Generic Cover Letter: Template, Examples & Writing Tips

Writing and revising a cover letter for different job applications might be time-consuming and exhausting. This is when a general or generic cover letter comes in handy. If you're looking to apply for multiple positions or going to a job fair, consider using a generic application letter to pitch yourself directly to employers. 

Though a cover letter for general applications is convenient, hiring managers may sometimes find it boring, bland, or not specific enough. In this article, let us show you how to craft a strong generic cover letter as well as great examples and tips.

A cover letter is a single-page document that is usually sent along with your resume or CV to demonstrate your suitability for the job opening. When well-written, it will guide the hiring manager to feel interested and go over other documents that you've submitted. 

On the other hand, a generic cover letter (a.k.a general application letter) is an all-purpose document that you will find useful to apply for multiple positions or attend a job fair. Simply put, you can just use this general application letter for any position without thinking about how to showcase the connection to a specific company or role. Thus, you need to highlight your relevant skills and experience in your generic cover letter to distinguish yourself from many others candidates. 

This general cover letter template below will guide you on how to write an impressive letter to make the first impression on the hiring manager.

We’re going to show you what an impressive general application letter looks like through the following examples. 

P.S.: You can copy & paste these samples and adjust the content accordingly to send your job application!  

• Generic cover letter with no experience
• Generic cover letter for teaching position
• Generic cover letter for career changers

When writing a generic cover letter, you will need to include the following 7 sections:

1. Letter header

In every generic cover letter for a job application, you will need to provide the details listed below: 

• Date written
• Your info (full name, phone number, email, and address)
• Recipient's info (full name and job title)
• Company name and physical address

2. Salutation

The most common way to greet the employer is “Dear Hiring Manager," or “To Whom It May Concern,” if you don't know who will receive and review your generic cover letter for a resume in the first place. However, try to address the recipient directly to make your letter more personal and sincere by using these generic cover letter salutations:

• Dear Mr./Ms./Mx. + [Last name],
• Hi + [First name],
• Hello Mr./Ms./Mx. + [Last name],
  
  

3. Opening paragraph

To start off a general cover letter for job applications, you should introduce who you are and mention which position you're applying for. It's also important to explain the purpose of your writing while showing interest and sincerity to pique the hiring manager’s interest from the start.

4. Body paragraph

When writing a generic cover letter’s body paragraph, make sure you will cover the two major components; key qualifications and commitment to the company's growth. 

Regarding your key qualifications, point out your educational background, professional experience, skills, and qualities that make you the right fit for the role. You will need to include numbers and/or specific examples to support your claims. 

In addition, a brief explanation of how you will bring more value to the organization is a great way to showcase your knowledge of the company and your commitment to supporting its culture, mission, and values.

5. Closing paragraph

In the final paragraph, don't forget a strong CTA to remind the hiring manager to review the files attached (i.e., resume, portfolio, and work samples), especially when you submit a generic cover letter for a resume. Also, ensure that you've included a sincere thank you note for their time and consideration. 

6. Complimentary close

It's essential to choose a professional closing salutation for your general cover letter such as:

• Sincerely,
• Best regards,
• Kind regards,
• Respectfully,
• With gratitude,
  

7. Signature

Finally, sign your full name at the end of your generic cover letter and avoid using a nickname. Note that if you will send it via email, make sure your email signature looks professional and includes your contact info. 

Then you’re all set!

The 5 following tips will help you write a strong cover letter for a general application. 

💡Make it more personal. 

Even though you're writing a generic cover letter, it should still be personalized with the name of the company, employer, or hiring manager. That way, they can see your interest in this role and your knowledge of the organization.  

💡Create a strong opening paragraph.

Think of it as an effective way to call the recipient's attention to your letter because they have to review hundreds of cover letters like this every day. 

Check out the example below to see how to start a generic cover letter:

💡Be specific with the metrics you include.

When it comes to job applications and interviews, you need to know that “numbers always speak louder than words.” Hence, you should always try to add metrics from your past achievements and responsibilities to make your generic application letter more convincing and credible.

💡Avoid overused adjectives or buzzwords.

These words may sound appealing but are overused, for example:

• Excellent
• Super
• Hard-working
• Intelligent
• Knowledgeable
• Honest

The reason is that they’re too commonly used for writing a generic cover letter and resume. Use more specific and descriptive words to stand out from others, and to get your meaning across as clearly as possible.

💡Be unique and be yourself.

Since you haven't got a chance to meet or speak with employers, a cover letter is the first and only way to show off your personality. Through a cover letter, employers can sense whether you'll be the right cultural fit. Therefore, ensure that you cover letter shows off your personality.

--- Originally written by May Luong ---