You’ve just sent the same cover letter to 60 different job roles, all beginning with “Dear Sir or Madam” and ending with 'Yours sincerely.'
Bad news: you may have just missed your chance to stand out, as generic cover letters are a very common pitfall in job applications.
Did you know recruiters typically shortlist candidates based on how well they meet the job criteria? Failing to address the key requirements can cost you the role.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to tailor your cover letter to align with the job advert or company, ensuring you showcase your value as a candidate.
Cover letter examples for writer
Explore additional writer cover letter samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.
By Experience
Junior Writer
- Emphasising a certification related to copywriting, such as the "Copywriting Essentials" from The IDM, highlights specialisation and commitment to enhancing copywriting skills for the role.
- Highlighting experience with well-known companies like Penguin Random House and Hearst UK adds credibility and showcases exposure to high-standard content creation environments.
- Showcasing achievements like a 30% rise in social media engagement demonstrates not only expertise in content creation but also the ability to drive actionable results in marketing efforts.
- Including proficiency in both English and Spanish can be advantageous in roles requiring bilingual communication or content development for diverse audiences.
Senior Writer
- Highlight Specific Achievements: The cover letter prominently details the candidate's achievement of a 25% increase in publishing efficiency, which is highly relevant for a role focused on medical writing and strategic publication.
- Industry-Specific Skills and Certifications: The inclusion of courses such as "Advanced Medical Writing" and "Strategic Publication Planning" directly supports the candidate's expertise in medical writing and strategic communication, making them a strong fit for the role.
- Emphasise Leadership and Mentorship: Mention of successful mentoring initiatives, which improved internal advancement rates by 45%, showcases leadership ability and a commitment to team development, important for a senior role.
- Client Satisfaction and Relationship Management: The ability to maintain over 90% client satisfaction and retain 95% of key accounts illustrates strong client management skills, a crucial aspect of the strategic publication expert role.
Lead Writer
- Strong Experience: The cover letter highlights 5 years of experience in content writing and marketing strategy, establishing the applicant's expertise in the field, ideal for a content writer role.
- Specific Achievements: By providing quantifiable improvements like a 40% boost in website traffic and a 30% increase in visitor engagement, the applicant demonstrates a direct impact on prior organisations.
- Relevant Skills and Tools: Skills such as SEO optimisation, content creation, and the use of AI tools are relevant to current trends in content writing, ensuring the applicant remains competitive in the job market.
- Alignment with Company Mission: The applicant expresses eagerness to contribute to simplifying funeral planning, showing alignment with the potential employer's mission and values, which can be crucial in a niche industry.
Executive Writer
- Specific Experience: Clearly highlight experience with reputable firms, such as LexisNexis and Thomson Reuters, which conveys depth and relevance in the legal data analysis field.
- Achievements and Impact: Quantify the impact of your roles with specific metrics, such as improving ranking accuracy by 20% or boosting client satisfaction by 30%, to demonstrate value.
- Relevant Education and Courses: Mention relevant educational background and specialised courses, like a Master's in Data Science and advanced courses on data analysis and legal research, which align perfectly with the job requirements.
- Languages and Communication Skills: Highlight proficiency in English and French, which can be beneficial for roles involving international clients and partners.
Chief Writer
- Emphasising Specific Achievements: Evie highlights a 30% increase in readership engagement, showcasing her ability to produce compelling content that resonates with audiences, which is crucial for a Chief Obituaries Writer role.
- Leadership and Collaboration: The cover letter details Evie's role in leading emergency coverage teams and collaborating with contributors, underscoring her capacity to manage high-pressure projects and work effectively within a team.
- Digital Publishing Proficiency: Mentioning her work in pioneering digital tools integration and CMS certification demonstrates a strong understanding of digital publishing, which is important in today's evolving media landscape.
- Coursework and Education: The inclusion of a master’s degree in Journalism and specialised courses like the Feature Writing Bootcamp support her expertise in writing and editing, enhancing her credibility as a top-tier candidate.
By Role
Content Writer
- Highlight specific achievements that demonstrate expertise in enhancing brand visibility and engagement, such as the 25% increase in engagement rates through strategic storytelling and alignment with the brand voice.
- Underscore the integration and application of AI technologies in content creation processes, as demonstrated by the Innovation Award for boosting productivity through these means.
- Emphasise the development of comprehensive marketing campaigns and strategic collaborations with design teams that led to tangible results, like a 20% boost in social media interactions.
- Mention relevant certifications, such as the Advanced Copywriting Certification focused on high-impact techniques, showcasing commitment to professional development and expertise in specialised areas.
Technical Writer
- Highlighted Expertise and Achievements: Emphasises over 5 years of experience in fintech and technical writing, along with specific accomplishments such as increasing customer satisfaction by 30%, which adds credibility and impact to the applicant's profile.
- Comprehensive Technical Skills: Lists relevant technical skills and tools, such as API documentation and analytical skills, demonstrating a well-rounded skillset suited for technical writing roles in fintech.
- Educational Background: Mentions advanced degrees and targeted courses, such as a Master's in Information Technology and a course in API Technical Writing, underscoring the applicant's commitment to education and continuous professional development.
- Passion and Interest in the Field: Expresses a keen interest in open banking trends and digital innovations, indicating the applicant's enthusiasm and staying updated with industry advancements which is critical for roles in dynamic fields like fintech.
Grant Writer
- Emphasise specific achievements, such as securing substantial funding (£2 million for SMEs), to showcase success and impact in previous roles that are directly relevant to the position.
- Highlight technical skills in areas pertinent to the role, such as grant writing, financial modelling, and strategic consultation, which directly align with the responsibilities of an Innovation Funding Specialist.
- Include detailed experience with notable organisations like GrantTree and Innovate UK to demonstrate credibility and expertise in managing innovation funding and financial assessments.
- Emphasise any special initiatives undertaken, such as developing a new grant outline format or implementing innovative models, to highlight a proactive approach and problem-solving abilities.
Screenplay Writer
- Highlighting Industry Experience: The cover letter emphasises over 4 years of experience in writing, especially in the true crime genre, which is crucial for gaining credibility in such a specialised field.
- Specific Achievements: It mentions a significant 30% increase in online readership due to compelling narratives, showcasing the applicant's ability to engage and expand an audience effectively.
- Relevant Certifications: The inclusion of a certification in Advanced Fact-Checking Techniques from the Poynter Institute highlights a commitment to accuracy, a vital skill for investigative storytelling.
- Collaboration and Networking: The letter notes collaboration with investigators for exclusive information, illustrating the candidate's networking skills and ability to enhance story authenticity.
Speech Writer
Leveraging Key Achievements: The cover letter effectively highlights specific accomplishments, such as increasing policy engagement by 30% through targeted content strategies, which demonstrates the applicant's impact in their field.
Emphasising Relevant Experience: It details experience with globally recognised organisations like OFCOM and Vodafone Group, showcasing the applicant’s capability to engage with influential stakeholders.
Showcasing Advanced Education: The inclusion of a Master of Arts in Public Policy from a prestigious institution underscores the applicant’s theoretical knowledge in policy writing and development.
Highlighting Technical Skills and Certifications: Mentioning proficiency in Microsoft Word and PowerPoint alongside certifications in strategic communications and spectrum management adds credibility to the applicant's technical and strategic prowess.
Ghost Writer
- Emphasise Relevant Experience: Highlight over 5 years of successful grant writing experience, showcasing significant achievements such as securing £1.5 million in funding, which directly relates to the role's primary responsibilities.
- Showcase Specific Skills: Underline expertise in strategic alignment and comprehensive proposal development, which are crucial for effective grant writing and achieving organisational objectives.
- Highlight Team Collaboration: Demonstrate experience collaborating with multinational teams to develop grant strategies, showcasing an ability to work effectively in diverse environments and align efforts with broader organisational goals.
- Education and Continuous Learning: Mention relevant educational background, such as a Master of Arts in International Development, and supplementary courses like 'Grant Writing for Education Projects', reinforcing commitment to ongoing learning and expertise in the field.
Resume Writer
- Emphasise Relevant Experience: Highlighting specific achievements such as enhancing customer engagement by 30% at Schneider Electric underscores a proven track record in effective content marketing strategies, making it highly relevant for a content creation role.
- Showcase Industry-specific Knowledge: Demonstrating a connection to energy markets, such as crafting a thought-leadership campaign positioning the company as a pioneer in energy transition technologies, aligns directly with the specialised nature of the role.
- Include Measurable Outcomes: Providing concrete metrics such as a 40% increase in organic traffic due to optimised SEO strategies or increasing digital subscriptions by 20% adds credibility and impact to the candidate's accomplishments.
- Mention Relevant Courses and Certifications: Citing courses like the Digital Marketing Specialisation from the University of Illinois and SEO Fundamentals by HubSpot Academy indicates a commitment to continuously updating skills, which is crucial in the ever-evolving marketing field.
Copy Writer
- Emphasise accomplishments with quantifiable metrics, such as increasing organic traffic by 35% and engagement by 30%, which demonstrate expertise in SEO and content strategy.
- Highlight relevant work experience in prestigious companies like Burberry and Harrods, showcasing an understanding of the luxury sector and strong brand alignment skills.
- Draw attention to industry-specific certifications and courses such as the SEO Specialization from Coursera and the Content Marketing Strategy course from HubSpot Academy, underscoring ongoing professional development and specialisation.
- Showcase leadership experience by highlighting the management of a team of junior copywriters, which adds depth to the candidate's capabilities in team collaboration and project management.
Travel Writer
- Emphasise relevant experience in travel writing and copywriting, underscoring roles with measurable achievements such as increasing engagement by 30% and conversion rates by 15%.
- Highlight industry-specific skills, such as SEO and project management, to showcase capability in optimising content for online platforms and leading successful campaigns.
- Showcase leadership abilities by mentioning the management of a team of junior writers, which demonstrates the candidate's experience in cultivating talent and enhancing content quality.
- Include notable certifications from reputable institutions, like the SEO Writing for Beginners and Advanced Content Marketing Strategy certifications, to evidence targeted expertise and continuous professional development.
Science Writer
- Highlight Relevant Experience: The cover letter effectively draws attention to James Lewis's extensive experience in science communication, showcasing roles that demonstrate leadership in editorial strategy and audience engagement.
- Showcase Achievements with Specific Metrics: By including specific figures, such as a 40% increase in scientific content engagement and reaching over 200,000 readers monthly, the cover letter provides quantifiable evidence of success and impact in previous roles.
- Highlight Specialized Education and Certifications: The mention of a Master's degree in Science Communication and certifications like 'Climate Communication Certification' establishes a strong foundational knowledge, enhancing credibility for a content and science writing role.
- Emphasise Passion for the Field: The cover letter effectively communicates a genuine passion for science communication and climatic studies, underlining a commitment to the field beyond professional requirements.
Sports Writer
- Emphasis on Relevant Experience: The cover letter effectively highlights over 5 years of experience in content creation, specifically focusing on football content, which is crucial for a role in sports content creation.
- Showcasing Achievements: It includes quantifiable achievements such as increasing social media engagement by 25% and producing over 200 pieces of SEO-optimised content, demonstrating the candidate's impact in previous roles.
- Relevance of Skills: Skills like SEO Strategies, Adobe Creative Suite proficiency, and Video Editing are showcased, aligning with the needs of a content creator and SEO specialist role.
- Certifications and Courses: The mention of specific courses like 'Advanced SEO Techniques' and 'Adobe Creative Suite Mastery' adds credibility to the candidate’s skill set and expertise in specialised areas.
Fashion Writer
- Highlight Industry-Specific Achievements: Emphasise accomplishments that directly impact fashion e-commerce performance, such as improving search visibility by implementing SEO strategies or boosting social media engagement through innovative content marketing.
- Focus on Cross-Functional Collaboration: Illustrate the ability to work with various teams like buying, design, and marketing to create a unified brand message, which can enhance both customer engagement and trust.
- Emphasise Process Improvement Skills: Discuss efforts to streamline workflows and processes, such as reducing lead times for product launches, which demonstrate efficiency and strategic thinking.
- Leverage Education and Specialized Courses: Mention relevant advanced courses, like those on SEO for fashion e-commerce or brand voice development, to highlight ongoing professional development and subject matter expertise.
Comedy Writer
- Highlighting Achievements: The cover letter effectively showcases significant achievements, such as increasing listener engagement and launching a successful multimedia podcast series, providing tangible evidence of the candidate's impact in previous roles.
- Relevant Experience: It draws attention to relevant experience in live production and content creation, emphasising the candidate's ability to handle high-pressure environments and enhance audience engagement in media and arts industries.
- Strong Skillset: The letter effectively highlights key skills, such as team leadership, content planning, and cross-platform content creation, demonstrating the candidate's readiness and competence for content producer roles.
- Professional Recognition: Mention of awards and industry recognition enhances credibility, suggesting the candidate's work has been valued and acknowledged on a professional level.
Video Game Writer
- Emphasising extensive experience and leadership ability in the gaming industry, essential for an editorial director role, to demonstrate capability and insight.
- Showcasing success in strategic content creation that leads to measurable growth in audience engagement and readership, reflecting the results-driven nature required for the position.
- Highlighting the development and implementation of advanced social media strategies aimed at improving platform engagement, crucial for aligning with current industry trends.
- Underscoring achievements in developing innovative content strategies and executing SEO practices, essential for driving organic traffic and maintaining a competitive edge.
Writer cover letter example
Ava Phillips
Sheffield, UK
+44 1234 567890
help@enhancv.com
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to express my interest in joining your dynamic team. Aware of your company’s commitment to pioneering robust content strategies and innovative digital solutions, I am particularly drawn to your holistic approach to enhancing client engagement and market reach.
In my role as Lead Content Strategist at ContentWorks Agency, I implemented a targeted content marketing strategy that led to a 40% increase in web traffic within just one year. By leading a dedicated team and refining SEO practices, we achieved significant boosts in organic search rankings, solidifying our clients’ presence in the digital landscape. This success embodies my ability to integrate SEO expertise with strategic content development, significantly impacting business growth.
I look forward to the possibility of discussing how my skills in SEO and content strategy can align with and contribute to your company’s goals. Thank you for considering my application. Please let me know a convenient time for further discussion.
Warm regards,
Ava Phillips
Senior Writer
Why this cover letter makes an impact:
- Highlight relevant experience: Mentioning the role as Lead Content Strategist provides credibility and demonstrates firsthand experience in content strategy and digital marketing.
- Quantifiable achievements: Sharing specific accomplishments, such as a 40% increase in web traffic, helps illustrate the impact of previous work and the ability to drive results.
- Alignment with company goals: Emphasizing familiarity with the company’s mission (pioneering robust content strategies and innovative digital solutions) helps establish the applicant’s interest and fit for the organization.
- Demonstration of key skills: Reference to SEO expertise and strategic content development showcases core competencies necessary for excelling in a content strategy role.
Importance of cover letters in the United Kingdom
Cover letters are a crucial tool in making your application personal and engaging.
Here are three reasons why they matter:
- Personalisation: Unlike a CV, a cover letter allows you to show your enthusiasm for the role, giving a more personal insight.
- Addresses details about your career: Whether you’re changing careers or have gaps in employment, your cover letter offers a space to explain these in a constructive way.
- Meeting the job requirements: Your cover letter should be unique and tailored, clearly showing how your skills align with the role requirements.
What UK employers expect from a cover letter
A great cover letter can set you apart when applying for jobs in the UK.
Follow these tips to ensure you make a strong impression:
- Research thoroughly: Spend time delving into the company’s website, social media, and industry news to understand their projects, awards, and future plans. The more specific your knowledge, the better you’ll be able to demonstrate your suitability for the role.
- Reflect their values: Every UK company has its own set of values that guides their culture. Once you’ve identified them, make sure your cover letter reflects how your values and work ethic align with theirs. If they’re known for integrity, emphasise your commitment to ethical practices.
- Tailor your skills: Focus on aligning your most relevant skills with the job description. Look for key terms and priorities mentioned in the advert, and make sure to provide examples of how you excel in those areas.
How to format a writer cover letter
Your cover letter is your opportunity to make a strong impression, so its structure must be professional and clear.
Here's an overview of how a UK cover letter should be structured:
- Begin with your address and contact details at the top.
- Include the employer’s name and address directly below.
- Add the date to the left or right of the page.
- Use an appropriate greeting, such as 'Dear Mr Smith' or 'Dear Sir/Madam.'
- Open with a strong introductory paragraph.
- Develop your points in the middle paragraphs, focusing on relevant skills and experience.
- Close with a concise conclusion, reiterating your interest and suitability for the role.
- Sign off formally with your name and signature.
The software used to match your profile to the job, Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), won’t scan your cover letter. Instead, the cover letter reads as a more personalised note to the recruiter.
When it comes to choosing a font, consider modern options like Lato, Rubik, or Chivo, which should also be applied to your CV to maintain a consistent appearance.
Additionally, your cover letter should be single-spaced with 1-inch (2.5 cm) margins on all sides (our templates are pre-set with these specifications so you can focus on your cover letter content).
Finally, always send your cover letter as a PDF to preserve the formatting and prevent edits.
How to write your writer cover letter salutation
First impressions often start with the greeting and in the case of your job application, 'Dear Sir or Madam' simply won't suffice.
Find out who’s hiring for the role—by calling or emailing the company, searching online, or using LinkedIn—and address them correctly.
Generally, you should address them by their surname (e.g., 'Dear Mrs Weasley'), but if you've spoken to them before, you might use their first name (e.g., 'Dear Albus').
How to write your writer cover letter intro
While your cover letter should remain professional, adding a touch of personality or humour can make you stand out.
Hiring managers sift through countless applications, day in and day out. Anything unique or personable that grabs their attention could give you a competitive edge.
But do your homework first to ensure a dash of creativity would be appropriate and suitable to the company culture.
Cover Letter Intro
As a passionate advocate for the power of storytelling, I am drawn to your company's commitment to championing diverse voices and driving genuine societal impact through compelling narratives. My background in crafting engaging content aligns perfectly with your mission to redefine the literary landscape, making this opportunity irresistibly appealing.
RIGHT
How to write your writer cover letter body
Which makes for a stronger cover letter body: a long-winded account of everything you’ve ever done, or a focused achievement that’s directly relevant to the job?
Hint: recruiters prefer the second.
When writing your cover letter, select your most impressive achievement that:
- Directly aligns with the job description and role.
- Is quantifiable with tangible metrics like numbers or percentages.
- Maps out your hard and soft skills, showcasing what makes you unique.
- Tells the story of the impact you could have on the organisation.
Cover Letter Body
In my previous role as a lead writer for *Global Insights Magazine*, I spearheaded an investigative series on climate change impacts which not only garnered critical acclaim but also significantly enhanced our readership. My approach combined meticulous research with compelling narrative techniques, resulting in a 25% increase in subscriber engagement within three months of publication. Utilising data analytics, I tailored content to meet our audience's interests, demonstrating my ability to enhance both readership and revenue through strategic content creation. This achievement underscores my capacity for producing high-quality, impactful writing that resonates with diverse audiences, aligned with the goals of your esteemed publication.
RIGHT
How to write a closing paragraph
There’s a wrong and a right way to close your cover letter. Here’s how.
The wrong way is to end with a signature or a formal 'Thank you in advance.'
The right way is to either promise how you’d make a positive impact on the company or ask when you can expect a response. This will highlight you as a forward-thinking candidate who’s enthusiastic about securing the role.
Cover Letter Closing
I am genuinely excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and bring my unique voice and creativity to your esteemed publication. I am eager to discuss further how my experience and skills align with your needs. I would be delighted to attend an interview at your earliest convenience to explore how I can support your team's success. Thank you for considering my application; I look forward to the possibility of working together. Please feel free to contact me to schedule a convenient time for our conversation.
RIGHT
Conclusion
Creating a compelling cover letter is vital in making a positive first impression on potential employers. Personalise your letter by addressing the hiring manager directly and ensuring your skills align with the job description.
Highlight specific achievements that demonstrate your suitability for the role, and express genuine enthusiasm for the opportunity. Finally, maintain a professional format that complements your CV for a cohesive application.
