writing a cover letter for a job uk

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• Careers advice
• Cover letters

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How to write a cover letter.

A cover letter introduces you to an employer and asks them to think about your application. 

It’s a short letter, usually 3 to 5 paragraphs long.

When to include a cover letter

You should always include a cover letter when you apply for a job using a CV. 

You can write it as an email if you’re applying online or print a copy to go with a paper application.

When writing a cover letter, let the employer know you’re keen by showing that you’ve researched the company. Learn more about what they do through:

• their website
• recent news articles
• talking to people you know who work there

Send it to the right person

It's important to try to address your cover letter to someone by name. Check you have the details of the person you need to send it to. 

You'll need their name and preferred title. For example, ‘Dr’, ‘Mr’, ‘Mrs’, ‘Ms’, and their job title. You should also make sure you have the right company name and address, including postcode.

If you do not know their name

If the job advert does not include a name you can check the company website. Try to find details of the head of the department, head of human resources or a recruitment manager.

If you still cannot find a name, you can start your letter with ‘Dear Sir or Madam’.

Introduction

Introduce yourself and explain how you found the advertised job. You can mention the job title, and reference number if there is one. 

If you’re asking about any job openings and not applying to a vacancy, tell them what sort of job you’re looking for. Let the employer see how keen you are to work for them.

Show you're right for the job

Highlight the skills and experience you have that match what the employer is looking for. 

Convince them that you're enthusiastic about working for them. Let them know you share their work values, culture and style.

Give extra information

If you have gaps in your employment history, you could talk about the skills you gained while you were out of work.

If you’ve mentioned on your CV that you have a disability, you might want to talk more about this in your cover letter. Organisations like Disability UK can give you advice on how to do this. You do not have to mention your disability at this stage if you prefer not to.

You can get more help with specialist advice on finding work if you have a disability.

Ending your cover letter

Thank the employer for considering your application. Let them know that they can get more details from your CV, and tell them you're looking forward to hearing from them.

Let them know how they can best contact you. Make sure your contact details are correct on both your cover letter and CV.

Yours sincerely or yours faithfully

If you know the name of the person you’re writing to, you should end the letter with ‘Yours sincerely’.

If you’ve addressed the letter ‘Dear Sir or Madam’, you should end the letter with ‘Yours faithfully’.

Tips for writing a cover letter

When writing your cover letter, remember to:

• write a new one for every job you apply for and make sure it’s tailored to the company and the specific role
• use the same font and size as you do for your CV, so it looks consistent
• make sure the company name and recruiter’s details are correct
• use the right language and tone: keep it professional and match the keywords used by the employer in their job advert
• show you’ve done your research into the job and the company
• highlight your most relevant skills and experience to stand out from other applicants
• back up any statements you make with facts and use the STAR method
• double check spelling and grammar before you send it
• keep a copy of your cover letter as they may ask you about it in an interview

Related content

How to write a CV

Completing application forms

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11 Cover letter templates with examples

Not sure what type of cover letter is going to catch the eye of hiring managers, so they actually read your CV?

A well-written cover letter can be a game-changer in your job search, so long as you think carefully about what you include.

No need to panic, though.

For an easy win, use one of our 11 impressive cover letter templates, along with inspirational examples and a step-by-step writing guide.

CV templates 

Basic cover letter template

Dear [Recruiter’s name],

I am writing to apply for the [Job title] at [Company name], as advertised on [Website name]. With [Number of years of experience] in [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

During my current job at [Company name], I [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

I am eager to bring my [Mention suitable skill + aspirations] to the [Job title] at [Employer’s name] and I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

Kind regards,

[Name] [Phone number] [Email]

Basic cover letter example

Short cover letter template

Hi [Recruiter name],

I’d like to express my interest in the role of [Job title] as advertised on [Website name].

I am currently working in a [Current role] role for [Current employer], where I am responsible for [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

I’m looking for a new challenge that will [Aspirations + mention of suitable skill].

It would be great to hear from you, and I am available to interview at any time.

Short cover letter example

Build your CV now 

Admin cover letter template

Good morning [Hiring Manager],

I am writing to submit my application for the position of [Role name] at [Company name]. As a passionate and committed individual with [Number of years] of experience and a track record of [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible], I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the continued success of your institution.

I have gained valuable insights into the [Core responsibilities of role + more quantified achievements.] In my current role as [Current role], I have continuously facilitated positive change and enhanced [Company name’s] reputation.

Some notable achievements I would like to mention include [List quantified achievements].

With all my experience and a [Qualification] in [Subject], I hope that you recognise my enthusiasm and will consider me for the position.

Kind regards, [Name] [Phone number] [Email address]

Admin cover letter example

Finance cover letter template

I am excited to apply for the [Job title] at [Company name]. As a results-orientated professional with a track record of [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible], I am confident that my expertise aligns perfectly with the needs of your organisation.

With [Number of years] of experience, I have developed [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

In my current role as a [Current role] at [Current employer], I implemented a [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of further discussing my qualifications, skills, and contributions I will bring as your new [Job title].

Finance cover letter example

Sales cover letter template

I hope you’re well. I am writing to apply for the [Job title] at [Company name]. With [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

I am eager to apply my proactive and goal-orientated approach to drive revenue growth at [Company name]. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience to discuss how my dedication and skills can contribute to the success of your sales team.

Sales cover letter example

Customer service cover letter template

I’d like to apply for the position of [Job title] as advertised on [Website name].

With [Years] of experience in customer-facing positions for leading retail companies, I have gathered extensive customer service skills in [Type of setting].

In my current role with [Company name], I am responsible for [Role responsibilities + quantified achievement if possible].

My role has given me [Aspirations + mention suitable skill].

I believe my skill sets and product knowledge will allow me to fit perfectly with the requirements you are seeking in a candidate, and I am available for an interview at short notice.

Customer service cover letter example

Project management cover letter template

I am interested in applying for the role of [Job title] . My experience in [List core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

I am enclosing my CV for your consideration, which further highlights my experience, which I am positive fully meets the demands of this role.

Project management cover letter example

Education cover letter template

I hope you’re well.

I am writing concerning the advert for a [Job title] at [Name of educational setting]. Over the past [Number of years], I have [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

I am seeking a new opportunity that will allow me to [Aspirations + mention of suitable skill].

I am keen to talk to you more about the job role, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Education cover letter example

Internal promotion cover letter template

Hey [Recruiter name],

I hope you and the team are well! I am thrilled to apply for the promotion to [Job title] of the [Department] team at [Company name], as advertised on [Website name]. With my [Number of years] of service as a [Current role], within the company, supported by [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

As a dedicated member of staff, I am eager to streamline and innovate the administrative operations at [Company name] in this new role. I would love to discuss my vision for this role further in an interview at your discretion.

All the best, [Name] [Phone number] [Email address]

Internal promotion cover letter example

Student cover letter template

Good morning [Recruiter name],

I would like to submit my application for the [Job title] at [Company name], where I believe my skills in [Industry] can make a valuable contribution.

As a highly driven [Core responsibilities of studies + quantified achievement if possible].

I am eager to continue learning and to have the opportunity to work alongside the team at [Employer’s name]. I am available for an interview at your convenience to further discuss my qualifications. Thank you for considering my application.

Student cover letter example

No experience cover letter template

I am an enthusiastic [Job title/student] at [Current employer/School or university name] with excellent [Core skills], seeking to apply for the [Job title] at [Company name].

In my current role as [Current role] at [Current employer], I [Core responsibilities of role + quantified achievement if possible].

I am excited to contribute my [Aspirations + mention of suitable skill]. I am available for an interview from [Insert date] and I am eager to discuss how my skills can benefit your company’s success.

Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely, [Name] [Phone number] [Email address]

No experience cover letter example

How to write a cover letter

Here are five steps on how to write a cover letter to ensure you get hiring managers in the UK and beyond to look at your CV .

Include your cover letter within the email or message

When submitting your job application, always include your cover letter within the body of your email or message. Never attached it as a separate document.

“But why?”, you ask.

Well, you should instantly grab the recruiter’s attention the moment they look at your application. If they have to endure the hassle of opening a document, it slows everything down, and they may not even bother.

Here’s how to include your cover letter in the body of your application message:

Tailor your greeting by directly addressing the recruiter

To get your cover letter off to a great start, make a brilliant first impression by using the hiring manager or recruiter’s name.

Avoid sounding overly formal or informal, though.

For instance, you could address the recruiter using:

• Hi [insert recruiter’s name]
• Hi [insert department/team name]

Skip the conventional “Dear Sir or Madam” unless you’re targeting highly formal companies.

Here are a few tips on how to locate the recruiter’s name:

• Check the job ad – Sometimes, you can find their name and email address within the job advert itself.
• Visit the company website – Look at the “About Us” section to unearth the contact info for the recruitment team or head of department.
• Use LinkedIn – If you’re having a hard time pinning down the specific team and company related to the job opening, a quick search can reveal the person in charge of hiring for that specific job.

If you have no success in finding their name, don’t stress. Just say “Hi” – that’ll more than do the trick. Aim for a greeting that is both professional and welcoming.

Here are some examples of how to address your cover letter if you have trouble finding their name:

Be personable and professional

Your cover letter should be a blend of personality and professionalism .

Coming across as too casual can make you sound a little unprofessional while appearing excessively formal can make you look stiff.

Go for a professional, friendly tone.

Begin with something such as, “I hope you’re well” to bring a personal touch.

Pinpoint your applicable skills

Your cover letter’s purpose? To entice hiring managers to read your CV . To do this, quickly allude to your relevant skills tailored to the job you’re interested in.

Review the job description and note the essential qualifications and skills the recruiter wants.

Concentrate on these skills in your cover letter and tell them why you’re perfect for the role.

This gives recruiters the confidence they need to consider you for the job.

For instance, you could say:

• Finance – “My strategic planning skills allowed me to identify key growth opportunities and revenue drivers, ultimately leading to the impressive revenue increase of over £100 million.”
• Marine engineer – “I excel in the development and implementation of predictive maintenance programs, ensuring equipment reliability and longevity. I implemented a predictive maintenance programme that reduced downtime of critical equipment by 25%, as well as saved £120K+ annually through purchasing supplies from suitable industry vendors.”
• Medical writer – “My capacity to translate complex medical information into clear and accessible content for various audiences is a core skill that has empowered me to produce 15 high-quality educational materials. Moreover, my strong research proficiency was instrumental in increasing audience comprehension and patient satisfaction scores by 30% and 15% respectively.”

Conclude and add a professional signature

Your sign-off must be warm. So, say something like “Best regards” or “Kind regards.” Just be yourself while staying polite.

To add a nice finishing touch to your cover letter , add a professional signature at the very bottom.

Doing so helps the person on the other end know how to reach you and gives your cover letter a professional touch.

Here’s what you need to include in your professional sign-off:

• Your full name – Add your first and last name, like “Jessica Smith”. It’s just there so recruiters know who you are.
• Your phone number – Preferably, put your mobile number in here so recruiters can quickly get hold of you.
• Your email address – This must be a professional email address, like [email protected]. Don’t include an overly casual email – remember, this is a job application.

If you like, you could also include a couple of extra details:

• Your job title – For example, “Administrator” or “Delivery Driver.”
• A link to your LinkedIn – If you use LinkedIn, insert a link to your profile – this is like your professional social media.

How to write a cover letter

Skip to: 

What is a cover letter and why is it important?

When do you need a cover letter, how should you structure your cover letter, what should go in your cover letter.

A cover letter is a letter that you write about yourself and submit alongside your CV when applying for a job. Within it, you explain why you’re the right candidate for that role, based on your experience and skills. 

A potential employer might use a cover letter as an introduction to you before moving on to your CV, so it’s important to make a strong impression.

Just like you would tailor your CV to the specific role you’re applying for, you should write a cover letter with a particular job in mind. The concise structure of a CV can make it hard to stand out. But the structure of a cover letter gives you more room to showcase your skills and personality. 

A job application will tell you whether you need to include a cover letter or not. Most applications do ask you to, or some may get you to fill out some online questions instead. You probably won’t need a cover letter for a part-time job as a student, for example.

If a job description doesn’t say anything about a cover letter, play it safe and include one just in case. It’s a great opportunity to demonstrate your skills and show you’ve gone the extra mile.

A cover letter should be roughly one side of A4 and broken up into short paragraphs so it’s easy to read. Just like your CV, stick to a sensible font type, size, and colour.

Ideally, you should submit it as a PDF version with a clear filename, so it always looks the same regardless of the device it’s opened on.

Contact details

You should include the same contact information at the top of your cover letter as you would for your CV, in case it gets separated.

• phone number
• email address

Who to address your cover letter to

Ideally, you want to address your cover letter to the specific person who will be reading it. The job listing should say who this is. This might someone who works in HR or the person you will report to if you get the job.

If the job listing doesn’t clarify who this is, don’t be afraid to get in touch directly by phone or email. This shows initiative and is an early opportunity to make a personal connection, which can work in your favour.

If you’re struggling to find an individual to address your cover letter to, you should write ‘Dear Sir/Madam’ or ‘To whom it may concern’ instead.

Clarify the role you're applying to

Begin by stating the role you are applying for. Sometimes it can be useful to say how you heard about the role, whether it was on a particular website or through someone you know..

I am writing to apply for the Data Analyst position in your organisation, as advertised on your website.

Now you’ve clarified the role you’re applying for; you can highlight why you’re the right candidate for it.

Describe yourself and your experience

Next, say who you are – easy, right? You don’t need to tack on any bells and whistles.

If you’re a school or college student applying for a part-time job, say where you go to school, what year you’re in, and what you’re studying. You may want to drop in your future plans (if you have any).

I’m in my second year of my A-levels at St John’s College, studying English, biology, and drama. I've received a conditional offer from the University of Sussex to study English and drama in September.

If you’re a graduate applying for your first job out of uni – say where you’ve graduated from, your qualification and grade.

I’m a graduate of the University of Sussex with a first class bachelor’s degree in English and Drama.

If you've taken a gap year, include what you did and how this has made you a stronger candidate for the role.

For example

I’ve spent the last six months volunteering in Ethiopia, leading a missionary programme – a role that’s been personally fulfilling, and has equipped me with a range of skills that I’m excited to bring to a role like this, including motivating a team and problem-solving.

If you’re currently working and applying for another job, outline the field you’ve been working in, including some of your key responsibilities.

I’ve been working in digital marketing for a charity for the past three years. My main responsibilities are email marketing, social media management, and content creation.

By highlighting a few of the areas you’ve been involved with, you may be kept in mind for another role if you're unsuccessful here.

Why you’re looking for a new role

You will want to touch on why you’re applying to this role, especially if you’re currently employed. Below are some tips about tailoring this to the role you're applying to.

• Do you want to move into a new field? Perhaps one that you’ve had a taste of and really enjoyed? 
• Do you want to do the same role, but in a different sector, such as moving from a commercial business to a charity? 
• Are you looking for more responsibility which you can’t get in your current role to progress on to a long-term goal? 
• Have your personal circumstances changed? An example would be relocating to be closer to family.

Demonstrate your key achievements

Now it’s time to show what you’ve done or achieved up to now, and how this makes you the perfect fit for the role in question (including any standout achievements or stats to back this up).

Don’t forget to relate these to the key skills or knowledge that have been set out in the job description and use the extra space to elaborate on these. Don’t just repeat your CV word for word.

• If you’re a school/college student applying for a part-time job or a degree apprenticeship, what have you achieved in your studies that demonstrates these key skills?
• Have you won any awards or come top in your year in your exams – this would show your work ethic. Have you headed up any clubs or societies where you’ve had to be organised, or lead by example?
• Are you involved in any societies or sports teams where you’ve worked closely with and motivated others?
• Have you completed any volunteering or internships?

As editor of the university newspaper, I was responsible for overseeing the production of over 40 issues, including sourcing exciting new contributors and managing strict budgets. In that time, the paper won several awards for its investigation into X.

If you’re currently working and applying for another job, you’ll have already mentioned the general areas you have experience in, but now it’s time to highlight the impact you’ve made.

After just a few months of completing the company’s graduate scheme, I was promoted to the role of account manager for several clients across different sectors, involving planning, implementing, and reporting on all their paid display activity. While it was challenging, I’ve continued to meet key targets. My ability to manage clients’ expectations satisfactorily was pulled out as a key strength in a recent client review survey.

You might want to back this up with key statistics:

One client has seen sign-ups climb 31% in a year since I’ve led on their account, resulting in a 5% growth in annual revenue.

Or being part of a project that's been big news in your field.

I was part of the team that worked on Project X, which received critical acclaim within the X industry. I was specifically responsible for overseeing X, Y, and Z in this project. This wonderful experience early in my career was capped off by winning an X award for Y.

Why that company/organisation/field?

This is your opportunity to show you’ve taken some initiative, done your research, and are passionate about getting this role especially. You want to prove this isn’t just another application you’ve churned out. Is there something about this role that makes it stand out from similar roles elsewhere?

The chance to apply my skills and collaborate with Dr Jane Smith and her team is one I couldn’t let slip. Also, the opportunities to grow in this organisation through X, Y, and Z fill me with confidence.

Is the organisation entering a particularly significant period that you’re keen to be a part of (and most importantly, that you feel you can contribute to in a big way)?

The organisation’s expansion into South America is something I would be thrilled to be a part of. My sixth-month stint in Mexico delivering the X project gave me a whole new perspective on this market but was all too short. Returning to the continent with the experience I now have would be a fresh, exciting challenge.

Is the role or organisation involved in something you’re personally invested in?

A family member’s recent experience with X has given me a whole new appreciation of the work Y do. I have been volunteering for Z for the past six months, something that has been a great source of fulfilment. To contribute further in a professional capacity would be all the more rewarding, while I believe my distinctive perspective would benefit the work I do and the organisation as a result.

This is where it may help to mention any ambitions or goals you have for the future, although be careful not to take your eye off the role you’re applying for.

Conclusion: reiterate with impact

Finish up with a short, punchy conclusion reiterating some of the key aspects you’ve outlined above.

Do this in a way that will make an employer excited to meet you for an interview (or at least get across your enthusiasm to meet them and learn more about the role).

If you’ve addressed your cover letter to a specific individual, sign off with ‘Yours sincerely.' If you don’t know the name of the recipient, stick to ‘Yours faithfully.'

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Sample cover letter

Cover letters add context to your CV and when used correctly are a great way to convince employers that you're right for the job. This sample cover letter should help you get started

A cover letter demonstrates to recruiters how well you express yourself, so you need to make sure that you don't just repeat your CV or give rambling explanations. Instead, use this opportunity to focus on your skills and experience, saving your qualifications for your CV.

The basic cover letter structure covers:

• why you're writing the letter
• why you think you're suitable for the job (with examples)
• relevant skills and experience
• summary of your interest in the role.

Double check what you've written as spelling mistakes or lack of attention to detail will put your cover letter straight on the no pile.

Please be aware that this is an example. Use this cover letter template to help generate ideas and structure your own document but avoid copying and pasting. Your cover letter needs to be original and tailored to the job you're applying for.

Avril Lee 115 My Street Mytown WX55 1CQ [email protected] 07777999888

Harry Smith Graduate HR director Big Company Ltd Woodcotes Business Park The Midlands MX9 6PQ

5th May 2023

Dear Mr Smith

Re: Logistics graduate scheme

I would like to apply for the logistics track of your graduate training scheme, advertised on the Prospects.ac.uk website. As requested, I am enclosing my CV.

I am in the final year of my geography degree, expecting a 2:1. Always intending to have a career in business, I have taken modules on the geography of business and GIS modelling. My final-year dissertation is on changing patterns in retail. During my degree, I have developed my analytical skills and ability to read, manage and present data. I have also become familiar with a range of business intelligence sources.

As you can see from my CV I have experience in:

• Retail - moving from shelf stacker to checkout operator to team leader in my two years with Fresh Foods. I contributed to the store consistently being in the top five for the region by providing excellent customer service.
• Warehouse operations - picking and packing to meet targets over the busy Christmas period.

I have also:

• Worked in and led teams at Fresh Foods, on course projects and in sports.
• Communicated with colleagues at all levels in retail and warehousing.
• Solved problems as a team leader, ensuring staff cover and dealing with customer complaints.
• Worked flexibly doing both early and late shifts and covering for absence, sometimes at short notice.
• Managed my time when combining study with work and sport.

My semester in Germany exposed me to a different culture and improved my language skills. In addition, my voluntary work with young people has increased my resilience and ability to mix with people from all walks of life.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely

(Sign your name here)

Find out more

• Get more information on cover letters .
• If you're applying for a job that's not advertised take a look at an example speculative cover letter .
• Learn more about the 5 things to avoid when writing a cover letter .

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Resources > Unitemps Career Advice > Applying for a job > Cover letter tips > How do you start a cover letter?

How do you start a cover letter?

If you have the opportunity to submit a cover letter with your application, take that opportunity.  A CV and an application form can only say so much, usually with restricted fields and concise formatting.  An open letter offers the chance to use your own style to show how you are perfect for this role.

If the job description has a named person for the application to be sent to, make sure you address the letter to them: “Dear Mr. Thomas Jones’, if no name is available start: ‘Dear Sir or Madam’ never start ‘Hi there’ or just start writing the letter, show your professionalism.

Start by stating your interest in the advertised role, and why it appeals to you:

‘I was pleased to see the position of ‘job title’ advertised at ‘insert company’ as I have been looking for such a perfect opportunity to build on my current skillset and take the next step in my career’ Use this space to show what you know about the company already, and how you can contribute to its success.

Go on to explain how your qualifications and career preferences align with the job description, for example:

‘My customer service experience and problem-solving abilities make me an ideal candidate for your Team Leader vacancy. I enjoy working with members of the public, and thrive on resolving customer complaints or issues. In my current role as Customer Services Advisor I have successfully resolved over 300 queries, and have a satisfaction rating of 4.8%‘

If there are specific aspects of the role requirements that suit you, make sure you point them out:

‘The evening and weekend work rota is particularly suitable for me as I am currently studying at ‘insert uni/college’ and these shifts align perfectly with my study commitments.’

Talk a little about yourself and your career aspirations:

‘Once I graduate, I am hoping to pursue a career in the hospitality industry, and working at your prestigious hotel will be a great step in the right direction’

Talk about yourself a little, did you have a project that you particularly enjoyed working on that could offer relevant skills or experience? What do you do outside of work that might enhance your application? Do you do any volunteer work? All of these things create a fuller picture of yourself that your CV alone doesn’t offer.

Let your personality shine where you can and keep a positive tone throughout :

At the end of the letter, offer an opportunity for further contact ‘Please don’t hesitate to contact me should you require further information, I look forward to hearing from you’

Always sign off professionally, use ‘Kind Regards’ or ‘Yours sincerely’ then add your full name.  Good Luck!

You can use our template to create the perfect cover letter here .

Last updated on 6 September 2024

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How to Write a Cover Letter for PhD Applications

What is a PhD cover letter?

Many institutions opt to incorporate a cover letter as part of their application process, which is likely to be accompanied by an academic CV . Whilst your CV will offer an overview of your range of qualifications, experience, and skills, your cover letter provides a specific opportunity to discuss your reasons for applying to the PhD programme and/or organisation.

The content of your letter can also discuss your relevant academic credentials in line with the position, as well as indicating the expertise you will bring to the academic department. It can also be used to clarify any potential gaps in your CV and expand on certain aspects in further detail. Ensure, however, that you avoid simply repeating information – this is a chance to build on the story that your CV aims to tell.

How to get started

Before getting the content for your letter underway, there are some key steps we would encourage you to take:

• Check whether the institution offers any guidance themselves on what they would expect you to include as part of your content. Whilst this won’t always be the case, it will be worth taking note of any advice they offer regarding their individual recruitment process.
• Look at the application process as a whole. Some institutions may require both a cover letter and a personal statement for a PhD. Although there are some similarities between the two, there are some key differences. A cover letter is often more functional – bringing together and presenting your overall application, whereas a personal statement is typically longer and provides much more detailed information around your experience, interests and aspirations. If both need to be submitted, you will need to keep this in mind and develop your content accordingly.
• Revisit and review the information offered about the programme. As you do so, note down any details about the opportunity that really appeal to you:
• Will the research draw on your previous experience and expertise?
• Does the project build on research you have undertaken as part of your undergraduate or postgraduate studies?
• If the programme has specified a supervisor, are you familiar with their work?
• Aim to start pulling together your PhD application early . Many recruitment processes will require multiple elements, including a tailored CV, a cover letter and research proposal, so allow yourself plenty of time to get your initial ideas down, time for editing, and time for finalising your application, including the content of your letter.
• Once you have drafted your initial content, consider accessing any resources and support you have at your disposal. This could mean tapping into professional contacts, for example, from your previous college or university, or contacting your current / previous careers service. Many institutions offer support to their graduates for a period of time after completion of their course, so it is worth checking if you continue to have access.

What to include in your PhD cover letter

As with any cover letter provided as part of a recruitment process, you will need to carefully consider how to present and structure your information .

Ensure you use conventional formatting – when producing a letter, ensure you use the correct formatting, with your address appearing in the top right-hand corner, the named individual [if applicable] and the institution’s address appearing on the left-hand side, and ensure the date of your application is included. There is no need to repeat any other contact information as these will be detailed on your CV.

Include a brief introductory paragraph – use the opening paragraph as an opportunity to introduce yourself as a candidate. Outline who you are, what you are currently doing – for instance, if you are a master’s student or are in employment – and indicate what PhD position or project you are applying to. Double check the advert for a reference number and include this here if one is provided.

Develop 2 – 3 paragraphs as part of the main body of your content – aim for two to three clearly-themed and concise paragraphs that discuss why you are applying for the PhD position. Consider your key achievements and highlights to ensure you develop a compelling application – you want to make an impact, encouraging the recipient to continue reading.

Once you have outlined why you want to apply for the project, you will also need to address why you are eligible by discussing your relevant skills and experience. Whilst your content will need to be concise and to the point, you need to ensure you back up any claims you make by including examples drawn from your experience.

A final paragraph should address why you want to work on the specific project and indicate your clear understanding of its potential impact. You may also choose to reference why you wish to work with the specific supervisor(s) and for the institution. Your enthusiasm will, again, need to be evidenced by incorporating your own research into the research area and/or institution.

Summarise your content – to round off your content, include a summary that reiterates both your interest in, and suitability for, the PhD position and thank the reader for taking the time to consider your application. This is also an opportunity to encourage the reader to contact you if they require further information and/or to have a discussion or plan an interview.

Include a formal closing and signature – be sure to keep your tone professional throughout your letter, including how you choose to sign off your content. This will mean avoiding the use of intimate closing statements and instead focusing on the use of more professional phrases. If you have had the opportunity to address your application to a named individual, which we would always encourage, then you have the option of signing off with ‘Yours sincerely,’. If you haven’t addressed your letter to an individual, then the use of ‘Yours faithfully,’ will be more appropriate.

Your cover letter checklist

Having developed an initial draft, utilise our checklist to enhance and finalise your content:

• Ask others to proofread your content thoroughly – often when you have invested a lot of time in an application and you are close to your content, it can be difficult to identify any mistakes. Ask a colleague, friend or current lecturer/tutor to read over your application and offer their feedback. Be receptive to constructive ideas for strengthening your application.
• Check you haven’t been vague – make sure that for every claim you have made about your experience, skills, and attributes that you have included evidence. Refer to information included as part of your CV to indicate where relevant experience may have been developed, but include as much detail as possible when explaining your achievements and what you can bring to the position and project.
• Be realistic – whilst your cover letter offers the chance to illustrate your personality and enthusiasm for the opportunity, academics considering your application will not have the time to read lengthy documents. Treat your cover letter as the opportunity it is – the chance to bring together and present your overall application. Your content should be approximately one A4 page in length. If necessary, it can be a little longer, but should not exceed two page

Here you can access our suggested template for academic cover letters , which reflects the information and advice provided in this article.

Top Ten Tips for Writing Cover Letters

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Clare Hall (née Pitkin) has been working in the UK Higher Education sector for over ten years, including with students' unions, university careers services, as well as conducting research on graduate employability and race equality in HE for the University of Birmingham. Clare completed her MA in Education Studies in 2019, with a research focus on employability in the curriculum. She has recently developed an online employability award programme for students at the University of Portsmouth, where she has also been working in information advice and guidance for eight years. Clare has regularly contributed to online careers advice content, developed workshops to enhance employability skills and prospects, and has contributed to academic journal articles.

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Free cover letter template

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• 1 . Download our free cover letter template.
• 2 . All key sections are included. You just need to add information like your goals, skills and experience.
• 3 . When you’ve finished personalising your cover letter, we recommend reviewing it before saving it as a PDF. Then you’re ready to start applying with it!

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How to Write a Legal CV and Cover Letter

Last Updated: Sep 06, 2024

First impressions always count. How you choose to present yourself on paper can make a big difference. This is the case not just at the start of your law career, but also as you climb the ladder.

Your legal CV and cover letter are your opportunities to stand out. They can set you apart from other applicants and demonstrate why you are the best possible fit for a particular role or organisation. Within the increasingly competitive and popular legal sector, it pays to make a positive, lasting impression.

Writing your legal CV

There’s no set length for a legal CV. It depends largely on your experience and the necessary attributes for the role you desire. Generally speaking, a legal CV will be no longer than three pages in length. We believe less is often more.

Before putting your fingers to the keyboard, remember that your legal CV should focus solely on providing factual information. Your supporting cover letter is where you can add in the narrative and personality to aid your application.

So, what information should your legal CV include?

Personal details

Your name, address, email and telephone number should all be clearly provided. If relevant, you may also add any appropriate professional websites or online links to support your application.

Education and academic qualifications

Your legal CV should list your academic qualifications (degree, A-levels, GCSE results), as well as details of any professional memberships and qualifications that directly relate to the practice of law. When referencing your degree, it is important to be clear about the areas of law that you have studied. This helps the recruiter to see, at-a-glance, where your current expertise lies and align this with the vacant position.

Work experience

A comprehensive list of accrued work experience, both paid and unpaid, should be provided chronologically. Your work history should include details of any company that you worked for, its location, your job title and your focus areas. Remember, it doesn’t necessarily have to be legal-focused but should always be relevant. Details should be given of your key roles and responsibilities, with an emphasis on the results achieved. This is an opportunity to demonstrate, factually, how this experience makes you a strong candidate for the vacancy. Depending on your level of work experience, you may consider splitting this out into areas of specialism or differentiating between paid and voluntary roles. Each position is a chance for you to reference the wider benefits of your time spent in previous roles. For example, developing leadership skills, learning delegation or growing commercial understanding.

IT skills and languages

Be honest and open about your level of proficiency with IT, detailing your skill level with popular software such as Microsoft Office, as well as any more specific IT software that may be relevant to the role. And if you speak any additional languages, be sure to outline your level of fluency. This could be another factor that sets you apart from the competition.

Personal interests

Your CV is your opportunity to demonstrate all of your relevant experience, not just in the workplace. Detailing your wider personal interests is your chance to offer a glimpse of the person that the recruiter may welcome. This is the case not just useful for the interview, but also for the hiring organisation. Use this to your full advantage. List activities and pursuits that will help you to stand out positively. This could be membership into a club or society at university, sporting achievements, awards you’ve received or community projects that you’ve been actively involved in.

Avoid everyday hobbies such as keeping fit, reading books or live music. Instead, concentrate on what has relevance to a law career or indicates a transferable skill set. These personal interests often serve as rich talking points during interviews, so be prepared to talk confidently and passionately about any information that you choose to include in your CV, if asked.

Depending on your personal circumstances, you may prefer not to list references on your CV, unless directly asked to do so. Instead, you can write ‘references available on request’. You should, however, be able and willing to quickly provide referees’ details before the interview if requested, so be sure to have two strong referees lined up in readiness. In most instances, your current or most recent employer will act as your first reference.

Writing a legal cover letter

A strong, well-researched and punchy cover letter is always worth the time and effort. It should never be treated as an afterthought to your CV. Your legal cover letter and CV should perfectly complement one another. It should give the recruiter the full picture of who you are and the value you bring to the table.

Your cover letter allows you to sell yourself to a potential new employer. It allows for you to demonstrate why you are a candidate that is well worth consideration and inviting for an interview.

A legal cover letter should be succinct, clear and highly targeted. This shows that you have undertaken your research and given due thought to why you are a strong fit for the organisation. Yet it should also grab attention, in a positive way. This is your crucial first impression and the start of building a relationship with what could end up being your future company, so start as you wish to go on. Put time, care and thought into the language used, how you present yourself and how you would like others to perceive you.

In one page or less, your legal cover letter should address the following:

• The position you are applying for and how you became aware of the vacancy.
• A brief summary of who you are, your current career stage and your circumstances. Explain, briefly and clearly, how your past paid or voluntary work experience, academic qualifications and, in some instances, personal interests add up to make you a strong asset to the business. If you can, be specific, link this directly to the vacancy or organisation that’s hiring.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the business, explaining why you have chosen to apply, what attracts you to the law firm and anything specific to their operations that has personally piqued your interest.
• Conclude with practicalities – explain that your CV is enclosed, outline when you are available for interview and, if relevant, answer any specific questions mentioned in the job vacancy.

Your cover letter should be tailored to a specific job or organisation. So, including keywords from the job advertisement within your letter can indicate both attention-to-detail and corporate alignment, as long as keywords are used sparingly and not blatantly!

And be confident in your language. While there’s a fine line to tread here, it’s important to be proud of what you have achieved and to understand, recognise and communicate your value. If you are unsure whether you have struck the right tone, don’t be afraid to ask a trusted friend to read your cover letter and give you their honest feedback on how you come across.

Can I use Qualifying Work Experience on my CV?

The intention of QWE is for it to be wide, varied and flexible. As a core part of the SQE, it will play a vital role in shaping the next generation of legal practitioners. QWE covers everything from working in a law clinic to providing voluntary legal support to a charitable organisation, to working as a paralegal. All that matters is that the work experience gives candidates the chance to build the skills and expertise needed to develop the necessary  solicitor competence requirements  to practise law.

As such, your legal CV should include any relevant work experience that demonstrates your competence to work in the legal profession. You should include details of the organisation, your responsibilities and your learnings from the experience. It all adds up to provide a full overview of the professional individual you are and the areas that matter most to you.

Top 5 legal CV tips

For over half a century, BARBRI has been a leader in training and supporting aspiring lawyers to grow and excel in their legal careers. Our innovative testing and learning technologies making us an ideal partner for future solicitors  preparing for the SQE .

Here are five expert tips to create a winning and memorable legal CV:

• Get to the point quickly:  resist the temptation to bulk your CV out with unnecessary words and overly complicated language. Always think with the recruiter in mind. What are they looking for and how can you show, swiftly, that you’re the right person for the job? Remember that the recruiter is likely to be short on time with many CVs to review, so grab their attention quickly.
• Avoid a personal profile at the top : it’s not necessary. A solid cover letter will tell the narrative of why you’re a great fit for the organisation. Leave your CV to concentrate just on the facts. If you’re concerned that alone won’t be enough for you to stand out, consider the use of bold and persuasive action words to accentuate your achievements and suitability.
• Don’t get personal:  the recruiter doesn’t need to see a photograph of you, or know your date of birth, marital status, nationality – or see your social media profiles (unless specified). Only include the essential information that’s relevant to the role you are applying for.
• Leave no gaps:  there shouldn’t be any unexplained periods in your work experience or employment history. If a gap exists, explain the reason for this and the learnings from this time. The more questions that your CV fails to answer, the less likely it is that you’ll be invited to that all-important first interview.
• Simple is always best:  your legal CV doesn’t need to look creative or visually striking. Often, garish and unusual formatting can count against you. Stick to a simple, clear and easy-to-understand layout. Don’t let trivial elements get in the way of your achievements and suitability for the position.

As a BARBRI student, during your SQE studies, you will have access to a number of opportunities to help boost your employability. There are regular webinars, workshops, a personal 1:1 careers service, and more, available to students throughout their studies. To find out more about career support on the SQE Prep,  visit this page here .

Access our dedicated  free Careers & Employability hub , designed to help you polish your CV, practise your interview skills and gain legal industry insight >

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