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How to write an NZ cover letter (with examples and templates)

Along with your CV, a cover letter is essential to any NZ job application. Let's get you started.

Every New Zealand job application should include a cover letter.

This document is key to showing an employer you’re serious about their vacancy, and for demonstrating what you bring to the table . Despite its importance, many people aren’t sure how to write a cover letter – and their applications suffer as a result.

That’s why we’ve created this guide, giving you advice on everything from what to include, to how to lay it out.

We’ve also snuck in a few examples to make life even easier for you … aren’t we nice?

Cover letters vs. CVs: what’s the difference?

To understand the role cover letters play in job applications, it’s important to realise how they differ from CVs:

1. Purpose:

CVs give a broad picture of you as an applicant – providing details such as educational background and employment history . By contrast, a cover letter targets why you want this specific role, and how your skills and experience make you a great candidate.

While there will be areas of overlap as you select qualifications or abilities to draw out in your cover letter, it definitely should not be an elongated version of your CV.

An NZ cover letter should be no longer than one page, while CVs are usually between one and two.

The most obvious visual difference between these documents and CVs hinges around bullet points.

While your CV should be a bullet point bonanza, cover letters favour full sentences. That’s not to say you can’t have any bullets in a cover letter, just use them more sparingly.

You should include a cover letter with every job application.

What to include in a cover letter

1. your contact info, the date and the business’ address.

At the top of your cover letter should be:

• Your full name, contact details and home address
• The date you submit the application
• The business’ postal address

It should look like this:

Head up your cover letter like this.

2. Your opener

People worry about how to start a cover letter , but there’s a simple formula and structure for getting this right:

Make it personal : start with ‘dear’, and address it to a person – i.e. the hiring manager. If their name isn’t in the job listing, try a good old fashioned stalk of the company website, or ring the business and find out. ‘To whom it may concern’ is a no go.

Make it clear : organisations often list multiple vacancies at a time, so make it obvious which position you’re applying for. A sentence like, ‘I’m writing to apply for the Marketing Assistant role, as advertised on Trade Me Jobs’, will do the trick.

Make it punchy : next, add a snappy one-liner summing up why you’re interested in the role and what you’d bring to their business. Remember, you can go into more detail in the interview itself. For example:

3. Why them

A common cover letter mistake is to only focus on yourself. Before choosing you, employers want to know why you’re choosing them. This helps sort candidates who are genuinely passionate about their organisation from those who are mass applying to anything and everything.

Warning : this section is not about inflating the hiring manager's ego by flattering the company – be positive, but be thoughtful.

Now, it’s time to sell yourself.

This section of your cover letter is where you highlight your most relevant skills and experience.

You can draw on anything from previous work experience to certificates and qualifications. The important bit is linking whatever you mention to the job – simply listing skills is not the answer.

To do this effectively, you need to carefully study the job ad and identify what capabilities the employer values most. If your Trade Me Jobs Profile is up-to-date, you can then quickly skim your skills and experience to find those which most closely match the job description.

Top tip: the more detail you can give, the better. Helped raise sales? Great. Helped raise sales by 6%? Even better.

If you want to add some extra skills or information to this section, a bullet point list is a good option. Note : only do this after introducing your headline examples in full sentence form, as above, and keep your list to three or four concise bullets.

5. Signing off

The end of your cover letter should (politely) prompt the reader to get in touch with you to arrange the next steps. Make sure you end on a high, and continue the energy from earlier in your closing sentence, for example:

How to format a cover letter

With your content sorted, it’s now about nailing the visuals. Cover letters are usually easier than CVs in this regard, as they’re laid out like a traditional letter. However, there are a few things to bear in mind:

• What font should I use? Keep it simple, and the same as on your CV. If your font is hard to read, or too small, the letter will end up in the wrong pile.
• How long should a cover letter be? New Zealand cover letters should be under one page long.
• Should I use paragraphs? Would you read huge, unbroken chunks of text? We doubt it, so make sure to break up your cover letters into paragraphs.
• What are the correct cover letter margins? Leave these at their default setting so your cover letter has plenty of blank space, and doesn’t look crowded.

All done? Not quite.

Perhaps the most important stage of cover letter writing is proofreading. After all that hard work, you don’t want a few silly typos or poor punctuation letting you down.

So check it yourself, then get someone else to have a look, then have a final glance.

Once you’re happy, it’s time to attach it to your application, and hit send.

Al Hall is a regular contributor at Trade Me Jobs and Trade Me Property. He’s dedicated to helping people succeed in their aspirations to find their dream job and place to live.

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How to Write a Cover Letter: Template & Tips | Hays

How to write a cover letter | hero banner | ub, how to write a cover letter - template & tips new zealand.

Intro + Form | UB

The importance of cover letter, what is a cover letter.

Let’s go back to basics – what is a cover letter? A cover letter acts as a personal introduction in a professional setting. Usually, it’s a separate document that you attach to a job application along with your CV. You should use it to demonstrate your personality and summarise why you are the right person for the job, so the reader can consider the rest of your CV with this set up in mind.

Follow our tips for how to write a cover letter or download our cover letter template.

Why write a cover letter? 

The idea for writing cover letters for your resume is simple: it needs to be engaging enough for an employer to read to feel compelled to find out more about your skills and experience in your resume, before (hopefully) calling you in for an interview.

Not all candidates make the effort to write a tailored and personalised cover letter, so by making sure you write a cover letter that answers specifics needs in the job ad, it’ll help separate you from other applicants. In turn, giving you a greater likelihood of being shortlisted for an interview.  

Download your Cover Letter template 

Enter your details below to download your Cover Letter template. A copy of the template will be emailed to you shortly.

How to write a cover letter | Video | UB

Cover letter advice.

Recruiters & hiring managers often receive hundreds of applications for each job. You need to start with a great cover letter to gain attention. Learn how with this video from Hays.

Resumes promo menu

Resumes & cover letters.

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Content Block - Cover Letter | UB

How long should a cover letter be , how to write a cover letter | 3rd content block | ub, cover letter format, how to write a cover letter | 4th content block | ub, 1. do your research, 2. address your cover letter to the right person, 3. how to start a cover letter write an attention-grabbing introduction, 4. add evidence of your successes  , 5. highlight key skills, 6. sign off professionally, 7. review your cover letter , how to write a cover letter | 5th content block | ub, what not to include in a cover letter, excessive details, repeat your cv, don’t write in the third person, can ai write the perfect cover letter, how to write a cover letter | 6th content block | ub, final tips around how to write a cover letter.

• Keep it succinct and relevant to the job you’re applying for. Your cover letter should not exceed five paragraphs. 
• State what your motivation is behind your application. 
• Just as you would in your CV,  use strong verbs  to demonstrate action and accomplishments, such as ‘organise’ or ‘supervise’. 
• Optimise the subject line. Also check the job description again, in case the employer asks applicants to include something specific in the subject line. 
• If you are applying for a job online rather than email, consider putting your cover letter and resume into the same document so they don’t get separated. 
• Remember, our cover letter template is free to download and can be used as another way to capture the attention of a recruiter or hiring manager and encourage them to more closely review your resume. Good luck.

How to write a cover letter | 7th content block | UB

Do i really need a cover letter, how long should a cover letter be, what are some common mistakes people make when writing cover letters, how do i format a cover letter, hays new zealand salary guide 2022-2023 - salary checker | ub.

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how to write a cover letter for a job application.

Why a cover letter..

A common mistake which you as a job seekers can make is spending too much time finessing your resume and forgetting to include a cover letter as part of your job application. As a jobseeker, you should never neglect to include a cover letter. Cover letters are often the single most under-utilised tool in your job search arsenal. Understanding the secrets of how to write a great cover letter is almost as important as the resume itself.

Although you may hate the thought of having to write one, your cover letter provides you with the perfect opportunity to summarise specifically what makes you stand out as the number one applicant for the job you are applying for. It is here that you can outline to your potential employer what makes you a great fit for both the role and the company. It is where you can express your personality and give the hiring manager an idea about you as a person, not just your skills and expertise. Writing a poor cover letter (or even worse, not writing one at all) can impact negatively on how your resume is perceived.

select category.

In general, cover letters for job applications should.

• be tailored to be read specifically by the hiring manager advertising the role
• show that you have read the advertisement carefully, considered it and understand what is required of you as the potential employee
• be concise and well structured, clearly linking your experience to the requirements of the position advertised.
• be kept to around 5 paragraphs in length at most
• be positive and confident, compelling the hiring manager to look at your resume. 
• speak the language of the hiring manager, and 
• include a call to action prompting the hiring manager to contact you to arrange an interview

step 1. who should you address your cover letter to?

Where possible, you should always personalise your cover letter. You may be tempted to use a variation on 'To whom it may concern' as your opening line, however there is no better way to show your interest in the organisation than by taking the time to find out who it is that has advertised the role and addressing the letter directly to them. 

Usually you can find the hiring manager’s information either directly listed on the job advertisement (usually down the bottom in the 'contact us to apply' section), or if this is left blank, try looking on the company's career page or via your LinkedIn network to determine  who has advertised the role.

step 2. introduce yourself

Often your cover letter is the first interaction the prospective employer will have with you - well before they open your resume. This is why it is imperative that when writing your cover letter you must introduce yourself and give the employer a sense of who you are and more importantly, why they should hire you for the role. A great opening in a cover letter should include your key experience and take particular care to outline your demonstrated skills and how they match the requirements listed in the job description. Showcase what sets you apart from competing applicants. Don't forget to use strong action words and ensure the overall tone of your message is confident.

Here's an example introductory paragraph in a cover letter

"I am writing to apply for your recently advertised role of business development manager in Auckland. Having over 4 years experience working as a Sales Manager in the Financial industry, I believe I am the perfect candidate for your role. As an expert in field sales, I pride myself on my excellent communication and negotiation skills, and my superior ability to provide tailored solutions to my clients. In your advertisement, you mentioned you are looking for someone who is energetic and who can drive sales margins. I am highly personable, cheerful and dynamic and it is my unique personality which really helps me to excel and grow both my portfolio of clients as well as the overall account worth. I am consistently a top performer and I know I would be an asset to your sales team."

step 3. show that you have taken the time to research the company

One of the biggest oversights that people make when they are writing a cover letter is to make it all about themselves, but one of the best ways you can make your job application stand out from the crowd is by researching the business you are applying with, and including information in your cover letter that only a person familiar with the company would know.

Visit the company website, and Google the company’s latest news. In particular, a good place to start is looking up the careers page on the website of your potential employer and researching what sets them apart as an employer. Familiarise yourself with what the company does and how it talks about itself so that you will be able to mention this in your cover letter, and also during your interview. This will help your job application stand out.

Here’s an example:

"I have always admired ABC company and so when I saw your job advertisement I jumped at the chance to apply. Having read an article just the other day about how ABC company is expanding its operations into our western region, I can see how robust your business strategy is, and would love to be a part of this exciting new growth period in your organisation"

step 4: include a call to action

Your cover letter must finish on a strong call to action, encouraging the potential employer to look through your resume and to contact you to arrange an interview date/time.

Here’s an example of what and how to include a strong call to action at the end of a cover letter:  

"Please see attached my resume. As my skills and experience demonstrates, I believe I would be a perfect fit for your organisation and I welcome the opportunity to meet with you and discuss this opportunity further. Please call me on 0123 123 123 or email me at [email protected] so that we can arrange a suitable date/time. I look forward to hearing from you soon."

top tip: don't use a generic cover letter for all your job applications

Once you have taken the time to write your first cover letter, it might be tempting to recycle its use for all future job applications - don't do it!

While you might save time in the short-term, having a tailored cover letter vs a generic one might be the difference between getting your dream job or losing it because of this oversight.

Your cover letter needs to show that you understand exactly what the employer wants from you as a prospective employee, and that your skills and expertise match those that the organisation has outlined as requirements in their job advertisement. Since no two job ads are the same, the wording in your cover letters should always reflect these differentiations. Take some time to customise your cover letter for each job application and boost the chances of success of your job application.

cover letter checklist

Now you know how to write a cover letter, what are you waiting for? Write it! Once you have written your first cover letter, read through it thoroughly and use the below checklist to ensure you have included all the essential information required in your cover letter:

• your name and contact details
• the job title you are applying for
• a brief summary of your skills and experience and how they match the job description
• a summary of why you are right for the job
• outline what you know about the company, and why you think you would fit in if you were to become the successful applicant
• a call to action asking the hiring manager to read your resume and contact you to arrange an interview

common mistakes made when writing a cover letter

Here is a list of things that you should take into consideration and try to avoid when writing your cover letter:

• Check your cover letter for any typos and factual errors.
• Always use a spell checker before you send your cover letter. If in doubt, get someone you trust to read over the letter and proof it for you.
• Don’t cut and paste sections of text from your resume into your cover letter. This does not add value to your job application, rather it distracts with its repetition and misses the opportunity to add context and colour to your skills and experience.
• Your cover letter is a way to show your personality, where your resume tends to be more factual, so make sure your tone and wording in your cover letter conveys to the reader who you are as a person, not just a recitation of your skills and experience.
• Don't make it a 60 page essay! The ideal length of a cover letter is between half and three quarters of an A4 page. Remember that a potential employer reading it does not have all day to scroll through a lengthy letter, so keep it succinct and to the point. You can always direct them to view your resume or LinkedIn profile for further information.
• Don’t mention other jobs you may have applied for. Most jobseekers apply for several jobs at a time, however it is important not to mention this in your cover letter. You are trying to convince an employer to hire you, so why would they invest the time into your application if they know you are looking at other roles as well?

Now you have a better idea on how to write a winning cover letter for a job application. You can read our articles to find more  cover letter examples and tips !

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How to Write a Cover Letter - Templates and 40+ Must-Know Tips

• The first step sees the ATS software check CVs for keywords to sort the job applications into the relevant or not relevant piles. 
• The recruiter or hiring manager then reads the relevant CVs and cover letters. To maximise your employment chances, the  cover letter must catch the recruiter's eye  and get them to  read your application .
• ​Content
• Presentation
• Final Checks
• Checklist Before Submitting Your Application
• Cover Letters Templates

• If you are applying to a manager within the prospective employer , they may be looking at you as someone they might enjoy working with, as well as someone who will be an asset to the team.
• ​ If a consultant is handling the recruitment, they will be looking for someone who exactly matches the criteria and that they can sell to their client. Recruiters don't get paid unless they place someone in the job, so make sure you know exactly who you are writing to. 
• Overall, the cover letter should focus on what's important and always eliminate irrelevant information. If you're shortlisted, a recruitment agency will (usually) forward the letter to the hiring manager at the company. For this reason, what you put in the contents is crucially important. Our six steps (below) guide you through building it out.

Six Steps to Build the Body of Your Cover Letter

• You should have already put the position you are applying for at the head of the letter, so there is no need to repeat.
• You are selling yourself here; use the first couple of sentences introduce yourself as someone with the required experience and skills and tell them what an asset you could be to their company.
• Your aim is to capture the reader's attention from the start and persuade them to read the rest of the letter, review your CV and shortlist you for the job.
• Expanding ranges for (product name) from CBD stores into the suburbs, generating 57% growth in sales
• Successfully selling a new product range into New World stores
• Read the advertised vacancy carefully and try to pick out the key points they are looking for.
• Make sure you match the criteria the employer is seeking. 
• Don't think: "These are my skills; let me tell you about them". Think: "You are looking for this skill; let me tell you how I have it."
• Don't just repeat the advert verbatim - tie it in to your current experience.
• Ensure your letterhead is nicely formatted by using a table.
• Insert a 2 X 4 table, put your details in the first line (right box), the addressee and the job title in line on the second line (left box), the date on the  third row (left box), and the vacancy details in the forth row (left box). 
• Align the left column to the left and the right column to the right.
• When you are done, right-click anywhere in the table, select "borders and shading", and choose "none".
• Make sure when you upload the file you click on "remove the properties and security information" - you'll need to right click on the file and then open "properties".  This avoids the issue of the file name from another application appearing inadvertently in the file you send.
• Spelling:  Be sure to use a spellchecker. Take particular care with names and addresses; it can be a bit embarrassing to send someone a letter and spell their name wrong.
• Commonly confused words:  Make sure you aren't talking about your  roll  instead of your  role , and that you should  have  rather than should  of , as well as using the right  there ,  their ,  they're .
• Abbreviations:  If the advert uses terms like B2B or ATL, you should use them in your letter.  Other abbreviations should be avoided.  The recruiter looking at your application might not have the technical knowledge to understand an acronym you are using even if it is standard in your work. Companies often have in-house acronyms outsiders won't get. To avoid any issues, write these out in full.
• Capital letters:  Check that you have capital letters in the right places. Your word processor might automatically capitalise the first letter of your email address; it will look much better if it is all lower case.
• Consistent fonts:  Check that you have the same font in the right size throughout the letter. Random paragraphs in a different font, size or spacing is not a good look. Check that any use of  bolding  or  italics  is appropriate.
• Use the right email address:   [email protected]  might be acceptable for casual use, but you'd be better off setting up  [email protected]  for job applications and other serious occasions.
• Read it out loud to make certain that it has a clear, logical structure:  it must introduce you, say why you would be a good candidate, and finish with a call to action.
• Subject line:  If you are sending by email, always ensure that you have a clear subject line:  Application for Level 2 Lab Technician Vacancy . Never send an email without a subject line.
• File names:  Never just call the file coverletter.pdf, as it looks generic and suggests it's not personalised. Always put your name EdwardSmith_coverletter.pdf.
• Uploading:  If you are uploading the cover letter to a website along with your CV, make sure to save it as a PDF so that it will always look exactly as you want it to. If you upload a Word file and the employer is using other software, or a different version of Word,  the formatting, in some instances, could be changed and undo all your work.
• Emailing:  If you plan to send the cover letter and CV by email, do not send the letter as an attachment. The odds of someone opening it are not good. Write the letter in the body of the email following the same guidelines as above and attach the CV. Make sure the CV also has an appropriate file name such as EdwardSmith_CV.pdf.
• Email signature:  If you have an automatic email signature, make sure it is appropriate for business use.

Summary and Our View:

• Overall, following the above guidelines will ensure that you have a professional-looking cover letter with good readability.
• Putting in the effort on your cover letter will always stand you in good stead and might be the difference between someone reading your letter and someone just skipping past it to the next one in the pile.
• Content is equally important, which we outline below, but you should not neglect presentation even if your cover letter has excellent substance.
• Read the advert carefully for keywords and criteria and do some research on the company
• Address it to the right person
• Be clear and concise
• Have a structure – beginning, middle, end
• Target your letter
• Use active words to describe your work – accomplished, achieved, led, created, increased, identified
• Highlight specific achievements and successes
• Don't forget your full contact details
• Don't forget to say what job you are applying for
• Avoid writing a dull opening paragraph. If your first paragraph isn't interesting, it will be the only one they read. Make sure it tells them who you are and why you're a great candidate
• Don't fail to make your case. Don't be arrogant, but show some confidence in what you have to offer and why it is in their interest to hire you
• Don't just repeat what is in your CV. No copy-pasting - people are too busy to read things twice
• Don't forget a call to action in your sign-off  
• Don't start every sentence with "I" (instead, try to mix it up a bit)
• Don't go on too long. One full page is perfect
• Don't forget your attachments
• Microsoft Office offers cover letter templates (there are free and premium versions). However, these are not specific to New Zealand employers. 
• ​CV Template and Guide
• How To Get Promoted
• Side Hustles In New Zealand
• Recruitment Agencies in  Auckland ,  Wellington and   Christchurch
• ​ How to Improve Your LinkedIn Profile ​

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CVs and cover letters

Take the hard work out of writing your CV and cover letter. Get advice about what to write, support to show you what to do, and free templates you can use.

When you apply for a job, employers will look at your:

• CV, to see your skills, any qualifications, and your work history
• cover letter, to find out what kind of person you are and why you want this job.

They'll use this to decide if they want to interview you, so it's really important to make a good impression.

What's available

'build my cv' service.

A free service to help you write or rewrite your CV and cover letter. It's run by the Auckland Business Chamber, and it's available online and by phone throughout New Zealand.

You can sign up if you're getting Jobseeker Support or Sole Parent Support.

If you've been getting one of these benefits for less than 12 months, you can sign up through MyMSD:

If you've been getting one of these benefits for more than 12 months talk to your local service centre or call our Job Search line on 0800 779 009 .

Step-by-step CV builder

A free, interactive tool from Careers.govt.nz.

• Makes sure your CV has all the information employers look for.
• Tips and advice to help you build a CV to get you noticed.
• Your CV will save automatically to your account, and you can download, print and email it in Word and PDF.

How to write a cover letter

Careers.govt.nz has great advice about:

• what your cover letter needs
• how to make it look good
• templates you can use.

• CV Templates Simple Professional Modern Creative View all
• CV Examples High School Student Academic Teacher Nurse Accountant View all
• Cover Letter Templates Simple Professional Modern Creative View all
• Cover Letter Examples Caregiver Administrative Teacher Nursing Executive View all
• Cover Letter Builder

Free cover letter examples and expert-approved guides

Crafting a general cover letter is essential for a strong job application; however, not all cover letters are created equal. 

At cvapp.nz, we're dedicated to helping Kiwi job-seekers achieve their professional goals. If you're looking for a customisable, professional cover letter template to help elevate your job application, our user-friendly tools and templates make creating successful cover letters a breeze. Let’s begin!

Dear Mrs. Knight, 

If you're looking for a Sales Assistant with a passion for tech and a deep understanding of the latest trends and advancements in the industry, I'm the tech-savvy sales professional you're looking for! My name is Teina Te Hira, and  I am confident that my unique blend of skills and experiences make me the ideal candidate to support your team and elevate the customer experience at Connect Tech.

I have a proven track record of successfully promoting new products and technology solutions, resulting in a 20% increase in the adoption of cutting-edge products by customers. My ability to communicate the features and benefits of products in a clear and engaging manner has been instrumental in driving sales and enhancing the overall customer experience.

In my previous role as a Sales Assistant, I spearheaded initiatives that led to a 25% increase in monthly sales revenue within the first quarter. By leveraging my strong interpersonal skills and product knowledge, I was able to effectively identify customer needs and tailor recommendations that resulted in a 30% boost in upselling opportunities. These achievements not only demonstrate my ability to drive revenue but also my commitment to providing exceptional service that exceeds customer expectations.

In addition to my sales skills, I'm a team player who thrives in a dynamic and fast-paced environment. I have a collaborative spirit and enjoy working closely with staff to achieve common goals. Through my strong organisational skills, I have streamlined inventory management processes, reducing stock discrepancies by 15% and ensuring a more efficient workflow that optimises the customer shopping experience.

I am incredibly excited about the opportunity to bring my passion for technology, sales expertise, and customer-focused approach to the team at Connect Tech. I believe that my proven track record of driving sales growth, authentic sales demeanour and commitment to fostering a positive team environment make me the perfect fit for the Sales Assistant role.

Thank you for considering my application. I would love to discuss how my skills and experiences align with the needs of Connect Tech. Please feel free to contact me at your earliest convenience. I hope to hear from you soon. 

Ngā mihi nui, 

Teina Te Hira

Our best cover letter examples

Keen to see what a great cover letter actually looks like? Check out our top-ranked cover letter examples: 

• Caregiver Cover Letter Example
• Accounting Cover Letter Example
• Nursing Cover Letter Example
• Truck-Driver Cover Letter Example
• Customer Service Representative Cover Letter Example
• Doctor Cover Letter Example
• Internship Cover Letter Example
• First Job Cover Letter Example 

Essential features of an impressive cover letter: 

A well-structured and organised cover letter is essential to effectively showcase why you're the ideal candidate for the job. To really impress potential employers, your cover letter should be both visually appealing, well-formatted and organised. Here are the most important components to include in your cover letter:

• Header: Your cover letter's header, positioned at the top or sometimes on the side of your cover letter, features your name, contact details, and any relevant links to professional websites. The header is essential for helping your cover letter stand out and enhancing the cover letter’s overall visual presentation. 
• Greeting: The greeting of your cover letter should be personalised to the person who will be reading your cover letter. We recommend using a polite and friendly greeting and using the name of the potential employer when known to help establish a connection with the reader. 
• Introduction: Your cover letter introduction should grab the attention of potential employers and make them want to learn more about you. It’s essential to include both the company name and the specific position you’re applying for in this section.
• Body paragraphs: The body paragraphs of your cover letter provide room for you to detail your accomplishments and essential qualifications for the role. This section is often considered the most important component of your cover letter. 
• Conclusion & sign off: The conclusion of your cover letter usually includes a strong call-to-action statement that encourages employers to reach out to you at a later stage. In this section of your cover letter, you should reiterate your passion for the job role, and sign-off with an appropriate farewell, such as “Yours sincerely,” or “Ngā mihi nui.”

Simple cover letter examples

Keen to check out some more simple cover letter examples? No worries, we’ve got you covered (pun intended!) 

Here are some of our favourite simple cover letter examples: 

• Teacher Cover Letter Example

Get noticed and hired faster by using this Teacher cover letter example. This cover letter has been especially designed for Teacher roles in 2024. We make it easy to make effortlessly stunning cover letters quicky and efficiently.

• Care Assistant Cover Letter Example

Get noticed and hired faster by using this Care Assistant cover letter example. This cover letter has been especially designed for Care Assistant roles in 2024. We make it easy to make effortlessly stunning cover letters quicky and efficiently.

• Physical Therapist Cover Letter Example

Get noticed and hired faster by using this Physical Therapist cover letter example. This cover letter has been especially designed for Physical Therapist roles in 2024. We make it easy to make effortlessly stunning cover letters quicky and efficiently.

Expertly-designed, free professional templates

Simple New Zealand

How To Master a Cover Letter for New Zealand [Examples & Tips]

Although you might don’t want to, yet in most cases, you need to include a cover letter when applying for a job in New Zealand. NZ cover letter is similar to other countries; it should show the company why you are the right candidate for the job. Take your time to write a personal and customized letter. Never send the generic one; this can ruin your application from the start.

A cover letter is a monumental part of your job application in New Zealand. A good cover letter should answer the main question, which is why the company should hire you. Additionally, it must provide information on how you can bring value to the company and help them with the challenges. A cover letter should showcase the relevant skills and experience you have.

In most cases, businesses and recruiters in New Zealand will require you to attach a customized cover letter. And it’s a good thing for you. In the end, the cover letter is a claim for the role – it’s your chance to highlight and match your experience against the job description and to clearly state what you can offer your potential employer.

If you are looking for a job in New Zealand, I would highly recommend going through the Job Hunter’s handbook made by Careers.govt.nz.

Table of Contents

Is a cover letter necessary in New Zealand?

Unfortunately, yes, you need to include a customized cover letter when applying for a job in New Zealand. Almost  half of the recruiters reject applications without a cover letter. A high-quality, customized cover letter tells the manager you are a dedicated professional. It should be only a page long.

A resume or CV alone can show your achievements and qualifications, but it can’t tell the story and explain why you choose this company in particular. That’s why we need a cover letter. It’s also a great tool to show your personality and motivation. It must show the employer you are an asset to their company.

Are you resigning from your previous job? Read how to write a proper resignation letter .

Resignation Letter in New Zealand (Examples + Template)

Tips and guidance for a winner cover letter.

So what is a cover letter, and why it’s so important for your job application in New Zealand?

• Cover letter is your first point of contact with employers .
• It should fit on one page .
• It needs to explain why you want this job .
• It should relate to your CV .
• It should describe your relevant skills, experience, and accomplishments .
• It should show the evidence that you have researched the company and that you are the right candidate.

If you follow these simple statements, you should already be able to create a decent letter. Yet, if you want more, read this article to the end and follow the advice.

The winning tactic here is focusing on  them , not just on  you,  which will ultimately make you stand out from other applicants

When writing your cover letter, pay attention to the following:

• Do very extensive research about the company. Show it in the cover letter.
• Reflect on the company’s vision.
• Highlight specific achievements and successes that show you can address the challenges the employer is facing.
• Show your personality.
• Prove that you understand the challenges of the company.
• Explain your motivation and fit for the position.
• Presents how your skills and experience as a solution for the company.
• Create a list of job keywords that are mentioned in the job ad. Include them in the cover letter.
• Address the cover letter to the right person, e.g., the hiring manager or recruiter
• Be clear and concise
• Have a structure in the letter – beginning, middle, end
• Use active words to describe your work – accomplished, achieved, led, created, increased, identified
• Finish with a call to action and ask for a meeting.
• Try to be funny
• Send a generic cover letter — customize each one for the specific job.
• Forget your full contact details
• Generic and boring opening paragraph
• Copy-paste from the CV or job ad
• Start every sentence with “I”
• Write more than one page

Looking for a job? Check out the best recruitment agencies in New Zealand .

Best Recruitment Agencies in New Zealand 2024

1. research about the company and position.

Your knowledge about the company you are applying to work for is crucial. You must also know all the essential details about the advertised position and how your skills and experience fit in.

When someone reads your cover letter, they must be sure you are the right candidate for this position and for this company. That’s why you must include as many tailored to the job ad details as possible (yet not too many).

So, look for information on the company, its key products or services, its mission, and anything else that gives you an insight into them. Notice the most important details and mention them in the cover letter where appropriate.

You might want to check out the company’s website, its executives’ Twitter feeds, and LinkedIn profiles.

The culture of the organization is vital to note. This will influence your communication style. For instance, you might be more casual with start-ups or advertising agencies but more formal with banks and large corporations.

2. Show how you can help

A company hires you to solve a problem or to help with challenging tasks they are unable to manage. Point out the things you can do for a company and which potential results it might bring. Or maybe you already were challenged with similar tasks? Mention it in your cover letter!

3. Why are you a perfect fit?

The second paragraph of your cover letter should give a clear idea to the reader why you are the one and that you will satisfy the company’s specific needs.

Here you should match the keywords mentioned in the job ad with your skills and experience. You also must show the hiring manager why you want this job, not just any job. Include all the enthusiasm and passion you have.

Match your skills with a job ad

Highlight the key skills and qualities in the ad, e.g.:

• strong written and verbal communication
• technical skills
• analytical thinking
• team player or teamwork
• problem-solving
• time management
• knowledge of software & tools
• specialized or technical competencies
• high level of computer competency
• ability to work well under pressure
• enthusiasm and initiative
• excellent customer service

Include them in the cover letter with real-life examples.

Connections matter in New Zealand

About 70% of all jobs in New Zealand are so-called hidden. They are simply not advertised because hiring managers seek candidates within the company, their circle of colleagues, and people they know before they post a job ad. For that reason, having connections in New Zealand is very crucial.

You are more likely to be invited to an interview if you know a friend of a friend and they got a reference they you rather than just based on your qualifications and experience.

That might be good news for some and bad news for others. Nonetheless, it’s highly recommended to start networking as soon as you land in New Zealand. Join groups, participate in social and professional events, work on your Linkedin profile, and just be proactive.

And if you are lucky to know someone in the company you are applying to work for, mention it in the first sentence or two of your cover letter.

Don’t forget to include

Your cover letter shouldn’t miss these small but key elements:

Your personal value and personality

While skills and experiences are indeed critical, New Zealanders love human connection. If they find you an interesting and nice person, they are more likely to move forward with your application.

Try to be personal in your cover letter; tell them more unique things about you and your experience. Avoid being general at any cost.

Reflect on your experience that relates to the job ad and company profile. What challenges have you faced, and how did you solve them? You also want to provide evidence of the things you mention by using concrete examples, situations, numbers, and facts. For example:

“During the last quarter, my company was challenged by the supply shortage of …We have had 200% more orders than we can ever fulfill. To solve this problem, I was on the lookout for new suppliers for several weeks; after dozens of selling calls, I finally managed to sign a contract with our best supplier so far. I will never come across them otherwise.”

Your enthusiasm

In many cases, people don’t get hired because they aren’t enthusiastic and convincing enough. So, it’s not the lack of skills; it’s your desire and how you show it. If you make it as if it was your dream job, you are more likely to be invited. Avoid at any cost writing in a manner as you are doing a company a favor by working for them.

Hiring managers even say, “Enthusiasm conveys personality.” Some tips that help you to point out your enthusiasm include:

• Show that you have thought about the job and why you would like to work for them.
• Why is this company so brilliant? What they do the best? How they stand out?
• Mention their reputation, performance, and product.
• Remember, it’s about what you can do for them, not what they can do for you.

NZ cover letter structure

Following the formal structure when piecing together a cover letter is as much as important as its content. So, make sure you stick to New Zealand standards. Here is an example:

Dear [Ms. or Mr. Surname],

• Opening – Explain why you are writing this letter (add an interesting one-liner summarizing why you’re interested in the role and what you’d bring to their business.)
• Explain your interest in the job, show knowledge about the company and position
• Demonstrate your skills and experience related to the job
• Explain why you will fit into this role and which value you will bring to the company
• Sign off and offer them to contact you

Yours sincerely,

Your name – Andrew Black.

Make sure you check your cover letter via Grammarly for spelling and grammar mistakes!

Cover letter introduction

The introduction sentences will determine whether the hiring manager will read on or skip your resume. Start your cover letter in an unconventional way and hold the reader’s interest. Here are some tips for a stellar introduction:

• Highlight your achievements in the industry.
• Display your passion and enthusiasm.
• Mention some names and numbers.

A no-go cover letter introduction looks like this:

In response to your posting for the Digital Marketing Manager position, I would like to express my interest in participating in the recruitment process. As a digital marketing manager with 8+ years of experience, I am optimistic that I would succeed in this role.

Top cover letter example

Since you already know how to write the header, here is only the main part of the cover letter.

” I am writing regarding the Marketing Manager position you currently have open. As a marketer with over 5 years of experience managing small and larger teams, I would love to take a challenge and work for your company. Marketing is my passion, so it’s to achieve monthly goals, generate new leads & sales, and train the team for success.

In my previous role at (company name), I reached not only the set marketing goals but exceeded them by 80% and, in some months, even 120%. Your company (name) already has brilliant strategies in place, you use paid advertising, social media, and outreach, but I would add other channels to ramp up the reach and revenue. I am experienced and knowledgeable in the SEO scene; hence we can explore new opportunities for your business in this area of marketing.

My previous team of marketing assistants was great! I love to work with people and guide them in our current strategies. At the same time, responsibility for people does not make me stressed or scared but ignites my motivation to bring even better results so we can all be proud as a team.

Besides, my Master’s degree in Business taught me fundamental knowledge about organizations, management, strategy, and agility, which I would be happy to apply when working for (company).

It will be great to talk in person one day. You can reach me at 123456789 any time or via email at [email protected] to arrange an interview. Thank you for your consideration, I look forward to hearing from you.

Cover letter for a visa application

Im most cases, Immigration New Zealand, will request a cover or so-called motivational letter together with your visa application. This is generally a less complex document that you would write for the employer.

Your cover letter for a visa should include:

• Reasons why you are moving or visiting New Zealand
• How are you going to support yourself
• Demonstration of how you meet the criteria for the visa

The content of the cover letter will vary depending on the visa type you are applying for. If it’s, for instance, to join a partner in New Zealand, you should include your relationship to them and explain it briefly.

Therefore, your cover letter should target your visa category’s main requirements. 

When I was applying for a student visa, my cover letter described why I decided to study in New Zealand and what are my plans after my studies. Immigration New Zealand also mentioned in their requirements that the cover letter must include these details.

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Text to Speech

How to write a cover letter

When you apply for a job, your cover letter is how you introduce yourself.

It’s your first point of contact with the employer and an opportunity to create a positive first impression. A good cover letter is concise, convincing and creates a connection

The purpose of a cover letter is to encourage the employer to read your CV and meet you for an interview. 

These days with job applications and CVs being delivered electronically, a cover letter could be the first page of your CV – or a separate document. Either way, a cover letter acts as a ‘preview’ to what the employer will find in your CV.

Another important role the cover letter plays is to show why you’re interested in the job.

Here are some tips for how to write a cover letter:

Do your research.

To write a great cover letter, you need to know a bit about the job and the business or organisation you’re applying to.

While a cover letter is part of your ‘story’, don’t make it more than one page.

Make it personal

Address the letter to the hiring manager or contact person for the job.

Ideally use their name and job title.

Make it original

Don’t use the same cover letter for every job you apply for.

While you may be able to reuse some wording from one letter to the next, don’t make the mistake of referring to a completely different job and company in your cover letter.

Write a new one for each job.

Be professional

A cover letter is formal correspondence and is not the place to demonstrate your creative writing skills. Avoid using casual, flowery or over-the-top language, abbreviations or emojis (don’t write a cover letter like you’d write an email or a comment on social media).

Don’t duplicate your CV

A cover letter should not contain all of the same information as your CV.

If you’re cutting and pasting from your CV to your cover letter, the reader will get the feeling you’re repeating yourself.

Remember that a cover letter is concise, creates a connection and convinces the hiring manager to meet you.

Create a sense of action

Using strong action words (or verbs) will help the hiring manager to imagine you working in their team and give them a sense of what you can do and help their business.

You can also create what is referred to as a ‘call to action’ at the end of your letter ie a strong finishing sentence that encourages the potential employer to get in contact with you.

What to include in your cover letter

We provide cover letter templates (general, job application and when you have no experience), but for now, here are the basics of what a cover letter might include:

• Your name and contact details
• The employer’s contact details (including the name and job title of the person hiring)
• Introduction – why you are writing the letter, including reference to the specific job
• About you – a brief description of what you have to offer, including relevant skills
• Your motivation – explain why you’re interested in the job
• About them – show that you have done some research about the employer
• Summary and call to action – finish on a strong note, asking them to read your CV and get in contact

Ready to find your next job?

We have assisted thousands of kiwis to gain new skills and secure work. You might be recently out of work, needing confidence building and interview practice, have a health or disability challenge, or maybe you are switching fields and need support accessing funding for licenses or short courses.

We will work with you on a personalised plan to help you prepare for, find and maintain work.

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Develop a New Zealand-style CV

Most employers will quickly scan your CV to decide if it is worth reading in more detail. So it needs to make a good impression quickly.

What to include in your CV

New Zealand employers only want to see relevant information on your CV. They do not need a list of every job or course you have ever done.

Employers are most interested in your:

• technical and personal skills
• work experience
• qualifications and education
• community and volunteer experience.

They also like to see some evidence of how you have applied your skills.

It is best to only include relevant details of your skills and experience and to give brief examples of how you have used your skills in the past.

Skills employers are looking for | careers.govt.nz

Previous employers

Local employers may not be familiar with the organisations you have worked for overseas. It helps if you include a short description of organisations you list on your CV, like:

• the number of employees
• the location
• a website link so they can get more information if they need it.

The careers.govt.nz website has tips on how to write a CV for New Zealand employers.

How to write a CV | careers.govt.nz

Make a good impression

It is important to make a good impression of yourself as a potential employee, but not to appear too boastful about your achievements.

Many people make the mistake of writing a CV and using it for every job application. New Zealand employers expect you to adjust your CV to suit each job so that it highlights the skills that are relevant to the job.

People suggested that my CV was not what New Zealand employers would look at. Where I come from we prepare a CV in a different way: we give all our experience right from day one. Here, nobody likes to read a story! Darshan Desai

Cover letters

Most New Zealand employers expect a cover letter with your CV when you apply for a job. A cover letter is a ‘sales pitch’ about why you think you are ideal for the job.

Your cover letter should:

• briefly introduce yourself
• outline your main relevant skills and experience
• make an argument for why you are the right person for the specific job.

Just like your CV, it should focus on details that are relevant to the job you are applying for and it should be brief – no longer than 1 page.

Use a formal and persuasive style when writing a cover letter. It is a good idea to have a generic letter that you can adjust to match the job description you are applying for.

How to write a cover letter | careers.govt.nz

Your qualifications

Remember to bring your qualifications with you to New Zealand. If you are sending them in with an application, send a copy. Keep the originals safe and get copies made and certified. If you are in New Zealand, a Justice of the Peace (JP) can certify them.

Find a JP | Royal Federation of New Zealand Justices' Associations

Helpful resources

The careers.govt.nz website has many resources that can help you to make a New Zealand-style CV and cover letter. There is material to help you:

• understand the parts of a CV
• learn how to put transferable skills on your CV
• learn how to write a cover letter
• fill in job application forms.

CV and cover letter templates | careers.govt.nz

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Free Cover Letter Generator: Build a Cover Letter Online

Writing a cover letter has never been so easy.

With the Zety cover letter builder, writing a cover letter is no longer the long, frustrating, confusing process you’re used to. Write a job-winning cover letter in minutes and land your dream job!

Four simple steps to create a great cover letter:

Pick a template.

Fill in the blanks.

Personalize the design.

Click download.

Make a cover letter. See how it might look:

Don’t be so hard on yourself. The job application process can be intense. And it’s no surprise you find it difficult to create a cover letter worthy of an interview. That’s why Zety cover letter generator came to life—to take all that stress away and help you get your dream job. Start by browsing cover letter templates , and when you make your pick, let the wizard guide you through the writing process. The best thing? With our cover letter maker, you don’t have to worry about second-guessing every word. You only drag and drop the ready-made content developed by hiring professionals.

As seen in:

Get your 14-day trial

Don’t want to commit just yet? Take us for a test drive for 14 days and explore how the resume and cover letter builder work together to create the best application for a job.

What’s in it for you? Here’s what you get with our free cover letter generator:

1. Cover letter templates perfect for all kinds of jobs

You’ll get a chance to pick the layout from a wide selection of cover letter templates free to customize whichever way you want. Go for what stands out instead of saying yes to the mediocre.

2. Suggestions based on your years of experience and working style

If that isn’t personalisation, we don’t know what is. Our cover letter creator comes with specific questions about your experience and working style to ensure the end result sounds just like you.

3. Matching resume builder

Every recruiter wants consistency from their candidates, and that’s exactly what you’re going to give them. Write a resume with our resume builder first, and then create a matching cover letter—all in one place. Learn more about our resume builder now .

4. Pre-written paragraphs for every section

If you’re out of ideas because you’re tailoring your sixth cover letter, we’ve come to save you. Our cover letter maker lets you simply drag and drop entire paragraphs onto your cover letter—it’s that easy!

5. Cover letter in any file format

One employer wants a cover letter in PDF, but another requires a Word file? Don’t worry. Our cover letter creator allows you to download the same cover letter in various formats with no fear the layout will crash. You get what you see.

6. Use-your-resume feature

Do you have your resume prepared? That’s great! You can use it to generate a cover letter that’s ready to send. All you need to do is to upload your resume to the builder, and we’ll import the necessary information to create the letter. Take advantage of this feature and save even more time.

Read what people say about our cover letter creator:

If you don’t know how to build your own resume from scratch, don’t worry—the website walks you through the process step by step and tells you what information you need to input for each section… Zety is the best online [cover letter] builder overall.

The [Zety] cover letter maker is pretty powerful and offers a great degree of control without being overwhelming.

“You’re hired!”

Imagine that after so much effort, you’re the one who got the interview invitation. How does that make you feel? With Zety, it can all come true.

Use the Zety cover letter generator and seal the deal.

I utilized Zety’s builder app to the fullest, applying everything I learned, and even added some unique touches the resume software offered. Now, instead of stressing over what keyword or language to use on my resume, I can focus on which job offer to accept.

I went from fired to hired in less than 3 weeks. I was let go from my old job due to downsizing. With Zety, I was able to build custom resumes tailored to the jobs I was applying to quickly and easily. My last day was 3/9/18 and I had several offers by 3/25/18. Accepted an excellent job on 3/27/18. I can't thank you guys enough. You really helped save my family from some serious hardship.

Zety is what will make you stand out. In less than a month and a half, I got contacted by six employers and went in for three interviews. They’ve all commented on how my résumé caught their eye, and how “visually pleasant" it is. The cover letter tool has been a tremendous help as well. It has made my life so much easier!

Zety saved my resume and my career. I was applying for jobs with my own made resume and kept failing... until I came to Zety. I enhanced my resume and was amazed how professional the resume builder and the tips are. Guess what? I started to receive phone calls and emails for interviews. I have a job offer in the spring!

…and what will your future be?

Frequently Asked Questions about Zety Cover Letter Maker

What is a cover letter builder and should i use one.

A cover letter builder is an online app or piece of software that helps you generate a cover letter online with interactive forms and templates. The cover letter creator provides the right kind of information employers want to see, giving you expert tips and suggestions while you’re building your document.

Since a cover letter maker typically generates the whole letter for you, and takes care of the layout automatically , using one will save you precious time and allow you to make a different cover letter for every job application quickly and stress-free . And, before you run off thinking you don’t need a cover letter after all, know that cover letters are still necessary in 2024 .

What is the best cover letter builder online?

Zety is the best online cover letter generator. Our cover letter app is filled with features that will make the process of writing a cover letter fast and painless—features that you won’t find on other apps of this kind. You can generate cover letters for as many applications as you need. Here’s everything our software offers:

• Feature-rich cover letter builder.
• 18 professional cover letter templates , with dozens of varied color schemes and fonts.
• Resume Builder & CV Maker (with templates matching your cover letter).
• The option to duplicate your cover letters to make small adjustments and apply to many job offers at once.
• Built-in content for your cover letter and suggestions tailored to your job title and industry.
• Real-time cover letter checker with improvement tips.
• Multiple formats to download your cover letter as: PDF, Word, and TXT.
• Printing documents directly from the app.
• Ability to save an unlimited number of documents in the cloud.
• 14-day trial without feature restrictions.

What is the best cover letter format in 2024?

The best cover letter format in 2024 is one that follows a specific structure and flow, while being easy to read and visually appealing. Here’s how to format your cover letter:

• Keep a clean header , in the top-left corner of the page.
• Make your name visible by increasing the font size.
• Ensure your contact details stand out.
• Set sufficient margins on all sides : one inch is a good rule of thumb.
• Left-align all the content , don’t use justification.
• Use line spacing of 1 or 1.15.
• Put double spaces between paragraphs.
• Sign with your full name.
• Make sure your cover letter is only one-page long.
• Always download and send your cover letter in PDF.

Adjust the spacing so that you only need one page ( the ideal cover letter length ), and that it doesn’t look too busy. Chances are, hiring managers won’t even bother reading a cover letter that’s badly formatted and uninviting. Read our guide on how to format a cover letter for all our tips.

What should a good cover letter include in 2024?

A cover letter for a resume should contain details about your experience and abilities, as well as all the reasons why you want to work for a specific employer. You can read our guide on what to include in a cover letter for more information, but here’s a list of the main cover letter parts :

• Cover letter header : name, professional title, phone number, email, social media links, date, recipient’s details, and company’s name.
• Proper cover letter greetings . Read more on how to address a cover letter to do it right.
• A good cover letter introduction that hooks the reader.
• A second paragraph explaining why you’re the perfect candidate. It serves as your offer to the employer and highlights your achievements.
• A third paragraph proving that you’re eager to join the company. It shows your motivation.
• A great cover letter closing paragraph that must read as a call to action for your reader.
• The sign-off line, with a repetition of your contact details to encourage your reader to pick up the phone and invite you for an interview.
• A post-scriptum (P.S.), if you want to add something impressive about your career or make the recruiter even more curious about what you can offer.

Do I need a different cover letter for every job application?

Yes, you should send a unique cover letter for each job application , along with a tailored resume. Every company is different, and they all look for different things in candidates. For example, some may prefer hard skills , so you should focus on describing yours in your cover letter, but some may favor, soft skills . Your cover letter should also touch on company values or other unique factors that caused you to apply, and you can’t do that without writing a separate cover letter for each company. Besides, since you should tailor your resume , that means you must adjust your cover letter too, as the tasks and skills you describe will be different. That is why you need to learn how to write a cover letter , or an entry-level cover letter if you’re a fresher.

Sounds tedious? Relax! Write a general cover letter , duplicate it in our app, and let it generate new cover letters for you, based on the job titles you input. Not a fan of the first draft? Drag and drop other pre-written paragraphs to tailor your cover letter quickly and easily

Can the cover letter builder help with my resume, too?

When you create a cover letter in our builder, you will also be given the option to build a resume. Our 18 professional resume templates match our cover letter templates, so you can make and send a set of documents, complementing each other both in looks and content. All the features in our cover letter builder are also available in our resume builder. That includes pre-written content tailored to your profile and job title, as well as a resume check feature that will score your document and tell you how to improve it. Check our list of the best resume builders available online to see how our software performs compared to other apps of this kind.

How should my cover letter complement my resume?

The point of a cover letter is to provide more details about what’s in your resume (here’s how to write a resume , if you haven’t done it yet, or want to make sure you’ve done it right), as well as show the recruiter how motivated you are to join their team . A cover letter should therefore be written based on the jobs, tasks, achievements, and skills that are on your resume.

Carefully read the job offer and make sure your resume experience and resume skills are tailored to what’s important for the company.With those in mind, in your cover letter, describe what you’ve done in the past and what you can do for the new employer with as many details as possible. A great way for your cover letter to complement your resume is also mentioning your values and the way you work , as a resume is mostly factual and focused on skills and achievements. Make sure you read all of our cover letter tips to ace the recruitment process.

Can I have my cover letter reviewed when I’ve finished building it?

One of the most useful features of our cover letter generator is the cover letter check function . Once you’ve written and formatted your cover letter online, the app will score it and give recommendations on how to improve it to meet recruiters’ standards. The Zety Cover Letter Builder will also provide an overall review and grade for your application letter , so you can predict how well it will perform in your job hunt against other candidates. To score your cover letter, our software compares your document with thousands of other cover letters made for the same job title. With the Zety Cover Letter app, you’ll no longer be sending applications blindly, unsure of whether they’re actually any good. If you follow all the creator’s tips, you’ll only ever send top-notch cover letters and resumes.

Are there any good cover letter examples that I can look at?

Our cover letter builder will generate an application letter for you, and will provide you with pre-written content, tailored suggestions, and career-expert tips. You won’t have to spend much time tailoring it for it to match your resume and the job offer. However, it is still essential to understand what recruiters are looking for in applications for specific job titles. And this largely depends on the jobs, experience levels, and industries they hire for. To help you, we have created hundreds of free cover letter examples for any job application . There’s a guide for everyone, no matter your experience level and industry. We also have 500+ free resume examples for you, so you can make sure your resume is far above average, too.

Can I download my cover letter in Word?

In our cover letter creator, you can download your cover letter in PDF, Word (Docx), TXT, JPEG and even SVG. You can download your generated cover letter in Word if you think you might need to update it in the future, but we strongly recommend you to tailor your documents inside our app. The cover letter layout will be automatically adjusted, each version will be reviewed, and you can store as many as you need in your account, online. If you download your cover letter in Word to send it right away, bear in mind that it’s highly advisable to always send a cover letter in PDF. This file format will ensure your cover letter looks and reads the same on every possible device and software. With Word, you’re risking that some recruiters will be unable to even open your application. If you’re still set on a Word cover letter, here are our favorite Word cover letter templates to download and fill in .

Is Zety safe and legit?

Yes, Zety is a legit business , and you can learn more about it on the About Zety page. The website, resume and cover letter applications are safe thanks to a secure SSL https encrypted connection. Your personal data is processed according to stringent policies you can learn more about in the terms of use , privacy policy , and cookie policy . Want to know what users say about our services? Read our customers’ reviews on our Trustpilot page !

Is Zety’s cover letter builder free?

You can use Zety cover letter builder for free to generate cover letters, resumes, and CVs . The app follows the “try before you buy” credo—you pay once you’re satisfied with the results. To download a printable cover letter as a PDF or MS Word .doc file, you need to subscribe to a paid plan.

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