Use this ATS-friendly cover letter template for Indeed applications. It incorporates job description keywords, stays under one page, and uses plain text formatting to parse well in applicant tracking systems. Copy, customize with specifics from the job posting, then paste into text boxes or upload as PDF/Word. Indeed supports cover letters via text box or upload, depending on employer requirements, per the Indeed Help Center.
[Your Full Name]
[Your Phone Number] | [Your Email] | [LinkedIn Profile or Portfolio URL] | [City, State]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager's Name or "Hiring Team"]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
Dear [Hiring Manager's Name or "Hiring Team"],
[Opening: Introduce yourself and reference the job. Example: "I'm applying for the [Job Title] position posted on Indeed (Job ID: [ID]). With 5 years in [relevant field], I'm eager to bring my [key skill] to [Company Name]."]
[Body 1: Highlight 2-3 experiences with keywords from the posting. Example: "At [Previous Company], I [achievement, e.g., 'led a team that increased efficiency by 20%']."]
[Body 2: Connect to company needs. Example: "Your focus on [company value from post] aligns with my experience in [related skill]."]
- [Bullet 1: "Managed [tool/software] for [outcome]"]
- [Bullet 2: "Collaborated on [project type] using [method]"]
- [Bullet 3: "Excelled in fast-paced environments, delivering [result]"]
[Closing: Reaffirm interest. Example: "I'd welcome the chance to discuss how my background supports [Company Name]'s goals. Thank you for considering my application."]
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
Indeed Cover Letter Workflow
Indeed offers free cover letter templates and a resume builder for quick drafts. Some postings require cover letters via text box; others allow uploads (under 2MB). You cannot edit after submission.
Customization Steps:
- Log into Indeed and access free templates or builder.
- Replace placeholders with job-specific keywords (e.g., "SQL", "Agile") and 2-3 quantified achievements.
- Apply to the job: Upload resume first, then add cover letter via text box or upload.
- Preview and submit.
Checklist:
- [ ] Keywords from job description?
- [ ] Tailored to role/company?
- [ ] Plain text, under 1 page?
- [ ] Contact info matches resume?
- [ ] Job ID referenced?
Common Mistakes
- Using generic letters--tailor each time.
- Fancy formatting that breaks in text boxes (test in plain text editor).
- Ignoring if required by employer.
- Exceeding one page or omitting metrics.
For more tips, see Glassdoor's cover letter guide.