What is a cover letter?
It is a one-page letter or email sent with your resume. The resume lists what you have done; the letter connects it to one job and one employer.
How to write one, step by step
- Address a person. Use the hiring manager's name if the post gives it, else "Dear Hiring Manager".
- Open with the role. Name the job, where you saw it and one line about who you are.
- Match the job. Pick two or three needs from the job post and show a real result for each, with numbers where you have them.
- Close politely. Thank them and say you would be glad to talk.
- Sign off with contact details. Name, phone and email.
A sample letter
Dear Ms Rao,
I am applying for the Data Analyst role at your Bengaluru office, posted on your careers page. I have a B.Com and one year of reporting work, where I built weekly sales dashboards in Excel and SQL that cut report time from two days to half a day.
Your post asks for SQL, dashboards and clear communication with business teams. At my current job I write SQL every day, keep five dashboards up to date and present them to the sales head each Monday. I would bring the same care to your team.
Thank you for your time. I would be glad to talk about the role.
Priya Sharma · 98XXX XXXXX · priya@example.com
How long should it be?
200 to 300 words, three or four short paragraphs, on one page. In an email, keep it even shorter and attach your resume as a PDF.
Mistakes to avoid
- Repeating your whole resume
- One letter for every job with only the company name changed
- Claims you cannot back up in an interview
- Long paragraphs and spelling mistakes
Examples for your field
Frequently asked questions
What should it include?
The role you are applying for, two or three results that match the job, and a polite close with your contact details.
Is it necessary in India?
Not always, but it helps when the post asks for one, for email applications and when you are changing fields.
Can I send it by email?
Yes. Put a short version in the email body and attach your resume as a PDF.