How to write a cover letter (with a template)

A well‑written cover letter can add depth to your job application by explaining your motivation, providing context to your CV, and showing how your experience matches the role. It gives employers a clearer picture of who you are and why you’re applying.

Although a cover letter isn’t always mandatory, many employers in Ireland still value the additional insight it provides. Taking the time to write and tailor one can help your application feel more considered and relevant.

This guide explains how to write a cover letter, outlines what to include and what to avoid, and shares a practical template and example you can adapt to your own job search.

If your focus is on using your cover letter to improve your chances of being shortlisted, read our guide on how to write a cover letter that secures interviews.

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is a short document submitted alongside your CV when applying for a job. Its purpose is to introduce you as a candidate and explain, in your own words, why you’re interested in the role and how your skills and experience are relevant.

While your CV sets out your employment history and qualifications, your cover letter connects those details directly to the role and organisation you’re applying to.

Cover letter essentials at a glance

An effective cover letter should:

• Be tailored to the specific role and employer
• Clearly explain your interest in the position
• Highlight relevant experience without repeating your CV
• Be concise, well structured, and easy to follow

Before you start writing, review the job description carefully and research the organisation so you can reflect the right tone, values, and priorities.

What to include in a job application cover letter

1. Research the employer

Understanding the organisation’s sector, culture, and values will help you decide what to emphasise. Useful sources include the company website, social media channels, leadership profiles, and employee reviews.

2. Personalise your approach

Where possible, address your cover letter to a named hiring manager. Sending the same generic letter for multiple roles is easy to spot and can suggest a lack of genuine interest.

3. Open with purpose

Your opening paragraph should clearly state why you’re applying and what makes you a suitable candidate. Avoid generic openings and focus instead on your motivation and alignment with the role.

4. Mention relevant connections

If someone referred you for the role or you’ve previously worked with the organisation, include this briefly and professionally.

5. Reflect the language of the role

Using terminology from the job description can help show alignment with the role. Focus on relevance and clarity rather than repeating keywords excessively.

6. Share clear contact details

Ensure your name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile are easy to find.

7. Close professionally

End your letter with a confident but polite closing, such as “I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my application further”, followed by “Kind regards” or “Yours sincerely”.

8. Review formatting and accuracy

Keep paragraphs short and readable, and proofread carefully before submitting. Small errors can undermine an otherwise strong application.

Common cover letter mistakes to avoid

When writing your cover letter, try to avoid:

• Relying on a generic, untailored template
• Repeating your CV word‑for‑word
• Writing long, unfocused paragraphs
• Using an overly formal or overly casual tone
• Addressing the letter incorrectly, or not at all
• Submitting work with spelling or grammar errors
• Using unusual fonts or layouts that may not work with applicant tracking systems (ATS)

How to format and submit your cover letter

Cover letters are now submitted in several ways, including:

• As a document uploaded alongside your CV
• As the body of an email
• As a message within an online application or LinkedIn submission

Whatever the format, the aim remains the same: clearly explain your interest in the role and why your experience makes you a strong match.
Below is an example of a clearly structured cover letter.

Example cover letter for a job application 

This structure can be used at any career stage - adjust the level of detail and examples to suit your experience.

Subject line: Application for X role
                                                                                      
Dear [Hiring Manager],
(or Dear [Name], if known)

I’m writing to apply for the X role at [Organisation name]. I’ve been following your organisation for some time and was keen to apply because of your focus on [relevant area], which closely aligns with my experience and career objectives.

In my current role as [current role] at [current employer], I’ve developed experience in [key skill or area], with a particular focus on [specific responsibility or outcome]. Most recently, I [brief, measurable achievement], which I believe would allow me to add value to your team.

After reviewing the job description, it’s clear you’re looking for someone who can [key requirement]. This is an area where I’ve previously delivered results through [example], [example], and close collaboration with colleagues and stakeholders.

Skills and experience I would bring to the role include:

• Strong [skill area], demonstrated through [brief example]
• Experience in [relevant responsibility], contributing to [outcome]
• A flexible and collaborative approach when working across teams

I’m enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to [Organisation name] and support [specific goal or direction], while continuing to develop my skills in a supportive and forward‑looking environment.

Thank you for considering my application. I’ve attached my CV and would welcome the opportunity to discuss my experience further.

Kind regards,
[Your name]
Phone number | Email address | LinkedIn URL

Key takeaways 

A strong cover letter should:

• Be tailored to each application
• Clearly explain your motivation and relevance
• Add context to your CV rather than repeat it
• Be concise, professional, and well organised

By following these principles and using the example above, you can create a cover letter that strengthens your overall application.

If you're updating your CV, explore our CV writing tips and job searching advice or contact your local Hays Ireland recruitment consultant to discuss your next career move.