Short cover letter example
A short cover letter suits an emailed application, a shop or agency job, or an advert that asks for "a few lines". Keep it under 150 words: the job and who you are, evidence that matches the advert, one reason for this employer and when you can start.
Fictional letter from Jamal Hussain, the applicant in the sales assistant cv example. Every person and employer in it is invented.
Why each paragraph is there
I am applying for the Senior Sales Assistant job at Grainger Living. I have four years in homeware and fashion retail, and I am a keyholder at Northgate Home Store.
The job and who you are, in two sentences.
I serve up to 150 customers a shift, dress our seasonal window to the head office plan each month and lock up on two evening closes a week. In spring 2025 I signed up more loyalty members than anyone else in the store.
Evidence that matches the advert.
I would like more work on displays, and your windows are the best on Grainger Street.
One reason for this employer, in one sentence.
I can start with two weeks' notice. My CV is attached. Thank you for considering my application.
When you can start, and the close.