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Cover, recommendation & reference letters

Cover letters and recommendation letters answer one question: why this person for this role? Specific examples and a clear match beat adjectives.

How to write cover, recommendation & reference letters

Name the position and how you found it.
Match two or three of your strengths to what the employer asks for, with a measurable example.
Say what you want to happen next.
Keep to one page and proofread.

When to use one

Job and internship applications
Recommendation and reference requests
Scholarship applications

All cover, recommendation & reference letters

FAQ

How long should a cover letter be?

One page, three or four short paragraphs: why you are writing, your strongest match with the job, and a call to action.

Who should write my recommendation letter?

Someone who has directly supervised or taught you and can give specific examples: a manager, professor or client.

These templates are drafting aids, not legal advice - check the formalities that apply to you.

Other types of documents