CV guide

A cover letter says why this job and why you.

A simple structure for a cover letter, with a fictional example you can adapt, and what to avoid.

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A cover letter is a short note that goes with your CV. It should not repeat your CV line by line. Its job is to say why you are applying for this role at this organisation and to point out one or two pieces of your experience that matter most for it. CvBix does not generate cover letters, so this guide shows you how to write one yourself.

Address the right person

If the advert names a contact, use it. Otherwise a neutral greeting such as “Dear Hiring Team” is fine. Mention the exact job title you are applying for and, where there is one, the reference number, so your letter is easy to match to the vacancy.

Open with a clear reason

Use the first paragraph to say what you are applying for and what connects you to it. Fictional example: “I am applying for the Customer Support Specialist role. In my last job I handled written and phone requests, and I would like to bring that experience to your team.” It is short, specific and easy to check.

Choose one or two strong examples

Pick the parts of your experience that match the advert and explain them in a few sentences each: what the situation was, what you did and what happened. If you have no paid experience, use a course project or volunteering and label it honestly. Keep the details consistent with your CV; any difference will stand out.

Show you know the organisation

One or two sentences about why this organisation interests you can set a letter apart, but only if it is true and specific. Use the employer’s own website or advert as your source. Generic praise such as “your esteemed company” says nothing, and a sentence copied from another letter often shows.

Close politely and keep it short

Thank the reader, say you would welcome the chance to talk and give your contact details. Aim for roughly half a page to one page. Read the letter aloud, remove repeated phrases and check the company name, the job title and your own contact details.

A fictional example you can adapt

Fictional example: “Dear Hiring Team, I am applying for the Accounts Assistant position. At my current job I enter invoices, reconcile supplier statements and prepare a monthly summary for my manager. I enjoy accurate, routine work and would like to develop it further in a larger team. My CV is attached and I would be glad to discuss it. Kind regards, [Your name].” Replace every detail with your real experience.

Related examples and guides

Sources

Frequently asked questions

Is a cover letter always required?

No. Follow the advert. If it asks for one, write it; if it says nothing, a short, targeted note can still help in some cases, but it is not compulsory.

Can CvBix write my cover letter?

Not at the moment. CvBix prepares CVs. You can use this guide to write the letter in any text editor.

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