Cover letters that get read.

Fill in a few details about you and the job. Three versions build as you type: a short DM, a standard application and a formal letter. Copy the one that fits where you're applying.

Cover letter writer

Your details

Name plus what they do, if you know it.
One sentence with a number. Sample projects count if you say they're samples.

Short DM

For LinkedIn messages, Facebook group replies and chat. Aim for under 80 words.

Standard

For OnlineJobs.ph, Upwork and most email applications. The one you'll use most.

Formal

For agencies, corporate roles, law firms and anyone whose job post is written formally.

What to cut

Most cover letters I read are twice as long as they need to be. Every line below shows up in hundreds of applications. Cut them and yours is already better than most.

"Dear Sir/Madam"

Find their name. It's in the post, on their website, or on LinkedIn. If you truly can't, "Hi there" beats sounding like a 1990s bank letter.

"I am writing to apply for..."

They know. You're in their inbox under their job post. Start with their need or your proof.

Adjective stacks

Hardworking, passionate, dedicated, detail-oriented, fast learner. Everyone writes these. Replace all of them with one result that has a number.

Your life story

Your family situation, why you need the job, how long you've dreamed of working from home. It's real, but it's not why they hire. Save it for when they ask.

Every tool you've ever opened

List the ones you could use on a test task tomorrow. A client who sees "Photoshop" will ask you to share your screen and use it.

Your second and third proof points

One strong number beats three vague claims. If they want more, they'll open your portfolio.

AI filler

"I hope this message finds you well", "I am excited to bring my skills", "I would be a valuable asset to your team". Clients have seen these a thousand times this year.

Long paragraphs

Most clients read applications on their phone between meetings. Two or three lines per paragraph, max.

Next: templates for each platform
Use the proposal templates for OnlineJobs.ph, Upwork, LinkedIn, cold email and follow-ups.
Open proposal templates