Cover Letter Example
Software Developer / Engineer
Example cover letter for a software developer / engineer application. The structure — greeting, opening, body, closing — is what UK recruiters expect. Use as a starting point and adapt to your own experience and the vacancy.
James Carter
I am writing to express my strong interest in the Senior Backend Engineer role at Monzo Bank. The combination of your organisation and this position aligns closely with the direction in which I want to take my career.
In my current role as Senior Backend Engineer at Skyscanner, I have gained experience in building reliable payments infrastructure. Alongside that, I actively focus on mentoring junior engineers and contributing to code-review guidelines — for me that is an essential part of the work. I recognise in the Monzo Bank job advert the way these elements come together.
I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my application further in person. You can reach me at james.carter@example.co.uk or on +44 7700 123456.
Template: Modern · Addressed to: Monzo Bank
How to write a strong cover letter as a software developer / engineer
The four standard blocks — and what to put in each.
1. Opening — why THIS role
In one sentence name the specific role and company. In the second sentence note where you saw the vacancy if relevant. Avoid generic openers like 'I am writing to apply for your position'.
2. Body — why you fit
This is where you make the match. Take two or three concrete elements from your background that map one-to-one to the vacancy. For software developer / engineer: mention results in numbers (where possible), specific systems, certifications or projects.
3. Company motivation — why THIS organisation
One or two sentences on why you specifically want to work there. Concrete and specific: a product, a strategic move, a cultural marker.
4. Closing — concrete call to action
Ask for an interview. State your availability. Sign off with 'Yours sincerely'. Total length: 250-400 words, one page.