Cover Letter Template Printable
One-Minute Summary
This printable cover letter template provides a fill-in structure: greeting, opening paragraph (why this role/company), body (how you fit), and closing. Professional format. Print on U.S. Letter paper or use as a guide for a digital version. Tailor each letter to the role. These are formatting tools — they do not guarantee job outcomes. Many hiring managers look for clear, tailored correspondence.
Preview & Download
Print Settings
- Paper: U.S. Letter (8.5" × 11")
- Orientation: portrait
- Scale: 100%
- Margins: Default (0.5")
- 💡 Tailor each letter. Proofread. Check company name.
What’s on this cover letter template
Greeting, opening, body, closing. Professional format. Tailor to each role. These are formatting tools — they do not guarantee job outcomes. Many hiring managers look for clear, tailored correspondence.
How to use this template — 2 real scenarios
Scenario 1: Qualified for the role
Opening: why this company. Body: 3 points tying your experience to their needs. Close: eager to discuss. The template keeps you focused.
Scenario 2: Career change or stretch role
Opening: why you’re drawn to the field. Body: transferable skills, relevant projects. Close: ready to contribute. Structure helps make the case.
Example fill-out
Greeting with name. Opening: why this company/role. Body: 2-3 match points with examples. Closing: thank you, next steps.
Common mistakes (and how to fix them)
- Same letter to every job. Tailor opening and body. Swap company name and role-specific points.
- Repeating the resume. Add context. Connect dots. Tell a brief story.
- Typos, wrong company name. Proofread. Triple-check.
- Too long. One page. Three to four short paragraphs.
- Overpromising. Be confident, not hyperbolic.
Customization tips
Template per role type. Research the company. Match job description language. Keep a master with company name in filename.
Printing Tips
- Print on U.S. Letter (8.5" × 11") in portrait orientation
- Scale: 100% (do not use "Fit to Page")
- Margins: Default (0.5")
- 💡 Tailor each letter. Proofread. Check company name.
Next step in your meal prep workflow:
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a cover letter if the job doesn't ask for one?
Optional. Some say it helps for competitive roles. Others say skip unless asked. If optional, a strong tailored letter can differentiate. A generic one may not. Your call based on time and role.
How long should a cover letter be?
One page. Three to four short paragraphs. 250-400 words. Hiring managers skim. Make every sentence count.
Should I address a specific person?
When you can find the name (LinkedIn, company site), use it. 'Dear Ms. Chen' reads better than 'Dear Hiring Manager.' If you can't find it, 'Dear Hiring Manager' is fine.
Can I use the same letter for similar roles?
Customize at minimum: company name, role title, 1-2 role-specific points. Same letter to different companies with wrong name still in it = rejection. Always tailor.
Do cover letters actually get read?
It varies by company and hiring manager. Many do read them, especially for roles with fewer applicants. A strong letter can help. A weak one doesn't hurt if the resume is strong — but a tailored letter is worth the extra 15 minutes for roles you care about.