canvas application letter

How to Design the Perfect Cover Letter Using Canva

A good cover letter can be help you land the job you want. Here's how to create the perfect cover letter using Canva.

When you're searching for a job there are few things more time-consuming than creating a cover letter. It's crucial to craft a well-written cover letter that can stand out from the crowd.

But how do you make your cover letter look beautiful? How can you avoid the human resources slushpile? In this article we show you how to create the perfect cover letter using Canva.

Step 1: Where Should You Use a Cover Letter?

The first thing to keep in mind is that the job market is changing.

When you're applying for a job online, large companies will usually have you fill out a form where your cover letter is limited to plain text.

Sometimes you'll need to send your resume via email, and when you do it's best to put your letter in the body of the email.

In both of these cases, a cover letter is not necessary. But when you drop off a resume in person or a company allows you to attach a PDF, that's where a good design works well.

To create a cover letter using Canva , log into your account. Under "What would you like to design?" type in "cover letter".

Pick the option Letterhead or Letter . For this tutorial I'm going to choose Letterhead .

Step 2: Find a Template Style

Once you're in your workspace you'll see a blank page and a list of letterhead templates. If you've read our tutorial detailing how to find the perfect resume on Canva , you'll be familiar with this step.

In that tutorial we created a resume for a woman who was applying to a modern baking company. Let's say we want to create a cover letter that matches her resume.

To do this, click the Personal Letterhead option. In there you will find the templates best suited for this purpose.

Once there, start browsing.

The design we've picked looks nothing like the modern bakery resume, but it does have potential because of its line elements and simple layout. Let's go with that.

There's a lot of text on a cover letter, and some of it can be really small.

Right now I'm zoomed out to see my entire page, but what if that's too small a size to work with?

To zoom in, click on the zoom tool in the bottom right-hand corner of your workspace. Choose the size that works for you.

Step 3: Change the Background

Next, we're going to change the background color of the cover letter.

Make sure you have the entire document selected. Click on the color swatch icon in the top left-hand corner of your screen. Your swatches panel will pop up.

Choose your new color.

Step 4: Change the Color of Your Elements

After you change your background, we'll need to fix the visual elements of this cover letter to make them match the resume.

The first element we're going to tackle is the line at the top of the page. The line matches our overall design, but it's the wrong color.

To change it, click on the element, then click your swatches panel.

For this line we're going to pick a bright blue.

That bright blue is pretty close to the color we want, but not exactly.

To fix this, click the + sign in the color swatch panel. This will bring up the color picker, where you can adjust the blue as needed.

Once you've decided, Canva will add the color to your panel.

After that, you can click on another element, then click on the color swatch. The new blue will be applied to it.

Step 5: Change Your Header Text

After you adjust the visual elements on your page, it's time to fix the text.

As mentioned, there's a lot of text, and the first thing we're going to focus on is the "header". It contains your name, address, and contact details.

Canva automatically puts placeholder text in each section, so you need to click on the title---in this case "James Morrison Elementary School"---and erase the words in the text box.

Next, type in your name. For this tutorial we're going with "Jill Smith".

Then, choose the same font that you used in the modern bakery resume, so both names match. Pick a size for the font and a color.

Click on the address section beneath your name. Erase the placeholder, and put your own address instead.

Step 6: Change Your Subheading Text

After you change your header you'll need to change your subheading.

This is where you'll address the letter to someone else, along with the reason you are sending it. It's a good idea to include the job posting number and title for reference.

Make sure the text box is active so you can edit it. Erase the placeholder text, put in your own, then go to the top left-hand corner of your workspace.

Use the dropdown menus to change your font, size, and color.

In our modern bakery resume our subheadings were all-caps, but in this template the subheadings aren't. How do you fix this without typing it all over again?

Simply click on the Uppercase icon at the top of your screen, seen here highlighted in red.

When you click on it Canva automatically changes the text to all-caps. To change it back, click on Uppercase again.

Step 7: Add a New Subheading

You've already got a subheading, but what if you want part of that subheading with one style and the rest of it with another? You'll need another box.

Delete the text that you want in a different style from your first box. In this case, that text is "Job Posting # and Description".

Next, click Text > Add a subheading on the left-hand side of your screen. Canva will add a subheading for you, but it will need some adjustment.

To align this text with the other subheading, click the Alignment button, seen here in red.

When you click on it, it will cycle through the different types of alignments---just keep clicking until you find the right one for your document.

Next, change your placeholder text to "Job Posting # and Description".

Go to the top left-hand corner of your workspace and change the font, size, and color. Follow the same steps as before.

Step 8: Deleting a Text Box

What if you want to delete a text box that isn't required for your cover letter? Again, very easy.

Just click on the text box you want to get rid of, then go to the trash can icon in the top right-hand corner of your screen.

Clicking on it will delete the box.

Step 9: Grouping Elements

We've talked about grouping elements in our tutorial detailing how to create a resume from scratch using Canva .

The short-and-easy version: grouping elements is useful if you need to keep them aligned and move them around the page.

To group elements, click and drag over the individual items so the blue bounding box shows up.

Next, click Group in the top right-hand corner of your workspace. Voila. You're finished.

Step 10: Add a Shape

We're nearing the end of this tutorial, and as you're doing your final checks you might decide that you want to add another shape for interest.

For this tutorial, let's say we want to add a circle to the end of the line at the top of the page. There was a pattern like that in the modern bakery resume, and we want to mimic it.

To do this, click Elements > Shapes > Circle . Once you do, you'll see a large circle pop up on your template.

Click and drag the circle to the appropriate spot on your page. Resize it by clicking on one of the corners of the bounding box, to make it smaller.

To change its color, click on the color swatch icon in the top left-hand corner of your screen.

Step 11: Change Your Body Text

Now that we've fixed the visual elements on the cover letter, it's time to zoom out and take a look at it.

I personally think this design is pretty good. It matches the look and feel of the modern bakery resume, and it conveys a sense of approachability through its use of bright colors.

All that's left is to add the body text. This is where the "meat" of your cover letter will go---the part where you talk about yourself and what you do.

To write your body text, click and erase the placeholder, then begin typing.

Step 12: Give Your Cover Letter a Meaningful Name

Now that your cover letter is complete, change the name of the template to something meaningful. This way you'll be able to find it again under Home > Your Designs on Canva.

Job Hunts Don't Last Forever

Cover letters are tough to write and just one part of the larger picture, but with Canva to help you can put your best foot forward and increase your chances of landing that job. If you'd like help with your resume too, take a look at these free resume makers .

Are you looking for more direction on where to search for jobs? Then check out our list of job search engines you should try to help you make an informed decision.

How to Write a Cover Letter in Canva

Home » Blog » How to Write a Cover Letter in Canva

Founder of CanvaTemplates.com & Professional Graphic Designer

Jake Tucker

Canva Templates is reader supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

Writing a cover letter can be a daunting task, but with the help of Canva, it doesn’t have to be. Canva is a graphic design platform that offers a variety of templates and tools to create professional-looking documents, including cover letters. In this article, you will learn how to write a cover letter in Canva, step-by-step.

First, you will need to choose a template that fits your style and industry. Canva offers a wide range of cover letter templates that can be customized to suit your needs. Once you have selected a template, you can begin adding your content, including your contact information, the recipient’s name and address, and the body of the letter. Canva also allows you to add images, icons, and other design elements to make your cover letter stand out.

After you have written your cover letter, you can download it in various formats, such as PDF or PNG, and share it with potential employers. Canva also offers a variety of resources to help you write an effective cover letter, including tips and examples. By using Canva, you can create a professional-looking cover letter that will help you stand out from other applicants.

Understanding the Purpose of a Cover Letter

A cover letter is a document that accompanies a resume when applying for a job. Its purpose is to introduce the applicant to the employer and to provide additional information about their qualifications, skills, and experience.

The cover letter should explain why the applicant is interested in the job and how their skills and experience make them a good fit for the position. It should also demonstrate the applicant’s knowledge of the company and the job requirements.

One of the main goals of a cover letter is to make a good first impression on the employer. A well-written cover letter can help an applicant stand out from other candidates and increase their chances of getting an interview.

It’s important to customize each cover letter to the specific job and company. This means researching the company and the job requirements and tailoring the cover letter to match them. Using a template can be helpful, but the cover letter should still be personalized and unique to the applicant.

Overall, a cover letter is an important tool for job seekers to showcase their skills and experience and to make a strong first impression on potential employers.

Getting Started with Canva

Canva is a graphic design platform that allows users to create professional-looking designs with ease. To get started with Canva, users must first create an account by signing up for a free or paid plan. Once logged in, users can access a wide range of design templates, including cover letter templates.

To create a cover letter in Canva, users should follow these steps:

• Navigate to the templates section and search for “cover letter.”
• Select a template that fits your idea or the recipient of your cover letter and job application. Canva provides numerous professionally designed templates that cater to different industries and preferences.
• Customize the template by adding your contact details, work experience, skills, and other relevant information.
• Save your cover letter in your preferred format, such as PDF or JPG.

Canva also offers a range of design tools and features that users can use to enhance their cover letter designs. For example, users can add images, icons, and other graphics to their cover letters to make them more visually appealing. Users can also adjust the font, color, and layout of their cover letters to match their personal style and preferences.

Overall, Canva is a user-friendly platform that makes it easy for anyone to create professional-looking cover letters. By following these simple steps, users can create a cover letter that stands out from the crowd and helps them land their dream job.

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Choosing the Right Template

When creating a cover letter in Canva, choosing the right template is crucial. The template sets the tone for the entire cover letter and can make a big difference in catching the hiring manager’s attention.

Canva offers a wide range of cover letter templates to choose from, each with its own unique style and design. To find the perfect template, the user can browse through the available options, filtering by industry or job type.

It is important to consider the company’s culture and the job requirements when selecting a template. For example, a creative job may call for a more colorful and visually appealing template, while a corporate job may require a more professional and minimalistic design.

Once the user has found a template that fits their needs, they can customize it to make it their own. Canva allows for easy editing of text, colors, and images, making it simple to tailor the cover letter to the specific job and company.

Overall, choosing the right template in Canva can make a significant impact on the success of a cover letter. By considering the job requirements and company culture, and customizing the template to fit those needs, the user can create a professional and eye-catching cover letter that stands out from the rest.

Writing the Content of Your Cover Letter

When writing the content of your cover letter, there are a few key sections that you should include to ensure that your letter is effective in communicating your skills and qualifications to potential employers. These sections include the header and salutation, opening paragraph, body of the letter, and closing remarks.

Header and Salutation

The header of your cover letter should include your name, address, phone number, and email address. It should be formatted similarly to the header of your resume. Below the header, you should include the date and the name and address of the employer you are applying to.

The salutation of your cover letter should be addressed to the specific person who will be reading your letter. If you are unsure of who to address your letter to, you can use a generic salutation such as “Dear Hiring Manager.”

Opening Paragraph

The opening paragraph of your cover letter should be attention-grabbing and should clearly state the position you are applying for. You should also briefly mention your qualifications and experience that make you a good fit for the position.

Body of the Letter

The body of your cover letter should expand on the qualifications and experience mentioned in the opening paragraph. You should provide specific examples of your skills and accomplishments that demonstrate why you are the best candidate for the position.

It’s important to tailor your cover letter to the specific job you are applying for. This means researching the company and position and incorporating that information into your letter. You should also use language that matches the tone and style of the company.

Closing Remarks

In the closing remarks of your cover letter, you should thank the employer for considering your application and express your enthusiasm for the position. You should also provide your contact information and indicate that you are available for an interview.

Remember to proofread your cover letter carefully before submitting it. You want to make sure that there are no typos or grammatical errors that could detract from your qualifications.

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Designing and Formatting Your Cover Letter

When it comes to designing and formatting your cover letter in Canva, there are a few key elements to keep in mind. By following these tips, you can create a professional and visually appealing cover letter that will help you stand out from the competition.

Typography and Fonts

One of the most important aspects of your cover letter’s design is the typography and font choices. You want to make sure that your text is easy to read and that the fonts you choose match the tone and style of the position you are applying for. Canva offers a wide variety of fonts to choose from, so take your time to find the perfect one for your cover letter.

Colors and Themes

Another way to make your cover letter stand out is by using colors and themes that match the company or position you are applying for. Consider using the company’s brand colors or a theme that matches the job description. However, be careful not to use too many colors or themes that clash with each other, as this can make your cover letter look unprofessional.

Spacing and Alignment

Finally, when designing your cover letter, pay attention to spacing and alignment. You want to make sure that your text is properly aligned and spaced out, so that it is easy to read and looks professional. Canva offers a variety of alignment and spacing tools to help you achieve the perfect look for your cover letter.

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Reviewing and Editing Your Cover Letter

After designing your cover letter in Canva, it’s important to review and edit it to ensure that it’s free of errors and effectively showcases your skills and qualifications. Here are some tips to help you review and edit your cover letter:

Proofread your design: Double-check your cover letter to ensure that there are no typos, grammatical errors, or formatting issues. You can also use Canva’s spell-check feature or third-party tools like Grammarly to catch any mistakes.

Get feedback: Consider asking a friend, family member, or colleague to review your cover letter and provide feedback. They may be able to spot errors or offer suggestions for improvement that you may have missed.

Tailor your cover letter: Make sure that your cover letter is specifically tailored to the job you’re applying for. Review the job description and company website to ensure that you’re highlighting the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the position.

By taking the time to review and edit your cover letter, you can ensure that it’s a strong representation of your qualifications and increases your chances of getting hired.

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Exporting and Sending Your Cover Letter

Once you’ve finished designing your cover letter in Canva, you can easily export it to a PDF or image file. To do this, simply click on the “Download” button located at the top right corner of the screen. From there, you can choose the file type you want to export it as, and select the quality and size of the file.

Once you have exported your cover letter, you can then send it to potential employers through email or upload it to job application websites. When sending it through email, make sure to attach the file and include a brief message introducing yourself and expressing your interest in the position.

If you’re uploading it to a job application website, make sure to follow the instructions provided by the website and attach the file in the appropriate section. It’s also a good idea to double-check that the file has uploaded correctly and that all the information is visible and readable.

Overall, exporting and sending your cover letter is a simple and straightforward process in Canva. With just a few clicks, you can have a professional-looking cover letter ready to send to potential employers.

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