A good cover letter can be the difference between your application being read carefully and being skimmed in seconds. In the UK, employers generally expect a short, tailored letter of around half a page to one page that explains why you want the role and why you would be good at it. It does not repeat your CV; it adds the story behind it. This guide shows you how to write a cover letter step by step, with a simple structure you can reuse.
What a cover letter is for
Your CV lists facts. Your cover letter connects those facts to the specific job. It shows you have read the advert, understand what the employer needs and can explain, in your own words, how you would help. If you have not written your CV yet, start with our guide on how to write a CV in the UK, then come back to this page.
The simple four-part structure
1. A clear opening
Say which job you are applying for and where you saw it. If you know the name of the hiring manager, address them directly, for example "Dear Ms Patel". If not, "Dear Hiring Manager" is acceptable. Follow with one sentence that sums up why you are a good fit.
2. Evidence that you can do the job
Pick two or three requirements from the job advert and give a short example for each. Describe what you did, and the result where you can. For example: "In my last role I handled around 40 customer queries a day and helped reduce waiting times by reorganising our shared inbox." Use only facts you can honestly back up.
3. Why this employer
Show you have done a little research. Mention something specific, such as a service the company offers, a value on its website or a project it has run. Avoid vague praise like "you are a leading company", which could be said about anyone.
4. A confident close
Thank the reader, say you would welcome the chance to discuss the role and mention your availability. Finish with "Yours sincerely" if you used a name, or "Yours faithfully" if you used "Dear Sir or Madam".
An example opening paragraph
"I am writing to apply for the Customer Service Advisor position advertised on your website. With two years of experience in a busy retail setting and a track record of resolving enquiries calmly and quickly, I believe I could be a valuable addition to your team." Notice that it is short, specific and does not exaggerate. Change the details to match your own experience rather than copying it word for word.
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Tips for making it stand out
Tailor every letter. Sending the same generic text to every employer is easy to spot and rarely works. Mirror the language of the job advert where it honestly applies, because many employers use software to screen applications and look for relevant keywords. Keep your sentences clear and your tone friendly but professional. Use a standard font such as Arial or Calibri at 10 to 12 points, and save the file as a PDF unless the employer asks for another format.
If you are changing careers or have a gap in your work history, the cover letter is the place to explain it briefly and positively. Focus on the skills you gained and what you are looking forward to next.
Common cover letter mistakes
The most frequent errors are spelling mistakes, the wrong company name left over from a previous application, letters that run to two pages and paragraphs that simply restate the CV. Another is focusing only on what you want from the job rather than what you can offer. Read the letter aloud before sending, because awkward phrases are easier to hear than to see, and ask a friend to check it.
Sending it by email
When you apply by email, keep the message professional. Use a sensible subject line such as "Application for Customer Service Advisor", and attach your CV and letter. Our guide to writing professional business emails that get replies has more advice on tone and layout. Always use a simple, professional email address too.
Frequently asked questions
How long should a UK cover letter be?
Generally between 250 and 400 words, which fits comfortably on one page.
Do I always need a cover letter?
Not always, but if the advert asks for one, include it. Even when it is optional, a well-written letter can help you stand out.
Can I use a template?
A template is a useful starting point for layout, but the content must be personal to the job and to you.
Should I mention salary?
Only if the advert asks you to. Otherwise, leave it for later in the process.
Can I use AI to help me write it?
You can use tools for ideas or proofreading, but make sure the final letter is accurate, reflects your real experience and sounds like you.
Final thoughts
A strong cover letter is short, specific and honest. Follow the four-part structure, tailor each letter and proofread carefully, and you give your application a much better chance of being noticed.
