Home Author Cover letter template
Author cover letter template
A structured letter with example content specific to this role. Replace the bracketed placeholders and adjust the details to the job you're actually applying for.
How to structure it
Opening
Name the role and, in one line, the strongest reason you're a fit. Skip the throat-clearing.
Middle
One or two paragraphs of real, specific evidence: what you did, and the result. This is where most letters go generic. Yours shouldn't.
Why this employer
One genuine, specific reason you want this job at this company, not any company. Vague enthusiasm reads as a template that wasn't customised.
Close
Thank them, note your resume is attached, and make it easy to reach you.
Re: Application for Author
I am writing to apply for the Author role at [Company Name]. My background spans fiction and long-form non-fiction, with a track record of taking original ideas through research, drafting and publisher-ready edits.
In my most recent project, I developed a non-fiction proposal from a single idea into a full manuscript. I conducted interviews and archival research over several months, then worked through two rounds of structural edits with my publisher. The final draft required no further developmental notes and went straight to copyedit, which is the outcome I aim for on every book.
I am drawn to [Company Name] because [add one genuine, specific reason: a project, value, or market position you can point to]. I am keen to bring my experience in pitching, revising under feedback and managing long timelines to your list.
Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume, which outlines my writing credits and project history, and I would welcome the chance to discuss how I can contribute to your publishing program.
Getting it right
- Keep it to one page. A hiring manager spends seconds on this before deciding whether to read your resume.
- Address a named person where you can find one, rather than "To Whom It May Concern".
- Don't repeat your resume line for line. Use the letter to add context a bullet point can't: why this role, why now, why here.
- Match the tone of the job ad. A formal listing calls for a formal letter; a casual one gives you room to write more like yourself.
This is a starting point, not a guarantee of interviews. Make it specific to the actual employer before you send it.