Free Cover Letter Template (Word)
An editable Word cover letter designed to accompany your CV — with a guided four-paragraph structure you customise for each application.
Download the Cover Letter Template (.docx)
Editable in Microsoft Word 2007 or later and Microsoft 365. General guidance only, not career advice.
What’s inside
- Matching header — the same name and contact layout as our CV templates, so your application looks consistent.
- Formal letter layout — date, hiring manager and company details, and a “Re:” line for the job title and reference number.
- Four guided paragraphs — opening, why you fit, why this company, and a close — each with a short example.
- One-page guide — greetings and sign-offs, length, and checks before sending. Delete it before you send.
How to use it
- Read the job advert first. Pick the two or three requirements that matter most.
- Replace the placeholders. Everything to change is in [square brackets] — search for “[” with Ctrl+F to check none remain.
- Give real examples. In the fit paragraph, show one achievement for each requirement you picked.
- Customise for every application. Change the company, role and “why this company” paragraph each time, then save as PDF.
Make it specific
Generic
I am a hard-working team player with excellent communication skills.
Specific
In my current role I rebuilt our monthly reporting pack in Excel, so managers now receive results three days earlier.
Keep the letter to around 250–400 words, with short paragraphs. Only mention results you can discuss confidently in an interview.
Frequently asked questions
Do I still need a cover letter?
If the employer asks for one, yes. When it is optional, a short, specific letter can still help explain why you want this role and how your experience fits — things a CV does not say directly.
How long should a cover letter be?
Usually under one page — around 250 to 400 words in three or four short paragraphs.
How do I address it if I don’t know the name?
Use “Dear Hiring Manager”. If you do know the name, use it and close with “Yours sincerely”; with “Dear Hiring Manager”, “Yours faithfully” (UK style) or “Sincerely” is usual.
Can I use the same letter for every job?
Keep the structure, but rewrite the details each time. Recruiters notice generic letters, and the company name and role must always be correct.
Should I send it as Word or PDF?
PDF, unless the employer asks for Word. When applying by email, you can also paste the letter into the email body and attach your CV.
More free career templates
This template is general guidance, not career advice. Always follow the instructions in the job advert. Found an error? Email support@babadigit.com.