A general or all purpose cover letter is a basic adaptable letter that you can use to accompany your resume when applying for job positions or tentatively sending your resume to companies in order for them to consider you for any upcoming positions. These letters are great when used as a base to apply for specific job roles where you can re-visit the letter and personalise it to show how you are an ideal candidate for the position. This will help you save time when applying for several jobs in quick succession. A general cover letter template is also very useful when sending your resume into companies that are not currently advertising for staff where you can ask that your resume be considered when a future position becomes available.