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15 Cover Letter Mistakes You Might Not Realize You’re Making

• How To Write A Cover Letter
• When Is A Cover Letter Necessary

Free Cover Letter Templates

• Cover Letter Mistakes To Avoid
• Cover Letter Tips
• How To Sell Yourself In A Cover Letter

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Writing a cover letter can be difficult, but how good yours is can determine whether or not you get the job. To make matters worse, you could be making a bunch of mistakes that are getting you screened out of the hiring process — and you might not even realize you’re making them.

So now you’ve got to write a cover letter that’s good enough to make an employer want to call you in for an interview. Lucky for you, you’ll find it’s easy to make sure that your cover letter is convincing and mistake-free. Here are 15 common cover letter mistakes to avoid so you can land an interview and get the job.

Key Takeaways:

Cover letter mistakes are fast way to have your job application ignored.

Common cover letter mistakes include forgetting to proofread, adding irrelevant information, and not addressing the company’s needs.

The best way to avoid cover letter mistakes is to spend time editing your letter.

If possible have someone you trust read your cover letter before you submit it.

15 cover letter mistakes

Frequently asked questions about cover letter mistakes, final thoughts on cover letters.

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Forgetting to Proofread. Sending a cover letter that’s full of typos and errors is a quick and easy way to get yourself screened out of a possible interview.

We all know that writing a cover letter can be a painful process, but do yourself a favor and just proofread. Use free editing software like Grammarly or spell-check in Microsoft Word to catch the obvious mistakes.

For more nuanced changes, try reading your cover letter backwards — it’ll minimize the risk of reading over the same mistake over and over without noticing it.

If you can, ask a friend to look over your cover letter and point out any mistakes before you send it in. A second pair of eyes is great for finding errors you might not realize you’ve made.

Sending a Generic Cover Letter to Every Job You Apply For. This mistake is so common that employers will be able to tell right away if you’re using a one-size-fits-all cover letter when applying for jobs.

Make sure you mention the specific position you’re applying for in your first paragraph, address the company’s specific concerns and desired qualifications, and explain how your skills and experiences make you the best fit for the job.

A good way to optimize your cover letter is to start by reading the job description closely . Highlight all the action verbs in one color, all the hard skills in another, and the adjectives in a third color. Then, look for ways to incorporate some of those words into your cover letter, paying special attention to keywords that get used multiple times in the job description.

Not Getting Basic Company Facts Right. Getting basic information incorrect, like referencing the wrong company or addressing your cover letter to the wrong person, basically tells employers “I literally could not care less about this job opportunity and I’m using this same letter to apply for 20 other jobs right this second.”

Double check your cover letter greeting and make sure that you list the right company and the right contact, and mention the company name a few times throughout your letter.

Also, have a basic sense of what the company does , who their target audience is, what competition they face, and the challenges they are currently up against. When you can communicate like an insider, the hiring manager or recruiter will have a much easier time envisioning you as a member of the company.

Using an Outdated Greeting. Save the “ Dear Sir or Madam ” cover letter greetings for the grave. Instead, just use gender neutral terms like “Dear Hiring Manager,” when you’re unsure of who’s going to be reading your cover letter.

If you know exactly who’s going to be reading your letter, mention their name specifically, and always address women with the title “Ms.” rather than “Mrs.”

You should always do your best to find the name of the hiring manager . Check the job posting, the company’s career page on their website, or LinkedIn to find a name. If all else fails, simply call the company and ask who the hiring manager is for the given position.

If you can’t find a name and don’t want to use “ Dear Hiring Manager ,” try another greeting that’s a bit more specific like:

Dear [Department] Manager

Dear Hiring Committee

Dear [Title of Person You’d Report To]

Dear [Department] Hiring Team

Making Your Cover Letter Too Short. Submitting a cover letter that’s less than half a page will send the wrong message to employers about your work ethic or your interest in the job at hand. Plus, you’re completely blowing off the opportunity to highlight your skills and experience and show off why you’re the best person for the job.

Making Your Cover Letter Too Long. A good cover letter shouldn’t be any longer than one page . Unless you’re applying for a managerial or executive position, there’s really no reason why your cover letter should be any longer. Plus, you risk burdening the employer and losing their interest.

Hiring managers read about a million cover letters and resumes everyday, and you’ll want to make sure yours is concise to avoid wasting their time. Keep your cover letter brief, and only include the most important information need to make an employer want to invite you in for an interview.

Including Too Much Information or Over-Explaining. Don’t include more information than the employer needs to know. Address their concerns and let them know that you have all of the necessary qualifications.

Some people feel the need to explain career changes or why they’re applying for a job from somewhere far away. Keep your explanations short to make sure that the employer is able to focus on your skills and experiences.

Not Giving Concrete Examples. The skills and qualifications you claim to have in your cover letter are meaningless if you can’t back them up. Support your statements by giving examples of jobs or roles where you used these strengths.

For example, instead of just saying “I have great organizational skills and I’m a hard worker,” say something like, “I personally organized our annual fundraiser and increased employee participation by 30%.” Much more convincing.

Notice how the above example also quantifies the writer’s accomplishments. Whenever you can, include numbers to make a bigger impact with your statements. Recruiters and hiring managers love to see verifiable proof of your deeds, so make it easy to see how you’ve added value in the past.

Starting Your Introductory Paragraph With Your Name. Nothing says “rookie mistake” like opening your cover letter with “My name is Joe Schmo.” Your name should be listed in the sign off of your cover letter, in your resume, and elsewhere in your application materials.

Making Your Cover Letter a Written-Out Version of Your Resume. Your cover letter shouldn’t be your resume in paragraph form. Your resume is the first thing most employers look at, so you’re just wasting everyone’s time if you use your cover letter to write out everything that’s already on your resume.

Use your cover letter to focus on one or two examples of your work experiences that show what you can bring to the table. Help employers picture you doing the work by explaining what you’ve done in your previous positions.

Using the Wrong Format. There’s no one-size-fits-all format for every cover letter , and how you write yours depends on your experience and what you have to offer.

If you’re describing one or two particular relevant experiences, it may make sense to go with the standard three-paragraph format . On the other hand, if you’re listing your skills or detailing your career path , a more creative approach like bullet points may be more suitable.

Always include these sections in your cover letter:

Your contact information

An opening paragaph that grabs the reader’s attention

2-3 body paragraphs that highlight your relevant professional achievements and interest in the company/job

A closing paragaph with a call-to-action and a thank-you

A professional sign-off

Focusing Too Much on Education and Training. We’re all super proud that you finally finished that college thing and got your degree, but what employers really care about is your relevant experience and what you can bring to the table on day one.

Briefly mention education if it’s relevant to the job, but make the main focus of your cover letter your relevant experiences. If you’re new on the job scene and your education is your most relevant experience, describe projects you worked on and the skills you gained, instead of just the course content .

Sharing Completely Irrelevant Information. If you have a good idea of the company’s culture, it makes sense to show your compatibility in your cover letter.

Instead of describing your weird hobbies or your booming social life, talk about your values and how they align with the core values of the company. Check their website to get a good feel for their culture and values and use that information to show you’re the perfect fit.

Not Showing Any Actual Interest in the Job. If you don’t sound genuinely interested or excited for the job opportunity, you’re probably not going to land an interview. Show enthusiasm for the job so the hiring manager knows that you’re highly motivated, and not just looking for a paycheck.

Forgetting to Address the Employer’s Concerns. While you’re talking about how awesome and qualified you are, make sure to do so in the context of the job requirements and the company’s needs. If the hiring manager can see that everything about you is perfect for the specific job, you’re bound to land an interview.

Are there weaknesses to a cover letter?

Yes there is a big disadvantage to a cover letter if it has too many mistakes. If you send a cover letter that has a lot of mistakes, you care going to give the hiring manager a bad impression of yourself. Whether or not you’re a good candidate will no longer matter if you cannot ably present your qualifications. That is why it is important to review your cover letter before you submit it.

What are the advantages of a cover letter?

Cover letters have to advantage of explaining your qualifications in more detail while adding a personal touch. A cover letter will also underscore how serious you are about the position, especially if you have done your research and show how your skills will fulfill the needs of the position. Just make sure to use specific examples that directly connect back to the job description.

Is it OK to use “Dear Hiring Manager”?

Yes, it is OK to use “Dear Hiring Manager” if you do not have a specific name to address your cover letter. Obviously it is always better to address a specific person, which is why you should do your research before you send the letter, however sometimes it is impossible to know the name of the person. In this case, the generic “Dear Hiring Manager” is acceptable.

One of the first things employers notice about a job candidate is their cover letter. A good cover letter shows that you’re an effective communicator and that you have what it takes to get the job done, so you’ll want yours to be effective and error-free.

Many cover letters don’t get the attention they deserve, and a lot of people just write one at the last minute, attach it to their resume , and hope that it gets the job done — and these cover letters happen to be full of these common errors.

Make sure to check through your resume and make sure you don’t make any of the mistakes we’ve mentioned in this article, and you’re sure to get called in for an interview!

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Maddie Lloyd was a writer for the Zippia Advice blog focused on researching tips for interview, resume, and cover letter preparation. She's currently a graduate student at North Carolina State University's department of English concentrating in Film and Media Studies.

Matt Warzel a President of a resume writing firm (MJW Careers, LLC) with 15+ years of recruitment, outplacement, career coaching and resume writing experience. Matt is also a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and Certified Internet Recruiter (CIR) with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Marketing Focus) from John Carroll University.

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• Resume and Cover Letter
• 10 of the Worst Cover Letter...

10 of the Worst Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid

8 min read · Updated on March 10, 2022

Make sure your cover letter helps your candidacy by avoiding these all-too-common mistakes.

Once you've updated your professional resume , it's time to prepare your job applications for submission to hiring managers. This usually involves making some small tweaks to your resume and creating a cover letter to accompany your application.

But aren't cover letters a thing of the past?

Yes and no. While 74 percent of recruiters don't find the cover letter to be an important factor when evaluating candidates, the remaining percentage do. And since you have no way of knowing which type of recruiter will receive your application, it's best to cover your bases and include a cover letter with every job application. As an added bonus, a reported 53 percent of employers admit they prefer candidates to send a cover letter when applying for a job.

However, not just any cover letter will do. If you're going to take the time to craft this document, make sure it helps, not hurts, your candidacy, by following cover letter dos and don'ts. Below are 10 common and costly mistakes to avoid when writing your next cover letter .

Cover Letter Mistake #1: Lack of research

Thanks to the Internet, there's little excuse to not personalize your cover letters. Whenever possible, research the name of the hiring manager or recruiter (if it's not listed on the actual job post) and the company who's filling the position, and use this information to customize your opening document.  If you skip this step, you're sending the message to the reader that you don't really care enough about the position to do your homework. In a world where employers are inundated with applications, any excuse to eliminate candidates along the application process will do. Don't let this cover letter mistake give them a reason to cut you from the pile.

There are some exceptions to this rule. If you're responding to an anonymous job posting, you're not expected to include the name of the company or the hiring manager in the cover letter. When a company goes out of its way to keep its name and the names of its employees confidential, you can assume the hiring manager won't take off points if you use a generic opener.

Cover Letter Mistake #2: Overly formal or casual greetings

Whenever you're applying for a position or preparing for an interview, take the company's culture into account. You can get a better sense of the employer's brand by checking out its Careers section online, reading reviews on Glassdoor, searching for its profile on The Muse , following the social media accounts the company set up for recruitment purposes, and talking to your networking connections who've worked at the organization. This will help you decide if you're better off going with a “Hello Jeff” or a “Dear Mr. Berger” type of greeting.

If you're unable to address your cover letter to a specific person, steer clear of incredibly formal introductions, such as “To Whom It May Concern,” as they are not conversational and can be considered off-putting. The same goes for super casual openers like “Hi!” Even if you're dealing with a startup that prides themselves on being non-traditional, this cover letter greeting is a little too laid back for your first communication and may have the reader questioning your professionalism.

Play it safe and stick with a gender-neutral opener such as “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear Recruiter.”

Cover Letter Mistake #3: Talking all about me, me, me

Think of your cover letter as your sales pitch to the hiring manager. Instead of spending the entire time talking about yourself and your wants and needs, consider the needs of your prospective employer. Your potential boss is the one who will (hopefully) read your cover letter, after all.

Review the job description again and check out the latest news on the company. Ask yourself why the organization is hiring for this role. In other words, what pain point will this position solve? When you can relate to the hiring manager's concerns and position your skills as the solution to his or her needs, you have a better chance of avoiding cover letter mistakes and capturing the reader's attention.

Cover Letter Mistake #4: Repeating your entire resume

Remember, the recruiter already has your resume - there's no need to rehash your entire job history when writing your cover letter. In fact, I believe this is why so many employers disregard the cover letter; they've read so many bad cover letters that merely summarize their candidates' resumes, that they see no need to read them.

One cover letter tip is to surprise the hiring manager by using your opening to demonstrate your understanding of the company's position in the marketplace and its needs and then highlight your work experience and accomplishments that speak to these requirements.

Avoid these common cover letter mistakes.  Hire a TopResume writer today .

Cover Letter Mistake #5: Generic messaging

Even if you're applying to an anonymous job listing, a common cover letter mistake is using boilerplate text. While your introduction may not be as specific as it would be for a position where the employer is known, this doesn't give you license to use a generic template for the main sections of your cover letter.

Based upon the job description, make a list of the top 3-5 requirements for the role. This may have to do with your knowledge, skills, and experience of a certain topic or an industry, your experience performing a particular task, or your education and other credentials. Then, brainstorm how you possess each prerequisite, referencing a specific contribution, accomplishment, or experience from your work history that illustrates these qualifications. Summarize this information in a paragraph or a set of bullets. This is a great way to customize your cover letter and grab the reader's attention.

Cover Letter Mistake #6: Not following instructions

As I previously mentioned, some employers, especially those in the healthcare, education, and legal sector, still value a cover letter and will request one in their job description. Do yourself a favor and re-read the job description carefully to provide context to your cover letter dos and don'ts. Oftentimes the employer will request certain information to be included in the cover letter. The last thing you want to do is ignore this request, as the reader will assume you are not detail-oriented and unable to follow the simplest of instructions.

Cover Letter Mistake #7: Typos

When you're competing against a large pool of candidates for one role, the smallest cover letter mistakes could be used to eliminate you from the pile. These days, we've grown all too reliant on spell-check and autocorrect to edit our communication. It's easy to overlook the small mistakes, such as using “higher” when you really meant to say “hire.” Don't let these silly details derail your job application.

Follow this simple cover letter tip: Reread your cover letter. Then read it again. Then hand it over to a trusted friend. You know, the one that majored in English. If you're looking for some resources to improve your grammar and punctuation, check out Lynne Truss' book, “ Eats, Shoots & Leaves: The Zero Tolerance Approach to Punctuation ,” and “ Woe is I: The Grammarphobe's Guide to Better English in Plain English ” by Patricia T. O'Conner. They're great reads!

Cover Letter Mistake #8: Writing a novel

If recruiters spend an average of six seconds scanning your resume before deciding if you're a fit, how long do you think they'll spend reading your cover letter? Here's another set of cover letter dos and don'ts: your cover letter shouldn't be any longer than is necessary to get your points across. And it definitely shouldn't exceed one page.

Also, keep its readability in mind. Similar to your resume, try to create white space in your cover letter by avoiding dense blocks of text.

Cover Letter Mistake #9: Going off brand

Whether you're searching for a new job or managing your career path, it's important to pay close attention to how you present your professional brand to others — online, on paper, and face to face. To that end, another cover letter tip is to give it the same look and feel as your resume. If you're uploading your cover letter as a separate document to an online application, ensure it uses the same header as your resume. Also, make sure the font type, color, and size, the contact information you provide, and even the name you use on both documents remain consistent.

Cover Letter Mistake #10: TMI

While you can use a cover letter to explain an employment gap or your interest in relocating to a new city, don't overshare your personal details with a prospective employer. The recruiter doesn't need to know the gory details of your back surgery or how you had your heart broken and need to find a new city to call home. These extraneous details can't be used as selling points and will only detract from your qualifications and candidacy.

Your resume should be mistake free as well. Is yours? Find out with a free resume review .

Recommended Reading:

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9 Biggest Cover Letter Mistakes and How to Fix Them

• October 6, 2023
• In Resumes & Cover Letters

Avoiding common cover letter mistakes can quickly boost your chances and convince the hiring manager that you are the right fit for the position. After all, you’ve only got three paragraphs to tell the employer what makes you the perfect addition to their team. Because of that, you need to prioritize the most critical information and work effectively within the limited space. So, let’s look at how you can avoid common cover letter mistakes and motivate the employer to choose you out of all the candidates.

Common cover letter mistakes and how to fix them

Writing a cover letter is an important part of the job application process. However, there are common mistakes that many people make when crafting their cover letters. In this response, we will discuss some of these mistakes and provide tips on how to fix them.

Mistake 1: Not analyzing the job description

Mistake 2: using the wrong cover letter format, mistake 3: highlighting duties instead of accomplishments, mistake 4: repeating your resume, mistake 5: focusing on yourself too much, mistake 6: sharing irrelevant experience, mistake 7: using the same cover letter template for multiple jobs, mistake 8: including too much information, mistake 9: making spelling or grammar mistakes, how to avoid cover letter mistakes.

In this day and age, there’s no excuse for failing to do your research. So, before you start writing your cover letter, take a moment to read through the job description carefully. While doing this, focus on the top 5 requirements for the role. These may be related to experience, education, skills, or other qualifications. Once you’ve found these perquisites, brainstorm examples of when you’ve used them in your career. Then, summarize your experience with successfully using these top qualifications in one paragraph. This will grab the hiring manager’s attention and show that you aren’t using a generic template.

Avoid trying to catch the reader’s attention with intricate design at the expense of readability. Your cover letter can be unique and use a similar design to your resume but don’t get too artistic with it. By using an easy-to-read font, you will ensure that the content of your cover letter will stand out. To improve the readability, remember to break up text into shorter, concise paragraphs. Above all, keep your cover letter to one page at most, and leave space between the paragraphs.

Leave the list of job duties in your resume. In your cover letter, focus more on your professional accomplishments and times when you have exceeded the goals. For example, highlight any awards or recognition you have earned throughout your career. If you don’t know which ones to include, choose the ones that are most impressive and relevant to the position you’re applying to.

There’s no need to write out the content of your resume in your cover letter. In fact, it can quickly put the hiring manager off if you reiterate what they’ve already read in your resume. Your cover letter should expand on the information that is in your resume. For example, discuss specific accomplishments you achieved in your past jobs using the skills that you mention on your resume.

Remember that your cover letter is essentially your sales pitch. In it, you should address the employer’s needs and how you could fulfill them. So, stay away from describing your wishes and wants in length. Instead, ask yourself what you can offer to the company. What challenges are they facing right now? What pain points can you help them solve? By looking at the position from the employer’s point of view, you will better relate your skills and qualifications to their needs.

You might be in a position where you know that your experience is not relevant to the job. As a result, you may want to explain this in your cover letter. But before you do so and alert the hiring manager to this fact, pause. Instead of explaining why your experience is irrelevant, focus on how it prepared you for the job at hand. Discuss transferable skills and knowledge you gained during your career and how you would apply them in your new position to become a valuable employee.

While the formatting of your cover letter can stay the same, the contents should always be unique and tailored to the position. A good cover letter addresses the specific requirements of the role and company you’re applying to. Thus, you should always edit or rewrite your cover letter before applying for a new job. Some of the key things to focus on include the hiring manager’s name and the exact title of the position you’re applying to. Of course, you should also highlight the most relevant skills, qualifications, and values that align with what the company is seeking.

Before sending your cover letter, ask yourself whether the information is relevant to the job. For example, you might want to explain why you are changing careers or relocating. On the other hand, the employer doesn’t need to know the personal details. Those are unlikely to add to your qualifications and could even seem like a red flag. So, only include the information that enhances your application and highlights the positives.

Even a tiny cover letter mistake can land you in the ‘no’ pile in today’s competitive job market. So, never skip over proofreading your cover letter multiple times. First, use spell-check in your word editing program. Then, go over the cover letter again and read through it carefully to catch any mistakes that might have slipped past. You can also try reading it out loud or from the bottom to the top to detect errors. Ask a friend, colleague, or family member to proofread it for you and get their feedback on the overall tone of the cover letter.

To avoid cover letter mistakes, consider the following tips:

• Personalize your cover letter: Tailor your cover letter to the specific job and company you are applying to. Avoid using generic templates and make an effort to address the hiring manager by name, if possible.
• Avoid being too formal or informal: Strike a balance between being professional and personable in your writing. Avoid overly formal language and clichés, but also avoid being too casual or using slang.
• Focus on the employer’s needs: Instead of solely talking about yourself, highlight how your skills and experiences align with the requirements of the job. Show the employer how you can add value to their organization.
• Keep it concise: A cover letter should be clear, concise, and to the point. Avoid rambling or including unnecessary details. Stick to the most relevant information that showcases your qualifications.
• Proofread for errors: Thoroughly proofread your cover letter for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. Read it multiple times or ask someone else to review it for you. Mistakes can create a negative impression and harm your chances of getting an interview.
• Avoid discussing salary expectations: Unless specifically requested, it’s generally best to avoid discussing salary expectations in your cover letter. Save this discussion for later stages of the hiring process.

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Common Cover Letter Mistakes

A cover letter should strengthen an applicant's chances of landing a job, but if done carelessly, it can be the reason your resume ends up on the rejection pile. Your cover letter should be professional, concise, and informative. Here is a list of common mistakes that you should avoid.

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Common Cover Letter Mistakes:

1. submitting the same cover letter for every position..

If you're going to send a generic cover letter to every hiring manager, you might be better off not sending one at all. Even if you're in a rush, include the name of the company or organization you're applying to in the cover letter.

Never submit a cover letter that does not show your interest in or knowledge of the company you're applying to.

2. Using the incorrect company name.

Never copy and paste sections of one cover letter into another. If you're applying for several jobs, double-check that you've included the correct name of the institution and that you've addressed the letter to the relevant hiring manager.

3. Not conducting sufficient research.

Unless you don't know the name of the company you're applying to, there's no excuse not to conduct research on them. Before constructing a cover letter, you need to look into the company or institution, as well as its key staff members.

Once you have an idea of the company culture, and the initiatives and projects they do, you'll have an idea of the value you can add to their ventures.

4. Embellishing or lying.

It's one thing to repackage your skills and experience so that they work in your favor, but lying about your abilities and work experience to get a position is not okay. If you're hired, you'll be required to make good on the promises you've made.

5. Using an inappropriate tone.

Being too formal can be just as bad as being too casual. By conducting in-depth research on the company or institution, you'll be able to express yourself appropriately.

6. Repeating everything in your resume.

A cover letter should supplement your resume, but it shouldn't be a summary of it. Don't speak at length about yourself in the cover letter; rather use the space to impress the hiring manager with your knowledge of the company and how you plan on adding value with your skills and experience.

7. Drawing attention to your shortcomings.

If you don't have all the qualities or skills specified in the job posting, highlight the strengths you do possess, but don't mention your shortcomings.

8. Misreading the job posting's instructions.

Make sure you've read and re-read all the job posting's instructions and underlined the keywords and phrases before starting your cover letter. If there's specific information they've asked you to include in your cover letter, ensure you have done so.

9. Submitting a cover letter riddled with errors.

You may be the best candidate for the job, but sending the hiring manager a sloppy cover letter won't get you an interview. Make sure you've used tools like Grammarly to double-check for spelling and grammar errors. It is also advisable to get someone else to read over your cover letter before you send it off.

10. Incorrect formatting.

Refrain from using color, graphics, or fancy fonts in your cover letter. Stick to a tried-and-tested format.

11. Having a cover letter that's too long.

Your cover letter should span half a page to one page. Remember, hiring managers receive hundreds of applications and they don't have time to read your essay.

12. Going off-topic or providing too much information.

Keep it short and sweet. Brainstorming your cover letter and mapping out each paragraph before you begin will help to keep you on track. Using a template as a guide is also a good idea.

How to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation

What are the most common cover letter mistakes?

• Using the incorrect company name.
• Embellishing or lying.
• Using an inappropriate tone.
• Repeating everything in your resume.
• Drawing attention to your shortcomings.
• Submitting a cover letter with spelling and grammar errors.
• Incorrect formatting.
• Providing too much information.

Will a bad cover letter hurt my application?

Yes, a poorly written cover letter can result in your resume not being read or put to the bottom of the pile.

How long should your cover letter be?

A cover letter should not be longer than a single page.

What shouldn't be included in a cover letter?

• Informal greetings.
• Overly personal details.
• Text abbreviations.

What makes a strong cover letter?

• Keeping the letter concise and informative.
• Addressing the hiring manager by name.
• Showing relevant achievements.
• Targeting the needs of the employer.

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How to write a cover letter, how to address a cover letter, smartcoverletter, best cover letter generators, the 12 best cover letter tips for 2024.

8 Cover Letter Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

3 key takeaways

• Understanding the most common cover letter mistakes to ensure your application stands out.
• How to avoid these mistakes and write a cover letter that stops recruiters in their tracks
• How to create tailored cover letters with Teal’s AI Resume Builder

Every year, thousands of job seekers make cover letter mistakes that hinder their job search. In the age of LinkedIn, where it seems like almost 900 applicants are vying for a single position within 24 hours of posting, avoiding these mistakes is crucial.

In a world where most job seekers don’t submit cover letters , adding one can set you apart and help you stand out, increasing your chances of landing a job interview.  

Avoid common cover letter mistakes with Teal

Want to avoid mistakes and craft a cover letter that aligns your experience with every role you apply to? 

With Teal, you can generate a tailored, impactful cover letter in less than 30 seconds. Just match your resume with a job description, and the AI Cover Letter Generator will create a customized letter based on your information and position details.

Things to avoid when writing a cover letter

If you choose to write a cover letter, making sure it stands out to hiring professionals is key. 

After all, writing a cover letter can be time-consuming, and your time is valuable—don’t waste it overlooking details that could set you back.

Below are 8 things to avoid while writing a cover letter, so you can be sure your cover letter opens doors instead of closing them.

1. Not following the job description instructions

The job application process is a two-way street. 

While you're evaluating if a company is the right fit for you, recruiters and hiring managers are assessing whether you’re right for the role. One of the first tests they often set is in the job posting itself: the instructions. 

The rules can be pretty specific, and they usually revolve around what they want you to submit, how they want you to submit it, and in what format. 

Including instructions is an easy way for recruiters to weed out applicants who don’t follow the rules because not following them says one of two things: either you don’t pay close attention to detail, or you’re not genuinely interested in this position—or, even worse, both. Trying to beat the system leaves a bad first impression on prospective employers.

What to do instead:

Be an active reader.

Instead of skimming, actively read the specific job posting. Highlight key instructions and double-check to make sure you followed them correctly.

When you’re potentially applying to 10+ jobs a week, they can all start to look the same, making it easy to forget which job is which when a recruiter calls for an interview. 

With Teal’s Job Tracker, you can quickly save, track, and analyze job listings. And the jobs stay in your system, regardless of whether or not the position has been removed from a job board. 

‍ Create a checklist.

Create a checklist based on the employer's guidelines, and cross off items as you go.

Ask someone to proofread your letter.  

Have a friend or mentor review and proofread your cover letter to ensure you haven't missed any instructions or made any errors or typos. 

If you graduated from a college or university, their career center is another free resource for college students and alumni, and cities usually offer free career centers with experts who can give you advice. 

Try searching for “free career center [city or county]” or “free career resources [city or county].”

CareerOneStop can help you locate local resources as well. Just type in your zip code and hit “search.” 

2. Not researching the the company and position

Researching every employer and position before you write your cover letter might sound daunting, but writing a generic cover letter is pointless. 

You want potential employers to read your entire cover letter, and if you don’t make it interesting from the start, you’ll lose them immediately. 

A great way to accomplish this is by demonstrating your knowledge of the company and connecting it to how your skills and experience will help them solve a problem or reach a goal. 

Doing this will help you stand out from 99 percent of other applicants, because the majority just aren’t willing to put in the extra effort to write a truly compelling (and tailored) cover letter. 

What to do instead: 

Visit the company’s website. 

Read the key product pages , and pay attention to the site navigation at the top or in the footer. Sometimes, there will be a “ Customers ” tab. These are great pages to visit to learn more about the employer’s audience.  

Check the “ About” page and “Careers” page (which may be the same) to learn more about the company’s values, mission, founding story, notable milestones, leadership team, and company culture. 

Actually read these pages from top to bottom. Don’t just scan. Search for keywords you could feature in your cover letter. You could pull keywords from places like the “values” section, for instance.  

If they have a blog, notice the topics they cover and read a few recent posts. It might give you some content for your cover letter.

Review all social media accounts. 

Scroll to the footer, or look in the header for the company’s social media links. Click through to every profile you find.

Bonus: follow and engage with them on social media—especially LinkedIn. . This is a great way to get them familiar with your name so they begin to recognize it. 

Another tip: Look through their social media followers. This will give you an idea of their audience.

Google the company and its leaders. 

Type the company’s name into Google and look at the related searches for them. Any negative news stories? Recent rounds of layoffs? 

Look for recent press releases, news stories, feature launches, bad press, or recent pivots. Crunchbase, Google News, and TechCrunch are all good places to find this sort of information. Google is also a great place to learn about any competitors because they’ll usually show up in the search results somehow.

Last but not least, Google the founders, plus the recruiter and hiring manager, if you know their names. Addressing your cover letter to a specific person (rather than a generic “to whom it may concern”) shows effort and attention to detail.

All of this information is perfect to add to your Teal Company Tracker. 

View their LinkedIn page. 

Who are they looking for? Click on the current (and past) employees working on the team you’re applying to, and pay attention to the type of people they hire. 

Where did they go to school? What did they study? Where have they worked? Are there common patterns or threads in who they hire? This can help you tailor your LinkedIn profile so more recruiters find you.

3. Using the wrong tone or voice

Concentrate on the personality and tone of not only the job description but also the company’s social media and website copy, and make sure your cover letter mirrors theirs from the get-go. And that starts with how you address your cover letter .

A sterile greeting, like “Dear Sir,” will either make you sound like a bot or use the same cover letter for every job you apply to. On the other hand, an overly casual tone can come across as unprofessional and make a bad first impression. 

It's important to strike the right balance between professionalism and the company's culture.

Find the right person’s name.

Job descriptions rarely spell out who the hiring manager is by name, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find a few hints. 

Do they mention a position this role will report to? 

If so, use LinkedIn's advanced search features to find the name of the hiring manager or department head and address them by name. 

Take stock of the company’s tone and voice. 

Gauge the company's culture from its social media, website, and any available employee reviews to tailor your greeting's formality.

If you do find the hiring manager on LinkedIn, use Crystal Knows to get a complete overview of their personality based on their online presence. 

Avoid assumptions.

If you’re unsure about a person's title or gender identity, opt for neutral greetings like "Dear hiring team" rather than “Dear Sir.” 

4. Coming across generic or impersonal 

Your cover letter is a platform to showcase how you’ll add value to the company, not a personal essay about your career goals. 

While it's important to convey your passion and drive, solely focusing on your needs comes across as self-centered. Remember, the company is looking for someone who can help them achieve their goals.

Consider what the recruiter wants to read, not just what you want to say.

Put yourself in a recruiter’s shoes. What information do you think would make them salivate over you after reading your cover letter? 

Here’s a list of questions to ask yourself to jumpstart your brainstorming process.

• Do you have experience solving problems similar to the company’s current ones?
• Do you have a unique skill that will help the company solve its problems?
• Do you have experience, a genuine interest in, or knowledge about the company’s industry?
• Do you have unique insights into their audience segments? Have you spoken to this audience before?
• What values and beliefs do you share with the company? 
• How will your particular work style mesh well with the current company culture? 
• What unique skill set do you offer the current team doesn’t already have? 
• Do you have any advice on what tools the company might benefit from or any recent industry trends they could capitalize on? 
• What teams have you collaborated with cross-functionally before? Will you be working with the same types of teams and skill sets as your previous employer?
• What are the company’s short- and long-term goals? Discuss your relevant work experiences that will help them reach theirs. 

Quantify your achievements. 

Once you have some ideas about how your past experience maps back to the job description, it’s time to prove it. You do that by quantifying your achievements. 

What type of numbers impress hiring managers? Here’s a list of a few.

• Financial: If you can tie your achievements directly to company revenue or anything to do with money, that’s impressive. 
• People: How many people have you managed in the past? How many clients have you served? 
• Time: Productivity is everything at work. Elaborate on how long something took you to complete. You can also quantify your tenure or experience in the industry.
• Online presence : Have you written for impressive publications? How many? For how long? Do you have a lot of followers on a specific platform? How many? What’s your engagement rate? 

‍ Write a benefit-driven narrative.

All this means is frame your experience in terms of how you benefited the companies you worked for in the past. 

5. Not highlighting your most relevant skills

Your resume and cover letter serve distinct purposes. 

While your resume offers a concise overview of your skills and experiences, learning how to write a general cover letter means offering context by highlighting specific achievements and showcasing your personality. 

Rehashing your resume in your cover letter is a missed opportunity to provide a richer narrative about how you could bring value to the organization and explicitly connect the dots for employers. 

Write about your interest in the specific position and company. 

Duplicating your resume in your cover letter is unnecessary and can make your cover letter feel generic.

One way to avoid this mistake is to open your cover letter by explaining why you’re interested in this specific position at this specific company and then connect it back to your experience and personal brand. 

Address potential objections in your cover letter. 

It’s always better to be upfront about potential reasons you may have a career gap in your resume or if you were affected by a layoff recently.  

Maybe you have a big gap in your career history, or maybe you made a lateral jump to a new career. Your cover letter is the perfect place to address potential “red flags” before they become red in recruiters’ eyes. 

6. Overlooking personalization

It's easy to find cover letter templates and generic cover letters online. However, using a one-size-fits-all approach can make your application indistinguishable from others. 

Personalization, on the other hand, demonstrates effort, genuine interest, and a deeper understanding of the role.

‍ Look for inspiration.

Before you write your cover letter, draw inspiration from other sources. Pull details from a variety of cover letter examples to create your unique version. 

‍ Incorporate job posting language.

Use keywords and phrases from the job posting to show how their needs align with your skills and experience. 

The Teal AI Resume Builder and Job Application Tracker pull the top keywords from any job description so you can align your content every time you hit apply.

7. Having the wrong length

A cover letter should be concise but still comprehensive. An overly lengthy letter that tells your entire life story can overwhelm the reader, making them lose interest. 

On the other hand, a short cover letter must be written in a precise way so it doesn’t seem rushed. Striking the right balance is key to maintaining the reader's interest and covering all necessary information.

Are there length requirements?

Does the job description mention how long your cover letter should be (at minimum and at maximum)? 

Stick to best practices.:

There are a few common best practices when it comes to cover letter length. 

• A cover letter should take up at least half or a whole page, but not more.
• Aim for 250-400 words.  
• Shorter is better.

Embrace white space.

Use bullet points, subheadings, and short paragraphs to break up walls of text. This will make it more enjoyable to read and, therefore, ensure it gets read. 

End with a call-to-action (CTA). 

Conclude with a CTA that prompts the recruiter to schedule an interview or get in touch with you ASAP. 

8. Providing too much detail

While it's good to be thorough, there's a fine line between providing sufficient details and overwhelming the reader. 

The goal of your cover letter is to pique the employer's interest, prompting them to delve deeper into your resume—not to provide a full account of your entire professional history.

Prioritize relevant details.

‍ Focus on experiences and achievements directly related to the job you're applying to.

Use hyperlinks.

‍ If you refer to specific projects or portfolios, use hyperlinks to direct readers to more information. This keeps the cover letter concise while providing more details for interested employers.

Avoid jargon.

Unless mentioned in the job description, avoid jargon or overly technical language. Keep it accessible.

Avoid cover letter mistakes with Teal

Navigating the job market can be challenging, but a solid cover letter can help you make a good impression on potential employers—and it starts with avoiding common cover letter mistakes. 

With Teal by your side, writing an effective cover letter that ticks all the boxes is a breeze. 

Teal offers AI cover letter generation to help you customize every letter and stand out.

Ready to take cover letter creation to the next level? Sign up for Teal for free .

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i tailor my cover letter to a specific job without sounding insincere, what is the ideal length for a cover letter to avoid being too verbose or too brief, is it a mistake to reuse the same cover letter for multiple job applications.

Lauren Holliday

Related articles.

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How Long Should a Cover Letter Be? (Ideal Length for 2024)

Lying on a Resume? Learn the Risks & Consequences (+ Better Alternatives)

30 Best Personal Skills for Your Resume [Examples]

We help you find the career dream.

Common Cover Letter Mistakes to Know Before Applying

You’ve probably heard the rumor going around that you don’t need a cover letter anymore. But while these controversial headlines are catchy, they’re not being totally honest with you .

Having an outstanding cover letter could be your ticket to a job interview – and having cover letter mistakes (or no cover letter at all) could result in your resume getting trashed.

The truth is that there’s no way to predict how much a hiring manager will care about your cover letter. They could ignore it entirely or analyze every word you write.

You’re playing a dangerous game if you skip out on creating a standout cover letter. Don’t gamble with the risk!

Just create a good cover letter so you’ll be confident in your job application.

So, how do you create a cover letter that you can be proud of?

First, start with the online cover letter builder .

Second, check out the free online resume samples here , here , and here .

Third, read these crucial cover letter tips and tricks in the Careers Center , including the following five common cover letter mistakes you’re probably making right now.

Cover Letter Mistake #1: Sounding Boring – Or Worse, Bored

Your cover letter probably isn’t the right place to talk about last year’s wild Spring Break bender. However, your cover letter still needs to be interesting enough to keep the hiring manager from getting bored silly.

One of the biggest mistakes you could make with your cover letter is being so boring – or sounding so bored – that the hiring manager stops reading why they should hire you. And if they stop reading, what’s the point of writing it?

A boring cover letter defeats the purpose of writing a cover letter at all.

Do your best to gauge the level of creativity that the hiring manager would appreciate at the company you’re applying for. You can tell a lot about how traditional they would want cover letters to be by the way they represent themselves on their websites.

Check out their About Us pages for clues, such as looking at the words and photos they choose. Ask yourself these questions to help determine how you should add interest to your cover letter:

• Do they have pictures of employees having fun or are they hard at work?
• Do they use slang or professional jargon?
• Do they use formal words or contractions like “aren’t” and “can’t”?

For example, if they’re strictly professional and corporate, such as an established accounting firm, concentrate on adding interesting statistics and quantitative examples of how you’ve excelled at your previous jobs or in school.

On the other hand, if they’re a cutting-edge fashion magazine or hyper-hip marketing firm, you can be a little more creative in how you spice up your cover letter. Try a clever opening line or tell an interesting anecdote about why you’re a fantastic candidate.

Cover Letter Mistake #2: Recycling Your Resume

Your cover letter is the place where you can share why you’re a great candidate. It isn’t where you recycle your resume. Rehashing everything you already listed in your resume summary, qualifications, education, job history, and interests isn’t just unnecessary – it’s boring.

While it’s important that your cover letter, resume, and summary are all tailored for the job you’re applying for , they don’t have to say the same thing over and over again.

Resumes are supposed to be short and concise. There were probably a lot of skills and experiences that you could wished you could have fit in it, but there just wasn’t enough room.

Cover letters are the best place for you to share the qualifications that were interesting, but just didn’t make the cut into your resume.

Remember, the hiring manager is perfectly capable of reading your resume. You don’t need to rewrite it out again in your cover letter!

Cover Letter Mistake #3: Not Personalizing the Cover Letter Template

Addressing your cover letter to “Whom It May Concern” or worse, “Sir or Ma’am,” is an instant tip-off to the hiring manager that you didn’t care enough to check what their name was.

Little things like checking the hiring manager’s LinkedIn profile or calling the company to ask go a long way. It’s totally worth it to do a little digging to find out the name of the hiring manager.

Check out this article for more details on how to personalize your cover letter template here .

Cover Letter Mistake #4: Avoiding Employers’ Most Important Question

The basic question that every hiring manager is asking when they read your cover letter is, “Why should I hire you?”

Your cover letter should answer their question indirectly (or even directly, if you think that the hiring manager would find it appropriate) by telling them why you’re the best candidate for the job.

Share stories, facts, evidence, and qualifications that make you stand out as a candidate. However, it’s crucial that you tell the truth. Never lie on your cover letter or resume .

Cover Letter Mistake #5: Your Cover Letter is Too Long

Hiring managers expect cover letters to be between half to one page long. They probably won’t read anything longer than one page, unless you’re applying for a very senior position at a company. Stick to one page or less!

Check out The Ultimate Guide to Cover Letters by Resume.com for access to the online cover letter builder, cover letter examples, and more essential articles on cover letters today!

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What Should You Include in Your Cover Letter? [w/ Tips for 2024]

You’ve spent weeks job hunting, and you’ve found the perfect job.

Your resume is all set, and you’re almost ready to send your application.

There’s just one thing left—you’re writing a cover letter to create a flawless job application.

The only issue? You're not sure what exactly to include in your cover letter.

There’s no need to worry! We’re here to help

In this article, we’re going to cover:

• What Is a Cover Letter
• What Elements Should Your Cover Letter Include
• What You Shouldn’t Include in Your Cover Letter

Let’s get started.

What is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a document that you send as part of your job application, along with your resume or CV .

The cover letter’s purpose is to introduce you and briefly summarize why your professional background makes you the right person for the job.

On average, a cover letter should be between 250 and 400 words long and fit neatly on one page.

A cover letter is one of your first forms of communication with a hiring manager. It’s your opportunity to present yourself in your own words, stand out from other candidates, and get the hiring manager interested in learning more about you.

Let’s take a look at an example of what a cover letter looks like:

Why Do Cover Letters Matter?

After you’ve spent so long making the perfect resume , you might be wondering why you should even write a cover letter.

The truth is that while not all employers request a cover letter, you should always include one with your job application.

Adding a cover letter to your job application shows the hiring manager you’re willing to go the extra mile for the job, and you’re not just randomly applying and hoping your application sticks.

A cover letter is your opportunity to give the hiring manager more information about you as a candidate. This is your chance to personalize your application and provide additional information on your skills and experiences that align with what the employer is looking for and that you didn’t have space on your resume for.

But your cover letter is also your chance to go beyond your most important skills and experience. You can use it to talk about your passion for the industry or your enthusiasm to join this specific company’s team and show the hiring manager that you’re serious about the role.

If your cover letter is good, it can complement your resume and get you that much closer to an interview.

A badly written cover letter, on the other hand, could undermine even the best resume and lead to your application getting tossed in the ‘no’ pile, so it’s crucial to get this document right.

Need help preparing for an interview? Check out our guide to the most common interview questions and how to answer them!

What Elements Should You Include in a Cover Letter?

There are a few key elements you need to include to write a successful cover letter .

Let’s take a look at them one by one:

#1. A Professional Template

Your cover letter should be easy on the eyes and even easier to navigate.

This means you have to set the right page margins, adjust the line spacing, choose an appropriate font , and set it to the correct size, all while making sure your text never spills onto page two.

But what if there’s an easier way? 

Just use one of our cover letter templates instead.

Our free resume builder comes with built-in resume templates that you can match with a cover letter template for a stylish application.

You can automatically set your font style, size, and even the dimensions of the paper you intend to print it on - standard A4 or US letter format.

#2. Neatly-Split Paragraphs

A cover letter should be easy to navigate at a glance.

If your cover letter is a huge chunk of text that fully covers the entire page, without paragraphs or ample white space, it’s going to look cramped and leave a bad impression on the hiring manager.

This is where your cover letter’s formatting comes in. You should divide the contents of your cover letter into a header with contact information, and then split the actual text into an opening paragraph, a main body, a conclusion, and a formal closing line.

Be sure to also use line breaks and bullet points to break up your paragraphs to increase your cover letter’s readability.

This can make it seem less of an overwhelming read to the hiring manager and easier for them to skim through it all to find what they’re looking for.

#3. The Date of Writing

The exact date you write your cover letter may seem like a small detail, but it can actually add an extra touch of professionalism to your job application.

This can help the hiring manager keep track of when you’ve applied for the role, and it reflects your attention to detail .

Just keep in mind that the format of the date should align with the standard in the country where you're applying. For example, in the US , the mm-dd-yyyy format (e.g., May 22, 2024 ) is the go-to, whereas most other countries prefer the dd-mm-yyyy format (e.g., 22 January 2024 ).

#4. Your Interest in the Company

It’s important to tailor your cover letter for the specific job you’re applying for to show the hiring manager that you’re a serious candidate who’s done their homework about the position.

This is why the body of your letter should always include a paragraph where you clearly explain why you’re interested in the specific company.

Start by doing some research on the employer . You have to show the hiring manager that you understand what makes the company unique and how you align with their values and needs.

Think about what you genuinely like about the company you’re applying for. Whether it’s their remote working conditions, their focus on diversity or sustainability, or something else entirely, be sure to mention it in your cover letter.

If you’ve used a product or service that the company provides, say so in your cover letter. On top of that, highlight what specific aspects of the company resonate with your career goals , such as their innovative methods or cutting-edge market strategy, that you want to be a part of.

You can also take the time to explain why you’re excited about the job itself. Talk about how your unique experience and skills make you a suitable candidate and how you’re confident you can contribute to the company’s goals.

Looking to write a cover letter for an internship ? Check out our detailed guide!

#5. A Call to Action

Every cover letter should end with a strategic call to action.

Your call to action can be a polite statement prompting the hiring manager to get in touch with you to go over your application or to discuss how you could contribute to their team.

Adding a call to action at the end of your cover letter shows that you’re proactive and eager to move forward with the hiring process. This highlights your enthusiasm for the role and makes it more likely for the hiring manager to get in touch with you after putting down your cover letter.

Here’s an example of a call to action at the end of a cover letter :

I am very enthusiastic about the opportunity to discuss how my artwork can contribute to Happy Hippo Book Publisher’s track record as the best children’s storybook provider on the market. Please feel free to contact me at the provided phone number so that we can discuss my application further.

Want to give your cover letter an extra kick? Use these tried and tested cover letter tips !

What Sections Should You Include in a Cover Letter?

When writing your cover letter, you can easily split the process into several key sections.

Let’s break them down:

• Header with contact details. The top of your cover letter should include a designated header where you can input your contact information, such as your full name, email address, phone number, address, and links to any relevant social media. Make sure these details match your resume and double-check for any typos.
• Company details. Do your research so you know exactly who to address your cover letter to. Add the hiring manager’s name, department, the company’s name, and the company’s address.
• Personalized greeting. Skip the cliche and impersonal “To Whom It May Concern” and use a more memorable greeting instead. We recommend using “Ms.” or “Mr.” followed by the hiring manager’s last name.
• Opening paragraph. Your cover letter should start with a brief and attention-grabbing paragraph . This should include a couple of your top skills, an impressive achievement, or a relevant qualification.
• Main body. Take the time to explain some of your top achievements or skills in more detail, and cover anything you didn’t have the space to address in your resume.
• Conclusion. Recap the main points in your cover letter so far, then wrap it up with a polite call to action.
• Closing line. Choose an appropriate closing line to finish your cover letter with and sign your name underneath.

What Should You Never Include in a Cover Letter?

A cover letter allows you to personalize your application and provide more details about you to the hiring manager.

But that doesn’t mean everything should make the cut.

Let’s look at what you should never include in your cover letter:

#1. Irrelevant information

Your cover letter should be concise and focus on the most relevant details that make you the right candidate for the job.

Hiring managers don’t have all day to spend on your application, and when they’re reading your cover letter, they want to get to the point quickly. If your cover letter includes too many personal anecdotes or irrelevant experiences, like how you worked as a dog walker at 15, they might get bored and stop reading it altogether.

A cover letter is, first and foremost, a professional document, not a personal essay. This means that focusing too much on yourself, as well as your wants, needs, and opinions, is not a good idea.

Your cover letter should focus on what you can do for the employer, not what they can do for you. If you miss the mark here, you’ll come off as an inattentive candidate and won’t be getting an interview.

#2. Overly Long Paragraphs

A dense, difficult-to-read text can discourage a hiring manager from going through your cover letter.

For example, if the body of your cover letter is contained in a single, thick paragraph, the hiring manager might skim over it and miss your main points.

Long paragraphs can also make your cover letter look poorly organized and make you come across as someone with bad written communication skills . Your essential qualifications and skills can get lost in that sea of words and hide the most important information you want to convey.

Overly long paragraphs also imply a lack of consideration for the hiring manager’s time. Keeping your text concise and easy to follow is just as important as the content itself. Otherwise, your cover letter might not catch the hiring manager’s attention at all.

#3. Salary Expectations

Unless the employer specifically asks you to, it’s considered taboo to include salary expectations in your cover letter, and it can even leave a bad impression on the hiring manager.

Talking about money in your cover letter can make it seem like your primary interest in the job is the paycheck. And, while there’s nothing wrong with wanting a specific salary, this can seriously undermine what you want to convey to the hiring manager about your enthusiasm for joining the company and your professionalism.

You should also keep in mind that talking about salary expectations so early on can even put you at a disadvantage in potential salary negotiations . If you mention a high number too early on, the hiring manager might reject your application before you even make it past the initial screening. But if you go too low, you could undervalue yourself.

This is why it’s recommended that you discuss salary expectations during an interview once you already understand the full scope of the role and have more context.

Are you just getting started on the job market? Check out our guide to writing an entry-level cover letter !

#4. Excessive Flattery

Writing a cover letter doesn’t mean writing a love letter to the company you’re applying for.

You don’t need to shower the employer with compliments to get the hiring manager to like you. In fact, if you use too many compliments or describe the company in the exact words they use on its website, you’re going to be severely disappointed.

For example, most companies you apply to may describe themselves as “innovative” or “ team-focused .” If that’s all you can say about them in your cover letter, it tells the hiring manager that you never researched the employer or paid much attention to what they do.

If you genuinely hold the company’s values, mission, or culture close to your heart, there’s no harm in mentioning how they inspire you. Just remember to keep it professional and related to how you can enthusiastically contribute to their work.

#5. False Information

This should go without saying but lying on your cover letter is just as bad as lying on your resume – very bad.

We get it; you want to impress the hiring manager. But exaggerating or falsifying information to make yourself look like the coolest candidate ever can easily backfire.

On one hand, the hiring manager is probably going to catch onto you while reading your cover letter. They’re going to notice the inconsistencies you didn’t pay attention to, and they simply won’t call you.

But it could be even worse. You could land an interview, only to have the hiring manager discover the truth face to face. Your professional reputation could suffer some serious damage, beyond just an awkward interaction during the interview.

Trust us – lying isn’t worth it. You’re capable of writing a standout cover letter without exaggerating anything you can’t back up.

#6. Grammatical Mistakes

You should always proofread your cover letter before submitting it with your job application.

Even when you’re absolutely sure there are no mistakes, sometimes you might miss something that the hiring manager will notice immediately.

This is why we always recommend you do several rounds of proofreading and editing before finalizing your job application.

Start by carefully reading your cover letter out loud. It might sound a little weird, but it helps you notice any awkward phrases or words that are out of place.

Then, run it through a spell-checking tool like QuillBot or Grammarly . They can help you spot any errors you might have missed.

Finally, ask a friend or family member for help. A fresh pair of eyes can read your cover letter and notice mistakes that both you and your robot sidekick might have skipped over.

#7. Complaints About Employers

As a general rule, you should never badmouth your previous place of employment.

If you were unjustly fired or passed over for a promotion for personal reasons, these are best explained during an interview.

It’s important to always maintain professionalism when your past employer or coworkers are brought up, especially in your cover letter.

For example, instead of saying you had enough of a chaotic work environment, you could say you’re “looking forward to joining a team that values structure and accountability.”

Check out these more common cover letter mistakes and keep an eye out while writing your cover letter!

29 Cover Letter Examples

Looking for inspiration? Check out these perfect cover letter examples for different professions.

#1. Customer Service Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a customer service cover letter here.

#2. Marketing Executive Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a marketing executive cover letter here.

#3. Medical Assistant Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a medical assistant cover letter here.

#4. Consultant Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a consultant cover letter here.

#5. College Student Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a college student cover letter here.

#6. Retail Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a retail cover letter here.

#7. Team Leader Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a team leader cover letter here.

#8. Actor Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing an actor cover letter here.

#9. Digital Marketing Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a digital marketing cover letter here.

#10. Executive Assistant Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing an executive assistant cover letter here.

#11. Finance Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a finance cover letter here.

#12. Graphic Designer Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a graphic designer cover letter here.

#13. IT Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing an IT cover letter here.

#14. Project Manager Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a project manager cover letter here.

#15. Sales Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a sales cover letter here.

#16. Accounting Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing an accounting cover letter here.

#17. Business Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a business cover letter here.

#18. Dental Assistant Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a dental assistant cover letter here.

#19. Human Resources Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a human resources cover letter here.

#20. Nurse Practitioner Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a nurse practitioner cover letter here.

#21. Receptionist Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a receptionist cover letter here.

#22. Architect Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing an architect cover letter here.

#23. Management Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a management cover letter here.

#24. Physician Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a physician cover letter here.

#25. Substitute Teacher Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a substitute teacher cover letter here.

#26. Software Engineer Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a software engineer cover letter here.

#27. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing an administrative assistant cover letter here.

#28. Mechanical Engineering Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a mechanical engineering cover letter here.

#29. Attorney Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing an attorney cover letter here.

FAQs About What to Include in a Cover Letter

Do you still have some questions about what to include in a cover letter? Check out the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions on the topic!

#1. What is a good example of a cover letter?

There are plenty of great cover letter examples for different professions that you can look at.

Overall, a cover letter that’s well done starts with your contact information in a designated header at the top. Next, you have to add the hiring manager’s contact details and include a personalized greeting.

Write a strong opening paragraph that references the job you're applying for and includes a standout achievement or relevant experience that makes you a strong candidate.

Use the body of your cover letter to expand on your key skills and experiences that match what the employer is looking for. Give specific examples to illustrate your greatest accomplishments and how you gained your most impressive skills.

Wrap up your cover letter by recapping your key selling points and including a call to action that invites the hiring manager to reach out to you. Lastly, add a professional closing line and sign your name underneath.

#2. How do you start a cover letter?

The opening to your cover letter should be brief and attention-grabbing.

Your first few sentences should be something that makes the hiring manager want to learn more about you. You don’t want to give them too many details—just enough to pique their interest.

Explain why you’re writing and why you’re interested in the specific role. We recommend including keywords from the job ad , especially ones that match your most relevant skills, experiences, or impressive achievements.

#3. How do you write a unique cover letter?

Your cover letter is your chance to give the hiring manager a unique insight into you as a candidate. It’s your opportunity to stand out from the crowd using your own words.

The best way to write a unique cover letter is to start by researching the company and referencing anything you find attention-grabbing about it. You should be able to easily identify what you like about the specific employer, such as their contributions to the industry, their values, and reputation, and mention it in your cover letter.

Use a polite but conversational tone to convey both your professionalism and personality. Instead of using passive language to explain that you “managed” this or were “responsible for” that, take advantage of action verbs and power words to make your experiences stand out.

Avoid using generic phrases like how you’re a “team player” or have “ leadership skills ” alone, and instead provide concrete examples that back up the skills and experience that make you the right candidate for the job.

#4. Should a cover letter be fancy?

Since a cover letter is a formal document, you might be tempted to make it fancy.

There’s no need to go over the top with your cover letter. Adding too much decoration or creative flair can detract from the information you want to convey to the hiring manager.

Your focus should always be on writing a clear, concise, and well-organized text that gets your point across.

More traditional industries, like law or finance, should stick to minimalistic cover letter templates with a clean and simple layout.

For professionals aiming for creative industries like illustration or graphic design, a bit of color can make your application pop. Even then, it’s important to strike a balance between creativity and professionalism, so your cover letter’s text remains the hiring manager’s primary focus.

Key Takeaways

And that’s all there is to what you should include in your cover letter!

Hopefully, after reaching the end of our article, you feel confident that your cover letter covers all the necessary bases. Good luck on your job hunt!

But before we say goodbye, let’s briefly recap what we've covered so far:

• Your cover letter should be concise and avoid any irrelevant information. The hiring manager is interested in what you can do for the company, not in any personal information that doesn’t relate to the job.
• Overly long paragraphs and a messy layout can leave a bad impression. Instead of trying to format everything yourself, use an online cover letter builder.
• Our online resume builder offers resume templates and matching cover letter templates that you can use to create a stylish and professional job application in minutes.
• Dedicate a portion of your cover letter’s main body to express your genuine interest in the company and the specific role. Do some research beforehand so you can identify several things you genuinely like about the company and position you’re applying for.
• End your cover letter with a strategic call to action. This shows the hiring manager you’re eager to make it to the next step of the hiring process, and it makes it more likely for them to reach out to you.

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5 Cover Letter Mistakes Every PA Should Avoid

W hether you’re a recent graduate applying for your first physician assistant (PA) job or a seasoned clinician looking for a new career opportunity, writing an impactful cover letter will make sure you make a strong first impression on a potential employer. 

However, there are common mistakes that can hinder your efforts. By being aware of these missteps and avoiding them, you can ensure your cover letter effectively highlights your strengths and stands out from the competition. Keep reading to uncover the top five mistakes you should avoid when writing your PA cover letter. 

1. Underestimating or Overinflating PA Experience

Underestimating your experience is a common mistake made by recent PA graduates. You don’t need to apologize for being new. We’ve all been where you are now. Even your most admired mentor was a new PA at the beginning of their career. 

If you have little or no PA work experience, avoid using the words only or just in your cover letter. Phrases such as “although I only have experience as a student” shouldn’t be included. Instead, discuss how your clinical rotations and skills you gained during training will be valuable for the role you’re targeting. Be sure to include any specializations or certifications you’ve earned.

Additionally, unsubstantiated grand claims about past or present PA experience have no place in your cover letter. As a board-certified medical professional, your previous employment and work history are easy to verify. Overinflating your experiences or skills can lead to instant job disqualification and permanent exclusion from future employment.

2. Overusing “I”

Although it’s important for your cover letter to highlight your strengths, potential employers are interested in knowing what you can bring to the position. Overuse of the “I” pronoun gives the impression of excessive self-interest, and the hiring manager may doubt your ability to work as a team player.

For example, don’t claim you solved a problem or learned a new skill by yourself. Instead, use phrases such as “one of my mentors taught me” or “the team worked on.” Team-based care is important and you’ll want to show that while you have skills, you can also effectively work with others to treat patients. 

3. Sending a Generic Cover Letter

An impersonal generic cover letter written to “To Whom It May Concern” or “Dear Hiring Manager” indicates a lack of effort. Call the practice or look on their website to find out who the hiring manager is and address your cover letter to them by name if possible. This small gesture conveys attention to detail and genuine care about the position. 

Research the practice and learn about their mission statement and recent accomplishments. Do they specialize in an area you’re interested in? Or maybe they focus on a patient population you enjoy working with. Any specifics that connect you to the job you’re applying for are worth mentioning. 

Consider reaching out to PAs who are current or former employees of the practice to discuss the job opening and ask if you can mention them in your cover letter. Making a connection with someone at the office will get you extra attention—but it’s important to ensure the PA you contact has a positive relationship with the organization because you don’t want that additional attention to be negative.

4. Not Addressing the Needs of the Practice

If the practice is looking to add or replace a PA, they have a need to fill. Your application will get increased interest if you explain how you’ll help address those unmet needs.

Pay close attention to the job posting for preferred qualifications, experience, and skills. Make specific mention in your cover letter of requirements where you and the practice align.   

Also, review the job posting for areas where the practice is seeking improvement and has challenges they’re facing. Describe how your abilities can contribute to addressing these challenges and incorporate that into your cover letter. 

5. Making Errors

Spelling and grammatical errors cause your PA cover letter to appear sloppy and unfinished. Although these errors don’t reflect on your competency as a PA, they convey an unprofessional tone and lack of attention to detail. Double and triple-check your cover letter for typos, formatting inconsistencies, and factual errors. Confirm the spelling of people’s names and the accuracy of their titles. 

Once you’ve finished writing your cover letter, use the editing features on your word processing program. Most programs have built-in spelling and grammar checkers, while others also contain a searchable thesaurus and more robust editing services.

If time allows, put your cover letter aside and take a break like a walk or do a chore around your house. Reading it after some time has passed allows you to view it with fresh eyes and catch more mistakes. 

Remember, your cover letter is your opportunity to make a strong first impression and set yourself apart from other candidates. By avoiding these PA cover letter mistakes, you can position yourself as the ideal candidate for the job.

Having trouble getting started ? Use an AI cover letter generator to construct a good foundation. Then, make additions and changes as needed to customize the letter for each position you’re applying for. 

About the Author:

Jesse Watts, PA-C, is a medical writer and practicing physician assistant at a dermatology office in the Kansas City area. 

Technical Program Manager Cover Letter Examples (Template & 20+ Tips)

Create a standout technical program manager cover letter with our online platform. browse professional templates for all levels and specialties. land your dream role today.

As a Technical Program Manager, your cover letter is an essential tool for showcasing your skills and experience in leading complex technical projects. This guide is designed to help you craft a compelling cover letter that highlights your technical expertise, project management abilities, and leadership qualities. With our tips and sample phrases, you can create a standout cover letter that makes a strong impression on potential employers in the tech industry.

We will cover:

• How to write a cover letter, no matter your industry or job title.
• What to put on a cover letter to stand out.
• The top skills employers from every industry want to see.
• How to build a cover letter fast with our professional Cover Letter Builder .
• Why you should use a cover letter template

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Technical Program Manager Cover Letter Sample

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the Technical Program Manager position at your company. With over 8 years of experience in program management and a proven track record of successfully delivering complex technical projects, along with my strong background in engineering and technology, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your team and help drive the success of your organization.

Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to work in various industries, including software development, telecommunications, and healthcare. This diverse experience has provided me with a deep understanding of technical project management and the ability to navigate complex and dynamic environments. I have consistently demonstrated my ability to lead cross-functional teams, prioritize tasks, and meet aggressive deadlines without compromising on quality.

One of my key strengths is my ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with stakeholders at all levels of the organization. I am adept at translating technical jargon into clear and actionable plans, which has been instrumental in aligning teams and achieving project goals. I have a proven ability to identify and mitigate risks, while maintaining a focus on delivering exceptional results.

In my most recent role at XYZ Company, I led a team of 20 engineers and technical specialists in the successful delivery of a critical software upgrade for a major client. This project was high-stakes and required meticulous planning and execution. Through my leadership and strategic oversight, we were able to complete the project on time and within budget, exceeding the client's expectations and solidifying our ongoing relationship.

• Proven experience in managing complex technical projects
• Strong leadership and communication skills
• Ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams
• Track record of delivering high-quality results
• Expertise in risk management and problem-solving

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my skills and expertise to your team and contribute to the continued success of your organization. I am confident that my unique blend of technical and program management skills make me a perfect fit for the role of Technical Program Manager at your company.

Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to the possibility of contributing to your team and am available at your earliest convenience for an interview. Please find my resume attached for your review.

[Your Name]

Why Do you Need a Technical Program Manager Cover Letter?

• Highlight your relevant experience: A cover letter allows you to showcase your experience and skills that make you a strong candidate for the Technical Program Manager role.
• Personalize your application: A cover letter is an opportunity to demonstrate your passion for the company and the specific role you are applying for.
• Show your communication skills: Writing a cover letter gives you a chance to display your written communication abilities, which are essential for a Technical Program Manager position.
• Explain career gaps or changes: If you have any gaps in your employment history or are transitioning from a different field, a cover letter allows you to address these issues and explain how your experiences have prepared you for the role.
• Stand out from other candidates: A well-written cover letter can set you apart from other applicants and make a strong first impression on the hiring manager.
• Express your enthusiasm: A cover letter allows you to convey your enthusiasm for the opportunity and show the hiring manager why you are the best fit for the Technical Program Manager position.

A Few Important Rules To Keep In Mind

• Address the hiring manager by name, if possible.
• Use a professional tone and language throughout the letter.
• Highlight your experience and achievements in technical project management.
• Showcase your ability to handle complex technical projects and prioritize tasks.
• Emphasize your strong communication and leadership skills.
• Make sure to tailor the cover letter to the specific job and company you are applying for.
• Keep the cover letter concise, focusing on the most relevant information for the role.
• Use specific examples to demonstrate your qualifications and accomplishments.
• Double-check for any grammatical or spelling errors before submitting the cover letter.
• End the cover letter with a strong closing statement and a call to action.

What's The Best Structure For Technical Program Manager Cover Letters?

After creating an impressive Technical Program Manager resume , the next step is crafting a compelling cover letter to accompany your job applications. It's essential to remember that your cover letter should maintain a formal tone and follow a recommended structure. But what exactly does this structure entail, and what key elements should be included in a Technical Program Manager cover letter? Let's explore the guidelines and components that will make your cover letter stand out.

Key Components For Technical Program Manager Cover Letters:

• Your contact information, including the date of writing
• The recipient's details, such as the company's name and the name of the addressee
• A professional greeting or salutation, like "Dear Mr. Levi,"
• An attention-grabbing opening statement to captivate the reader's interest
• A concise paragraph explaining why you are an excellent fit for the role
• Another paragraph highlighting why the position aligns with your career goals and aspirations
• A closing statement that reinforces your enthusiasm and suitability for the role
• A complimentary closing, such as "Regards" or "Sincerely," followed by your name
• An optional postscript (P.S.) to add a brief, impactful note or mention any additional relevant information.

Cover Letter Header

A header in a cover letter should typically include the following information:

• Your Full Name: Begin with your first and last name, written in a clear and legible format.
• Contact Information: Include your phone number, email address, and optionally, your mailing address. Providing multiple methods of contact ensures that the hiring manager can reach you easily.
• Date: Add the date on which you are writing the cover letter. This helps establish the timeline of your application.

It's important to place the header at the top of the cover letter, aligning it to the left or center of the page. This ensures that the reader can quickly identify your contact details and know when the cover letter was written.

Cover Letter Greeting / Salutation

A greeting in a cover letter should contain the following elements:

• Personalized Salutation: Address the hiring manager or the specific recipient of the cover letter by their name. If the name is not mentioned in the job posting or you are unsure about the recipient's name, it's acceptable to use a general salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Company Name] Recruiting Team."
• Professional Tone: Maintain a formal and respectful tone throughout the greeting. Avoid using overly casual language or informal expressions.
• Correct Spelling and Title: Double-check the spelling of the recipient's name and ensure that you use the appropriate title (e.g., Mr., Ms., Dr., or Professor) if applicable. This shows attention to detail and professionalism.

For example, a suitable greeting could be "Dear Ms. Johnson," or "Dear Hiring Manager," depending on the information available. It's important to tailor the greeting to the specific recipient to create a personalized and professional tone for your cover letter.

Cover Letter Introduction

An introduction for a cover letter should capture the reader's attention and provide a brief overview of your background and interest in the position. Here's how an effective introduction should look:

• Opening Statement: Start with a strong opening sentence that immediately grabs the reader's attention. Consider mentioning your enthusiasm for the job opportunity or any specific aspect of the company or organization that sparked your interest.
• Brief Introduction: Provide a concise introduction of yourself and mention the specific position you are applying for. Include any relevant background information, such as your current role, educational background, or notable achievements that are directly related to the position.
• Connection to the Company: Demonstrate your knowledge of the company or organization and establish a connection between your skills and experiences with their mission, values, or industry. Showcasing your understanding and alignment with their goals helps to emphasize your fit for the role.
• Engaging Hook: Consider including a compelling sentence or two that highlights your unique selling points or key qualifications that make you stand out from other candidates. This can be a specific accomplishment, a relevant skill, or an experience that demonstrates your value as a potential employee.
• Transition to the Body: Conclude the introduction by smoothly transitioning to the main body of the cover letter, where you will provide more detailed information about your qualifications, experiences, and how they align with the requirements of the position.

By following these guidelines, your cover letter introduction will make a strong first impression and set the stage for the rest of your application.

Cover Letter Body

I am writing to express my interest in the Technical Program Manager position at your company. With a solid background in project management and a strong understanding of technical processes, I believe I can bring valuable expertise to your team.

• I have a proven track record of successfully managing complex technical projects, from inception to completion. My ability to coordinate cross-functional teams and drive projects to meet challenging deadlines has been consistently recognized by my previous employers.
• I am proficient in utilizing project management tools and methodologies such as Agile, Scrum, and Kanban. I have also led teams in the implementation of DevOps practices, ensuring seamless collaboration between development and operations teams.
• In addition to my technical acumen, I am adept at stakeholder management and communication. I have effectively communicated project status updates and risks to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, ensuring alignment and transparency throughout the project lifecycle.
• I am passionate about driving process improvements and have led initiatives to streamline workflows and enhance efficiency within project teams. I am also experienced in conducting post-project reviews to identify lessons learned and areas for continuous improvement.
• Furthermore, I hold a strong commitment to fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment, and have a track record of mentoring and developing junior team members.

I am confident that my skill set and experience make me a strong candidate for this role. I am eager to bring my expertise to your team and contribute to the success of your organization. Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Complimentary Close

The conclusion and signature of a cover letter provide a final opportunity to leave a positive impression and invite further action. Here's how the conclusion and signature of a cover letter should look:

• Summary of Interest: In the conclusion paragraph, summarize your interest in the position and reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to the organization or school. Emphasize the value you can bring to the role and briefly mention your key qualifications or unique selling points.
• Appreciation and Gratitude: Express appreciation for the reader's time and consideration in reviewing your application. Thank them for the opportunity to be considered for the position and acknowledge any additional materials or documents you have included, such as references or a portfolio.
• Call to Action: Conclude the cover letter with a clear call to action. Indicate your availability for an interview or express your interest in discussing the opportunity further. Encourage the reader to contact you to schedule a meeting or provide any additional information they may require.
• Complimentary Closing: Choose a professional and appropriate complimentary closing to end your cover letter, such as "Sincerely," "Best Regards," or "Thank you." Ensure the closing reflects the overall tone and formality of the letter.
• Signature: Below the complimentary closing, leave space for your handwritten signature. Sign your name in ink using a legible and professional style. If you are submitting a digital or typed cover letter, you can simply type your full name.
• Typed Name: Beneath your signature, type your full name in a clear and readable font. This allows for easy identification and ensures clarity in case the handwritten signature is not clear.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Technical Program Manager Cover Letter

When crafting a cover letter, it's essential to present yourself in the best possible light to potential employers. However, there are common mistakes that can hinder your chances of making a strong impression. By being aware of these pitfalls and avoiding them, you can ensure that your cover letter effectively highlights your qualifications and stands out from the competition. In this article, we will explore some of the most common mistakes to avoid when writing a cover letter, providing you with valuable insights and practical tips to help you create a compelling and impactful introduction that captures the attention of hiring managers. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career journey, understanding these mistakes will greatly enhance your chances of success in the job application process. So, let's dive in and discover how to steer clear of these common missteps and create a standout cover letter that gets you noticed by potential employers.

• Avoid using a generic cover letter template and not customizing it to the specific job and company.
• Avoid focusing too much on your past experience and instead highlight how your skills and expertise align with the job requirements.
• Avoid using complex technical jargon that may not be understood by the hiring manager or HR team.
• Avoid being too vague and not providing concrete examples of your successes and accomplishments in previous roles.
• Avoid making spelling and grammar mistakes, as this can give the impression of a lack of attention to detail.

Key Takeaways For a Technical Program Manager Cover Letter

• Demonstrate strong leadership skills and ability to manage cross-functional teams
• Showcase experience in developing and executing complex technical programs
• Highlight proficiency in project management methodologies and tools
• Show evidence of driving process improvement and operational efficiency
• Emphasize communication and collaboration skills with stakeholders
• Show ability to analyze data and make data-driven decisions
• Demonstrate a track record of delivering projects on time and within budget
• Show evidence of managing risk and resolving issues proactively
• Highlight experience in handling multiple competing priorities and adapting to change