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CVs & Résumés

• May 3, 2022
• 15 min read

The Complete Guide to Writing an Effective Cover Letter

A well-crafted and tailored cover letter can help you land your dream job. Here’s everything you need to know.

Chris Leitch

Editor-in-Chief & Résumé Expert

With so much — often conflicting — advice out there on how to write an effective cover letter , it’s unsurprising that many people feel confused and anxious about the whole process and are left with more questions than answers:

Who should I address my letter to? What should I mention in my letter? What font should I use? Should I address any employment gaps? Do hiring managers even read cover letters?

And that’s precisely why we created this guide: to answer all those questions (and more) and help you write a cover letter that gets you one step closer to your dream job .

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter (also sometimes known as a covering letter, motivation letter or motivational letter) is a document that you submit as part of a job application . It acts as a letter of introduction and an invitation to employers to read your résumé , and is used to explain your interest in the job you’re applying for as well as your fitness for the role.

How does it differ from an application letter?

Many people often use the terms “cover letter” and “application letter” interchangeably, but they’re not the same thing. Although they do share a similar purpose (to show interest in a job), there have some key differences, as highlighted below:

• An application letter is primarily used to show interest in working for a company, even if they don’t have any current openings. A cover letter, on the other hand, is used to show interest in a specific advertised vacancy.
• A cover letter is used to accompany your résumé, while an application letter is generally used as a replacement for your résumé ( and cover letter).
• Application letters tend to be much longer and more detailed — they can be as long as three pages.

The importance of a cover letter

A cover letter is a useful tool to showcase how your skills and experience meet the requirements of the job description and how you can contribute to the company’s success. It, essentially, allows you the opportunity to tell your story and explain why the hiring manager should consider you as a viable candidate.

It’s also a great way to build a relationship with the employer. While a tailored résumé will help you stand out from the competition and get past the applicant tracking systems , your cover letter is where you can really connect with the reader, who will then be more inclined to offer you an interview.

Finally, if you know someone who works at the company or who referred you to the job, your cover letter is the perfect place to mention this. A little name-dropping never hurt anyone — and it can be just what gets your foot into the door.

Do hiring managers even read cover letters?

Hard truth: most recruiters and hiring managers (including myself) don’t read cover letters — at least not at first. Indeed, a staggering 90% of recruiters admit to not reading cover letters at all, according to Glassdoor [archived page]. But here’s the thing: whether they read it or not, they expect you to submit a cover letter in your application — and might disqualify you from the candidate pool if you don’t.

When to send a cover letter

You should always include a cover letter in your application. Even if it’s not specifically requested of you in the job advertisement, sending a cover letter shows employers that you’re someone who takes initiative (a highly sought-after quality) and confirms your genuine interest in the role.

The only time you should not send a cover letter is when you’re specifically asked not to. Although this rarely happens, it’s incredibly important that you comply. Indeed, sending one anyway only demonstrates an inability or unwillingness to follow instructions, which could lead employers to thinking that you’re difficult to work with.

Check out our video to receive some handy cover letter tips: 

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How long should a cover letter be?

Generally, cover letters should be no more than one A4 page long. If it can be shorter than this, even better, but it must be a minimum of half a page in length. Essentially, you’re looking to make a case of your candidacy in between 200 and 400 words (or about 3 to 5 paragraphs).

Cover letters for academic positions, meanwhile, tend to be longer than one page, typically about one-and-a-half to two pages long so you can effectively show off your accomplishments.

What to include in your cover letter

There are five key things that your cover letter should always include:

• Who you are and how employers can contact you
• Which job you’re applying for and how you found it
• Why you’re interested in the job
• What value you offer the company
• A call-to-action requesting an interview

Do not include salary requirements in your cover letter, as you risk coming across as arrogant or desperate. Instead, wait to discuss your salary expectations in the interview .

How to structure your cover letter

Your cover letter should consist of the following sections:

• A header with your name and contact information
• The date and the recipient’s address
• An opening paragraph focusing on who you are and why you’re applying
• One to three middle paragraphs explaining why you’re perfect for the job
• A closing paragraph with a powerful CTA
• A complimentary close
• An optional postscript

The header of your letter should, at the very least, contain:

• Your phone number
• Your email address
• A link to your LinkedIn profile
• Your home address

You can also optionally add links to your personal website , online portfolio and social media pages, as well as a professional photo.

Date and inside address

Under the header, write the date of your letter — it’s better to write it out in full (eg: “Friday, April 29, 2022”) as opposed to writing it in all numerals (eg: “Friday, 04/05/2022”). After this, write the recipient’s address, along with their job title and the name of the company.

If you’re emailing your application, or submitting it online, you can skip this entirely.

Start your letter by greeting the hiring manager by name, such as “Dear Mr Smith” or “Dear Ms Evans”. Not only does this show that you took the time to do some research, but it’s also a great little psychology trick (science says that people love to hear their names and react positively when they do).

If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, though, a simple “Dear Hiring Manager” will suffice — but never the overly popular “Dear Sir or Madam” or, worse, “To Whom it May Concern”.

Opening paragraph

The first paragraph — and perhaps even the very first sentence — of your cover letter is the most important of all. It needs to grab the hiring manager’s attention from the get-go and hook them in to continue reading.

Use the opening paragraph to introduce yourself, mention the job you’re applying for and how you came across it, and (more importantly) highlight your achievements and that you know what the employer’s needs are.

Middle paragraph(s)

The main part of your letter should consist of one or two paragraphs that demonstrate how you meet the employer’s needs — essentially, this is where you’ll tell them why you want to join the company and why you’re the perfect candidate.

One way to do this is to focus on a company fact, like an upcoming project. Mention why you find it interesting and explain how your experience and knowledge will contribute to the project’s success.

Closing paragraph

The closing paragraph is where you make the sale. Essentially, you need to end with a CTA — one that the employer can’t refuse. Here, you should reiterate your interest in the position, briefly summarize why you’re the perfect candidate, and politely request an interview. Don’t forget to thank the reader for taking the time to review your application!

Complimentary close

Close your letter with a professional complimentary close such as “Sincerely”, “Respectfully” or “Best regards”. This should be followed by your typed name and, if you’re mailing your application, your handwritten signature.

Adding a PS at the end of your cover letter is entirely optional (and slightly controversial), but it’s a great little trick to ensure your letter grabs the hiring manager’s attention. That said, don’t include a PS just for the sake of it — use it to reiterate your unique selling proposition or to mention an interesting titbit about yourself (so long as it relates to your experience and the job).

How to format your cover letter

Though the content of your cover letter is what really matters, how you present that information to potential employers is what gets them to actually read your letter. Indeed, the tidier it looks, the more inclined they will be to read your letter.

Here are some formatting rules for your cover letter :

Page margins

Page margins should be set to one inch on all sides. You can reduce them to half an inch to keep your letter to one page, but it’s generally best to avoid this if possible.

Use a clean, professional-looking font (like Arial, Calibri, Georgia or Times New Roman) for your letter, and set it to between 10pts and 12pt. Whatever you do, don’t use Comic Sans or any similar “fun” font.

Although not strictly necessary, using bulleted lists can help break up the content of your letter to make it more scannable. If you do use bulleted lists, keep these things in mind:

• Start each list item with an action word (check out our list of résumé action words for inspiration).
• Limit your cover letter to a maximum of two bulleted lists, comprising a minimum of three and a maximum of six items each.
• Choose one bullet style and stick to it (round or square bullets are best).
• Avoid making bullet list items so long that they look like paragraphs (generally, two lines is a reasonable maximum limit).

Text alignment

Keep all text aligned to the left of the page. Do not center, justify or, worse, right-align any text.

Line spacing

Double-space your cover letter. This means that a full blank line should be used between paragraphs. The only time you should use single spacing is between the different parts of the recipient’s address.

Make sure the overall look and feel of your cover letter matches that of your résumé. This includes font choices, margin sizes, bullet symbols, and the exact same header used in your résumé. Not only does this ensure consistency in terms of design, but it also helps you create an instantly recognizable personal brand .

Tips for writing a cover letter

When writing your cover letter, there are some key things to keep in mind. Here are our 10 must-know tips:

1. Tailor it to the company and job you’re applying for

A generic, one-size-fits-all cover letter won’t get you anywhere. The more tailored it is, the better are your chances of landing an interview.

You can achieve this by incorporating important keywords and phrases from the job advertisement. Likewise, researching the company (specifically, browsing their website and reading up on company news) will help you adopt an appropriate tone that fits their culture, as well as incorporate knowledge of and interest in their products and services.

2. Don’t regurgitate your résumé

Your cover letter is meant to complement your résumé, not replicate it. This means that it should be used to expand on some aspects of your experience and, more importantly, explain you’re a good fit for the company.

3. Show, don’t just tell

If you want your letter to make a real impact, you need to provide evidence of your skills and achievements — not just mention that you’re an expert in Photoshop or that you overhauled the company website’s design. Where possible, use numbers, percentages and dollar amounts to back up your claims and show the results of your successes.

4. Address any employment gaps

Employment gaps on your résumé can raise red flags for employers, but your cover letter gives you the unique opportunity to effectively explain and conquer those gaps , whether it was due to a career break , a layoff or personal reasons. That said, don’t dwell on the gap — briefly address it and quickly move on to marketing yourself as the perfect candidate.

5. Keep it succinct

Your cover letter shouldn’t tell your life story. Hiring managers only care about concrete facts that match your skills, experience and achievements to the job you’re applying for, so keep your letter short and succinct.

In terms of readability and scannability, it’s a good idea to keep sentences to 25 words long, while your letter as a whole should not exceed 400 words.

6. Be creative

Whereas the tone of your résumé is formal, your cover letter allows you to be slightly more casual, especially if you’re going into a creative industry or job role. This means you can be a little creative (but not too creative — it should still look and sound professional) and inject some of your personality in your cover letter.

7. Consider using a template

If you’re not quite the designer, it might be a good idea to use a premade template to get some structure going — this way, all you have to do is prepare the content. We offer a range of professionally designed and ATS-friendly résumé and cover letter templates , which come complete with downloadable fonts and icons, and detailed instructions to help you get started.

8. Avoid clichés

One of the biggest cover letter mistakes that many jobseekers make is using overly vague and cliché statements (think: “I’m writing to express my interest in the role of web designer at Company ABC”). Recruiters are used to reading the same phrases over and over again, and this gets boring fast — your best bet is to go against the norm if you really want to grab their attention.

9. Always read (and follow) any special instructions

Employers sometimes include instructions for cover letters in the job description. These can include file format preferences, specific questions that you should answer in your letter, and even salary requirements. Whatever these instructions are, make sure you follow them to a T.

10. Proofread before you submit

Make sure to check (and double-check and triple-check) your letter for grammar, spelling and formatting issues. It’s also a good idea to have a second pair of eyes go over it — they may spot something you missed or offer you suggestions to improve your letter.

How to send your cover letter

There are two ways you can send your cover letter: by mail and, most commonly, by email. Here are some key things to keep in mind for both methods.

If you’re sending your job application through the mail, put your documents into a large envelope. If you use a smaller envelope, you’ll have to fold your documents, and this could smudge the ink (especially if not properly dried) — plus, the creases and wrinkles just look awful.

Meanwhile, be sure to address the envelope to the correct person. You can handwrite the address, but it’s generally best to print it on the envelope.

Send your application via certified or registered mail. This way, you can keep track of delivery.

If you submit your cover letter via email, it’s generally accepted to copy the content into the body of the email message.

That said, it’s a good idea to include it as an email attachment (along with your résumé, of course, and any supplemental files), as this makes it easier for recruiters to download and print your documents — better yet, you can combine all your files into a single PDF. (If you add your letter as an attachment, make sure to add a short message — do not send a blank email.)

Finally, write a clear, concise and professional subject line for your email application , such as “Sales Manager — John Smith”.

Cover letter example

Need some inspiration? Check out this cover letter example to guide you in writing your own.

Get the Active template now

Key takeaways

In summary, here’s everything you need to know about cover letters:

• Always submit a cover letter with your application — even if it’s not specifically requested in the job ad.
• Make sure it’s half a page long at the very least, and one page at most.
• Explain why you’re interested in the position and what value you bring to the company.
• Craft your letter with clarity, readability and scannability in mind.
• Don’t be afraid to show off your personality.
• Read the job ad and follow any special instructions.
• Check (and double-check) your letter for spelling, grammar and formatting issues before submitting your application.

Got a question about writing a cover letter? Let us know in the comments section below.

This article is an updated version of an earlier article originally published on 31 October 2016.

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A Career Expert's Top 6 Tips For An Incredibly Effective Cover Letter

Writing an amazing cover letter can feel impossible, but putting in that effort is so worth it. "Cover letters are an opportunity to make a case for why you’d excel at the job, totally aside from what’s on your résumé," Alison Green, a former hiring manager who runs the Ask a Manager blog, tells SELF. "Employers aren’t just hiring experience," she explains. Instead, they're looking for someone who more or less has the whole package, which is hard to tell if all they know is your job history! Here, Green offers her expert insight on how to make your cover letter rise to the top of the pile.

1. Use a more casual opening than "To whom it may concern."

Since the most successful cover letters are usually more conversational than formal, it can be good to leave this one behind. "If you know the name of the hiring manager, use that. But if you don’t, you really don’t need to go to great lengths to try to track it down," says Green. In instances where you have no idea who's in charge of the process, she recommends starting off with "Dear hiring manager" instead.

2. Inject some personality that plays to your strengths.

A cover letter that repeats what's on your résumé is a wasted opportunity to shine. "When you’re facing hundreds of generic form cover letters that summarize résumés, one written using a conversational tone, like it's by a real person, is incredibly refreshing," says Green. To catch the hiring manager's attention, add interesting tidbits that give a glimpse of who you are while also emphasizing why you'd be excellent in the position. Think of it as showing instead of telling—you're not just saying you're qualified, you're backing it up with examples.

Green remembers one woman who pulled this off pretty flawlessly. "Once when I was hiring for an assistant job, a candidate mentioned that her friends teased her about her obsessive organization because she color-coded her closet and kept her music catalogued on a spreadsheet," says Green. "That’s not the sort of thing that you’d put on a résumé, but it quickly gave me a sense of who she was and why she might be a great fit for a job that required organizational skills." Thanks to those kinds of compelling details (in addition to other awesome qualities, of course), the candidate ended up scoring the job .

That's not to say you can't touch on various details of your past roles! You can and should, but instead of standing alone, each one should be fleshed out to give the hiring manager a better picture of who you are. Maybe you talk about how thanks to your meticulous research, a recent presentation you made clinched a major deal for your office. Or perhaps this is your chance to mention how your career trajectory points to a long-held interest in what the company does. Whatever it is, that extra information can help you stand out in a good way.

3. Resist the urge to say you'll follow up to schedule an interview.

There's a difference between taking initiative and jumping the gun. "This is overly pushy and will turn off most hiring managers," says Green. "You've already expressed interest by applying for the job, so now it's in the employer's court to review your application along with the others they've received and decide if they’d like to talk further." She adds that most people who write this don't actually follow up, so then they seem unreliable in addition to being too forward.

4. Stay away from cover letter clichés.

You don't need a gimmick to pique the interest of whoever's reviewing your application. "Hiring managers don’t want to feel like you’re selling them," says Green. "They want to feel like you’re talking to them like a colleague." To that end, she suggests cutting anything "aggressively sales-y" from your cover letter. Think openings like, "If you are looking for a dynamic professional who can X, Y, and Z, look no further!” Beyond seeming forced, they've seen it before. "It's so generic at this point that the hiring manager’s eyes are likely to glaze over," says Green.

5. Avoid phrases like, "I'm uniquely qualified for this job."

Along with "I'm the best candidate for this position" and other variations on the theme, these declarations can come across as either clueless or arrogant. "You just have no way of knowing those things, since you don’t know what the rest of the candidate pool looks like," says Green. Something self-assured but not hinting that you're omniscient is probably a better bet, like "I'm confident my X and Y could make me a great asset to your team."

6. Hit the length sweet spot.

If you can fill about a page with quality content, you're golden. "The perfect length is the amount of space it takes to explain why you’re an exceptionally strong candidate for the job. Half a page usually won’t be enough to do that," says Green. "On the other hand, you also shouldn’t be writing to hit a word minimum, since that often doesn't lead you anywhere good."

She suggests asking yourself if your cover letter explains why you'd thrive in the position without straight-up rattling off your work history at any point. If so, it's probably offering up just the right dose of "I'm amazing, you should bring me in for an interview ASAP" vibes that can get you one step closer to landing a new job .

Paramount Pictures / via Tumblr

Photo Credit: Viktor Hanacek / Unsplash

SELF does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional.

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Writing an Effective Cover Letter: The Ultimate Guide

Picture this. You’ve just found an excellent job opening that meets all of your requirements— competitive salary, great benefits, and the ability to work on exciting projects. This has been your dream, and you know you have the qualifications. But, after reading further, you are asked to submit a resume and a cover letter. 

Many people skip over the idea of writing a cover letter because they can be difficult to write, especially if you’re applying for your first job. This is a mistake! In fact, your cover letter is one of the most important parts of the hiring process and should be written to the best of your ability.

Find your bootcamp match

In this guide, we’re going to explore how you can write an effective cover letter which you can use to apply for any position in tech.

Why Are Cover Letters Important?

Your cover letter is one of the first impressions you will make on a company. Even if you already have a recommendation from a current employee, there will be people in the company who will read your resume and cover letter before you proceed to the next stage of the hiring process. And to those people, these documents will be their first impression. You know what people say, “first impressions stick.”

When you reach out to a company, you want to tell them a story about yourself and how you’re going to help them meet their goals. Your resume will outline your skills and past experience, sure, but your cover letter will back up what you’ve said in your resume and give you the opportunity to explore your interest in a certain position with more depth. 

Most importantly, your cover letter, which can take many formats, can be highly personalized for each company. This is a chance for you to tell them your story. 

What Is the Purpose of a Cover Letter?

The cover letter is still an expected attachment to a resume and serves as the first impression a candidate will make on a potential employer. Your cover letter gives you the opportunity to talk about why you’re interested in the position and how you would uniquely contribute to the organization. Everyone may use the same format for their resume—listing their skills, qualifications, and more—but in the cover letter, you can get more creative. You can talk about why you’re excited about the company and craft a convincing pitch that will make them want to talk with you again.

Over the last few years, there has been a perception that cover letters are no longer relevant. If you have a Twitter profile and a presence on LinkedIn or AngelList, why should you have a cover letter? Well, the truth is that employers still value a cover letter. If you don’t include a cover letter, a potential employer may pass on you before they get the chance to read about your skills in greater depth.

Your cover letter tells employers that you’re applying for a certain position. You may be able to get away with using the same resume for multiple jobs, but the cover letter should be unique to each position and company. You want to convince the company why you are the best person for their team. And you want to tell them why you want to work with their company more than any other. The more detailed you are, the better the impression you can leave on hiring managers and recruiters.

How to Format a Cover Letter

Before we get started on the contents of a cover letter, it’s important to understand how you should format the document. Here are a few tips on how to format your cover letter:

• Use single line spacing for all text
• Use double-space between each section
• Include a one-inch margin on all sides
• Align everything to the left side
• Choose an easy-to-read font

How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?

Your cover letter—like a resume—should only be a single page long. The best cover letters are short, concise, and ideally under 300 words . You’ll only have the attention of a recruiter for a minute or two at best, and you want to impress them as soon as possible.

What to Say in a Cover Letter

Your cover letter should be all about the position you’re applying to and the company itself . Before you get started writing a cover letter, you should make sure you are aware of the needs of the company and their expectations for a candidate in the position. 

By doing some research in advance, you’ll find it easier to adapt your cover letter to the specific position you’re applying to. Recruiters will always value a personalized cover letter over one which includes generic text about why a candidate is “good.”

When doing research for your cover letter, consider the following questions:

• Why is the company hiring someone new?

Does the company have an always-open application so they can hire the best talent? Do they need more people to help them scale? When it comes time to writing your cover letter, make sure you keep these things in mind. If the company is scaling quickly, you may want to talk about how you have experience in fast-paced work environments, for example.

• What skills do they expect a new candidate to have?

What are they looking for in a new candidate? Do they need someone with skills in a particular technology? Do they need someone ambitious who can help them bring their ideas into reality? Answers to these questions are difficult to ascertain before actually talking with someone in the company, but you can’t write a cover letter without knowing what they expect.

Spend some time reading through the job description and take notes on what skills they expect applicants to have. Also, read over any materials on the company’s website such as their “about” page and their vision statement so you can learn more about their expectations and long-term goals. Doing this research will show companies you know what they’re all about, thereby indicating you’re passionate about a particular position.

How to Write a Cover Letter

Cover letters can be difficult to write because you need to write a new one for each position you’re applying to. However, there are a few tips you should keep in mind which will help optimize your cover letter writing process.

Expand on Your Resume

In your cover letter, you should go beyond your resume. It can be tempting to simply reiterate what you have said in your resume in more depth. But you shouldn’t repeat yourself in your cover letter. Instead, you should use your cover letter as an opportunity to discuss your experience in more depth . Write a sentence or two about how a past position helped you refine a specific skill that the employer is looking for. Customize the letter to show you have the requisite skills for the position. If you’re not sure where to start, you may want to ask yourself these questions:

• How did you tackle one of the responsibilities you had in a past position?
• How did you accomplish a specific milestone you mentioned on your resume?

Main Components of a Successful Cover Letter

Now, let’s get to the cover letter itself. There are three main parts in a cover letter:

• The Introduction

Let’s break these down and explore each component in more depth.

• Cover Letter Introduction

The first few sentences in your cover letter are key. If you include some generic and bold assertions about your skills, the recruiter may get bored and move on to the next candidate. But if you make your introduction impressive, they will want to read on further.

Your introduction should start with “Dear, [hiring manager name].” Make sure you include the name of the hiring manager or recruiter who is hiring for the position. If the company has a relaxed office culture, you only need to use their first name; if the employer is more traditional, use their first and last name.

The first paragraph should tell the company why you want to work with them . There are two things you could say in this paragraph—you believe in the company’s mission, and you want to work on the problems they are solving or, you want to work with their team. You should mention one of these facts and give a specific reason why. You’re interested in helping the company solve problems? Now you need to tell them why. 

Giving a specific reason shows the company you’ve tailored your cover letter to them and done some research about their company. Saying that you have applied because a friend told you about the company or because you saw a job opening sounds like you haven’t thought about the company in any depth—you just applied. When a company feels you are passionate about their vision or their team, they are more likely to reach out to you. They are always going to hire the person who wants to work for the company more than the person who would accept any job. Even subtle personal touches will go a long way in a cover letter.

• Cover Letter Body

You’ve written a great introduction, and you now have the attention of the recruiter. What’s next? You have to tell them your story. The main body will be what a recruiter uses to help them decide whether to schedule an interview or file your application away.

The main body should be around three sentences —even if you are applying for junior or senior positions in tech. The goal of telling this story is to convince the company you meet all of their specifications. Tell the company about your knowledge of the technologies they are using or your past experience with a certain process they mentioned in the job listing. Whatever it is, make sure you tell them how you can help solve their problems better than everyone else . And always provide specific examples .

"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"

Venus, Software Engineer at Rockbot

Let’s say the company is looking for a front end web developer who can help them speed up their app. You could say, “In my one-year tenure as an intern at Google, I used React.js to improve the speed of an internal landing page by 50ms.” 

Specific, concise, and easy to understand.

In this section, you should be sure to make links between your qualifications and the specific requirements for a position . Mention how your skills meet the requirements of a company. You should also be sure to keep your paragraphs short. If you are writing three sentences, you may split those up into two paragraphs. This will make it easier for the recruiter to read your cover letter and understand the most important information. The more personalized your cover letter is, the more an employer will feel that you’re passionate about the company and its vision.

If you’re struggling to figure out how to talk about your past experience, there are a few questions you should keep in mind. These questions will ensure you know how to articulate your past experience and present it as effectively as possible to a future employer. Ask yourself:

• What projects did I work on?
• How many users did my project have?
• What big milestones did I achieve?
• What use cases did I have to take into account?
• What tools (i.e. GitHub, Confluence, CircleCI) and methodologies (i.e. Agile) did I use to work on this project?

You should end up with something like, “I was a core team member building X and leveraged tools such as CircleCI to create a new continuous integration process, which helped cut down our deployment time by 30%.” 

• Cover Letter Close

The hiring manager is reading your cover letter. They are getting more interested in reaching out to you for an interview. Now, you need to close your cover letter effectively.

The first thing you should mention in your closing lines is a call to action: a specific statement that tells employers how they can reach out to you . You may decide to say, “If you are interested in talking with me further about how I can help Microsoft boost the efficiency of their Azure platform, reach out to me at [email address].” Again, this is specific, concise, and actionable.

Then you want to close with “sincerely” or “kind regards” and sign the letter with your full name . Optionally, you can include a phone number or another contact information below your name. After you’ve done that, your cover letter will be complete. You do not need to make your close complicated—it should be simple and tell hiring managers how to reach out to you in only a few words.

Example of a Cover Letter

Here is an example of a cover letter that uses the above format. The letter states why a candidate wants to work for the company and gives them a specific example of how this candidate can help them achieve their goals. The letter is simple, concise, and actionable.

30 October 2019

Stephanie M. Anager

Hiring Manager

Career Karma

San Francisco, CA 94107

Dear James,

I used Career Karma to help choose a coding bootcamp when I was learning to code, and I recently learned about your new bootcamp directory. It got me thinking that I want to help others find the right educational opportunities for them, just like you did for me. I would like to apply for the position of junior full stack engineer at your company.

At my previous job, I started off as a junior web developer and I learned how to build efficient web applications using JavaScript and the React.js framework. I spent time working with the development team analyzing inefficiencies in our application, and made numerous changes to make our pages render quicker. If I were to join your team, I would be able to help you make your website more efficient, and help you scale the site as you gain more traffic.

If you would like to talk with me further about how I can help you improve your web application, reach out to me at [email protected].

Kind regards,

Candidate N. Ame

What Not to Include in a Cover Letter

The purpose of a cover letter is to tell your story to a prospective employer. You can tell them about yourself, your history, your knowledge, and more. Your cover letter gives you an opportunity to show an employer why you are a good candidate for a position and why they should hire you.

But many people feel compelled to include more information than they need to. Your cover letter should be short, to-the-point, and focused on how you can help a company achieve its goals. You don’t need to include every detail about your employment history. Keeping your cover letters short will make it easy if you apply for multiple positions and need to write many different letters.

Your cover letter should be formatted correctly and should be free of any spelling or grammar errors , as it will also implicitly showcase your writing and communication skills. If your cover letter includes obvious grammatical errors, an employer may question how much attention you pay to detail—a critical component of most jobs in tech.

Here are a few things you should avoid doing in a cover letter:

• Making assertions which are not true. Employers will check the facts of a cover letter if they proceed with the interview process. Make sure your cover letter is truthful and accurately represents your skills. There are many people who have exaggerated their skills in a cover letter but were unable to meet the requirements when it came time for the interview.
• Information not related to the job. Don’t include anything which is not directly related to the position for which you are applying. You only have a few hundred words to use when writing your cover letter—use them all effectively.
• What you want. Don’t mention what you want to get out of the company. You should be pitching how you can help the company, not how they can help you.
• Expressing too much interest in the job. Companies want to know you are interested in them. But talking too much about how you like the company may cause you to lose leverage when it comes time to negotiate a salary. You are pitching yourself and your abilities, not how much you like a company. Tell the company why you’re applying, but don’t go into too much depth about how you like X, Y, and Z about them.
• Discussing the skills you don’t have. If a company posts a position looking for writing experience, don’t say something like, “Although I have a short track record of writing experience… [insert other unrelated claims]…” Keep your cover letter focused on what you can do. You are not expected to meet every requirement listed in a job description.

Tips for Writing a Great Cover Letter

Here are a few tips on how you can write a wonderful cover letter:

1. Personalize, Personalize, Personalize.

The main thing you should remember about this guide is that your cover letter should be personalized. It should be tailored to one specific company and one position . It’s easy to tell if a cover letter has been reused multiple times—they include generic statements, and the author doesn’t talk about why they want to work for a specific company. 

If you want to save time, you should consider making a template cover letter. You can then make a few changes for each company before you send the cover letter out. For example, you can keep your close and some of your main body the same; the main thing you would change is why you want to work for each company. This saves time while still allowing you to maintain a professional tone.

2. Include Some Statistics

Hiring managers like to see stats. Numbers show that you’ve had a quantifiable impact on an organization you’ve worked for in the past. For example, if you’re a front end developer, you could talk about how you improved the render speed of pages. Similarly, if you’re a DevOps developer, you could talk about how many servers you maintained in a cluster. Statistics are not necessary, but they do help illustrate how much of an impact you have made in the past.

3. Show Personality

Your cover letter should be yours . The resume you wrote will include lists of facts about you and your history. But your cover letter should be more free-flowing and showcase your human side to hiring managers.

Spend time researching the company’s culture, and try to adopt a similar tone in your cover letter. And, before you send it, read your cover letter aloud and remove anything which doesn’t sound like how you would speak.

4. Keep It Short and Simple

Of course, there are always exceptions to this rule. But your cover letter should be as short as possible . In one survey, more than two-thirds of employers said they prefer a cover letter that is half a page or, “the shorter the better”. The more wordy your writing is, the more difficult it will be for the hiring manager to take away the key points.

5. Review and Edit

As we mentioned earlier, you should run a spell check of your cover letter before you submit it. But don’t mistake a spell check for editing . Spend some time after you’ve written your cover letter to read it over and evaluate whether any changes need to be made. After a few reviews, you’ll most likely notice a few things you want to change or improve.

You can also reach out to a friend or family member and ask them to review your cover letter and make any suggestions for how you can improve the letter. Consider asking them, “Does this letter accurately showcase my skills?” and “Does this letter get you excited about me?” to make sure you have covered all your bases.

If you need some additional assistance, you can use tools such as Hemingway to help improve the tone of your work. Hemingway will highlight sentences that are too wordy and difficult to read, use passive voice, or use complex vocabulary when a simpler term would suffice.

6. Highlight Your Technical Skills

If you’re applying for a software development position, you should make sure you highlight your technical skills explicitly. Prospective employers will look at a cover letter for only a few seconds, or they may even have it parsed through an Automated Tracking System. Thus, you should spend time talking about the specific technical skills you’ve acquired so a recruiter can easily find out whether you have the skills you need to be a good fit for the job.

Mention any specific technologies you know and one major goal you met using that technology. For example, you could say, “At my previous job, I used Ruby on Rails and GraphQL to move from a REST-based architecture to GraphQL, which we found to be more efficient based on our business needs.” 

In this example, the candidate has spoken about how they know Ruby on Rails (a programming language), GraphQL (a data architecture tool), and how they have a good knowledge of REST (an API structure). If an employer is hiring someone who has these skills, this statement will really make the candidate stand out ahead of everyone else. 

7. Use Action Words

When you’re writing a cover letter, you should avoid using “buzzwords” or talking about specific skills that are not fully relevant to the job. Instead, you should use action words that showcase your involvement with particular projects. If you are a software developer, you may feel tempted to use words like “coded” or “developed” a few times in your cover letter because you have created a lot of applications. But you should try to introduce some variety into your cover letter.

Here are a few examples of action words you can use in your cover letter:

• “I was a key collaborator on a tight-knit team…”
• “Helped our team meet the project goal…”
• “Created a new system to…”
• “I managed a team of…”
• “I helped create a new process…”

You should also try to include results-oriented words in your cover letter. These words help show that you have experience in yielding good outputs from your work and will show the extent of your responsibilities in your past experience.

A few words you may want to consider using include: redesigned, updated, implemented, produced, increased, streamlined, reduced .

Hopefully you now understand that writing a good cover letter is not too difficult and that cover letters are a great way for you to showcase your skills to employers. If you follow these guidelines on how to write a cover letter, you’ll be more likely to land a technical interview for your dream job.

In brief, here are our main rules on how to write a good cover letter:

• Research the company, their culture, and read the job description thoroughly
• Introduce yourself by talking about why you want to work for the company
• Show the company how your past experience will help you be an effective contributor
• End with a call to action and a professional close
• Review your cover letter to make sure you do not include anything unnecessary
• Do a final review of your cover letter and send it to some friends to get feedback

About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication .

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What is an Effective Cover Letter Format?

Think of your cover letter as the profile picture of your resume. What kind of image do you want to project? What will grab the attention of your viewer? 

You probably want to showcase your best attributes: your beaming smile or a well-dressed appearance. This is the first introduction to your employer, so let’s make it count. 

The cover letter format should start with the basics, such as your name and general contact information. Then, add the company and position you are applying for and the hiring managers information (if that is available.) This leads with a professional and personalized touch. This is also where you can insert any social media links, like your LinkedIn, Twitter, portfolio, or reference websites. 

The Greeting

In today’s world, greetings can be very informal in many situations. Not on a cover letter. Think about the position you are applying for. Would a CEO candidate start with, “Hi, [insert name here]?” No, so let’s make this custom to your potential new employer. 

Again, if you know the hiring managers information, use it. If the position is corporate then use their last name (i.e., “Dear Mr./Mrs. Smith.”)  If the company culture is a little more laid back then you can start with, “Dear [insert first name only].” This adds to the personal formatting that is going to drive the reader’s attention. If you’re unsure or can’t find a name, that’s okay. Using, “Dear Hiring Manager,” or, “To Whom It May Concern,” is acceptable. 

The body of the cover letter format is an open door to what can be expected in the interview. Just like your profile picture, this will shape the potential employer’s first impression. Let’s put the light in your eyes to paper. 

Engage with your professional potential by telling a success story from your current or a previous job. Be sure to research company and job requirements and use those as focal points. (This is also a good way to know how to set the tone of your letter.) Highlight an obstacle that you overcame as it pertains to the job description. Do you want to talk about sales growth? Discuss where your department was when you started and how you help to grow it. Are you applying to a financial institution? Write about how your contributions limited risks and propelled the company forward. You’re in Human Resources? Describe a scenario that needed your expertise. Make this about you and your achievements. 

Keep it short and sweet though, as you want your message to be effective, not overindulgent. A good length is about 3-4 paragraphs. Make each one a different talking point. You can start with mentioning how good of a fit you are in the role based on the position’s needs. Then, go on to your professional anecdote and wrap it up with some goals that you can see yourself achieving for the company in the future. 

The Closing/ Postscript

The formality expressed at the start of your cover letter should also be reflected in the ending. If you are taking a more laid-back approach and dislike the tried-and-true, “Sincerely,” then look to other phrases such as, “Best Regards,” or even a simple, “Thank You.” A more formal sign-off can be similar to, “Thank you for your consideration,”’ or, “Respectfully.” This wraps up the entire tone of the letter, so keep it consistent. 

A surprising piece of flair to add to the end can also be a postscript. This is completely optional. If there is an added teaser of information you’d like to share or that would make the employer want to know more, this is where you can share it. An example would be mentioning how you’d like the opportunity to talk in more detail about a project that beat a yearly quota in your current role. 

Your cover letter format should be clean and hold a constant message. Wrap it all up with re-listing your important contact information under your signature/ closing (e-mail, LinkedIn, Twitter.) 

For more assistance with your job search, please browse our advice section or reach out to one of our expert recruitment consultants today.   

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Michael Page International Inc. Company Number 65-0790985. Principal Place of Business: 622 3rd Avenue, 29th Floor, New York, 10017

7 Features Of Effective E-Cover Letters

1. Targeted subject line.

Subject: Business and Financial IT Director: Initiative-driven Growth and Process Improvement

2. Opening statement.

“Under my leadership, our operations department processed a 250% increase in claims volume last quarter – without an hour of overtime – through process improvements, greater team collaboration, and technology implementation. It's with this track record of creating streamlined operations and amplified profitability that I would like to be considered for your V.P. of Operations position."

3. Bulleted body.

Proof of my impact on operational efficiency and corporate bottom line: PROCESS IMPROVEMENTS – Slashed time to release new policies in half during first 6 months as V.P. of Operations. TEAM ENGAGEMENT – Boosted attendance of operations center staff by 75% within first 6 months with recognition and collaborative programs. TECHNOLOGY IMPLEMENTATION – Improved production 40% in billing department through modernization of technology and transitioning to paperless environment.

4. Conclusion.

“I welcome confidential discussions of how I may add additional value to MetLife. I will contact your executive assistant early next week to schedule a meeting. In the meantime, please see my enclosed résumé."

5. Closing.

7. signature block., related posts, 11 ways to enjoy summer when you’re working a full-time job.

There you are: sitting on the beach, covered in sunscreen, reading your favorite book, drinking your favorite drink under the cool shade of an umbrella. Life doesn't get any better than this. Suddenly, a door slams, a phone rings, a printer turns on. You jolt back into consciousness. You're at work, sitting in your cubicle, without even a hint of sunshine streaming in from outside.

When you're working a full-time job, finding time to enjoy the warm, bright summer weather can be a challenge. This is especially true for young professionals , as many of them are used to having summers off (or, at the very least, having a flexible summer schedule). But there's no need to feel trapped behind your cubicle walls. Go out and enjoy summer!

Here are a few tips for making the most of your summer while working full time.

1. Grab Some Foldable Chairs

Keep a couple of foldable camping chairs at the office so you and a co-worker can catch some rays during lunch—whether it's in the park or the parking lot.

2. Keep A Beach Bag In Your Car​

Keep a bag full of summer supplies for your favorite summer activities . Having a bag (or, in my case, a backseat) full of towels, sunscreen, and swimwear keeps you prepared for anything. Friends hitting up the pool after work? You're covered. Once the clock strikes five, you can head to your destination of choice immediately.

3. Plan An Office Outing

Plan an office field trip to the beach, the park, or the pool. Just do something fun so your brain can recharge and refresh!

4. Organize Group Walks

Get a bunch of co-workers together and go on regular walks around town during lunch. (Or you could suggest a quick jaunt over to the ice cream shop.) This is a great way to get some fresh air, sunshine, and exercise.

5. Eat Lunch At The Park

When you find yourself eating out, hit up places with a deck, porch, or patio of some sort. Obviously, eating out every day isn't really a feasible option for most of us, so look into alternative ideas as well. Pack a lunch and hit the park for your own little picnic.

6. Organize Office Sports

Whether it's setting up an official office sports team or just hanging out with your colleagues a few times a week, playing sports is a great way to get out and enjoy the weather. Have a field nearby? Try setting up some slow-pitch softball games. Or see if you can get a basketball hoop for the office so you and a few co-workers can shoot some hoops at lunch.

7. Join A Professional Group

During the summer, professional networking groups often have fun events like harbor cruises, pub crawls, and outdoor mixers. Find a professional group in your area and make networking fun this summer.

8. Have An Office BBQ

Get your grill on! Talk to your boss about setting up an office BBQ. Ask everyone to contribute their favorite dish, side, or drink. Fire up the grill and relax! Hey, it's summer after all.

9. Wake Up Early

Yes, yes, I know...waking up early is an incredibly painful and unbearable experience for some of us, but waking up even an hour earlier has its benefits—especially in the summer. Go for a morning run, putter around in the garden, or watch the sunrise with a loved one. Talk about starting the day off right!

10. Strategically Use Your Time Off

Strategically use your vacation days around holidays. This way, you can make a potentially long weekend longer without having to use too much of your precious vacation time . Half days are also pretty awesome. It's amazing how much you can do with four extra hours! If you want an early weekend but don't want to burn up your vacation days too quickly, try taking a half day on a Friday instead of using a full day off.

11. Bike To Work

If you're one of the lucky few who live within walking or biking distance of work, take advantage of it! Not only will you get plenty of fresh air, but you'll also save money on gas, which is always a plus!

There are plenty of easy ways to enjoy summer when you work a full-time job. So this summer, try out a few of these ideas and make the most of the sunshine and warm weather—while they're still around!

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Module 14: Finding a Job

Writing effective cover letters, learning outcome.

• Identify characteristics of an effective cover letter

What Is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a letter of introduction, usually three to four paragraphs in length, that you attach to your résumé. It’s a way of introducing yourself to a potential employer and explaining why you are suited for a position. Employers may look for individualized and thoughtfully written cover letters as an initial method of screening out applicants who may lack necessary basic skills or who may not be sufficiently interested in the position.

Often an employer will request or require that a cover letter be included in the materials an applicant submits. There are also occasions when you might submit a cover letter uninvited: for example, if you are initiating an inquiry about possible work or asking someone to send you information or provide other assistance.

With each résumé you send out, always include a cover letter specifically addressing your purpose.

This purpose is to let the receiver know how well you match their needs. It is a careful blend of the direct and persuasive letters you read about earlier in this book.

Characteristics of an Effective Cover Letter

Cover letters should accomplish the following:

• Get the attention of the prospective employer
• Set you apart from any possible competition
• Identify the position you are interested in
• Specify how you learned about the position or company
• Present highlights of your skills and accomplishments
• Reflect your genuine interest
• Please the eye and ear

The following video features three tips on how to create a letter that highlights your strengths and how they are relevant to the employer.

Practice Question

Cover letter resources.

• Practice question. Authored by : Susan Kendall. Provided by : Lumen Learning. License : CC BY: Attribution
• College Success. Authored by : Linda Bruce. Provided by : Lumen Learning. Located at : https://courses.lumenlearning.com/waymaker-collegesuccess/ . License : CC BY: Attribution
• 5 Steps to an Incredible Cover Letter. Authored by : Aimee Bateman. Located at : https://youtu.be/mxOli8laZos . License : All Rights Reserved . License Terms : Standard YouTube License

• Career Blog

What Is a Cover Letter for a Job? Definition and Examples

A cover letter is a personalized document submitted alongside your resume or CV when applying for a job. It is designed to introduce yourself to the employer, showcase your qualifications, and establish a connection with the hiring manager.

Cover letters are crucial in the job application process, as they are the first impression you give to a potential employer. They demonstrate your communication skills, highlight your unique strengths that align with the job requirements, and show the employer that you have put in the effort to tailor your application specifically to them.

In this article, we will cover the essential elements of a cover letter, including the structure, content, and format. We’ll also provide you with tips on how to make your cover letter stand out and share specific examples that you can use as inspiration.

Specifically, we will discuss:

• The purpose of a cover letter
• The different types of cover letters
• The structure and format of a cover letter
• How to tailor your cover letter to the job and company
• Tips on how to write an effective cover letter
• Examples of successful cover letters

Whether you are a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, this article will provide you with the knowledge you need to create a compelling cover letter that will impress any employer. So, let’s get started!

The Definition of a Cover Letter

Defining what a cover letter is.

A cover letter is a one-page document that accompanies your resume when applying for a job. It provides a personalized introduction to the employer and serves as a sales pitch highlighting your qualifications, skills, and experience.

Explaining the Purpose of a Cover Letter

The purpose of a cover letter is to showcase your interest in the job and the company while presenting yourself as the best candidate for the position. It should not duplicate the content of your resume but rather expand on it by providing specific examples of how your skills match the job requirements.

A cover letter is also an opportunity to demonstrate your writing skills and personality. It should be carefully crafted and tailored to the employer’s needs to make a positive impression and stand out from other applicants.

Differentiating a Cover Letter from a Resume

While a resume provides a comprehensive summary of your work history, education, and achievements, a cover letter is more focused on your motivation and fit for the specific job.

A resume is typically structured in a chronological or functional format, whereas a cover letter follows a specific format with a heading, introduction, body paragraphs, and a closing.

A cover letter is an essential job application tool that complements your resume and allows you to shine as a candidate. By personalizing your application and demonstrating your fit for the job, you can increase your chances of landing an interview and securing the job you want.

The Purpose of a Cover Letter

One of the most critical components of a job application is a cover letter. It provides the candidate with an opportunity to introduce themselves and explain why they are an excellent fit for the position. The following section explores why a cover letter is essential for job seekers and highlights the benefits of including it in a job application.

Demonstrating Why a Cover Letter is Important for Job Seekers

A cover letter is the first part of your job application that a recruiter or employer will see. Therefore, it is essential to make a positive first impression. The cover letter should highlight your strengths, experiences, and qualifications that are relevant to the job description. It should be well-structured, error-free, and customized for the specific job you are applying for.

Cover letters provide the candidate with an opportunity to explain their motivation for applying for the job. They can also showcase their personality, communication skills, and writing style. A well-crafted cover letter can set the tone for the entire application and make the candidate stand out from other applicants.

Exploring the Benefits of Including a Cover Letter with a Job Application

Including a cover letter with a job application has several benefits. Firstly, it shows initiative and effort, indicating that the candidate is genuinely interested in the job. It also demonstrates attention to detail and professionalism.

A cover letter can also provide valuable insights that may not be apparent from the resume alone. It allows the candidate to elaborate on their skills and experiences, as well as to address any gaps or challenges in their career history. Additionally, a cover letter provides an opportunity to express enthusiasm for the company and the position.

Furthermore, a cover letter can help job seekers overcome potential obstacles or barriers. For instance, if the candidate is transitioning into a new career, lacks relevant experience or has gaps in employment history or has faced any limitations such as disabilities, a cover letter can be a valuable tool to address these concerns sensitively.

A cover letter is a crucial component of job seeking. It can make the difference between landing an interview and getting passed over. By demonstrating motivation, professionalism, and enthusiasm for the position, a well-crafted cover letter can set the applicant apart from the competition. Therefore, job seekers should take the time to create an outstanding cover letter that highlights their strengths and illustrates why they are the best fit for the job.

The Basic Cover Letter Format

When it comes to formatting your cover letter, it’s important to stick to a standard structure that potential employers expect to see. Here is a breakdown of the basic cover letter format:

Heading and contact information

At the very top of your cover letter, include your name, address, phone number, and email address. Next, include the date you are sending the letter and the contact information for the employer, including their name, title, company, and address.

Begin your cover letter with a salutation, such as “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear [employer’s name]”. It’s important to address the letter specifically to the person who will be reviewing your application.

Opening paragraph

In the opening paragraph, introduce yourself and explain why you are interested in the position. If someone referred you to the job, mention their name and connection to the employer.

Body paragraphs

The body of your cover letter should highlight your qualifications and explain why you are the best candidate for the job. Use specific examples from your work experience or education to demonstrate your skills and achievements.

Closing paragraph

In the closing paragraph, thank the employer for considering your application and express your enthusiasm for the opportunity to interview. Include your contact information again and invite the employer to contact you with any further questions.

End the letter with a professional closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards”, and sign your name.

Tone and style of writing

When it comes to the tone and style of your cover letter, it’s important to strike a balance between professionalism and personality. You want to sound knowledgeable and competent, but also friendly and engaging. Here are some tips for writing an effective cover letter:

• Use a conversational tone, but avoid slang or casual language.
• Tailor your language to the specific job and company you are applying to. Use keywords from the job description and research the company culture to get a sense of the appropriate tone.
• Show enthusiasm and passion for the job, but avoid going overboard or sounding desperate.
• Be confident and assertive, but also humble and gracious.
• Use examples and anecdotes to demonstrate your skills and qualifications, but avoid rambling or repeating information from your resume.

By following the basic cover letter format and using an appropriate tone and style, you can create a compelling letter that stands out to potential employers and increases your chances of landing the job.

How to Write a Cover Letter

In this section, we will provide a step-by-step guide to creating a successful cover letter.

Paragraph 1: Introduction

The first paragraph is your chance to introduce yourself to the employer and explain why you’re interested in the position. Start off with a clear and concise statement of the job you’re applying for and where you saw the opening. You can also include a sentence or two about your qualifications and why you’d be a good fit for the role. Remember to keep it brief and to the point.

Paragraph 2: Your Qualifications

In the second paragraph, highlight your qualifications and experiences that match the job description. Be specific and use examples to demonstrate your skills and achievements. This is your chance to prove that you have what it takes to succeed in the role. Make sure to use keywords from the job description to show that you understand the requirements of the position.

Paragraph 3: Your Value Proposition

The third paragraph is where you can really sell yourself. Explain what sets you apart from other applicants and why the employer should hire you. This is your opportunity to showcase your strengths and explain how you can bring value to the company. You can also use this paragraph to express your enthusiasm for the company or industry.

Paragraph 4: Call to Action

In the final paragraph, thank the employer for considering your application and reiterate your interest in the position. End with a strong call to action, such as expressing your availability for an interview or follow-up call. Remember to include your contact information, such as your phone number and email address, so the employer can easily reach you.

By following this step-by-step guide, you can create a strong and effective cover letter that will help you stand out from the competition. Keep in mind that every cover letter should be tailored to the specific job and company you’re applying to. Good luck!

Specific Details to Include in a Cover Letter

When it comes to writing a cover letter, including specific details can greatly enhance your chances of landing your dream job. Here are some examples of information that should be included in your cover letter:

• Contact information:  Your full name, phone number, email address, and home address. This info helps the hiring manager contact you quickly and easily.
• Job reference number or title:  If the job you are applying for has a reference number, include it in your cover letter. If not, it’s essential to mention the job title in your introduction.
• Dates of availability:  Let the hiring manager know when you’re available to start the job. This detail helps the employer to determine your readiness and to plan accordingly.

Crafting a perfect cover letter for a job isn’t just about including the necessary details. It is also essential to tailor the cover letter to the job posting and company. Here are some tips to do so.

Tips for Tailoring the Cover Letter to the Company and Job Posting

• Research the company:  Before writing a cover letter, research the company to understand how they operate and their values. Use this information to personalize the cover letter.
• Match your skills to the job:  The job posting lists the required skills and qualifications. Make sure to mention them and link them to your experience and skills.
• Use the right tone of voice:  The tone of the cover letter should align with the company’s values and culture. If the company is serious and formal, use a professional tone. If it’s more relaxed, your tone can be conversational.
• Address the hiring manager by name:  Addressing the hiring manager by name shows professionalism and interest in the job.
• Highlight your achievements:  In the main paragraphs of your cover letter, highlight your significant achievements that relate to the job posting.

It is essential to follow these tips to create a compelling and personalized cover letter that catches the hiring manager’s attention. By focusing on the specific information and tailoring the letter to the company, you increase your chances of standing out among the other candidates.

How to Customize a Cover Letter

When applying for a job, it’s important to customize your cover letter to the specific job posting. This helps to show your potential employer that you have a genuine interest in the position and that you understand what they’re looking for. Here are some tips on how to effectively customize your cover letter for different job postings.

1. Research the Company

Before you start writing your cover letter, it’s important to research the company you’re applying to. Look for information on their mission statement, values, and any recent news or events. This will give you a better understanding of what they’re looking for in a candidate and help you tailor your letter accordingly.

2. Use the Job Description

The job description is your guide to what the employer is looking for in a candidate. Read it carefully and make note of the qualifications, skills, and experience they’re seeking. In your cover letter, use this information to highlight your relevant experience and qualifications.

3. Show Your Enthusiasm

When customizing your cover letter, it’s important to show enthusiasm for the job and company. Use specific examples from your research and experiences to demonstrate why you’re excited about the opportunity. This can help to set you apart from other applicants and show that you’re genuinely interested in the job.

4. Address Specific Concerns

If there are any specific concerns or requirements mentioned in the job posting, make sure to address them in your cover letter. For example, if the employer is looking for someone with experience working with a certain software program, mention your experience with that program specifically.

5. Keep it Professional

While you want to customize your cover letter, it’s also important to keep it professional. Avoid using slang or overly casual language, and make sure to proofread carefully for any spelling or grammar errors.

Customizing your cover letter may take some extra time and effort, but it can make a big difference in your job search. By showing the employer that you understand their needs and are enthusiastic about the job, you’ll be more likely to stand out from other applicants and land your dream job.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Cover Letters

In order to create an effective cover letter, it is important to understand the common mistakes that many applicants make. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

1. Repeating Information from Your Resume

It is important to remember that your cover letter is not simply a summary of your resume. One of the biggest mistakes that applicants make is repeating information from their resume in their cover letter. Instead, use your cover letter to highlight specific achievements and experiences that demonstrate your qualifications for the position.

2. Writing a Generic Letter

Another mistake that many applicants make is writing a generic cover letter. This means that they use the same cover letter for every job application. Instead, tailor your cover letter to the specific position you are applying for. Research the company and the job requirements, and use this information to customize your letter.

3. Focusing Too Much on Yourself

While your cover letter is a chance to sell yourself, it is important to remember that the letter should focus on how you can benefit the company, not just on your own achievements. Make sure that you highlight how your skills and experience can help the company succeed.

4. Making Grammar and Spelling Mistakes

It may seem obvious, but it is important to make sure that your cover letter is free from grammar and spelling mistakes. A poorly written letter can create a negative impression and may even result in your application being rejected. Proofread your letter carefully before submitting it.

5. Failing to Follow Instructions

Many job postings include specific instructions for submitting a cover letter. Failing to follow these instructions can make a bad impression on the hiring manager. Make sure that you carefully read the job posting and follow all instructions for submitting your cover letter.

Suggestions for Avoiding These Mistakes

To avoid making these common mistakes, take the time to carefully craft your cover letter. Research the company and the position, and use this information to personalize your letter. Highlight specific achievements and experiences that demonstrate your qualifications for the job. And always proofread your letter carefully to avoid embarrassing mistakes. By putting in the effort to create a strong, tailored cover letter, you can increase your chances of standing out to potential employers.

Tips for Writing a Cover Letter

A cover letter is a crucial part of the job application process. It’s a chance to introduce yourself to the hiring manager, highlight your qualifications for the job, and express your interest in the position. To make a great first impression, it’s essential to write an exceptional cover letter.

Here are some helpful tips for writing a standout cover letter:

Do your research:  Before writing your cover letter, research the company and the job you’re applying for. This will help you tailor your letter to the specific position and show the employer that you’ve done your homework.

Include a strong opening:  A strong opening sentence can grab the employer’s attention and make them want to keep reading. Use an attention-grabbing phrase or statistic to start your letter.

Highlight your qualifications:  Your cover letter should highlight your most relevant skills and experience for the job. Use specific examples that show how your past experience can be applied to the position you’re applying for.

Use active voice:  To make your letter more engaging, use active voice rather than passive voice. This will make the letter more dynamic and show the employer that you’re confident and assertive.

Avoid clichés:  Clichés like “I’m a team player” or “I’m a self-starter” are overused and don’t add anything to your letter. Instead, use specific examples to demonstrate these traits.

Be concise and to the point:  Your cover letter should be one page or less and easy to read. Use short paragraphs and bullet points to break up the text and make it easy to scan.

Show enthusiasm:  Your cover letter should express your interest and excitement for the job. Show the employer that you’re passionate about the position and eager to contribute to the company.

By following these best practices, you can write an outstanding cover letter that sets you apart from other applicants and impresses the employer. Remember to proofread your letter carefully and tailor it to each job you apply for. Good luck with your job search!

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