The Ultimate Guide to Writing a Winning Cover Letter [+Successful Examples]

Writing a cover letter can feel like a tedious formality—another hoop to jump through in the job search. It takes time, and let’s be honest, it doesn’t always feel worth it. But here’s the thing: while optimizing for applicant tracking systems (ATS) is the most significant advantage, a strong cover letter can also be the key to standing out and making a real connection. It’s your chance to tell your story, show enthusiasm, and make it clear why you're the perfect fit for the role.

In this guide, you’ll get practical tips, real examples, and a step-by-step approach to writing one that not only gets past the ATS but also grabs attention and gets results.

What is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a one-page document addressed to the interviewer or hiring manager. It includes your contact details, the position you are applying for, and elaborates on the information in your CV. It should express your interest in the role and detail the skills and experiences that make you a suitable candidate. Your cover letter should align your qualifications and relevant skills with the job description, demonstrating that you have thoroughly researched the role and are eager to join the team.

Are Cover Letters Still Important?

Let’s be honest—writing a cover letter can feel like a chore. Many job seekers wonder if they’re even necessary anymore, especially when some employers don’t explicitly ask for them. However, cover letters can still give you a significant advantage, particularly in roles that require strong communication skills, relationship-building, or a personal touch.

When a Cover Letter Matters Most

While some companies may not require them, cover letters can be the key differentiator in competitive job markets. Here’s when they’re especially valuable:

✅ Jobs in Communication-Heavy Fields – Roles in marketing, PR, writing, and sales often require candidates to demonstrate their ability to craft compelling messages. A well-written cover letter proves you can communicate effectively before landing the interview.

✅ Positions That Emphasize Soft Skills – If the role involves leadership, customer service, or client relations, a cover letter helps you highlight qualities like emotional intelligence, adaptability, and problem-solving—things that don’t always shine through in a resume.

✅ Career Changers or Those with Employment Gaps – If you're transitioning to a new industry or have gaps in your work history, a cover letter gives you a chance to explain your story, connect the dots, and show why you’re still an excellent fit for the role.

✅ Highly Competitive Roles – If you’re applying for a dream job with many applicants, a standout cover letter could be the extra push to get you noticed. According to a survey by ResumeLab, 83% of hiring managers say a strong cover letter can help secure an interview, even if the resume isn’t a perfect match.

When a Cover Letter Might Not Be Necessary

That said, there are situations where skipping the cover letter won’t hurt your chances:

❌ High-Volume, Entry-Level Jobs – For positions in retail, warehouse work, or food service, recruiters often prioritize efficiency and may not read cover letters at all.

❌ When the Employer Explicitly Says It’s Not Required – Some job postings state, "No cover letter needed." If that’s the case, you can save time and focus on perfecting your resume.

The Bottom Line

Still unsure? Here’s our take—a cover letter is worth it if you have the time and really want the job. Can we guarantee it will help or that every hiring manager will read it? No, absolutely not. But when they do, it can make a real difference. Consider it an extra chance to stand out, tell your story, and show why you're the right fit. That said, cover letters are a big investment of time and effort, especially so early in the application process—so be strategic. If it's a dream job or a highly competitive role, it’s probably worth it. Otherwise, weigh the opportunity against the effort, and use your time wisely.

How to Write a Cover Letter

A great cover letter isn’t just about listing skills—it’s about telling a story that connects your experience to the employer’s needs. Think of it as your personal pitch, showing why you’re not just qualified but the right person for the job. Follow these key steps to craft a cover letter that stands out:

1. Research the Company and Role

Before you start writing, take time to understand the company’s mission, culture, and job requirements. Browse their website, read recent news, and review the job posting carefully. Look for keywords and themes that align with your experience, and weave them naturally into your letter. This extra effort demonstrates genuine interest and helps tailor your application to what they’re looking for.

💡 Action Tip: Include the company name and demonstrate you did your homework effectively.

• 🚫"I’m excited to apply"
• ✅ "I admire [Company Name]’s commitment to innovation, particularly in [specific project or initiative], and I’m eager to bring my skills in [relevant expertise] to your team."

2. Structure Your Letter Effectively

A well-organized cover letter is easy to read and leaves a lasting impression. Stick to this three-part structure:

Introduction: Grab attention with a compelling first sentence that expresses enthusiasm and connects you to the role.

Body: Highlight 2-3 key skills or achievements that align with the job description, using examples to show impact.

Conclusion: End with a confident call to action, inviting the employer to discuss how you can contribute.

💡 Action Tip: Avoid generic openings

• 🚫"I’m applying for X position.”
• ✅ "As a results-driven marketer with a passion for storytelling, I was excited to see this opening at [Company Name]. My background in digital campaigns and audience engagement makes me a strong fit for this role."

3. Showcase Your Unique Value

Employers want to know what sets you apart from other applicants. Define your Unique Value Proposition (UVP)—what makes you the best fit for this role at this company. Focus on specific skills, achievements, or experiences that make you uniquely valuable to their team

💡 Action Tip: Use quantifiable results to prove your impact.

• 🚫 "I helped increase sales."
• ✅ "I led a targeted email campaign that increased sales by 20% in six months."

If you’re transitioning careers or have a non-traditional background, frame it as a strength: "With a background in journalism and content strategy, I bring a unique storytelling approach to marketing, helping brands create compelling, audience-driven campaigns."

4. Use Professional Language and Tone

Your cover letter should sound polished and professional while feeling genuine and approachable. Avoid clichés and buzzwords—focus on clear, confident language highlighting your expertise.

💡 Action Tip: Read your letter aloud to catch awkward phrasing or overly formal language. The goal is to be professional AND conversational.

• 🚫 "I would like to express my sincere interest in this esteemed opportunity,"
• ✅ Try: "I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills in [area of expertise] to [Company Name]."

Before hitting send, proofread carefully to ensure it’s error-free. Even minor typos can leave a negative impression, so use tools like Grammarly or ask a friend to review them.

Cover Letter Examples

Example 1: Marketing Position

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the Marketing Manager position at [Company Name]. With a proven track record in developing creative marketing strategies that drive results, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team.

At [Previous Company], I successfully increased brand awareness by 30% through innovative social media campaigns and strategic partnerships. My ability to analyze market trends and consumer behavior has consistently resulted in successful product launches and increased sales.

I am particularly drawn to [Company Name] because of your commitment to innovation and excellence. I am eager to bring my digital marketing and project management skills to your team and help drive your brand's success.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how I can contribute to [Company Name].

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Example 2: Software Engineering Role

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

I am writing to apply for the Software Engineer position at [Company Name]. With extensive experience in software development and project management, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your team.

At [Previous Company], I led a team of developers in creating a new software platform that improved efficiency by 25%. My expertise in programming languages such as Java and Python and my strong problem-solving skills have consistently resulted in successful project outcomes.

I am particularly impressed by [Company Name]'s commitment to innovation and cutting-edge technology. I am eager to bring my technical skills and passion for software development to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how I can contribute to [Company Name].

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Final Thoughts

A well-crafted cover letter connects the dots between your experience and the employer’s needs. By researching the company, structuring your letter effectively, defining your Unique Value Proposition, and using professional, engaging language, you can create a compelling cover letter that gets results.