different types of application letter name

Jobscan > Cover Letter Formats

Top 5 Strategic Cover Letter Formats to Get You an Interview Today

Crafting a concise yet compelling cover letter increases your chances of getting scheduled for an interview. It should highlight your most relevant skills and give a glimpse into your personality, so recruiters know you’re a good fit. Read on to learn all you need to know about cover letter formats that bring you one step closer to a job offer.

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What is a cover letter and why does it matter?

A cover letter is a short document that is typically sent together with a resume , curriculum vitae, portfolio, or other important attachments in a job application. Its main purpose is to highlight details that are relevant to a job and that can improve a candidate’s chances of getting selected.

If you’re writing a cover letter, think of it as your one chance to show recruiters that you are what they’re looking for.

Don’t waste it by writing a meh letter!

It shouldn’t be just a random attachment to your resume. It has to make recruiters want to get to know you better.

Put your best foot forward using clear, descriptive language, and don’t be afraid to show off your biggest achievements and skills. If you have a letter ready, check out Jobscan’s cover letter checker to see if it’s doing all of that for you.

Benefits of proper cover letter formatting

Following the proper cover letter format ensures that:

• Your letter is easy to read through. Recruiters are busy people. They go through hundreds of applications. The right format makes it easy for them to read through your letter from start to finish–a good thing for recruiters and a plus for you.
• You get to expound on important parts of your resume. The right cover letter format provides space where you can briefly explain why you’re a perfect match without over-explaining your value.
• Your letter is tailor-fit to the job you’re applying for. It provides space for you to tailor your application to the job you’re applying for, as compared to sending a generic cover letter (or, worse, no cover letter at all!).
• Your letter is customized to fit where you are in your job search journey. The right cover letter format will help you get to your desired goal–whether you’re looking for opportunities for the first time, seeking to upgrade your skill sets, or hoping to expand your experience.

In a survey conducted on the impact of cover letters on job applications, 83 percent of respondents said that applicants who send a compelling cover letter can land an interview, even if their resume isn’t particularly impressive.

You wouldn’t want to pass up on that!

Still, you shouldn’t let your efforts go to waste by submitting a mediocre resume. You can use this free resume scanner to optimize your resume. Pairing a solid cover letter with a strong resume can further increase your chances of getting a call for an interview!

18 Free Cover Letter Templates That Will Actually Get You Interviews

By using one of our simple, easy-to-read templates, you’ll significantly improve the chances that your cover letter will successfully pass through an ATS and into the hands of a hiring manager.

How to format a cover letter

Regardless of which type you need to write, the general cover letter template remains the same. Follow this outline to write a winning cover letter:

This goes on the top left corner of your page. It doesn’t have to follow any specific date format, so you can choose one you’re comfortable using.

• Contact information

On a hard copy, you will need to include a more detailed version of your contact information. This goes below the date and should look like this:

Your Name Home address City, State, zip code Contact number Email address

Below this information is where the hiring manager’s information goes, which should look like this:

Manager’s Name Designation Company Name Office address City, State, zip code

If you’re sending only a digital copy, your contact information should look like this:

Your Name City, State Contact number Email address

Below the date and contact information is where your greeting should go. Remember: An eye-catching cover letter begins with a salutation that mentions the hiring manager’s name.

One major major mistake that applicants make is using impersonal ways to address the hiring manager, such as “Dear Sir/Madam” or the long-outdated “To whom it may concern”. These fail horribly at catching hiring managers’ attention and even show a lack of interest.

Another big mistake is indicating a name without verifying it’s the correct one. Few things are worse than a letter with the wrong addressee name.

Addressing a hiring manager by name , on the other hand, effectively grabs their attention. It has the same effect as when you hear someone calling your name on a crowded street. It will make you turn to see who’s calling you.

So doing a bit of research on whose desk your letter will end up on will give you a significant edge. You’ll want hiring managers to know you’re addressing them personally, and that you are genuinely enthusiastic about their company.

Examples of proper ways to start a cover are:

Dear Mr. Smith,

• Greetings John,

If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, you may also use these examples:

• To the Editorial Team
• Dear Jobscan Team

You can also use “Dear Hiring Manager”. However, this feels a bit too detached. A better way is to address the specific team you’re looking to join.

This section is where you give a brief description of yourself. Highlight relevant skills, accomplishments, and experiences that show you are a high-value candidate.

Keep this section no longer than one paragraph with only two to three short sentences in all. If you have plenty of relevant accomplishments, pick only the best and most recent. You can elaborate on your other experiences during the interview.

The body of the letter should only be one to two paragraphs long. This is the part where you expound on the following details:

• Why you’re applying for the job
• What value you can add to the company or specific team
• Quantifiable accomplishments that are relevant to the role

Anyone can say they’re a convincing salesperson. But those with the results to prove it are perceived as more reliable.

If you’re unsure how to beef up your cover letter’s body, you can use the cover letter optimizer to help you determine the best details to include.

End your cover letter with a closing section where you can sign off using professional closings, such as:

• Respectfully,

Avoid using overly casual or inappropriate sign-offs, such as:

• Yours Truly,
• Warm Regards,

Also, keep the tone professional yet friendly.

The closing section is also where you may reiterate your interest in the company or a specific position.

Only touch on past experiences that you can back up with numbers. Compared to vague claims about your track record or accomplishments, measurable results are more persuasive and give a clear picture of your strengths.

Cover letter format sample

Take a look at this example to help you write your own cover letter:

Jill Jobscan Jobhunt Rd. City, WA 1234 (123) 456-7890 [email protected]

My five years of experience as a Human Resource professional has increased my passion for people and building work environments where everyone thrives. I have a combination of expertise and dedication toward shaping a healthy work culture, which I would love to bring to your team if I am granted the opportunity.

During my engagement with Summit Agency, I successfully reduced turnover rates across all departments by 56 percent. I also implemented mental health programs and a hybrid work setup for selected teams, which boosted employee morale by 40 percent and confidence in leadership by 28 percent.

I admire your company’s drive for equal opportunities, work-life balance, and a healthy work environment. And I look forward to potentially joining your team and helping you make it happen.

Jill Jobscan

NOTE : Check out our cover letter examples page. These examples cover a wide range of jobs, industries, and situations, providing the guidance you need to create a winning cover letter.

Types of cover letter formats

There are five main types of cover letters :

• Application
• Prospecting
• Career change

The first four are your traditional formal letters, usually in block format and having only three to four short paragraphs. Traditional cover letters also typically have a business-like tone, but networking cover letters tend to be conversational and casual.

Aside from these four, there is another type of “cover letter” that is recently gaining popularity–the email “cover letter”.

To know which of these best suits where you are in your job search, let’s find out more about these cover letter formats:

Application cover letter

The most common cover letter format is the application letter. This is what you would send to a recruiter to supplement a resume or curriculum vitae. It should contain all details that are relevant to the job ad and answer the question, “Why should we hire you?”

Here are ways you can make sure your letter matches the job post:

• Touch briefly on the company, such as its vision or culture.
• Only include skills and achievements that match the job.
• Use a cover letter analyzer to find out details to include, words to avoid, and measurable results to increase your match rate.

Pick only your best accomplishments and experiences, and make sure that the cover letter is tailored for the job. Recruiters who have gone through hundreds of applications can spot a generic cover letter from a mile away!

Prospecting cover letter

A prospecting cover letter is somewhat similar to an application cover letter. It’s something you use when you’re searching for a job–only this time you’re not eyeing a specific post.

This is the type of cover letter template that you would send when you’re interested in working for a company and are eager to learn about open positions.

Otherwise, it will give the impression that you’re not sure how you can add value to the organization.

This is an example of how NOT to write a prospecting letter:

“I have five years of experience as an HR professional, with displayed strengths in compensation and benefits and recruitment. I look forward to seeing if I am a good fit for any current openings in your company.”

In the example above, the applicant is able to communicate her skills and experience. However, there is no mention of measurable results that show (instead of tell) that she indeed excels at them.

The phrase “any current openings” without mention of preferences in job roles also makes it a weak letter. It shows a lack of confidence and passion, which results in a letter that doesn’t stand out.

Here is an example of how to properly communicate your competencies in a prospecting letter:

“I am passionate about people and building a healthy work culture where everyone thrives. As an Employee Wellness Manager, I reduced turnover rates across all departments by 56 percent. I also implemented mental health programs and a hybrid work setup for selected teams, which boosted employee morale by 40 percent.

I admire your company’s drive for equal opportunities, work-life balance, and a healthy work environment. And I look forward to seeing if I am a good fit for any HR-related roles.”

In this example, the applicant gives recruiters a clear idea regarding her skill sets, expertise, and values. This makes it easy for hiring managers to determine whether she matches current openings in line with her preference and area of expertise.

Just because you’re not applying for a specific position doesn’t mean you don’t need to have one in mind. Make your prospecting letter more compelling by indicating which roles or tasks you would excel at.

Networking cover letter

What better way to search for a job or get a recommendation than through friends? You can take advantage of your professional network by sending former colleagues, acquaintances, or relevant people in your circle a letter that lets them know you’re open to new work opportunities.

If you have a wide network, that’s great! However, you should avoid shooting just anyone in your contacts list an email.

Here are some tips on how to make sure your letter produces the right results:

• Choose contacts in leadership positions or with a say in hiring. Reach out to strategic people with authority to hire, can affect hiring decisions, or are qualified to make a recommendation.
• Reach out to people who can lead you to opportunities. If you don’t have contacts who are hiring or have authority to hire, those who can lead you to people who are can make your job search easier.
• Contact former colleagues who can vouch for your work ethic or accomplishments. It’s easier for people to recommend or hire you when they know the value that you can add to their team. Having first-hand experience with your work ethic also helps people say with confidence that you’re a good choice.
• Initiate further conversation. Be proactive by ending your letter with an invitation to discuss opportunities. Show your eagerness by suggesting a time and place or asking for their availability. Don’t end your letter without a call to action or an opportunity to follow up.
• Give them a call beforehand. If you have a close enough relationship, calling them before sending the letter can give your job search a real boost. This way they’re already expecting your letter and are most likely better able to respond positively.

Career change letter

A career change cover letter is similar to an application letter, only that it signifies your intent to apply for a job in a different field or line of work.

Here are some tips on how to make this cover letter format work:

• Briefly explain your reason for the career shift. It’s natural for people to wonder why you’re suddenly making a career change. Give a brief but compelling answer to this in your letter. That way, recruiters understand why without thinking it’s probably only because your previous job didn’t work out.
• Highlight skills and experiences relevant to the role you’re applying for. You would also want to put in a few words explaining why these skills make you a good fit for the role, especially if this is a shift to a completely unrelated profession.
• Keep it short. All cover letters should be short and sweet. Always assume that whoever will get your letter is in a hurry. With a career change cover format, this can be a challenge because of the added information you need to include. But you can still make it concise by only picking important highlights and using descriptive words.

Email “Cover Letter”

This fifth cover letter format is a casual email that people typically send out when recruiters ask for a resume but don’t require a formal cover letter. It’s usually very brief and meant to inform recruiters that important documents have been attached to the email.

If you’re sending an email “cover letter”, make it work for you by briefly stating why you’re interested in the role and your most important relevant experience.

Even if recruiters don’t ask for a cover letter, it’s a good idea to send one anyway. Did you know that less than 40 percent of candidates send a cover letter even when recruiters ask for one? Sending a well-crafted cover letter will give you a huge advantage over other applicants.

How to format a cover letter correctly?

To correctly format a cover letter, simply follow this general outline:

Here are other things to remember when formatting a cover letter:

• Choose a professional, clean-looking font. Avoid decorative fonts like Monotype Corsiva, or an unprofessional-looking one like Calibri. Better options are Times New Roman and Arial.
• Be consistent with formatting. Use the same format, font, and document size for both your resume and cover letter.
• Use the block format . When writing formal letters, always use the block format. This means aligning all sections of the letter to the left and using single spacing.

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is a short document that is attached to a resume, curriculum vitae, or portfolio. It is intended to expound on key skills and experiences on an applicant’s resume and help recruiters choose candidates that best suit a job post.

How to write a cover letter in block format?

To write a cover letter in block format, align all the sections of your cover letter to the left, set the spacing to single in between sentences, and double in between paragraphs.

The block format is most commonly used in formal or business emails and letters.

How to format a cover letter for an internship?

To format a cover letter for an internship, you would still want to follow the general cover letter format. You can still highlight skills and experiences in the body of your cover letter even if you don’t have any actual work experience.

Here’s how:

• List volunteer experiences and skills gained through each. You can also briefly explain how these skills are relevant to the program.
• Include extra-curricular activities. Showcase those where you had an active or leadership role, and describe competencies gained through each.
• List relevant awards and recognitions. Pick only those that communicate strengths applicable to the internship program.

What’s a good cover letter email format?

A cover letter email format should be brief and clear, while effectively showcasing your suitability for the job through relevant skills and experience. There is no set format to follow when writing a cover letter email, but we recommend the following:

• Body section where you can share your interest in the role and your relevant skills
• Closing where you mention important attachments, such as a resume

Explore more cover letter resources

Cover Letter Writing Guide

ATS-Optimized Cover Letter

Cover Letter Examples

Cover Letter Templates

How to Write an Application Letter (Sample Included!)

Whether you’re applying for a job , internship , scholarship, or volunteer position, a well-crafted application letter can help you stand out. It's your chance to introduce yourself and make a strong first impression that sets you apart from the competition.

But how do you write an application letter that’s effective? Below, we’ll explain when to use this method of introduction and give you practical tips on writing one that gets results. Plus, we've included a sample application letter and a template to help you create the perfect document for any opportunity.

Apply for the role of your dreams! One of these open jobs on The Muse could be the perfect fit »

What is an application letter?

An application letter is a document sent with your resume to provide additional information on your skills and experience. It's a crucial part of an application for work as it introduces you to potential employers and highlights your qualifications.

While some companies request it at the beginning of the application process, others might ask for it later, or not at all—but it's always a valuable addition.

Unlike a resume, which outlines your work history, a written application allows you to elaborate on your achievements and how they relate to the job you are applying for. It is a much more specific way to introduce yourself and explain why you would be a good fit for the job.

How is an application letter different from a cover letter?

Some people use the terms “application letter” and “cover letter” interchangeably, but there are subtle differences between the two.

An application letter serves as your formal introduction to a potential employer. It highlights your interest in the role, your qualifications, and why you're a good fit for the position. It's a standalone document that provides a comprehensive overview of your skills and experiences.

On the other hand, a cover letter is usually more concise than an application letter and serves as a complementary document to your resume, providing additional context to your job application. It elaborates on specific points from your resume and explains how your background aligns with the job requirements.

Also, job application letters follow a more formal structure, often resembling a traditional business letter. They include your contact information, the date, and the employer’s contact information at the top. An application letter is usually addressed to a specific individual, such as the hiring manager or recruiter. While cover letters also have a professional tone, they can be less formal in structure.

Finally, the application letter is used primarily for job applications, internship applications, scholarship applications, and volunteer positions. In contrast, the cover letter is specifically used to accompany a resume during job applications.

When do you need to send an application letter?

Application letters are typically required when applying for jobs. However, there are other scenarios where you might need one:

• Scholarship applications: When applying for scholarships, this kind of letter can help you stand out by showcasing your academic achievements and career goals .
• Volunteer positions: Some volunteer organizations require an application letter to understand your motivations and skills relevant to the position.
• Internship applications: Internships often require this document to understand your interest in the role and what you hope to gain from the experience.
• Networking purposes: Sending one when reaching out to potential mentors or industry professionals can help you establish a connection and explain your career aspirations.

7 tips on how to write a job application letter

Writing an effective application letter involves more than just summarizing your resume. Here are seven tips to write yours:

1. Research the company—at least do a quick Google search!

Before you start writing, research the company to understand its culture, values, and needs. Tailor your letter to align with the company’s mission and the job description. There is nothing better for an HR professional than feeling that you don’t just want any job; you want to work with them for specific reasons, such as X and Y.

“Address the letter to the hiring manager by name if possible,” says Mike Chappell, CEO of FormsPal , who has more than a decade of experience reviewing application letters. “This shows that you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in the company.”

2. Use a professional format and design

Your application letter should follow a formal letter of application format. Use a standard font like Times New Roman or Arial, and keep the font size between 10 and 12 points. Include your contact information, the date, and the employer’s contact information at the top of the letter.

There are many layouts online that you can use. Find one that represents your style and complements your resume.

3. Make it engaging from the start with a strong opening

Your opening paragraph should grab the reader’s attention. Mention the position you're applying for and where you found the job listing. If you were referred by someone, include their name. Briefly introduce yourself and explain why you’re interested in the role.

4. Highlight your qualifications—what you can’t fully convey in your resume

In the body of your applicant letter, highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements. “Use specific examples to showcase your accomplishments and how they relate to the job you’re applying for,” Chappell says. “ Quantifiable results can make a strong impact.”

Avoid repeating information from your resume; instead, expand on your most relevant experiences.

5. Show enthusiasm and genuine interest

Employers want to hire candidates who are enthusiastic about the role and the company. Show your excitement for the opportunity. Explain why you are specifically interested in this job and how it aligns with your career goals.

6. Keep it concise

While it’s important to provide enough detail, your application letter should be concise. Aim for one page, with three to four paragraphs. Be clear and to the point, avoiding unnecessary fluff.

7. Proofread carefully

Typos and grammatical errors can leave a negative impression on employers. Carefully proofread your letter before sending it. Consider asking another person to review it as well.

Letter of application sample

Here's a super complete example of application letter to help you get started:

August 1, 2024

Ms. Jane Doe

Hiring Manager

Innovative Solutions Inc.

456 Maple Avenue

Springfield, IL 62705

Dear Ms. Doe,

I am writing to express my interest in the Marketing Manager position at Innovative Solutions Inc., as advertised on your company’s careers page. With more than five years of experience in marketing and a proven track record of successful campaigns, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and drive impactful marketing strategies.

In my previous role as a Senior Marketing Specialist at Creative Solutions LLC, I led a team in developing and executing a comprehensive marketing strategy that resulted in a 30% increase in brand awareness and a 25% boost in lead generation. My responsibilities included overseeing digital marketing campaigns, analyzing market trends, and coordinating with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment with overall business goals. This experience has honed my skills in strategic planning, data analysis, and team leadership.

I am particularly impressed by Innovative Solutions Inc.’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to deliver innovative marketing solutions. Your recent campaign, which utilized artificial intelligence to optimize ad targeting, is a testament to your forward-thinking approach. I am eager to bring my expertise in digital marketing and campaign management to your team and contribute to similar groundbreaking projects.

My strong analytical skills, combined with my ability to lead and inspire a team, make me a great fit for this role. I am confident that my background and enthusiasm for innovative marketing strategies align well with the needs of Innovative Solutions Inc.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experiences can contribute to the continued success of Innovative Solutions Inc.

123 Elm Street

Springfield, IL 62704

[email protected]

(555) 123-4567

Template for an application letter

You can also use the following application format to structure your application letter for a job:

[Recipient’s name]

[Company’s name]

[Company’s address]

[City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear [Recipient’s name],

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job title] position at [Company name] as advertised on [Where you found the job listing]. With my background in [Field or industry] and a passion for [Specific aspect of the job or industry], I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team.

In my previous role at [Previous company], I developed [Specific skills or achievements]. I successfully [Describe a project or responsibility], which resulted in [Quantifiable result or achievement]. This experience has equipped me with [Relevant skills] that I am eager to bring to [Company name].

I am particularly impressed by [Company name]’s commitment to [Specific company initiative or value], and I am enthusiastic about the prospect of working with a team that values [Related value or skill]. I am confident that my skills and experiences align well with the requirements of the [Job title] position.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and enthusiasm can contribute to the success of [Company Name].

[Your Name]

[Your address]

[Your email address]

[Your phone number]

Common mistakes to avoid

When writing a letter of application for employment, be aware of these common mistakes:

• Being too generic: Focus your letter on the specific job and company, and mention detailed information about them. Don’t default to a one-size-fits-all approach or AI-written document. “It is generally best to avoid using generative AI to write your application letters for you,” says Edward Tian, CEO of AI detector GPTZero . “Only you can write about those specific aspects of your identity and experiences in such a personal way.”
• Focusing too much on yourself: While it’s important to highlight your qualifications, make sure to explain how you can benefit the company. “You can talk about your career goals, college classes that piqued your interest in the type of job you're applying to—just make sure that they tie into why they make you uniquely qualified or well-positioned for the job,” Tian says.
• Including irrelevant information: Avoid discussing unrelated jobs or hobbies, for example.
• Using a casual tone: Maintain a professional tone throughout your letter. Avoid slang or overly casual language.

Need a bit more guidance in your job search? Read this next: How to Apply for a Job Online: 10 Tips to Stand Out and Land an Interview

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Types of Cover Letters With Samples

Which Type of Cover Letter to Use

Types of cover letters, examples for job applications, inquiring about openings.

When you are job hunting, it's important to choose an appropriate cover letter so you can make the best impression. There are different types of cover letters you can use depending on the circumstances. These are the most common types: job application letters, cold contact cover letters, email cover letters, referral cover letters, letters of interest, networking, and value proposition letters.

The cover letter you use will be determined by whether you are applying directly for a job, mentioning a referral, inquiring about unadvertised openings, or simply seeking job search assistance from individuals in your professional network.

Your cover letter should be designed specifically for the reason you're writing. If it is a cover letter attached to a resume in a job application, it should be customized for each position you seek.

Be sure to choose a type of cover letter that reflects how you are applying for the job or the type of job search help you are requesting.

Hiring managers can recognize when an applicant’s cover letter is a generic one that they have used to apply for multiple positions. Such cover letters, which show a lack of care or interest in a company, could result in your resume being passed by without a glance.

Here are some of the different types of cover letters job seekers use to apply for employment:  

• Job Application Letter:  An application letter is written to apply for a specific job opening. This is a traditional cover letter that is sent with a resume to apply for a job.
• Referral Cover Letter:  A referral cover letter mentions the name of a person who has referred you to a job. This can be a great way to gain an employer’s interest, particularly if the individual providing the referral is known to the company you are interested in working for.
• Cold Contact Cover Letter: A cold contact cover letter is sent to a company that hasn't advertised openings. It's basically a sales pitch for what you have to offer a company.
• Email Cover Letter: An email cover letter is written to accompany a resume that's emailed to apply for a job.
• Letter of Interest:  A letter of interest , also known as a prospecting letter, inquires about possible job openings at a particular company.
• Networking Letter:  Networking letters request job search advice and assistance. These can be addressed to colleagues, to individuals you have met at professional conferences or other industry events, or to people to whom you connected through professional social networking sites like LinkedIn.
• Value Proposition Letter:  A value proposition is a brief statement explaining what makes the candidate unique.

As mentioned above, your cover letters should be targeted to the potential jobs you are interested in. This means that, before writing an application letter, a referral cover letter, a letter of interest, or a value proposition letter, you need to do your homework and research the company you are sending your letter to.

You can then demonstrate in your letter how your skillset and work experience would strongly contribute to the organization should they hire you.

When creating a letter of application for a job, be sure to include details about how your professional experience relates to the qualifications and requirements listed in the job posting.

Taking the time to match your cover letter to the job posting can help you get selected for an interview.

This makes it easy for the hiring manager to determine that you're a good candidate. You should also try to echo as many of the keywords listed in the job description as possible, both in your cover letter and your resume.

Some employers use automated parsing systems programmed with these keywords to glean through a wave of job applications; cover letters and resumes that incorporate these keywords are more likely to “make the cut” and earn review by a human eye than those that do not.

Here are examples for different situations:

• Cover Letter : Use this example and template as a starting point for your own cover letter.
• Job Application Letter : Includes sample for a paper application (or email attachment) and a cover letter that is sent as the body of an email.
• Cover Letter for a Career Change: Learn how to highlight skills from your previous career that will transfer to your new one.
• Applying for More Than One Job : Includes tips and a sample letter for when you're applying for multiple positions at the same company.
• Cover Letter for a Job Promotion : Use this to help you apply for an internal position with your current employer.
• Cover Letter for a Part-Time Job : Tips on how to write a cover letter for a part-time job even if one is not required.

Your dream company may not advertise a job opening, and there is a chance that they're always seeking talented individuals. Take the initiative and send a letter with your resume to let them know that you're available and interested in working for them.

• ​ Prospecting Letter : Get noticed with these tips and sample letter.
• Value Proposition Cover Letter : Learn how to add a value proposition statement to your cover letter—a statement that shows your specific value to the company and why you should be hired.
• Cold Contact Cover Letter : Includes tips and a sample for writing about unadvertised jobs.
• Sell Your Skills and Experience : These tips and sample will help when you know there is a job opening that isn't advertised or if you don't know if the company is hiring but are interested in working for them.

CareerOneStop. " How Do I Write a Cover Letter ?" Accessed Dec. 8, 2020.

Types of Cover Letters to Help You Get the Job

The cover letter is one of the factors in the selection process. It is also a basis for attraction of the employer’s attention to your resume, which will appear later. There are several types of cover letters you should know about, each of which is written for a specific purpose as well as target audience.

It’s important to use the right one for your needs, because different cover letter types call for different approaches and serve different purposes. If you’re sending out resumes to job vacancies and want to impress recruiters, the wrong type of cover letter can prevent you from getting selected for an interview. That’s why we’re going to discuss all the essential elements that make up a perfect cover letter, as well as provide examples of these letters. We will go over the purpose of each type of letter and provide examples so that you can create your customized cover letter!

Why include a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a document sent alongside your resume when applying for jobs. Its purpose is to introduce you to the hiring manager, and explain why you’re a good fit for the role. Think of it as a way to sell yourself to the company and make a good first impression!

While your resume provides an overview of your qualifications, experience, and skills; your cover letter is where you can explain why you’re the perfect candidate for the job. It’s also an opportunity to show off your writing skills and personality. A well-written cover letter can be the difference between getting your dream job and being rejected outright.

Cover Letter Types : Which One is Right for You?

The type of cover letter you use will depend on the purpose of your application. Are you applying for a specific job that has been advertised? Are you reaching out to a company in the hopes of landing an interview? Or are you networking with someone in your field to learn more about job opportunities?

Depending on your situation, you will want to use a different type of cover letter.

Types of Cover Letters :

1. Application cover letter 2. Prospecting cover letter 3. Networking cover letter 4. Email cover letter 5. Industry-specific or career-specific cover letter 6. Referral cover letter 7. Broadcast letter

Below we will go over the most common types of cover letters and provide examples for each.

1.) Application Cover Letter :

An application cover letter is a standard and formal cover letter that is used along with your resume when you apply for a job. The application cover letter is written for a specific job and should include your skills and qualifications for the job

Let’s take a look at Application Cover Letter example!

Subject: Application for the position of Sales Associate Dear hiring manager, I am writing to apply for the Sales Associate position at XYZ company. I am confident that I have the skills and qualifications required for the role and would be a valuable addition to your team. My sales associate job has given me experience with cash register operation, customer service, and inventory management. I have been recognized for my excellent customer service skills, and my supervisors rely on me to work independently and to help train new employees. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, [Your name]

2.) Prospecting Cover Letter :

The prospecting letter is used when you are not currently applying for a specific job, but are instead reaching out to companies in hopes of landing an interview. This type of letter can be used to network with potential employers or to apply for jobs that haven’t been advertised.

Let’s take a look at the way to write a prospecting cover letter!

Subject: Prospecting for the position of Sales Associate Dear hiring manager, I am writing to express my interest in the Sales Associate position at XYZ company. I am confident that I have the skills and qualifications required for the role and would be a valuable addition to your team. I have previous experience working in customer service and have proven myself to be a reliable and hardworking employee. I am passionate about sales and enjoy working with people. I am confident that I would be a successful Sales Associate and would be an asset to your team. If you have any openings in the Sales Associate position, I would appreciate being considered for the role. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, [Your name]

3.) Networking Cover Letter :

The networking letter is a less formal type of cover letter that is sent to someone you know in your field, such as a former boss or colleague. This type of letter is used to request information about job opportunities or to learn more about the company.

Let’s have a look at an example of a Networking Cover Letter!

Subject: Request for information about job opportunities Dear [name], I am writing to request information about job opportunities at XYZ company. I am interested in the Sales Associate position and would like to know more about what the job entails and what the company is looking for in a candidate. If you have any openings in the Sales Associate position, I would appreciate being considered for the role. Alternatively, if you know of anyone who is hiring for a position similar to the Sales Associate role, I would be grateful if you could put me in touch with them. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, [Your name]

4.) Email cover letter :

It is also possible to send a cover letter via email. When sending a cover letter via email, be sure to include the job title and company name in the subject line, and format your letter as a PDF.

Let’s have a look at an Email Cover Letter example!

Subject: Job Application – Sales Associate Dear Hiring Manager, I am interested in the Sales Associate position at XYZ company and would like to submit my application. I have included my resume and cover letter as a PDF attachment. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, [Your name]

PDF attachments:

When sending a cover letter via email, be sure to include the job title and company name in the subject line, and format your letter as a PDF.

5.) Industry-specific or career-specific cover letter

In some cases, you may also want to consider sending a specialized cover letter. This could be a cover letter for an industry-specific job or a career-specific job. For example, if you’re applying for a job in the healthcare industry, you may want to send a cover letter that is specifically tailored to that industry. Or, if you’re applying for a job in the accounting field, you may want to send a cover letter that is tailored to accounting jobs.

6.) Referral Cover Letter :

Another type of cover letter that you may want to consider is the referral cover letter. This type of letter is sent when you are referred for a specific job opening by someone you know. The referral cover letter should be tailored to match the requirements of the position and should include information about the person who referred you.

Let’s look at a Referral Cover Letter example!

Subject: Referral for the Sales Associate position Dear hiring manager, I am writing to apply for the Sales Associate position at XYZ company. I was referred for the position by [name], who is a current employee of the company. I have previous experience working in customer service and have proven myself to be a reliable and hardworking employee. I am passionate about sales and enjoy working with people. I am confident that I would be a successful Sales Associate and would be an asset to your team. If you have any openings in the Sales Associate position, I would appreciate being considered for the role. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, [Your name]

Please refer to our guide on  How to include a Referral in your Cover Letter with Examples .

7.) Broadcast Cover Letter :

A broadcast cover letter is a document sent with your resume to companies that are not publicly posting job openings.

This type of cover letter allows you to show how you’d be an asset to the company, even though they haven’t advertised an open position. It’s less formal than a traditional cover letter and is the perfect opportunity to really show off your personality and what makes you stand out from other applicants.

The broadcast cover letter can be used as a networking tool or in cases where you want to send an unsolicited application to a company.

Let’s look at a Broadcast Cover Letter example!

Dear [Recipient Name], I was excited to see your company name pop up on the list of top software developers in Minneapolis. I’ve been doing my best to make a name for myself as a skilled programmer, and it seems like you’re on the cutting edge of the industry. I want to be there with you. For the past three years, I’ve been working with a small team developing an open-source data visualization platform in Python, and we just released our first beta version. We’re hoping to get two million downloads by the end of next month, and I’m proud to say that we’ve already got over half that number in our first week. I understand that your company produces a large volume of software on tight timelines and budgets. I’d love nothing more than to be a part of your team, working on projects that will help people all over the world use data more effectively—just like I hope our product does. I have attached my resume for your review. Please feel free to contact me at [phone number] or via email at [email address]. Thank you again for your time and consideration! Sincerely, [Your name]

Cover Letter Writing Tips

Now that you know what type of cover letter to use, let’s take a look at how to write a cover letter.

When writing a cover letter, be sure to:

• Address the letter to the specific person who is hiring for the position
• Mention how you heard about the job opening
• State why you are interested in the position
• Explain how you are a good fit for the position
• Thank the person for their time and consideration

Please refer to our Detailed Guide on How to Write a Cover Letter with Examples and Tips.

Key Takeaways :

As you can see, there are many different types of cover letters and you will want to make sure you are writing the one that is best suited to your situation. It’s up to you to decide what kind of format and content works best for you. Use these examples as a guide and experiment to see what resonates with prospective employers. Your goal is to display your professionalism and make it easy for them to find the information they want on your resume.

And remember, the best cover letters are those that are personal and specific to the company in question. If you can find out any information about the company or the job you’re applying for, use it! The goal of a cover letter is to help a company see how you would benefit their company, and that means doing research and tailoring your letter for them specifically.

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3 Types of Cover Letters & When to Use Each

You’ve probably heard that a cover letter should be creative, reveal a bit of your personality and be concise so as not to bore a busy recipient. But did you know that there’s more than one type of cover letter ? And, depending on the purpose of the letter, t he content, the writing style and the facts you’ll decide to include will be different.

Today, our best resume writers will present the three most commonly used types of cover letters for you. We will explain the peculiarities of writing each type so that you could compose a letter that grabs the reader’s attention and serves your job-hunting goals. Our writers will also point out when and how to use all 3 types of application letter.

Need a professional cover letter looking for a job?

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The qualified resume makers from Resumeperk.com will create a strong resume and a cover letter based on your directions. The writer will highlight your professional strengths in the most favorable light, helping you to get noticed and increase your interview chances.

What are the different types of cover letters?

➤ Application letter – in most cases, when people say ‘cover letter’, they mean this type of letter. An application letter is what you send in response to a job posting along with a resume. It provides additional details for your resume and convinces the hiring person to call you for an interview.

➤ Prospecting letter – this type of letter is sent to the company of interest . However, this cover letter seeking employment does not address a specific job opening. Instead, in this letter you inquire about the existing openings and outline what you could possibly bring to the table if hired.

➤ Networking letter – the least formal of all cover letter types, this letter is written not to the company of interest. Networking letter is what you can write to alumni, former colleague or boss to wonder if the person could assist with your job search or recommend you for a position.

Now that you are aware of different kinds of application letters, the qualified writers from resume sites will guide you through the process of writing each one. 

Writing an application cover letter

When to use : As mentioned above, this type of letter is written with an intent to market yourself as an ideal candidate for a particular job. It is attached with a resume and expands on the facts of your career bio that don’t belong to a resume (for instance, you can explain the employment gap here).

Writing tips & tricks:

✓ Make it original . The internet abounds in job seeking cover letter templates. Yet, if you truly want to catch the attention of a busy hiring manager, take your time to make it unique and personal. The recruiters have an eye for cookie-cutter letters and the one you’ve copied from the internet won’t help you land an interview.

✓ Use the traditional structure . Start with an introduction that briefly outlines who you are and the purpose of the letter. Then, write a 1-2 paragraph body and a polite closing. Don’t write an overly long and detailed letter. For most positions, 250-350 words are sufficient to explain your potential value for the company.

✓ Tailor it for a job posting . A cover letter, just like your resume, should contain the keywords from the job listing. It will help your application to pass an electronic selection and boost the interview chances. For that, mention the required qualifications and skills from the job posting in your letter.

✓ Tell a story . A surefire way to stand out with your cover letter asking for job opportunity is to show your personal connection with the company or industry. For instance, you can show the connection to the company’s mission or tell why you want to move up the career ladder with them.

Not sure if teamwork vs individual work is best for you? Check out our guide to find out.

Writing a prospecting letter

When to use : Like many professionals, you probably have a few companies in mind that you’d like to work for. In this case, you can write a prospecting letter to show your interest in the company and wonder if there are any opportunities that you’re qualified to fill.

✓ Show what attracts you about the company . Since this is not a traditional seeking for a job cover letter, tell how you learned about the company or what inspires you to work for them. It might be a corporate culture, exciting projects, or even their green initiatives.

✓ Make it brief . You don’t know for sure if there are suitable openings for you, so no need to tell your professional bio in detail. Just mention your areas of specialization and top accomplishments which are relevant to what the company does. You might also want to attach a resume for further use and ask them to inform you about the future opportunities.

✓ Address it to the right person . Don’t just send your letter to whatever general contact email address. Send it to the hiring manager directly or to the manager of the department you’d like to work in. If you have a connection in the company, it’s a good idea to send it to them as well.

Struggle to stay productive all day? Check out the morning routines for better productivity: https://resumeperk.com/blog/7-morning-routines-for-better-productivity .

Writing a networking cover letter

When to use : Networking is the most effective way of looking for an employment. By sending out the networking letters to people you’ve met at work, trainings or professional events, you let them know that you’re job-hunting and ask for assistance or advice.

✓ Keep it professional, but not too formal . From all different kinds of cover letters, this one is the most casual. Since you are writing to someone you know in person, keep the tone friendlier, language more conversational, and sentences shorter. Use a more casual greeting as if you were writing a personal email.

✓ Outline what kind of help you expect . Simply pointing out that you want a new job will not suffice. Do you want to meet in person to ask for the industry insights, get referred to the company they work for, or you want a recommendation for a different employer? Be specific. Also, tell what kind of job do you have in mind to get more specific advice and help.

✓ Share your key accomplishments and skills. If you haven’t met with the person for years, they might not be aware of your current accomplishments and professional strengths. Outline them in a few sentences so that a person could give you an in-depth advice or recommend you for the position you qualify for.

Do you spend a lot of time getting to the office every day? Here’s how to use it productively: https://resumeperk.com/blog/make-the-most-of-your-commute-9-tips-from-a-resume-writer .

Do you always have to include a cover letter?

Unless the company asks you not to use a cover letter, it’s a good idea to always attach it. Cover letter is a chance to expand on your qualifications and establish a personal connection. Moreover, they are considered a good business etiquette. And the two latter types of application writing expand the number of opportunities for you as you reach out to many people and organizations. 

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Our experienced writers can create a powerful resume suitable for each position. However, you may also request a specific resume depending on the job you are applying for, thus it will be tailored individually for your profession:

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Types of Job Application Letters

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How to Attach a Cover Letter to a Resume When You Have to Use an Employer Website

Characteristics of an effective application letter, proper way to write a cover letter.

• How to Respond to a Job Interview Meeting
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Applying for a job is probably not at the top of anyone's list of fun things to do. Understanding the role that application letters play gives you skills to smooth the process. Types of application letters fall into two broad categories. Letters of application address job vacancies that are posted, while letters of inquiry investigate the hidden job market, which may account for up to 60 percent of hires, according to FWF .

Letter of Application

A letter of application is used when responding to a job with a known title and details of job duties. Use how you heard about the job in your cover letter that you upload when submitting a job application online. While job postings on common job boards may account for many such opportunities, you may discover job vacancies through networking. If this is the case, include it in your letter, particularly if your network contact is a name likely known to a recruiter. This may be the edge you need, bringing attention to your resume.

Letter of Inquiry

Indeed Career Guide suggests sending a letter of inquiry when you have no specifics about particular job openings at the company. Perhaps you've heard a preferred employer is hiring, or maybe a particular company or industry catches your interest. An inquiry letter is more difficult to target, since you cannot relate skills to match job tasks, so think in terms of the department your ideal position would fall under and direct your efforts toward highlighting your relevant skills.

Common Elements

No matter which type of job application letter you use, there are basics to include with each type of application letter you draft. Proper business form, whether hard copy or email, is essential to present yourself professionally. Accurate contact information is critical. Diligently check the spelling and accuracy of your name, address, phone number and email address. Further, the best application letter for a job vacancy displays that you know something about the company. Recruiters want to see you are interested in jobs for which they hire. A strong resume matching an opening may get lost behind a boilerplate application letter, which is why it's so important to spend the time customizing your letter to the particular job you seek.

Follow Up Information

You can demonstrate your drive and initiative by stating it outright in your letter. For a letter of application, indicate you will call to provide further information on your qualifications. Give a time frame appropriate to the closing date of the job posting, generally within one or two weeks. In your letter of inquiry, state that your follow-up will deal with job opportunities in the future. Use a two-week period for follow-up. Schedule the date and make the call, but unless you are asked to follow up again, restrict yourself to one call.*

• FWF: The Hidden Job Market Is Concealed
• Indeed Career Guide: How to Write a Job Inquiry Letter (With Examples)

A full-time content creation freelancer for over 12 years, Scott Shpak is a writer, photographer and musician, with a past career in business with Kodak.

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Application Letter: Definition, Types and How to write it

We are all familiar with writing the application of leave of absence at least once in our lives. If you can’t relate, there are countless other times application letters are written. It can be for a job, asking for permission to host a football competition on the school grounds, asking for a transfer certificate after your dad gets posted somewhere else, etc. Here, I will tell you how you will write a general application letter.

What is an Application Letter?

If you’ve been following, the letter you write when you request for something, ask permission for something or apply for something, is an application letter. It is usually a one-page letter. It can be written for domestic or professional purposes. It can also accompany documents sometimes, like job application letters. So to say, application letters encompass more than cover letters; they can be an inquiry and a request letter too.

Types of Application Letters:

Following this thread, application letters can be classified into 3 broad groups . They include:

• Job Application Letter ( sample )
• Academic Application Letter ( sample )
• Personal Application Letter

Examples of job application letters include:

See cover letters

Examples of academic application letters include:

• Application letter seeking permission
• Scholarship application letter
• Application for leave of absence/in advance
• Application for a seat in the hostel
• Application for a testimonial, etc.

Examples of personal application letters include:

• Loan application letter
• Rental application letter
• Application letter for a deduction of fine
• Application withdrawal letter
• Internship application letter
• Transfer application letter
• Application letter for a travel grant, etc.

Note that these personal letters can be written person-to-person or person-to-business.

Steps on How to Write An Application Letter:

Like any other basic letter writing, the application letter starts with planning. Plan on the content, enquire about the recipient, think through about the details to include, keep things simple and short, and et voilà!

Let’s break things down.

Suppose you are writing an application to your college professor for the retake of your Microeconomics exam. Here’s how you draft your piece:

• Start with the date.
• Include the name of the professor, his post, department, and name of the university. Your professor can be an external or internal faculty. If he is an external faculty, mention this and the name of your university. If not, you still should include it to make things more precise. Add his contact information.
• Follow this up with the date. Proceed to the subject line, here, application for the retake on an exam is the subject.
• In the first paragraph, introduce yourself. Mention your name, batch, and program, followed by the course name. Now state why you are writing, which is to apply for the retake of your Microeconomics exam.
• Next paragraph should mention the reasons for you to skip the exam. Make sure they are valid grounds. If you had been sick, attach prescriptions or documents from the appointment. If you had been away for personal issues, give brief details of the event.
• In the closing paragraph, ask him/her to excuse you on these grounds and to retake your exam and say how it will be beneficial to you.
• Close with your details. Don’t forget to add your contact information like the mailing ID here.

Tips to Remember:

• Take care of the readability and white space in your letter.
• Make sure your pints connect with each other. Don’t include irrelevant information since an application is to be concise by format.
• Take care of grammatical and spelling errors.
• Be sure of the dates you are writing in the letter.

Related Contents

• Appreciation Letter: Definition, Types, and How To Write it
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The 2 classes of application letters.

Job applicants write different application letters depending on the position and company approached. Most of these letters fall into two main categories, solicited and unsolicited. Solicited letters apply for advertised positions while unsolicited letters are used to seek unadvertised positions. Each type is formatted differently, but both letters should convince employers of an applicant's value.

Solicited Letters

Solicited application letters are written for positions advertised online, in newspapers, through job search websites, company websites or word of mouth. Advertised positions indicate that the company has a job opening and is actively looking to hire. These letters are written when an applicant's skills fit the advertised position. Sometimes these letters are also used after personal meetings with a company employee.

What to Include in a Solicited Letter

Solicited application letters should outline the position being applied for, how the applicant learned about the position, the applicant's qualifications and how these qualifications help the organization. If the applicant has not met with an employee, these letters should end with a request for an interview. When these letters are sent after a meeting or interview they should remind the recipient of the interview’s highlights and the applicant’s reputable skills.

Unsolicited Letters

Unsolicited or prospecting application letters are written for unadvertised positions. Applicants write these letters when they have a strong interest in a certain company or organization but do not know if the company is hiring or has an opening. They are written both as an inquiry into open positions and as a description of the applicant’s skills. Sometimes they are also used when inquiring about internships.

What to Include in an Unsolicited Letter

These letters should outline the applicant’s interest in the company, the desired job description and applicant’s qualifications for the desired position. Applicants should highlight the unique skills they could bring to the company. Applicants looking for unsolicited positions need to explain why the company should include a position for them. These letters also end with a request for an interview.

Related Articles

Recommendation letters for administrative assistants →, the difference between a cover letter & letter of interest →.

How to Write Application Letters →

Offer letters vs. employment contracts →.

Difference Between a Resume and an Application Letter →

How to Write a Follow-Up Letter After No Response From Employers →

• Virginia Tech: Cover Letter Types and Samples
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Rachel Watkins has been writing for magazines and blogs since 2006. Her professional experience includes working in college admissions and academic planning. Watkins also covered environmental issues for the About My Planet blog network. She received her bachelor's degree in English literature and philosophy from Washington College in Maryland.

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Networking overview

Container networking refers to the ability for containers to connect to and communicate with each other, or to non-Docker workloads.

Containers have networking enabled by default, and they can make outgoing connections. A container has no information about what kind of network it's attached to, or whether their peers are also Docker workloads or not. A container only sees a network interface with an IP address, a gateway, a routing table, DNS services, and other networking details. That is, unless the container uses the none network driver.

This page describes networking from the point of view of the container, and the concepts around container networking. This page doesn't describe OS-specific details about how Docker networks work. For information about how Docker manipulates iptables rules on Linux, see Packet filtering and firewalls .

User-defined networks

You can create custom, user-defined networks, and connect multiple containers to the same network. Once connected to a user-defined network, containers can communicate with each other using container IP addresses or container names.

The following example creates a network using the bridge network driver and running a container in the created network:

The following network drivers are available by default, and provide core networking functionality:

For more information about the different drivers, see Network drivers overview .

Container networks

In addition to user-defined networks, you can attach a container to another container's networking stack directly, using the --network container:<name|id> flag format.

The following flags aren't supported for containers using the container: networking mode:

• --dns-search
• --dns-option
• --mac-address
• --publish-all

The following example runs a Redis container, with Redis binding to localhost , then running the redis-cli command and connecting to the Redis server over the localhost interface.

Published ports

By default, when you create or run a container using docker create or docker run , containers on bridge networks don't expose any ports to the outside world. Use the --publish or -p flag to make a port available to services outside the bridge network. This creates a firewall rule in the host, mapping a container port to a port on the Docker host to the outside world. Here are some examples:

Important Publishing container ports is insecure by default. Meaning, when you publish a container's ports it becomes available not only to the Docker host, but to the outside world as well. If you include the localhost IP address ( 127.0.0.1 , or ::1 ) with the publish flag, only the Docker host and its containers can access the published container port. ]\s+/gm, '')); copying = true; setTimeout(() => copying = false, 2000);"> $ docker run -p 127.0.0.1:8080:80 -p '[::1]:8080:80' nginx Warning Hosts within the same L2 segment (for example, hosts connected to the same network switch) can reach ports published to localhost. For more information, see moby/moby#45610

If you want to make a container accessible to other containers, it isn't necessary to publish the container's ports. You can enable inter-container communication by connecting the containers to the same network, usually a bridge network .

Ports on the host's IPv6 addresses will map to the container's IPv4 address if no host IP is given in a port mapping, the bridge network is IPv4-only, and --userland-proxy=true (default).

For more information about port mapping, including how to disable it and use direct routing to containers, see packet filtering and firewalls .

IP address and hostname

By default, the container gets an IP address for every Docker network it attaches to. A container receives an IP address out of the IP subnet of the network. The Docker daemon performs dynamic subnetting and IP address allocation for containers. Each network also has a default subnet mask and gateway.

You can connect a running container to multiple networks, either by passing the --network flag multiple times when creating the container, or using the docker network connect command for already running containers. In both cases, you can use the --ip or --ip6 flags to specify the container's IP address on that particular network.

In the same way, a container's hostname defaults to be the container's ID in Docker. You can override the hostname using --hostname . When connecting to an existing network using docker network connect , you can use the --alias flag to specify an additional network alias for the container on that network.

DNS services

Containers use the same DNS servers as the host by default, but you can override this with --dns .

By default, containers inherit the DNS settings as defined in the /etc/resolv.conf configuration file. Containers that attach to the default bridge network receive a copy of this file. Containers that attach to a custom network use Docker's embedded DNS server. The embedded DNS server forwards external DNS lookups to the DNS servers configured on the host.

You can configure DNS resolution on a per-container basis, using flags for the docker run or docker create command used to start the container. The following table describes the available docker run flags related to DNS configuration.

Custom hosts

Your container will have lines in /etc/hosts which define the hostname of the container itself, as well as localhost and a few other common things. Custom hosts, defined in /etc/hosts on the host machine, aren't inherited by containers. To pass additional hosts into a container, refer to add entries to container hosts file in the docker run reference documentation.

Proxy server

If your container needs to use a proxy server, see Use a proxy server .

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Business Entities

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• News & Notices : Get the latest information about changes affecting business conducted with the Business Programs Division.
• Customer Alerts : Get the latest information about confirmed scams against Californians and businesses in the State of California, and what you can do if you have been a victim of a scam.
• Get the current processing dates for Business Entities and determine which method of submission meets your needs.

Online Services

Over 140 Business Filings, Name Reservations, and Orders for Certificates of Status and Certified Copies of Corporations, Limited Liability Companies and Limited Partnerships available online .

The Business Entities Section of the Secretary of State’s office processes filings, maintains records and provides information to the public relating to business entities (corporations, limited liability companies, limited partnerships, general partnerships, limited liability partnerships and other business filings).

• Service Options : Options for online searches and filings, document processing and information requests (for certificates, copies and status reports)
• Name Reservations : Corporation, limited liability company and limited partnership name reservations
• Forms, Samples & Fees : Forms, document samples and associated fees
• Statements of Information (annual/biennial reports): Corporation and Limited Liability Company statements of information, Common Interest Development Association statements and Publicly Traded Disclosure statements
• Filing Tips : Tips for filing most corporation, limited liability company and limited partnership documents
• Information Requests : Orders for certificates, copies and status reports
• Service of Process : Substituted service of process
• FAQs : Answers to the most frequently asked business entity questions
• Victims of Corporate Fraud Compensation Fund : Restitution to victims of corporate fraud

General provisions governing most business entities are found in the California Corporations Code .

Related Links

• Legislation
• California Codes
• California Regulations
• Private Service Companies

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