About this template
The Minimalist template is the reference minimal cover letter: neutral sans-serif body, single very thin rule beneath the header, no second colour, generous margins. The default canvas of which all other minimal variants are a small variation — the safest minimal choice. Compatible with every text-based ATS (Workday, Greenhouse, Lever, iCIMS, SuccessFactors, Cornerstone, BambooHR, Recruitee, Workable, Taleo).
Who is it for?
It suits candidates who want a clean letter without committing to a specific colour or texture signal. Right for mid-level generalists (project managers, business analysts, product managers, account managers, programme managers) and any context where the letter must be read without visual style intruding on the message. First safe choice when the recipient is unknown or multi-sector.
How to use it
The single rule beneath the header is the signature element — it must stay at 0.3 pt, in neutral grey, never doubled. The hook enters the subject with a simple declarative sentence. Paragraph 2 cites your quantified achievements in shorthand ("3 years managing a USD 2.5M ARR client portfolio with 35% organic growth"). Paragraph 3 articulates future contribution against the target role. A handwritten signature in black ink, scanned at 600 dpi, completes the register — no paraph, no cartouche.
Frequently asked questions
Is it the right choice when I don't know which template to pick?
Yes — it is explicitly the default when the sector, company culture and expected codes are uncertain. The minimalist register reads as professional without signalling an aesthetic bias that could clash. Safe first choice for spontaneous applications.
Should I adapt it by sector?
The template is deliberately non-sectoral — that is its strength. Adapt the content (figures, project references, certifications mentioned) to the target sector without touching the design. For a stronger sectoral signal, choose a more coloured minimal variant (letter-mint-fresh for healthcare, letter-graphite-sharp for engineering).
Does the letter parse every ATS on the market?
Yes. It is one of the two portfolio variants (with letter-frost-white) calibrated for 100% parseable text. No graphic element can disrupt parsing — works with every ATS including the oldest (Taleo Enterprise, SAP HR-Access, ADP).
