cover letter examples new zealand

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How to write an NZ cover letter (with examples and templates)

Along with your CV, a cover letter is essential to any NZ job application. Let's get you started.

Every New Zealand job application should include a cover letter.

This document is key to showing an employer you’re serious about their vacancy, and for demonstrating what you bring to the table . Despite its importance, many people aren’t sure how to write a cover letter – and their applications suffer as a result.

That’s why we’ve created this guide, giving you advice on everything from what to include, to how to lay it out.

We’ve also snuck in a few examples to make life even easier for you … aren’t we nice?

Cover letters vs. CVs: what’s the difference?

To understand the role cover letters play in job applications, it’s important to realise how they differ from CVs:

1. Purpose:

CVs give a broad picture of you as an applicant – providing details such as educational background and employment history . By contrast, a cover letter targets why you want this specific role, and how your skills and experience make you a great candidate.

While there will be areas of overlap as you select qualifications or abilities to draw out in your cover letter, it definitely should not be an elongated version of your CV.

An NZ cover letter should be no longer than one page, while CVs are usually between one and two.

The most obvious visual difference between these documents and CVs hinges around bullet points.

While your CV should be a bullet point bonanza, cover letters favour full sentences. That’s not to say you can’t have any bullets in a cover letter, just use them more sparingly.

You should include a cover letter with every job application.

What to include in a cover letter

1. your contact info, the date and the business’ address.

At the top of your cover letter should be:

• Your full name, contact details and home address
• The date you submit the application
• The business’ postal address

It should look like this:

Head up your cover letter like this.

2. Your opener

People worry about how to start a cover letter , but there’s a simple formula and structure for getting this right:

Make it personal : start with ‘dear’, and address it to a person – i.e. the hiring manager. If their name isn’t in the job listing, try a good old fashioned stalk of the company website, or ring the business and find out. ‘To whom it may concern’ is a no go.

Make it clear : organisations often list multiple vacancies at a time, so make it obvious which position you’re applying for. A sentence like, ‘I’m writing to apply for the Marketing Assistant role, as advertised on Trade Me Jobs’, will do the trick.

Make it punchy : next, add a snappy one-liner summing up why you’re interested in the role and what you’d bring to their business. Remember, you can go into more detail in the interview itself. For example:

3. Why them

A common cover letter mistake is to only focus on yourself. Before choosing you, employers want to know why you’re choosing them. This helps sort candidates who are genuinely passionate about their organisation from those who are mass applying to anything and everything.

Warning : this section is not about inflating the hiring manager's ego by flattering the company – be positive, but be thoughtful.

Now, it’s time to sell yourself.

This section of your cover letter is where you highlight your most relevant skills and experience.

You can draw on anything from previous work experience to certificates and qualifications. The important bit is linking whatever you mention to the job – simply listing skills is not the answer.

To do this effectively, you need to carefully study the job ad and identify what capabilities the employer values most. If your Trade Me Jobs Profile is up-to-date, you can then quickly skim your skills and experience to find those which most closely match the job description.

Top tip: the more detail you can give, the better. Helped raise sales? Great. Helped raise sales by 6%? Even better.

If you want to add some extra skills or information to this section, a bullet point list is a good option. Note : only do this after introducing your headline examples in full sentence form, as above, and keep your list to three or four concise bullets.

5. Signing off

The end of your cover letter should (politely) prompt the reader to get in touch with you to arrange the next steps. Make sure you end on a high, and continue the energy from earlier in your closing sentence, for example:

How to format a cover letter

With your content sorted, it’s now about nailing the visuals. Cover letters are usually easier than CVs in this regard, as they’re laid out like a traditional letter. However, there are a few things to bear in mind:

• What font should I use? Keep it simple, and the same as on your CV. If your font is hard to read, or too small, the letter will end up in the wrong pile.
• How long should a cover letter be? New Zealand cover letters should be under one page long.
• Should I use paragraphs? Would you read huge, unbroken chunks of text? We doubt it, so make sure to break up your cover letters into paragraphs.
• What are the correct cover letter margins? Leave these at their default setting so your cover letter has plenty of blank space, and doesn’t look crowded.

All done? Not quite.

Perhaps the most important stage of cover letter writing is proofreading. After all that hard work, you don’t want a few silly typos or poor punctuation letting you down.

So check it yourself, then get someone else to have a look, then have a final glance.

Once you’re happy, it’s time to attach it to your application, and hit send.

Al Hall is a regular contributor at Trade Me Jobs and Trade Me Property. He’s dedicated to helping people succeed in their aspirations to find their dream job and place to live.

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A good cover letter intro is like a good espresso – short, sharp and energising. Here’s how to brew one of your own.

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Resumes & cover letters: Cover letter templates

A cover letter is often your first communication with a potential employer, and therefore it is vital that when writing a cover letter  you make it compelling and professional from the very first line, marking you out as a candidate they need to contact.

A good cover letter is an opportunity to showcase your written communication skills and your motivation for applying for the role. Writing a cover letter customised to the job demonstrates you have taken the time to put some effort into your application. You can also use a cover letter as an opportunity to highlight and provide more detail on any specific skills or experience which are relevant to the role you are applying for.

To help you structure your cover letter, we’ve developed 4 free cover letter templates and cover letter samples you can use to write a cover letter that will catch the eye of hiring managers and recruiters and increase your chances of getting an interview. For additional tips and advice on cover letter writing, check out our article How to write a cover letter .

Download our free cover letter templates

Cover letter template 1: response to a job ad, cover letter template 2: response to a job ad, cover letter template 3: letter to a recruiter on linkedin, cover letter template 4: ‘cold contact’ prospecting letter to a hiring manager.

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Simple New Zealand

How To Master a Cover Letter for New Zealand [Examples & Tips]

Although you might don’t want to, yet in most cases, you need to include a cover letter when applying for a job in New Zealand. NZ cover letter is similar to other countries; it should show the company why you are the right candidate for the job. Take your time to write a personal and customized letter. Never send the generic one; this can ruin your application from the start.

A cover letter is a monumental part of your job application in New Zealand. A good cover letter should answer the main question, which is why the company should hire you. Additionally, it must provide information on how you can bring value to the company and help them with the challenges. A cover letter should showcase the relevant skills and experience you have.

In most cases, businesses and recruiters in New Zealand will require you to attach a customized cover letter. And it’s a good thing for you. In the end, the cover letter is a claim for the role – it’s your chance to highlight and match your experience against the job description and to clearly state what you can offer your potential employer.

If you are looking for a job in New Zealand, I would highly recommend going through the Job Hunter’s handbook made by Careers.govt.nz.

Table of Contents

Is a cover letter necessary in New Zealand?

Unfortunately, yes, you need to include a customized cover letter when applying for a job in New Zealand. Almost  half of the recruiters reject applications without a cover letter. A high-quality, customized cover letter tells the manager you are a dedicated professional. It should be only a page long.

A resume or CV alone can show your achievements and qualifications, but it can’t tell the story and explain why you choose this company in particular. That’s why we need a cover letter. It’s also a great tool to show your personality and motivation. It must show the employer you are an asset to their company.

Are you resigning from your previous job? Read how to write a proper resignation letter .

Resignation Letter in New Zealand (Examples + Template)

Tips and guidance for a winner cover letter.

So what is a cover letter, and why it’s so important for your job application in New Zealand?

• Cover letter is your first point of contact with employers .
• It should fit on one page .
• It needs to explain why you want this job .
• It should relate to your CV .
• It should describe your relevant skills, experience, and accomplishments .
• It should show the evidence that you have researched the company and that you are the right candidate.

If you follow these simple statements, you should already be able to create a decent letter. Yet, if you want more, read this article to the end and follow the advice.

The winning tactic here is focusing on  them , not just on  you,  which will ultimately make you stand out from other applicants

When writing your cover letter, pay attention to the following:

• Do very extensive research about the company. Show it in the cover letter.
• Reflect on the company’s vision.
• Highlight specific achievements and successes that show you can address the challenges the employer is facing.
• Show your personality.
• Prove that you understand the challenges of the company.
• Explain your motivation and fit for the position.
• Presents how your skills and experience as a solution for the company.
• Create a list of job keywords that are mentioned in the job ad. Include them in the cover letter.
• Address the cover letter to the right person, e.g., the hiring manager or recruiter
• Be clear and concise
• Have a structure in the letter – beginning, middle, end
• Use active words to describe your work – accomplished, achieved, led, created, increased, identified
• Finish with a call to action and ask for a meeting.
• Try to be funny
• Send a generic cover letter — customize each one for the specific job.
• Forget your full contact details
• Generic and boring opening paragraph
• Copy-paste from the CV or job ad
• Start every sentence with “I”
• Write more than one page

Looking for a job? Check out the best recruitment agencies in New Zealand .

Best Recruitment Agencies in New Zealand 2024

1. Research about the company and position

Your knowledge about the company you are applying to work for is crucial. You must also know all the essential details about the advertised position and how your skills and experience fit in.

When someone reads your cover letter, they must be sure you are the right candidate for this position and for this company. That’s why you must include as many tailored to the job ad details as possible (yet not too many).

So, look for information on the company, its key products or services, its mission, and anything else that gives you an insight into them. Notice the most important details and mention them in the cover letter where appropriate.

You might want to check out the company’s website, its executives’ Twitter feeds, and LinkedIn profiles.

The culture of the organization is vital to note. This will influence your communication style. For instance, you might be more casual with start-ups or advertising agencies but more formal with banks and large corporations.

2. Show how you can help

A company hires you to solve a problem or to help with challenging tasks they are unable to manage. Point out the things you can do for a company and which potential results it might bring. Or maybe you already were challenged with similar tasks? Mention it in your cover letter!

3. Why are you a perfect fit?

The second paragraph of your cover letter should give a clear idea to the reader why you are the one and that you will satisfy the company’s specific needs.

Here you should match the keywords mentioned in the job ad with your skills and experience. You also must show the hiring manager why you want this job, not just any job. Include all the enthusiasm and passion you have.

Match your skills with a job ad

Highlight the key skills and qualities in the ad, e.g.:

• strong written and verbal communication
• technical skills
• analytical thinking
• team player or teamwork
• problem-solving
• time management
• knowledge of software & tools
• specialized or technical competencies
• high level of computer competency
• ability to work well under pressure
• enthusiasm and initiative
• excellent customer service

Include them in the cover letter with real-life examples.

Connections matter in New Zealand

About 70% of all jobs in New Zealand are so-called hidden. They are simply not advertised because hiring managers seek candidates within the company, their circle of colleagues, and people they know before they post a job ad. For that reason, having connections in New Zealand is very crucial.

You are more likely to be invited to an interview if you know a friend of a friend and they got a reference they you rather than just based on your qualifications and experience.

That might be good news for some and bad news for others. Nonetheless, it’s highly recommended to start networking as soon as you land in New Zealand. Join groups, participate in social and professional events, work on your Linkedin profile, and just be proactive.

And if you are lucky to know someone in the company you are applying to work for, mention it in the first sentence or two of your cover letter.

Don’t forget to include

Your cover letter shouldn’t miss these small but key elements:

Your personal value and personality

While skills and experiences are indeed critical, New Zealanders love human connection. If they find you an interesting and nice person, they are more likely to move forward with your application.

Try to be personal in your cover letter; tell them more unique things about you and your experience. Avoid being general at any cost.

Reflect on your experience that relates to the job ad and company profile. What challenges have you faced, and how did you solve them? You also want to provide evidence of the things you mention by using concrete examples, situations, numbers, and facts. For example:

“During the last quarter, my company was challenged by the supply shortage of …We have had 200% more orders than we can ever fulfill. To solve this problem, I was on the lookout for new suppliers for several weeks; after dozens of selling calls, I finally managed to sign a contract with our best supplier so far. I will never come across them otherwise.”

Your enthusiasm

In many cases, people don’t get hired because they aren’t enthusiastic and convincing enough. So, it’s not the lack of skills; it’s your desire and how you show it. If you make it as if it was your dream job, you are more likely to be invited. Avoid at any cost writing in a manner as you are doing a company a favor by working for them.

Hiring managers even say, “Enthusiasm conveys personality.” Some tips that help you to point out your enthusiasm include:

• Show that you have thought about the job and why you would like to work for them.
• Why is this company so brilliant? What they do the best? How they stand out?
• Mention their reputation, performance, and product.
• Remember, it’s about what you can do for them, not what they can do for you.

NZ cover letter structure

Following the formal structure when piecing together a cover letter is as much as important as its content. So, make sure you stick to New Zealand standards. Here is an example:

Dear [Ms. or Mr. Surname],

• Opening – Explain why you are writing this letter (add an interesting one-liner summarizing why you’re interested in the role and what you’d bring to their business.)
• Explain your interest in the job, show knowledge about the company and position
• Demonstrate your skills and experience related to the job
• Explain why you will fit into this role and which value you will bring to the company
• Sign off and offer them to contact you

Yours sincerely,

Your name – Andrew Black.

Make sure you check your cover letter via Grammarly for spelling and grammar mistakes!

Cover letter introduction

The introduction sentences will determine whether the hiring manager will read on or skip your resume. Start your cover letter in an unconventional way and hold the reader’s interest. Here are some tips for a stellar introduction:

• Highlight your achievements in the industry.
• Display your passion and enthusiasm.
• Mention some names and numbers.

A no-go cover letter introduction looks like this:

In response to your posting for the Digital Marketing Manager position, I would like to express my interest in participating in the recruitment process. As a digital marketing manager with 8+ years of experience, I am optimistic that I would succeed in this role.

Top cover letter example

Since you already know how to write the header, here is only the main part of the cover letter.

” I am writing regarding the Marketing Manager position you currently have open. As a marketer with over 5 years of experience managing small and larger teams, I would love to take a challenge and work for your company. Marketing is my passion, so it’s to achieve monthly goals, generate new leads & sales, and train the team for success.

In my previous role at (company name), I reached not only the set marketing goals but exceeded them by 80% and, in some months, even 120%. Your company (name) already has brilliant strategies in place, you use paid advertising, social media, and outreach, but I would add other channels to ramp up the reach and revenue. I am experienced and knowledgeable in the SEO scene; hence we can explore new opportunities for your business in this area of marketing.

My previous team of marketing assistants was great! I love to work with people and guide them in our current strategies. At the same time, responsibility for people does not make me stressed or scared but ignites my motivation to bring even better results so we can all be proud as a team.

Besides, my Master’s degree in Business taught me fundamental knowledge about organizations, management, strategy, and agility, which I would be happy to apply when working for (company).

It will be great to talk in person one day. You can reach me at 123456789 any time or via email at [email protected] to arrange an interview. Thank you for your consideration, I look forward to hearing from you.

Cover letter for a visa application

Im most cases, Immigration New Zealand, will request a cover or so-called motivational letter together with your visa application. This is generally a less complex document that you would write for the employer.

Your cover letter for a visa should include:

• Reasons why you are moving or visiting New Zealand
• How are you going to support yourself
• Demonstration of how you meet the criteria for the visa

The content of the cover letter will vary depending on the visa type you are applying for. If it’s, for instance, to join a partner in New Zealand, you should include your relationship to them and explain it briefly.

Therefore, your cover letter should target your visa category’s main requirements. 

When I was applying for a student visa, my cover letter described why I decided to study in New Zealand and what are my plans after my studies. Immigration New Zealand also mentioned in their requirements that the cover letter must include these details.

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The perfect cover letter for the New Zealand market

Covering letters are a unique selling tool when approaching a prospective employer directly, and are vitally important to applications sent by overseas candidates. This is your chance to capture the attention of a New Zealand employer and demonstrate the qualities that set you apart from the other applicants.

KEEP IT BRIEF

Your cover letter should ideally not exceed one A4 side, with well-spaced lines.

TAILOR EACH COVER LETTER TOWARDS THE JOB LISTING

Wherever possible, account point-by-point for each of the requirements listed by the employers and detail how you are qualified to meet these requirements.

BE CLEAR AND CONCISE

Use strong, active verbs that demonstrate actions and accomplishments, for example, ‘organise’ and ‘supervise.’

FIND OUT THE DETAILS OF THE CONTACT PERSON

Do a bit of research, and, if a name is not supplied try to find out who the application is going to. Do not forget to include your own contact details, though these should be on your CV regardless.

THINK ABOUT THE STRUCTURE

Your letter should include an introduction and identification of the position (for example, the reference number used in the job advert), relevant qualifications and your current position, and a summary of how you meet their core skill set.

ADDRESS THE EMPLOYER’S ESSENTIAL CRITERIA/CORE SKILLSET

Identify your skills, experience and attributes that match the employer’s criteria. It can sometimes be helpful to use the same headings that they have supplied, with a short sentence or two addressing each one. Look for keywords that reveal what attributes they are looking for, and show how you embody them. If you can demonstrate that you meet the essential criteria, you will greatly increase your chances of an interview.

PROOFREAD YOUR LETTER PROPERLY

Again, this should go without saying. Have a trusted friend or colleague to review both your CV and cover letter, prior to applying. It is vital that there are no errors if you want to be taken seriously.

Start your journey to New Zealand…

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Administrative Cover Letter Example

Cover letter body paragraph: Persuading your employer

Kia ora and welcome to cvapp.nz’s cover letter guide for administrative candidates! We’ll help you skyrocket your career potential and land your ideal job role. Whether you’re new to job-hunting or a seasoned job-seeker, we’ve got you covered. Read ahead for our top advice on how to create a winning cover letter for potential employers!

Formatting cover letters for administrative candidates

It's essential to understand the importance of formatting when crafting a great cover letter. Good formatting can give employers an accurate glimpse into your professional story and increase the chances of getting an interview. Our cover letter guide can help you create the perfect cover letter for the job you're applying for. Generally speaking, cover letters should include the following structure: 

• Introduction

We’ll go over each section and explain why they’re important. Before starting your cover letter, we recommend researching the company, their website and their social media to better understand their company culture, values and the language they use across their media. This can help you understand the company better and craft a more tailored cover letter. Tailored, personalised cover letters are very important – we’ll get to that in a moment!

Cover letter header

As an administrative candidate, you’ll know the importance of organisation and structure. Your cover letter formatting needs to be clean and professional, and the header is one of the most important elements in your cover letter. 

The header of your cover letter should draw in potential employers and catch their attention. For an effective header, make sure to include your full name, contact information, and any associated links to a professional website such as LinkedIn or Behance. You can optionally include your full mailing address or simply just your city, region and/or postcode if desired.

Cover letter greeting

Your cover letter greeting should be polite and professional. Greetings such as "Dear Mr. /Mrs. /Ms. [Last Name]" or "Tena Koe, [Name]" are always acceptable and show respect to the recipient. To personalize your cover letter and better connect with your potential employer, try to look up the name of your recruiter to use in your greeting. 

Avoid using casual greetings such as "Hi" or "Hey" as it may not be appropriate for some companies. You can research their company culture and values by checking their website or social media pages. At cvapp. nz, we always suggest employers use a personal name in the greeting where possible. Check out a great example of a cover letter greeting below: 

Kia ora Mrs. Eastwood,

Cover letter introduction: Starting off strong 

Start your cover letter off with a strong introduction that emphasises your qualifications and relevant work experience. Draw attention to your impressive accomplishments and strengths that make you the ideal fit for the role. Detail your interest and motivation for applying, as well as your relevant achievements and experience. As an administrative candidate, you could describe your passion for helping others or how much you enjoy the organised structure of an administrative role. Think of your cover letter introduction as the first impression your employer will have of you. Your mission is to start off strong and lay the red carpet for your body paragraph, where you can elaborate on your work experience, accomplishments and any other relevant details. Check out this example of an awesome introduction: 

As an administrative assistant with five years experience, I was delighted to discover the opportunity to apply for an administrative assistant role with LBP Group. I have strong organisational and planning skills, logical thinking skills and data management skills.

Your body paragraph should be the most comprehensive and persuasive. Any details you mentioned in your introduction can be elaborated upon here. Describe your experience and academic credentials, as well as any relevant skills that make you a great fit for the job. Be specific and include names and institutions you are affiliated with! When tailoring your cover letter to the specific institution, provide details that demonstrate a clear understanding of the role and organisation. 

Employers will have a copy of your CV, so avoid listing out all the job functions you performed at previous companies. Reference the job description as you write and draw upon your experiences to showcase what skills you possess that make you an ideal candidate. You can also incorporate anecdotes that may be relevant to the job description! For example, if the job description states that they’re looking for a team-player that can perform under pressure, can you think of any times where you demonstrated your ability to work in demanding circumstances or where you may have shown great leadership in the workplace? Let your employer know! Don’t forget to match your language with the language in the job description!

Being an administrative assistant requires an in-depth understanding of people and productivity. I am passionate about helping people and boosting productivity to meet company objectives and fulfill goals. Ultimately, my greatest ambition in life is to help as many people as possible. A career in administration allows me to achieve this, to some capacity, every single day.

In addition to the skills listed above, I also have strong social media management skills, time management skills and extensive experience with Microsoft Office. In my previous position with Global Media Group, I managed over five Instagram accounts, including Bread Lover's Bakery, scaling the Instagram account from 500 followers to over 28,000 followers.

Cover letter conclusion: Leave a lasting impression

In the conclusion of your cover letter, remember to thank potential employers for their time and consideration, and express your desire for an interview with an assertive call-to-action. Call-to-action statements are the best way to initiate contact from an employer. For example, you could say, “I look forward to hearing from you soon” or “You can contact me at [insert contact details]. ”

A formal goodbye such as “Ngā mihi” or “Kind regards” is a good way to add a polite touch. For an extra professional finish, you can also include a digital signature. To learn more about our cover letter templates and to explore an example of a cover letter conclusion, check out our cover letter builder!

A great administrative cover letter will reiterate why you’re the ideal candidate for the role. Keep your tone professional, confident and polite. Employers will want to know why you’re the ideal candidate that will help keep their office ticking and advance their company goals. Lastly, as always, don’t forget to proofread your work! Your cover letter conclusion should look a little like this: 

I would love to arrange a time to discuss this position with LBP Group. I would be happy to share more details of my administrative experience with you during this time. I hope to hear from you soon.

Thank you so much for your consideration. Best wishes, David Thomas

Epic cover letters are intentional 

Writing a cover letter is a great way to create a positive, professional connection with potential employers. Don’t be afraid to mention your passions, your “why” or any relevant details that may have influenced your desire to apply for a role with the company. Don’t forget to present yourself as professional and friendly when you are writing your cover letter. If you ever get stuck, we’ve got plenty of great examples, templates and resources on our website. Karawhiua! 

Expertly-designed, free professional templates

How to write a cover letter using AI

AI has opened up countless avenues for making making life a little easier. When it comes to job hunting, it might even be able to help us tackle one of the trickiest parts: writing a well-structured, attention-grabbing cover letter. 

It’s good practice to write a different cover letter for every job application you send. Using its advanced language-processing capabilities, AI can help you write as many tailored letters as you need, without getting writer’s block or struggling to find the right words. As a tool in your job-hunting arsenal, it can help you apply to jobs more efficiently and effectively, ensuring that your applications highlight your most relevant skills and experience. 

Let’s take a closer look at the benefits of using AI to write a cover letter, how to write AI prompts it and how to tweak your AI-generated letter to add a personalised touch. 

What is an AI cover letter?

AI technology like ChatGPT uses advanced algorithms to generate text based on the guidelines you set i.e. your ‘prompts’. The content you ask it to create can range from a basic outline to a complete cover letter, depending on how you use the tool. 

Here’s why so many people are using AI for writing cover letters:

• Efficiency:  AI speeds up the writing process, allowing you to quickly produce a cover letter. This can save you a lot of time when applying to multiple positions.
• Personalisation: AI tools can tailor content based on the job description and company culture, and even include your unique background, ensuring that your cover letter is specific to the job.
• Overcoming writer’s block: AI can provide a starting point, helping to get the creative juices flowing.

Pros and cons of using an AI cover letter 

Using AI to help write cover letters is a game changer – however, it comes with its own set of challenges. It’s important to weigh these pros and cons to make an informed decision about whether an AI cover letter is the right approach for you. If you do decide to use it, remember that the key is to use AI to provide the first draft of your cover letter, which you then edit and personalise, to make sure your letter is authentic to you.

Time efficiency

One of the biggest advantages of using AI for cover letters is how much time it saves you. AI can quickly generate initial drafts, so you spend less time structuring the cover letter and more time adding your personal flair.

Guidance and suggestions

AI tools provide valuable suggestions and guidance. It’s not about handing everything over to AI to craft a generic cover letter. Instead, you can use its suggestions to enhance your cover letter or get ideas on how to improve content , structure and even the approach to addressing specific job requirements.

Customisation based on prompts

Customisation is essential to making your cover letter stand out. With very specific prompts, AI can tailor cover letters to different job applications, ensuring that each letter is relevant and specific to the role you’re applying for.

Language enhancement

When it comes to using polite language and correct grammar, AI is an overachiever. You can ensure a polished and professional cover letter, which is important in making a good first impression.

Overcoming writer’s block

For many people, starting a cover letter is the most challenging part. AI is a handy creative aid to help you overcome writer's block . It provides a starting point and give you fresh ways of sharing your skills and achievements, making the writing process smoother and less daunting.

Consistency in tone

Maintaining a consistent tone throughout a cover letter is essential for a professional final product. AI tools are programmed to keep the tone consistent, which can be a challenge for inexperienced writers

While it’s clear that AI offers plenty of benefits when it comes to crafting a stand-out cover letter , there are also a few drawbacks that it helps to be aware of. 

Lack of personality

ChatGPT might be good technically, but it can’t put genuine human emotion into a letter. This makes it hard to truly capture your enthusiasm or personality, which can make the cover letter feel less personal . The uniqueness of your character, experiences and career aspirations might not be fully conveyed through AI-generated content.

Can’t address subtleties

AI still finds it challenging to grasp the nuanced details of your experiences or the meaning of industry-specific language. This can make your cover letter less reflective of your knowledge and expertise. 

Limited understanding of context 

AI tools don’t tend to understand complex careers or specific job requirements unless you create precisely the right prompt, which can be as time-consuming as writing a cover letter in the first place. AI may not be able to do your skills and experience justice. 

Risk of overreliance

Once you’ve successfully used AI to write a cover letter, you might start to depend too heavily on it – for future job applications and for writing in general. Writing is a practical skill to develop and one that’s worth practising and improving on. 

Potential ATS compatibility issues

AI-generated content isn’t always optimised for applicant tracking systems (ATS) . This means if your cover letter goes through an automated screening process, it may not make it through to the next stage. 

Missed opportunities for creativity

AI can’t infuse creativity and unique flair into cover letters. If you’re applying to creative or non-traditional industries, your own original and authentic voice should shine through in your cover letter, even if it’s not perfect. 

Impersonal tone

AI often adopts a tone that feels mechanical or impersonal, and nothing at all like you. This creates a disconnect between who you are as an employee and how you come across to a potential employer.

Need for human review

Despite the assistance provided by AI, a final human review is always essential. This ensures that the cover letter captures your unique strengths , aligns with the job requirements and maintains a personal touch. No matter how good ChatGPT’s grammar is, you still need to proofread your letter and make sure it’s free of typos or inaccuracies. 

AI cover letter generator: Using ChatGPT

Ready to start applying? Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to access and use ChatGPT for writing cover letters .

1. Using the ChatGPT interface

Step 1: access chatgpt.

To begin, access ChatGPT through the website. Create an account or log into an existing account.

Step 2: Familiarise yourself with the interface

Once you log in, take a moment to get to know the ChatGPT interface. It’s a fairly intuitive design with a text box for typing in your requests or prompts.

Step 3: Start your request

To write a prompt for your cover letter, type into the text box. For example, “Write a cover letter for a marketing manager position at XYZ company, addressing criteria such as time management and data analytics and highlighting my 5 years of experience in digital marketing.” The more detail you can put into your prompt the better. 

Step 4: Refine the generated content

The first draft from ChatGPT will likely not be perfect. Use it as a starting point and keep refining your prompt. You can ask ChatGPT to make specific changes or rephrase parts of the letter until you’re happy. Or take the first draft and refine it yourself.

Using ChatGPT prompts to create a cover letter

The key to getting the most out of AI when it comes to cover letters is crafting well-thought-out prompts. A thorough prompt helps guide it to produce content that is specific to your needs. 

Examples of prompts tailored to different job positions

For a marketing manager role:

• Prompt: Create a job application cover letter for a marketing manager position at [company name]. Highlight my expertise in digital marketing, successful campaign management, and a proven track record in team leadership. Mention my MBA in marketing and fluency in Spanish.

For a software engineer role:

• Prompt: Draft a job application cover letter for a software engineer position focusing on my experience with Java and Python, contributions to open-source projects, and a passion for innovative software solutions. Include my bachelor’s degree in computer science and internship at [tech company].

Tweaking prompts

To tweak prompts so you get the outcome you’re after, consider including specific achievements, skills or experiences you want to highlight. You can also mention the tone or style you prefer, such as professional, enthusiastic or conversational. You might cut and paste parts of your resumé into the prompt. Here are some templates to get you started.

Template for experienced professionals:

• Write a professional cover letter for [job title] at [company name]. Emphasise my [number] years of experience in [industry/field], include notable achievements like [achievement 1, achievement 2], and key skills in [skill 1, skill 2].

Template for recent graduates:

• Generate an enthusiastic cover letter for an entry-level [job title] role, focusing on my recent graduation from [university name] with a degree in [degree], internships at [company names], and strong skills in [skill 1, skill 2].

Examples of generated cover letters

Cover letter for a marketing manager:

Dear [hiring manager's name],

I am writing to express my interest in the marketing manager position at [company name]. With an MBA (Marketing) and more than five years of experience in digital marketing, I have developed a comprehensive understanding of successful campaign management. My fluency in Spanish has enabled me to lead diverse teams and expand market reach. At my current role at [current company], I led a campaign that increased online engagement by 30%.

Cover letter for a software engineer:

I am excited to apply for the software engineer position at [company name]. As a recent computer science graduate from [university name], I have honed my skills in Java and Python. During my internship at [tech company], I contributed to several open-source projects, focusing on creating innovative software solutions. My passion for technology drives me to constantly seek new challenges and I am eager to bring my expertise to your team.

By using these examples as a guide, you can practise making your own personalised cover letters with ChatGPT. From here, you can flesh them out and format them correctly. Remember to add a final touch of personalisation to ensure that your cover letter comes across as genuine and human in tone. 

Other AI tools for cover letter writing

ResumAI offers a resumé builder with an AI Writer that understands best practices for crafting effective bullet points, summaries and entire cover letters. The tool allows you to start with sample resumés or by copy-pasting existing content, then it tailors the content with specific keywords from job descriptions.

• Instant generation of content
• Tailored content targeting specific job application keywords
• User-friendly interface with more than 300 example resumés
• Ability to generate a cover letter in one click

Limitations

• The AI-generated content might require human review for personalisation
• Limited customisation options in terms of design and layout

ResumAI offers a free plan with limited functionality and a Pro Plan, which includes unlimited functionality like the Resume Builder, Cover Letter Builder, AI Bullet Point Writer, and more. 

Jasper AI provides tools for content creation, campaign development and art generation. It’s ideal for professionals who require high-quality content, including cover letters. 

• Advanced AI-assisted content creation tools
• Capabilities for on-brand and style-consistent writing
• Useful for creating visually appealing and creative cover letters
• Primarily focused on marketing content, not resumé or cover-letter writing
• May not offer as much guidance specifically for cover letter structure compared to dedicated resumé and cover letter tools

Start a free trial or request a demo for more detailed information. 

Writesonic offers a range of tools like AI Article and Blog Writer, Paraphrasing Tool and Sentence Expander, which can be useful for crafting unique and engaging cover letters. 

• Wide range of content creation tools
• Integration with Google for up-to-date content
• User-friendly interface with a variety of tools for enhancing writing
• The focus is more on general content creation
• May not provide as much guidance for the structure and format of cover letters

Writesonic offers a free plan with limited features and various paid plans with more advanced features. 

Resume.io is an online resume builder that also offers tools for creating cover letters. It provides a range of cover letter templates and examples, along with an easy-to-use cover-letter builder. 

• Wide selection of professional cover letter templates
• AI pre-written phrases to help articulate skills and experiences
• Automatic spell-checker to ensure error-free content
• Easy online resumé and cover letter-building process
• The focus is more on templates and pre-written content, which may require additional personalisation

Resume.io offers a free version with basic features and various paid plans that provide access to more advanced features and templates.

Tips for optimising AI-generated cover letters

Adding a personal touch.

While AI-generated cover letters can provide structure, it’s important to personalise the content. Here are some ways to add personal stories or achievements into AI-generated content to make it authentic.

• Incorporate storytelling: reflect on your career and any unique experiences or challenges you've overcome. Integrate these anecdotes into the AI-generated content to show your problem-solving skills or resilience.
• Highlight specific achievements: AI might not know your most significant achievements . Add specific examples of your successes such as awards, projects or measurable results.
• Tailor it to the company and role:  research the company and role you’re applying for. Include details in your cover letter that show you understand the company’s values, culture and mission, and explain how your experience aligns with them.
• Use your voice and style: read through the AI-generated content and tweak the language to match your communication style. 
• Mention relevant hobbies or interests: include hobbies or interests that align with the company’s culture or the role. This can make your application more relatable and memorable.

Examples of personalised elements in cover letter writing

• Anecdote example: During my time at XYZ Corp, I led a project under tight deadlines and budget constraints. My team and I came up with cost-effective solutions, resulting in the project’s completion two weeks ahead of schedule and a 15% reduction in expenses.
• Achievement example: As the lead designer at ABC Ltd., I led a rebranding initiative that increased our social media engagement by 40% and was recognised with the 2023 Innovative Design Award.
• Company-specific example:   I have long admired XYZ Company’s commitment to sustainability and was particularly impressed by your recent initiative [specific initiative]. In my previous role, I worked on several sustainability projects and am eager to bring this experience to your team.
• Voice and style example: change a formal tone to a conversational one .  For example, I am writing to express my interest in...  can be changed to I'm excited about the opportunity to...
• Hobbies/interests example: outside of work, I am an avid marathon runner, which has taught me a great deal about discipline and perseverance – qualities I bring to my professional life.

Editing and refining your cover letter

Combining AI-generated content with human editing is the best way to get the right results. While AI provides a strong starting point, your personal touch is what tailors it to the specific job you’re applying for and gives the hiring manager a taste of your personality. Here are some tips on how to effectively refine AI-generated cover letters.

• Review for relevance: start by reviewing the AI-generated content for relevance to the job you're applying for. Ensure that the skills and experiences highlighted are the most relevant ones. You’ll also want to ensure your cover letter mentions key skills highlighted in the job description. 
• Adjust the structure: AI might not always get the structure right . Rearrange paragraphs or sentences to ensure a logical flow through your qualifications.
• Personalise the introduction and conclusion:  edit the opening and closing paragraphs to make them more personal. A strong, personalised introduction can grab the employer’s attention, while an enthusiastic conclusion can leave a good lasting impression.
• Incorporate keywords: tailor your cover letter to the job description by incorporating relevant keywords. This not only shows that you're a good fit but also helps your letter pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS).
• Check for clarity and conciseness: ensure that each sentence is clear and concise. Remove any redundant words or phrases that don’t add value to your cover letter.
• Match the company’s tone: if the company has a more casual tone on its website or job postings, adjust the language of your cover letter to sound less formal. 
• Use specific examples:  wherever possible, replace generic statements with specific examples that demonstrate your skills and achievements.

Before you send off your application, make sure you read your cover letter out loud to help you catch phrases that don’t sound like something you would say. Edit these to sound more like you. Do a final review for any spelling or grammatical errors, as a polished, error-free cover letter reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.

AI is a tool designed to enhance, not replace, your input in cover letter writing, providing a solid foundation and plenty of inspiration. The goal is to create a cover letter that not only stands out in terms of quality and relevance, but also resonates with your personal story and professional journey. By using AI, you can make your job search more efficient, just remember that it’s your unique voice and experiences that will ultimately make the difference.

Can I use ChatGPT for a cover letter?

Yes, you can use ChatGPT for writing cover letters. It can help you draft a cover letter by providing a structure, suggesting content based on your input, and tailoring the letter to specific job descriptions. However, it’s important to personalise the AI-generated content to ensure it accurately reflects your experiences and voice.

Can companies detect AI cover letters?

Companies may be able to detect AI-generated cover letters if the content is overly generic or lacks personalisation – or if the company uses AI-detection software. To prevent detection and make your cover letter stand out, it’s important to add personal anecdotes and specific achievements, and tailor the letter to the job and company you’re applying for. 

What is the best AI cover letter writer?

The best AI cover letter writer for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. ChatGPT is a popular choice that is easy to use. Other AI cover letter writers include ResumAI, which offers tailored content for job applications, and Writesonic, known for its range of content creation tools. 

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