobs)

Create a standout general worker cover letter with our online platform. browse professional templates for all levels and specialties. land your dream role today.

Dear Potential Employer, As a hardworking and dedicated individual, I am excited to apply for the General Worker position at your company. With a strong work ethic and a willingness to take on various tasks, I am confident in my ability to make a positive impact on your team. In this guide, I will outline key tips and strategies for crafting a compelling cover letter that showcases my qualifications and enthusiasm for the role. Thank you for considering my application.

We will cover:

• How to write a cover letter, no matter your industry or job title.
• What to put on a cover letter to stand out.
• The top skills employers from every industry want to see.
• How to build a cover letter fast with our professional Cover Letter Builder .
• Why you should use a cover letter template

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General Worker Cover Letter Sample

Subject: Application for General Worker Position

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my strong interest in the General Worker position at your company. With a solid background in manual labor and a strong work ethic, I am confident in my ability to contribute to the success of your team.

During my previous role as a general worker at XYZ Company, I gained valuable experience in various tasks such as cleaning, moving materials, and performing general maintenance duties. I am skilled in operating a range of basic hand and power tools, and I am committed to following safety protocols to ensure a secure working environment for myself and my colleagues.

My physical fitness and stamina enable me to handle demanding tasks, while my attention to detail ensures that all assigned duties are completed to a high standard. I am a quick learner and am always willing to go the extra mile to support my team and meet company objectives.

In addition to my practical abilities, I am a reliable and responsible individual who takes pride in my work. I am punctual and adhere to deadlines, and I am adaptable to changing work environments and schedules. I believe that my strong communication skills and positive attitude make me a valuable asset to any team.

I am particularly drawn to the opportunity at your company because of your commitment to quality and innovation. I am eager to contribute to a forward-thinking organization that values collaboration and excellence. I am confident that my dedication and willingness to learn will make me a strong contributor to your team.

I am excited about the possibility of joining your company and am eager to discuss how my background, skills, and enthusiasm can benefit your team. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my application in further detail.

[Your Name]

Why Do you Need a General Worker Cover Letter?

Why do you need a General Worker cover letter?

• Highlight your relevant skills and experience: A cover letter allows you to showcase your relevant skills and experience that make you a strong candidate for the General Worker position.
• Show your enthusiasm and commitment: Your cover letter gives you the opportunity to express your enthusiasm for the role and demonstrate your commitment to contributing to the company.
• Personalize your application: A well-written cover letter allows you to personalize your application by addressing specific qualifications or requirements mentioned in the job description.
• Make a good first impression: Your cover letter is often the first thing a potential employer will see, so it's important to make a good first impression and stand out from other applicants.
• Explain any gaps or unusual aspects in your work history: If you have any gaps in your work history or unusual aspects of your experience, a cover letter provides you with the opportunity to explain these and address any potential concerns.

A Few Important Rules To Keep In Mind

• Address the cover letter to the hiring manager or recruiter by name if possible
• Use a professional and formal tone throughout the cover letter
• Highlight your relevant skills and experience as a General Worker
• Explain why you are interested in the position and the company
• Show enthusiasm and passion for the job
• Avoid using cliches and generic language
• Keep the cover letter concise and to the point, aiming for one page in length
• Proofread for spelling and grammar errors before sending the cover letter
• Thank the reader for their time and consideration at the end of the cover letter

What's The Best Structure For General Worker Cover Letters?

After creating an impressive General Worker resume , the next step is crafting a compelling cover letter to accompany your job applications. It's essential to remember that your cover letter should maintain a formal tone and follow a recommended structure. But what exactly does this structure entail, and what key elements should be included in a General Worker cover letter? Let's explore the guidelines and components that will make your cover letter stand out.

Key Components For General Worker Cover Letters:

• Your contact information, including the date of writing
• The recipient's details, such as the company's name and the name of the addressee
• A professional greeting or salutation, like "Dear Mr. Levi,"
• An attention-grabbing opening statement to captivate the reader's interest
• A concise paragraph explaining why you are an excellent fit for the role
• Another paragraph highlighting why the position aligns with your career goals and aspirations
• A closing statement that reinforces your enthusiasm and suitability for the role
• A complimentary closing, such as "Regards" or "Sincerely," followed by your name
• An optional postscript (P.S.) to add a brief, impactful note or mention any additional relevant information.

Cover Letter Header

A header in a cover letter should typically include the following information:

• Your Full Name: Begin with your first and last name, written in a clear and legible format.
• Contact Information: Include your phone number, email address, and optionally, your mailing address. Providing multiple methods of contact ensures that the hiring manager can reach you easily.
• Date: Add the date on which you are writing the cover letter. This helps establish the timeline of your application.

It's important to place the header at the top of the cover letter, aligning it to the left or center of the page. This ensures that the reader can quickly identify your contact details and know when the cover letter was written.

Cover Letter Greeting / Salutation

A greeting in a cover letter should contain the following elements:

• Personalized Salutation: Address the hiring manager or the specific recipient of the cover letter by their name. If the name is not mentioned in the job posting or you are unsure about the recipient's name, it's acceptable to use a general salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Company Name] Recruiting Team."
• Professional Tone: Maintain a formal and respectful tone throughout the greeting. Avoid using overly casual language or informal expressions.
• Correct Spelling and Title: Double-check the spelling of the recipient's name and ensure that you use the appropriate title (e.g., Mr., Ms., Dr., or Professor) if applicable. This shows attention to detail and professionalism.

For example, a suitable greeting could be "Dear Ms. Johnson," or "Dear Hiring Manager," depending on the information available. It's important to tailor the greeting to the specific recipient to create a personalized and professional tone for your cover letter.

Cover Letter Introduction

An introduction for a cover letter should capture the reader's attention and provide a brief overview of your background and interest in the position. Here's how an effective introduction should look:

• Opening Statement: Start with a strong opening sentence that immediately grabs the reader's attention. Consider mentioning your enthusiasm for the job opportunity or any specific aspect of the company or organization that sparked your interest.
• Brief Introduction: Provide a concise introduction of yourself and mention the specific position you are applying for. Include any relevant background information, such as your current role, educational background, or notable achievements that are directly related to the position.
• Connection to the Company: Demonstrate your knowledge of the company or organization and establish a connection between your skills and experiences with their mission, values, or industry. Showcasing your understanding and alignment with their goals helps to emphasize your fit for the role.
• Engaging Hook: Consider including a compelling sentence or two that highlights your unique selling points or key qualifications that make you stand out from other candidates. This can be a specific accomplishment, a relevant skill, or an experience that demonstrates your value as a potential employee.
• Transition to the Body: Conclude the introduction by smoothly transitioning to the main body of the cover letter, where you will provide more detailed information about your qualifications, experiences, and how they align with the requirements of the position.

By following these guidelines, your cover letter introduction will make a strong first impression and set the stage for the rest of your application.

Cover Letter Body

I am writing to express my strong interest in the General Worker position at your company. With a solid background in various manual labor tasks and a strong work ethic, I am confident that I would be a valuable asset to your team.

My experience includes performing a wide range of general labor duties such as cleaning, maintenance, construction, and landscaping. I am proficient in operating various hand and power tools, and have a keen eye for detail when it comes to completing tasks accurately and efficiently.

In addition to my technical skills, I am a reliable and hardworking individual who takes pride in delivering high-quality work. I am comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and can easily adapt to changing priorities. I am also able to work well independently or as part of a team, and always maintain a positive attitude and professional demeanor.

I am dedicated to safety in the workplace and prioritize following all relevant guidelines and procedures to ensure a secure and productive work environment. I am committed to contributing to the overall success of the team and the company as a whole.

I am eager to bring my skills and enthusiasm to your company and am confident that I would make a positive impact. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and qualifications make me a perfect fit for the General Worker position at your company.

Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to the possibility of contributing to the success of your team.

Complimentary Close

The conclusion and signature of a cover letter provide a final opportunity to leave a positive impression and invite further action. Here's how the conclusion and signature of a cover letter should look:

• Summary of Interest: In the conclusion paragraph, summarize your interest in the position and reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to the organization or school. Emphasize the value you can bring to the role and briefly mention your key qualifications or unique selling points.
• Appreciation and Gratitude: Express appreciation for the reader's time and consideration in reviewing your application. Thank them for the opportunity to be considered for the position and acknowledge any additional materials or documents you have included, such as references or a portfolio.
• Call to Action: Conclude the cover letter with a clear call to action. Indicate your availability for an interview or express your interest in discussing the opportunity further. Encourage the reader to contact you to schedule a meeting or provide any additional information they may require.
• Complimentary Closing: Choose a professional and appropriate complimentary closing to end your cover letter, such as "Sincerely," "Best Regards," or "Thank you." Ensure the closing reflects the overall tone and formality of the letter.
• Signature: Below the complimentary closing, leave space for your handwritten signature. Sign your name in ink using a legible and professional style. If you are submitting a digital or typed cover letter, you can simply type your full name.
• Typed Name: Beneath your signature, type your full name in a clear and readable font. This allows for easy identification and ensures clarity in case the handwritten signature is not clear.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a General Worker Cover Letter

When crafting a cover letter, it's essential to present yourself in the best possible light to potential employers. However, there are common mistakes that can hinder your chances of making a strong impression. By being aware of these pitfalls and avoiding them, you can ensure that your cover letter effectively highlights your qualifications and stands out from the competition. In this article, we will explore some of the most common mistakes to avoid when writing a cover letter, providing you with valuable insights and practical tips to help you create a compelling and impactful introduction that captures the attention of hiring managers. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career journey, understanding these mistakes will greatly enhance your chances of success in the job application process. So, let's dive in and discover how to steer clear of these common missteps and create a standout cover letter that gets you noticed by potential employers.

• Avoid using a generic cover letter that does not specifically address the job posting or company you are applying to.
• Avoid including irrelevant information or skills that are not related to the job you are applying for.
• Avoid spelling and grammatical errors by proofreading your cover letter carefully.
• Avoid using a one-size-fits-all approach and make sure to customize your cover letter for each job application.
• Avoid being too casual or informal in your language and tone, as a cover letter should be professional and respectful.
• Avoid focusing too much on what you want from the job, and instead emphasize what you can offer to the employer.
• Avoid making the cover letter too long or too short, aim for one page in length and include all relevant information.
• Avoid using cliches and overused phrases, try to be original and specific in your language.
• Avoid providing false or exaggerated information about your skills or experience, as this can be easily verified by the employer.
• Avoid forgetting to include your contact information and a polite closing statement thanking the employer for their time.

Key Takeaways For a General Worker Cover Letter

• Proven ability to work effectively and efficiently in a general worker role
• Strong focus on teamwork and cooperation to achieve project goals
• Experience in a variety of general labor tasks, including cleaning, maintenance, and assembly
• Demonstrated commitment to safety protocols and regulations
• Ability to adapt to different work environments and quickly learn new skills

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3 Keys to Writing Cover Letters That Stand Out

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3 Keys to Writing Cover Letters That Stand Out was originally published on Vault .

It's a myth that high quality job openings are few and far between thanks to Covid. The truth is, despite the economic uncertainty created by the pandemic, there are many great openings out there. And to get them—or, at least, have a chance at getting them—you first need to capture the attention of hiring managers. And the best way to do that is to write compelling cover letters. So here are the three keys to writing cover letters that stand out.

1. Convey your personality, quirks and all.

Showcasing your uniqueness and allowing your personality to shine through in your cover letters can magnetize hiring managers, sending instant messages that you might be the candidate they're looking for. The secret to achieving this is to use specific details, rather than vague ones.

For example, the following was recently used by an applicant when applying for a Head of Marketing position (shortly after sending this, the candidate was interviewed and then hired):

“I have a passion for data and analytics. I enjoy spending (a little too much time) geeking out in Google analytics, advertising platforms, and BI tools (Tableau and Looker), digging deep into data to identify opportunities that can be leveraged to drive growth and inform testing strategies for campaigns, websites, and products.”

Now compare the above to the below (which has less personality and fewer details, and thus would likely not stand out):

“I am well versed in data analytics, and I am experienced with Google analytics, BI Tools, and other advertising platforms. I have a proven ability to inform testing strategies for campaigns for websites and products.”

Here's another example of cover letter phrasing that captures the attention of hiring managers:

“I'm rather obsessed with personal organization. I read three organizational blogs on my own time, and I've organized my desktop folders into color-coded sub-categories. My friends laugh at me for saying things like, ‘An organized space equals an organized mind,' but I don't like wasting time looking for things.” 

Now compare that to this less specific phrasing:

“I have a proven track record of being organized, and I have a passion for it. I have a proven knack for keeping files organized on an ongoing basis, and I have put organizational processes and procedures in place for my department. The bottom line is organization is always my highest priority.” 

2. Prove your level of dedication to your profession.

Another way to stand out is to illustrate specific things about your dedication to your field. In the following example, a candidate showcases her dedication to her profession, proves that she spends a lot of time thinking about driving results in her field, and shows that she takes concrete steps in order to be a high quality contributor in her field. All of which goes a long way when it comes time for hiring managers to decide which candidates to interview. 

“I believe that a good marketing strategy requires seeking out the latest trends and staying one step ahead of the competition. I've attended the Traction conference two years in a row and completed the 2018 Reforge Growth Series, a highly credible and exclusive course that only accepts 10 percent of applicants and is built by leaders from Hubspot, Uber, and other firms. Through these professional developments, I've opened my mind to uncommon marketing methods, and I pride myself on thinking outside the box to develop strategies that create sustainable, low-cost customer acquisition loops that lead to long-term positive ROI.” 

Now compare the above to the below, which is less detailed and includes less specific phrasing:

“I have the skills and requirements for this position, and I believe I would complete every task asked of me to the highest standard expected. My background and experience make me an excellent fit for this position for many reasons. I am very interested in marketing, and I think I would be a great asset to the team.”

3. Include concrete, quantitative results that show your value.

In any written application, you'll need to showcase some form of quantitative results to stand out. Note that even if you don't have a lot of shiny results in your career yet (or even any relevant experience—which is okay!), you can still use words to capture someone's attention with what you have done. And if you do have a record of achieving quantifiable results, then by all means include them, like in the below:

“I developed several Google ad campaigns that were worth more than $500,000 and that resulted in high-level customers. Also, through testing and optimization, I increased newsletter sign-ups by more than 200 percent.”

Now compare that to this bland sentence:

“I have experience in Google ad campaigns, as well as experience in testing and optimization.”

A final note

When trying to convey your personality, get across your dedication, or communicate your value, there's a big difference between saying you're a good fit for the job and actually showing it.

So, when writing your cover letters, try to hold these words in mind: I know you (the hiring managers) don't know me, so let me show you exactly why I'm completely invested, committed, and passionate about doing this specific type of work. And let me show you the specific reasons why hiring me, over all other candidates, would be beneficial to you.

If you hold all this in mind, the right details and words will flow right out of you—and into your cover letters.

Natalie Fisher is best known for helping professionals land their ideal roles and achieve explosive salary growth (even with little experience). If you want to dive deeper on the topic of your career mindset and become a person who knows exactly how to land their dream job offer, listen to her on the podcast Get a Six Figure Job You Love .

Election latest: 'Tories are exhausted' - The Sun backs Labour less than 24 hours before polls open

The Sun has endorsed the Labour Party for the first time since 2005 in what our chief political correspondent Jon Craig describes as a "big boost" for Keir Starmer.

Wednesday 3 July 2024 15:44, UK

• General Election 2024

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Last day of election campaigning

• Coming up: The final Sky News/YouGov MRP poll
• The Sun backs Labour for first time since 2005
• Under-threat shadow minister hits out at postal vote delays
• Beth Rigby: Labour insiders can't help feel the party's time has come
• PM reveals favourite food - and meets UK's most tattooed mum
• Lib Dem leader makes most of final day - with a tractor race
• Electoral Dysfunction: What to watch out for on election night
• Live reporting by Faith Ridler   and Brad Young

Election essentials

• Manifesto pledges: Conservatives | Greens | Labour | Lib Dems | Plaid | Reform | SNP
• Trackers: Who's leading polls? | Is PM keeping promises?
• Follow Sky's politics podcasts: Electoral Dysfunction | Politics At Jack And Sam's
• Read more: Who is standing down? | Key seats to watch | What counts as voter ID? | Check if your constituency is changing | Guide to election lingo
• How to watch election on Sky News

Sky News will reveal the results of YouGov's final MRP poll of the election campaign at 5pm.

The polls have been consistently disastrous for the Tories throughout the campaign and the previous two in this series have been no exception.

Our last one, from 19 June , projected Labour to win a majority of 200 and many big name Conservatives to lose their seats.

Could things have got even worse since then?

Find out at 5pm, live on Sky News and here in Politics Hub.

Rishi Sunak has spoken to broadcasters as he continues to make his final pitch to the nation before polls open tomorrow.

It was put to him that his former home secretary, Suella Braverman, has said the Tories needs to prepare for opposition, while his work and pensions secretary, Mel Stride, has said Labour is likely to win a landslide.

Asked if he is the only person left who still thinks he has a chance, the prime minister replied: "No. Every vote matters tomorrow."

Mr Sunak claimed some seats were so close that "just 130,000 people could chance the outcome of the election".

He denied the Tories were trying to scare people into voting for them with their attacks on Labour, and said all Mr Stride was trying to do this morning was point out the "dangers" of giving Sir Keir Starmer's party a "blank cheque to do what they want".

"I appreciate people have frustrations with our party," he said, but urged voters to "think about what a Labour government would mean for your family" when voting tomorrow.

"I am proud this campaign has shone a spotlight on Labour's plans to raise people's taxes," he added.

Mr Sunak vowed to "keep going to the last second" - the polls open at 7am tomorrow morning and close at 10pm.

The day before polls open, The Sun newspaper has finally announced its endorsement - and said it is backing the Labour Party at this election.

It is not exactly a wholehearted endorsement, but the newspaper makes the case that the Tories can no longer govern, while Sir Keir Starmer has got his party back to a place where they can lead the country forward.

"It is time for change," the paper says, echoing Labour's slogan, as it calls for the "exhausted" Tories to face "a period in opposition".

The Sun dismisses Reform as a "one-man band" and the Lib Dems as a "joke" best known for Sir Ed Davey's "ridiculous stunts".

Of the Labour leader, the paper said: "By dragging his party back to the centre ground of British politics for the first time since Tony Blair was in No10, Sir Keir has won the right to take charge."

Our chief political correspondent Jon Craig acknowledges plenty of people say newspaper endorsements "don't matter as much as they used to", but says this is a "big boost" for Labour.

"I remember being with some senior figures in 2010 when The Sun came out for David Cameron, and there was gloom among the Labour high command back then," Jon recalls.

"Labour will be delighted - the Tories will probably not be that surprised."

A second major poll in 24 hours has forecast a bigger Labour landslide than 1997.

The Tories would face their worst ever defeat with upsets for several cabinet ministers, according to More in Common.

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt, Defence Secretary Grant Shapps and veterans minister Johnny Mercer were forecast to lose their seats in the poll of 13,556 adults for The News Agents podcast.

More In Common has listed Portsmouth North, which former Commons Leader Penny Mordaunt is contesting, as "too close to call".

More in Common forecast:

• Labour: 430 seats on 39.3% of the vote (Tony Blair won 418);
• Conservatives: 126 on 22.7%;
• Liberal Democrats: 52 on 13.5% (up from 11);
• SNP: 16 (slashed from 48);
• Reform UK: Two on 13.1%;
• Plaid Cymru: Two seats;
• Green: At least one seat.

Labour is set for one upset - Islington North, where Jeremy Corbyn has a 91% chance of winning.

A poll by Survation yesterday evening said Labour were 99% certain to beat the landslide win secured by Tony Blair in 1997.

Our live poll tracker collates the results of opinion surveys carried out by all the main polling organisations - and allows you to see how the political parties are performing in the run-up to the general election.

With just 24 hours to go, the Tories and Labour have taken a drop, while support for Reform UK and the Liberal Democrats is on the rise.

Read more about the tracker  here .

"I was supposed to parachute in," jokes Sir Ed Davey as he addresses supporters in Hampshire, his second stop of the day.

Campaigning alongside vet and Winchester candidate Danny Chambers, Sir Ed says: "We've got the pet vote, and the farm animal vote, all sewn up." 

He continues: "This is a once in a century election. A chance where we can change the political geography of our nation, and in doing that, I want us to become a caring nation."

As the event winds down, he apologises for keeping his supporters waiting: "An hour?! I'm so sorry - I blame the Tories."

The full list of candidates running in Winchester include:

•  Chris Barfoot, independent;
• Danny Chambers, Lib Dems;
• Kevin D'Cruze, independent;
• Andrew Davis, Social Democratic Party;
• Hannah Dawson, Labour;
• Flick Drummond, Conservatives.

The leader of Plaid Cymru has said the Conservatives are "desperate" for attacking Sir Keir Starmer for wanting to spend Friday evenings with his children.

Sir Keir said earlier this week that Friday night dinner is important to his family and that he tries to "not do a work-related thing after 6pm" on Fridays.

This led to senior Conservatives criticising the Labour leader, accusing him of being a "part-time prime minister".

Rhun ap Iorwerth, the leader of Plaid, said: "I think that the Conservatives are pretty desperate if they're coming down to that kind of level of personal attack.

"People attack me personally all the time and I tend to try to ignore it."

Plaid vows to 'hold Labour to account'

"What we need to focus on is what's really at stake in this election," he added.

"Conservatives are going - high time - Labour will form the next government, but we can hold them to account."

SNP leader John Swinney also criticised the Tory attacks on Sir Keir earlier today, labelling them "disgusting".

 No criminal offences were committed by Reform UK activists campaigning for Nigel Farage who were filmed by an undercover journalist for Channel 4, Essex Police says.

"Having assessed the comments made during a Channel 4 news programme, and all other information available to us, we have concluded that no criminal offences have taken place," said the force in a statement.

The footage showed canvasser Andrew Parker using a racial slur about Rishi Sunak and suggesting migrants arriving in the UK on small boats should be used as "target practice".

Another activist described the Pride flag as "degenerate" and suggested members of the LGBT+ community are paedophiles.

Mr Farage claimed he was the victim of a stitch-up because Mr Parker is an actor, but Mr Parker insisted he was there as a Reform activist and Channel 4 said he was not known to the broadcaster before being "filmed covertly via the undercover operation".

 By Jennifer Scott , political reporter

More than £232m has been paid out in compensation to people affected by the now-scrapped northern leg of HS2, Sky News can reveal.

Responses to our Freedom of Information requests show just shy of £550m has been spent so far on a range of government compensation schemes for both residents and businesses impacted by the planned route between London and Manchester.

But more than 40% of the pot went to land and property owners in phase two of the project - starting at Birmingham and heading north - which was cancelled by the Conservatives at their 2023 party conference and will never be built.

A total of 2,446 successful applications for pay outs have been made across five schemes, but 53 are still yet to be settled - 10 years after compensation was first made available.

You can read more from Sky News here:

By Faith Ridler , political reporter

A Labour frontbencher in a hotly contested seat is "very concerned" about delays to arrivals of postal votes in her constituency - which she could be set to lose to the Greens.

Thangam Debbonaire, the shadow culture secretary, wrote to a British citizen who lives in Hong Kong - but is registered to vote in Bristol Central - to explain she is "certainly not the only person" who has experienced delays.

'Completely unacceptable'

Bronwen Baynes, 34, did not receive her postal vote and now there is no way of her getting it back to the count before the deadline of 10pm on Thursday.

She is now applying for an emergency proxy vote in the hope that one of her friends can vote on her behalf - but this is proving difficult.

Ms Debboinaire told her in an email seen by Sky News that this situation is "completely unacceptable" - and she is "very concerned" about the "failure of postal votes to be sent out on time".

She added that Ms Baynes is "certainly not the only person who has experienced this".

Bristol City Council told her to pick up a re-issued postal ballot from the council offices - some 9,762km away from where she lives - and resubmit this to register her vote.

The latest MRP poll shows Bristol Central could well be a Green gain, with a possible 12-point majority.

The Labour candidate holds a 16,000 - or 32.5% - majority in the seat.

There are reports of thousands of postal ballots not being delivered in time, with postal affairs minister Kevin Hollinrake calling on Royal Mail "to do all they can" to make sure postal votes get to people in time.

More than 90 constituencies, including those of cabinet ministers, have raised concerns about ballots failing to arrive, according to The Telegraph.

But Royal Mail said it is delivering postal votes as soon as they arrive in its network - and has called for a review of how the printing and administration of postal votes is handled before the ballot papers are given to Royal Mail.

The other candidates in Bristol Central are:

• Robert Clarke, Reform UK;
• Nicholas Coombes, Liberal Democrats;
• Carla Denyer, Green Party;
• Kellie-Jay Keen, Party of Women;
• Samuel Williams, Conservatives.

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