Cover Letter Sample for Job Applications: Free Templates & Examples

Your cover letter is not just a formality — it’s your voice before your interview. A well-written cover letter tells your story, shows your personality, and highlights why you’re the best person for the job. In today’s competitive job market, a thoughtful cover letter sample can make the difference between being ignored or getting that interview call.

What You’ll Learn

1. How to write a compelling cover letter that gets noticed.
2. How to structure your letter for maximum impact.
3. How to use proven cover letter templates that save time.
4. Tips for professional formatting and presentation.
5. Common writing mistakes to avoid.

💡HR Insight:

Whether you’re applying for your first job or making a career change, this guide will show you how to craft a professional, engaging, and persuasive cover letter — one that hiring managers actually want to read. Let’s dive into the structure, examples, and free templates that will help you stand out.

Step 1: Start with a Strong Opening

First impressions matter — especially in your opening paragraph. Avoid starting with the tired phrase, “I am writing to apply for the position of…” Instead, open with energy and purpose.

• Show enthusiasm for the company or the role.
• Share one quick achievement or reason why you’re a great fit.
• Keep it short and human — like you’re writing to a real person (because you are!).

Example

Step 2: Use a Proven Structure That Works

Every best cover letter example follows a clear and effective structure. Here’s a simple format that helps you tell your story naturally:

1. Header: Your name, contact info, and the date.
2. Greeting: Address the hiring manager by name if possible.
3. Opening Paragraph: Show enthusiasm and fit.
4. Body Paragraphs: Share 2–3 achievements that align with the job description.
5. Closing Paragraph: Thank the reader and express your excitement for an interview.

Pro Tip: The best letters sound conversational, not robotic. Liz Ryan often reminds job seekers: “Your cover letter isn’t a corporate memo — it’s a story about your path.”

Step 3: Make It About Them — Not Just You

Hiring managers want to know one thing: how will you make their team stronger? Use your letter to connect your skills to the company’s needs.

• Use keywords from the job posting to align your experience.
• Show how your results translate into value for them.
• Keep your examples measurable and specific.

Example

Step 4: Keep It Clean, Modern, and Easy to Read

Your cover letter’s design should never distract from your message. Choose a modern, professional layout that mirrors your resume’s style. Stick to fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Inter, use clear spacing, and keep paragraphs under six lines.

• ✅ Save it as a PDF to preserve formatting.
• ✅ Avoid long blocks of text — use white space.
• ✅ Proofread carefully (one typo can cost you the interview!).

Step 5: End with Confidence and Gratitude

Finish your letter by thanking the reader for their time — but also show excitement about the next step.

Example

This tone — polite yet confident — leaves a positive final impression. Don’t beg for the job; instead, show genuine interest and readiness to contribute.

Free Cover Letter Templates (Copy and Customize)

Here are two easy-to-edit templates based on the best cover letter templates used by professionals worldwide:

Template 1: The Classic

Template 2: The Storyteller

Conclusion

Your cover letter isn’t about checking boxes — it’s your opportunity to tell a story, make a connection, and show what makes you exceptional. By following these steps and using the free templates above, you can craft a letter that opens doors and starts conversations.

Remember: authenticity beats perfection. Speak in your own voice, focus on results, and let your enthusiasm shine through. That’s what turns a sample of a good cover letter into a winning one.

👉 Want to see real examples? Read our main guide: Cover Letter Examples: How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter