What are the main types of cover letters?

Application letters for a posted job, networking or prospecting letters, career-change letters, and short ATS field notes.

Do I need a different letter for every job?

Yes for application letters. Reuse structure, not paragraphs.

What if I do not know the hiring manager name?

Use Hiring Team or the team name. Do not invent a person.

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Cover LettersHow-toAug 9, 2026·8 min read

Types of Cover Letters (And Which One to Send)

Application, networking, career-change, and short ATS cover letters. Pick the type that matches the ask, then keep it brief.

xApply Editorial Team

Job search & careers

types of cover lettersapplication cover letternetworking cover lettercareer change cover lettershort cover letter

Picking the wrong type of cover letter is like showing up in interview clothes for a coffee chat.

Quick answer

Type	When to use
Application	Posted job with a letter field or attachment
Networking / prospecting	No open req; asking for a conversation
Career change	Resume alone under-explains the pivot
Short ATS note	Tiny text box or "optional" field

Application cover letter

Default for most searches. Role + proof + close. Link samples: cover letter examples.

Networking cover letter

Shorter. Lead with why you are reaching out and one relevant proof. Ask for 15 minutes, not a job on the spot.

Career-change cover letter

Bridge sentence is mandatory. See career switch cover letter.

Short ATS cover letter

5 to 8 sentences. No headers, no tables. Paste plain text.

Greeting rules

Real name if verified
Else "Dear Hiring Team" or "Dear [Team] Team"
Never "To Whom It May Concern" if you can avoid it

Checklist

Type matches the situation
Length matches the channel
Proof matches resume
Ask is specific

Tools that help without taking over

Start a draft in the cover letter generator, then trim to the type you need. Basics: what is a cover letter.

Choose the type in ten seconds. Write for that type only.

FAQ

What are the main types of cover letters?: Application letters for a posted job, networking or prospecting letters, career-change letters, and short ATS field notes.
Do I need a different letter for every job?: Yes for application letters. Reuse structure, not paragraphs.
What if I do not know the hiring manager name?: Use Hiring Team or the team name. Do not invent a person.

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