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How to write a great cover letter for a job

Job hunting can be tough—especially when it comes to your cover letter. Writing a unique, eye-catching cover letter for a job application is one of the toughest parts of the entire process.

To help you land your dream job, we’ve created this quick guide to writing a stand-out cover letter. Let’s dive in.

What is a cover letter?

Before you can write an outstanding cover letter for a job application, you’ve got to understand what it is.

Your resume lays down the facts about your professional history. Your cover letter puts all of that information in context. A good cover letter will contain:

• An explanation for why you are applying for a role
• A description of how your past work history makes you an outstanding candidate
• A hint of your soft skills and ability to adapt to a new work culture

Cover letter contents vary depending on your industry, work history, and the open job. There is no clear formula for writing one, though there are certain tips you can follow. Because there is no “right” way to craft a cover letter, templates will not be much help. While you can use a template to format your cover letter, you’ll want to write the bulk of it yourself.

The more unique and creative your cover letter is, the more likely a recruiter will contact you for an interview.

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Why is having a good cover letter important?

Cover letters are optional for some applications. In the current tight job market, employers try to make it easier for people to apply for their positions. However, that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t write one.

Over half of senior managers say that cover letters are worthwhile. If other applicants don’t include a cover letter for a job and you do, you have already set yourself apart from the pack. If your cover letter is well-written, your initial impression gets more of a boost. Even if a cover letter isn’t requested, it’s a good move to include one anyway. Be sure to go the extra mile.

For jobs that do require cover letters, a well-written cover letter can easily prove your professionalism to recruiters.

Ten tips for writing a stand-out cover letter for a job

Cover letters are important, but how do you write one that recruiters and hiring managers won’t stop talking about? Here are ten top tips for crafting a cover letter for a job:

• Address your recruiter or hiring manager by name. Using your recipient’s name quickly makes your cover letter stand out. Addressing your recipient by name shows them that you’re willing to put that extra work in.
• Link your history to the job description. Carefully review the job description before you write your cover letter. Pick out a few leading job requirements, and connect your work history examples to those requirements.
• Show, don’t tell. Don’t just tell your audience about your achievements. Show them. Give examples, and try to include results where you can. Add in numbers where you can, too. Quantified results will stand out.
• Create a story. In your cover letter, demonstrate how your past work history has raised you to your present level. Then, explain how you will be able to succeed at the specific role you’re applying for. Think of it as a story with a strong narrative arc.
• Use an appropriate, approachable tone. Formal cover letters can seem off-putting in this day and age. Write in a casual yet professional tone. If your industry skews conservative or otherwise, keep that in mind.
• Insert your personality. Hiring teams want to know if you’ll be a flexible co-worker. Try to make your cover letter reflect your personality—especially if you’re naturally energetic, positive, or kind.
• Be honest. Don’t stretch the truth in your cover letter. In fact, this is the place to address any potential issues, like an employment gap or botched project. Honesty can be impressive, showing hiring managers how you would resolve a mistake or problem in your new role.
• Leave out what you can. Mainly, you don’t want to overwhelm your readers with information. They can ask follow-up questions during the interview. Leave out any history that isn’t necessary or relevant.
• End with a call of action. Don’t tell the letter recipient that you’d like for him or her to reach out immediately. That’s overstepping boundaries. But you should feel free to let them know that you’re excited to talk with them soon.
• Coordinate your letter with your resume. Finally, you can coordinate your cover letter with your resume. Ensure both documents use similar language. You can even ensure the design matches for that extra touch with cover letter and resume templates .

Overview: what your cover letter is really about

At the end of the day, the best way to write a good cover letter for a job is to be yourself and show how much you want the job. Ultimately, recruiters and hiring managers are looking for enthusiastic team members who are willing to work hard for good results.

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How to write a great cover letter in 2024: tips and structure

A cover letter is a personalized letter that introduces you to a potential employer, highlights your qualifications, and explains why you're a strong fit for a specific job.

Hate or love them, these brief documents allow job seekers to make an impression and stand out from the pile of other applications. Penning a thoughtful cover letter shows the hiring team you care about earning the position.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to write a cover letter — and a great one, at that.

What is a cover letter and why does it matter?

A professional cover letter is a one-page document you submit alongside your CV or resume as part of a job application. Typically, they’re about half a page or around 150–300 words.

An effective cover letter doesn’t just rehash your CV; it’s your chance to highlight your proudest moments, explain why you want the job, and state plainly what you bring to the table.

Show the reviewer you’re likable, talented, and will add to the company’s culture . You can refer to previous jobs and other information from your CV, but only if it helps tell a story about you and your career choices .

What 3 things should you include in a cover letter?

A well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out to potential employers. To make your cover letter shine, here are three key elements to include:

1. Personalization

Address the hiring manager or recruiter by name whenever possible. If the job posting doesn't include a name, research to find out who will be reviewing applications. Personalizing your cover letter shows that you've taken the time to tailor your application to the specific company and role.

2. Highlight relevant achievements and skills

Emphasize your most relevant skills , experiences, and accomplishments that directly relate to the job you're applying for. Provide specific examples of how your skills have benefited previous employers and how they can contribute to the prospective employer's success. Use quantifiable achievements , such as improved efficiency, cost savings, or project success, to demonstrate your impact.

3. Show enthusiasm and fit

Express your enthusiasm for the company and the position you're applying for. Explain why you are interested in this role and believe you are a good fit for the organization. Mention how your values, goals, and skills align with the company's mission and culture. Demonstrating that you've done your research can make a significant impression.

What do hiring managers look for in a cover letter?

Employers look for several key elements in a cover letter. These include:

Employers want to see that your cover letter is specifically tailored to the position you are applying for. It should demonstrate how your skills, experiences, and qualifications align with the job requirements.

Clear and concise writing

A well-written cover letter is concise, easy to read, and error-free. Employers appreciate clear and effective communication skills , so make sure your cover letter showcases your ability to express yourself effectively.

Demonstrated knowledge of the company

Employers want to see that you are genuinely interested in their organization. Mention specific details about the company, such as recent achievements or projects, to show that you are enthusiastic about joining their team.

Achievements and accomplishments

Highlight your relevant achievements and accomplishments that demonstrate your qualifications for the position. Use specific examples to showcase your skills and show how they can benefit the employer.

Enthusiasm and motivation

Employers want to hire candidates who are excited about the opportunity and motivated to contribute to the company's success. Express your enthusiasm and passion for the role and explain why you are interested in working for the company.

Professionalism

A cover letter should be professional in tone and presentation. Use formal language, address the hiring manager appropriately, and follow standard business letter formatting.

How do you structure a cover letter?

A well-structured cover letter follows a specific format that makes it easy for the reader to understand your qualifications and enthusiasm for the position. Here's a typical structure for a cover letter:

Contact information

Include your name, address, phone number, and email address at the top of the letter. Place your contact information at the beginning so that it's easy for the employer to reach you.

Employer's contact information

Opening paragraph, middle paragraph(s), closing paragraph, complimentary close, additional contact information.

Repeat your contact information (name, phone number, and email) at the end of the letter, just in case the employer needs it for quick reference.

Remember to keep your cover letter concise and focused. It should typically be no more than one page in length. Proofread your letter carefully to ensure it is free from spelling and grammatical errors. Tailor each cover letter to the specific job application to make it as relevant and impactful as possible.

How to write a good cover letter (with examples)

The best letters are unique, tailored to the job description, and written in your voice — but that doesn’t mean you can’t use a job cover letter template.

Great cover letters contain the same basic elements and flow a certain way. Take a look at this cover letter structure for ref erence while you construct your own.

1. Add a header and contact information

While reading your cover letter, the recruiter shouldn’t have to look far to find who wrote it. Your document should include a basic heading with the following information:

• Pronouns (optional)
• Location (optional)
• Email address
• Phone number (optional)
• Relevant links, such as your LinkedIn profile , portfolio, or personal website (optional)

You can pull this information directly from your CV. Put it together, and it will look something like this:

Christopher Pike

San Francisco, California

[email protected]

Alternatively, if the posting asks you to submit your cover letter in the body of an email, you can include this information in your signature. For example:

Warm regards,

Catherine Janeway

Bloomington, Indiana

[email protected]

(555) 999 - 2222

2. Include a personal greeting

Always begin your cover letter by addressing the hiring manager — preferably by name. You can use the person’s first and last name. Make sure to include a relevant title, like Dr., Mr., or Ms. For example, “Dear Mr. John Doe.”

Avoid generic openings like “To whom it may concern,” “Dear sir or madam,” or “Dear hiring manager.” These introductions sound impersonal — like you’re copy-pasting cover letters — and can work against you in the hiring process.

Be careful, though. When using someone’s name, you don’t want to use the wrong title or accidentally misgender someone. If in doubt, using only their name is enough. You could also opt for a gender-neutral title, like Mx.

Make sure you’re addressing the right person in your letter — ideally, the person who’s making the final hiring decision. This isn’t always specified in the job posting, so you may have to do some research to learn the name of the hiring manager.

3. Draw them in with an opening story

The opening paragraph of your cover letter should hook the reader. You want it to be memorable, conversational, and extremely relevant to the job you’re pursuing. 

There’s no need for a personal introduction — you’ve already included your name in the heading. But you should make reference to the job you’re applying for. A simple “Thank you for considering my application for the role of [job title] at [company],” will suffice.

Then you can get into the “Why” of your job application. Drive home what makes this specific job and this company so appealing to you. Perhaps you’re a fan of their products, you’re passionate about their mission, or you love their brand voice. Whatever the case, this section is where you share your enthusiasm for the role.

Here’s an example opening paragraph. In this scenario, you’re applying for a digital marketing role at a bicycle company:

“Dear Mr. John Doe,

Thank you for considering my application for the role of Marketing Coordinator at Bits n’ Bikes.

My parents bought my first bike at one of your stores. I’ll never forget the freedom I felt when I learned to ride it. My father removed my training wheels, and my mom sent me barrelling down the street. You provide joy to families across the country — and I want to be part of that.”

4. Emphasize why you’re best for the job

Your next paragraphs should be focused on the role you’re applying to. Highlight your skill set and why you’re a good fit for the needs and expectations associated with the position. Hiring managers want to know what you’ll bring to the job, not just any role.

Start by studying the job description for hints. What problem are they trying to solve with this hire? What skills and qualifications do they mention first or more than once? These are indicators of what’s important to the hiring manager.

Search for details that match your experience and interests. For example, if you’re excited about a fast-paced job in public relations, you might look for these elements in a posting:

• They want someone who can write social media posts and blog content on tight deadlines
• They value collaboration and input from every team member
• They need a planner who can come up with strong PR strategies

Highlight how you fulfill these requirements:

“I’ve always been a strong writer. From blog posts to social media, my content pulls in readers and drives traffic to product pages. For example, when I worked at Bits n’ Bikes, I developed a strategic blog series about bike maintenance that increased our sales of spare parts and tools by 50% — we could see it in our web metrics.

Thanks to the input of all of our team members, including our bike mechanics, my content delivered results.”

5. End with a strong closing paragraph and sign off gracefully

Your closing paragraph is your final chance to hammer home your enthusiasm about the role and your unique ability to fill it. Reiterate the main points you explained in the body paragraphs and remind the reader of what you bring to the table.

You can also use the end of your letter to relay other important details, like whether you’re willing to relocate for the job.

When choosing a sign-off, opt for a phrase that sounds professional and genuine. Reliable options include “Sincerely” and “Kind regards.”

Here’s a strong closing statement for you to consider:

“I believe my enthusiasm, skills, and work experience as a PR professional will serve Bits n’ Bikes very well. I would love to meet to further discuss my value-add as your next Director of Public Relations. Thank you for your consideration. I hope we speak soon.

Tips to write a great cover letter that compliments your resume

When writing your own letter, try not to copy the example excerpts word-for-word. Instead, use this cover letter structure as a baseline to organize your ideas. Then, as you’re writing, use these extra cover letter tips to add your personal touch:

• Keep your cover letter different from your resume : Your cover letter should not duplicate the information on your resume. Instead, it should provide context and explanations for key points in your resume, emphasizing how your qualifications match the specific job you're applying for.
• Customize your cover letter . Tailor your cover letter for each job application. Address the specific needs of the company and the job posting, demonstrating that you've done your homework and understand their requirements.
• Show enthusiasm and fit . Express your enthusiasm for the company and position in the cover letter. Explain why you are interested in working for this company and how your values, goals, and skills align with their mission and culture.
• Use keywords . Incorporate keywords from the job description and industry terms in your cover letter. This can help your application pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and demonstrate that you're well-versed in the field.
• Keep it concise . Your cover letter should be succinct and to the point, typically no more than one page. Focus on the most compelling qualifications and experiences that directly support your application.
• Be professional . Maintain a professional tone and structure in your cover letter. Proofread it carefully to ensure there are no errors.
• Address any gaps or concerns . If there are gaps or concerns in your resume, such as employment gaps or a change in career direction, briefly address them in your cover letter. Explain any relevant circumstances and how they have shaped your qualifications and determination.
• Provide a call to action . Conclude your cover letter with a call to action, inviting the employer to contact you for further discussion. Mention that you've attached your resume for their reference.
• Follow the correct format . Use a standard cover letter format like the one above, including your contact information, a formal salutation, introductory and closing paragraphs, and your signature. Ensure that it complements your resume without redundancy.
• Pick the right voice and tone . Try to write like yourself, but adapt to the tone and voice of the company. Look at the job listing, company website, and social media posts. Do they sound fun and quirky, stoic and professional, or somewhere in-between? This guides your writing style.
• Tell your story . You’re an individual with unique expertise, motivators, and years of experience. Tie the pieces together with a great story. Introduce how you arrived at this point in your career, where you hope to go , and how this prospective company fits in your journey. You can also explain any career changes in your resume.
• Show, don’t tell . Anyone can say they’re a problem solver. Why should a recruiter take their word for it if they don’t back it up with examples? Instead of naming your skills, show them in action. Describe situations where you rose to the task, and quantify your success when you can.
• Be honest . Avoid highlighting skills you don’t have. This will backfire if they ask you about them in an interview. Instead, shift focus to the ways in which you stand out.
• Avoid clichés and bullet points . These are signs of lazy writing. Do your best to be original from the first paragraph to the final one. This highlights your individuality and demonstrates the care you put into the letter.
• Proofread . Always spellcheck your cover letter. Look for typos, grammatical errors, and proper flow. We suggest reading it out loud. If it sounds natural rolling off the tongue, it will read naturally as well.

Common cover letter writing FAQs

How long should a cover letter be.

A cover letter should generally be concise and to the point. It is recommended to keep it to one page or less, focusing on the most relevant information that highlights your qualifications and fits the job requirements.

Should I include personal information in a cover letter?

While it's important to introduce yourself and provide your contact information, avoid including personal details such as your age, marital status, or unrelated hobbies. Instead, focus on presenting your professional qualifications and aligning them with the job requirements.

Can I use the same cover letter for multiple job applications?

While it may be tempting to reuse a cover letter, it is best to tailor each cover letter to the specific job you are applying for. This allows you to highlight why you are a good fit for that particular role and show genuine interest in the company.

Do I need to address my cover letter to a specific person?

Whenever possible, it is advisable to address your cover letter to a specific person, such as the hiring manager or recruiter. If the job posting does not provide this information, try to research and find the appropriate contact. If all else fails, you can use a generic salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager."

Should I include references in my cover letter?

It is generally not necessary to include references in your cover letter. Save this information for when the employer explicitly requests it. Instead, focus on showcasing your qualifications and achievements that make you a strong candidate for the position.

It’s time to start writing your stand-out cover letter

The hardest part of writing is getting started. 

Hopefully, our tips gave you some jumping-off points and confidence . But if you’re really stuck, looking at cover letter examples and resume templates will help you decide where to get started. 

There are numerous sample cover letters available online. Just remember that you’re a unique, well-rounded person, and your cover letter should reflect that. Using our structure, you can tell your story while highlighting your passion for the role. 

Doing your research, including strong examples of your skills, and being courteous is how to write a strong cover letter. Take a breath , flex your fingers, and get typing. Before you know it, your job search will lead to a job interview.

If you want more personalized guidance, a specialized career coach can help review, edit, and guide you through creating a great cover letter that sticks.

Ace your job search

Explore effective job search techniques, interview strategies, and ways to overcome job-related challenges. Our coaches specialize in helping you land your dream job.

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

3 cover letter examples to help you catch a hiring manager’s attention

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How to write an effective cover letter (with samples)

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You will have to prepare a number of materials for employers while looking for a job. One type of document is the cover letter, which is included with your resume when requesting a job interview. An effective cover letter is directed towards a specific position or company, and describes examples from your experience that highlight your skills related to the role.

You want to convince the reader that your interest in the job and company are genuine and specific. You also want to demonstrate ways that your experience has prepared you for the role by sharing a few brief stories that highlight your qualifications. This takes time and research; use the job description and the company’s web site or LinkedIn page to identify traits and skills the company values.

Cover letter structure and format

A cover letter should be no longer than one page with a font size between 10-12 points. Be sure to include your contact information and address it directly to the hiring manager, using their name. If you are not sure who to address the letter to, write “Dear Hiring Manager.” If the role you are applying for has a reference number or code, be sure to include it in your letter so that human resources is able to accurately track your application. The reference code is usually included

Cover letters typically take the following structure:

Introduction (1st paragraph)

• State clearly in your opening sentence the purpose for your letter and a brief professional introduction.
• Specify why you are interested in that specific position and organization.
• Provide an overview of the main strengths and skills you will bring to the role.

Example : I am a second year master’s student in MIT’s Technology and Policy Program (TPP) writing to apply for a consulting position in Navigant’s Emerging Technology & Business Strategy group. After speaking with John Smith at the MIT career fair, I realized that Navigant’s values of excellence, continuous development, entrepreneurial spirit, and integrity align with the principles that guide me every day and that have driven me throughout my career. Moreover, I believe that my knowledge of the energy sector, passion for data analysis, polished communication skills, and four years of consulting experience will enable me to deliver superior value for Navigant’s clients.

Body (2-3 paragraphs)

• Cite a couple of examples from your experience that support your ability to be successful in the position or organization.
• Try not to simply repeat your resume in paragraph form, complement your resume by offering a little more detail about key experiences.
• Discuss what skills you have developed and connect these back to the target role.

Example : As a graduate student in MIT’s Technology and Policy Program, I spend every day at the cutting edge of the energy sector. In my capacity as an MIT Energy Initiative research assistant, I use statistical analysis to investigate trends in public acceptance and regulation related to emerging energy technologies. Graduate classes in data science, energy economics, energy ventures and strategy, and technology policy have prepared me to help Navigant offer the expert services that set it apart from competitors. Furthermore, I will bring Navigant the same leadership skills that I used as the student leader for the MIT Energy Conference’s Technology Commercialization round-table, and as the mentorship manager for the MIT Clean Energy Prize.

Even before MIT, my four years of work experience in consulting—first at LMN Research Group and then at XYZ Consulting—allowed me to develop the skillset that Navigant looks for in candidates. As a science writer and policy analyst at LMN Research Group, I developed superb technical writing and visual communication skills, as well as an ability to communicate and collaborate with clients at federal agencies such as EPA and DOE. As a research analyst at XYZ Consulting, I developed an in-depth understanding of data analysis, program evaluation, and policy design.

Closing (last paragraph)

• Restate succinctly your interest in the role and why you are a good candidate.
• Thank the reader for their time and consideration.

Example : I take pride in my skills and experience in several domains: critical thinking and analysis, communication, and leadership. I note that Navigant values these same ideals, and I very much hope to use my abilities in service of the firm and its clients. Thank you for your time and consideration, I look forward to speaking with you further about my qualifications.

Additional cover letter tips

• Be sure that each cover letter is specifically tailored to the company you are writing to. Research the company to help you determine your approach. Check the company’s website and other resources online. You can also use MIT’s extensive alumni network through the Alumni Advisors Hub to seek first-hand knowledge, advice, and insight about the company.
• Are you seeking a position in a field or industry that does not have an obvious parallel or connection to your academic training? Be explicit about why you are interested in that particular field, organization or job, and what value you bring. For example, if you are an electrical engineer applying to a finance or consulting position, highlight your quantitative skills and ability to problem-solve.
• If you are applying for a summer job or internship and do not yet have any experience that is directly related to the position, focus on transferable skills that will add value to the role – leadership, communication, problem-solving, project management, etc.
• Lastly, cover letters are a chance to demonstrate the communication skills necessary to most jobs. Careful composing and revision are essential. To put your best foot forward and ensure your cover letter will be effective, schedule an appointment with a CAPD career advisor.

Land the job with cover letter templates

Show hiring managers why you're the perfect job candidate with professional, customizable cover letter templates. find the perfect cover letter template for any industry or career path..

Download free cover letter templates

Stand out from other job applicants with free, professional cover letter templates. Cover letters are a perfect complement to your resume and provide an effective opportunity to show your personality and enthusiasm for a position. Focus on writing a compelling cover letter and let a professionally designed template do the rest.

These free cover letter templates are perfect for any stage of your career, whether you're looking to land an internship or your dream job. If you're applying for a corporate position, you may want to opt for a simple cover letter template. There are a variety of other cover letter designs available, from basic cover letter templates to creative cover letter templates.

Each of these cover letter templates is customizable in Word , so you can add your own text, change design elements, and more. Print out your cover letter or download it for free to use for online job applications. Once you've customized the perfect cover letter, explore resume templates that will match your cover letter design, or download free business cards for your next networking event.

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How To Write A Job-Winning Cover Letter [Free Templates & Examples]

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Writing a cover letter can be one of the most stress inducing aspects of the job search.

The reason writing them is so difficult is because we don't have a defined framework to follow.

If you need to update your resume, you download a template and fill in the blanks. When you're applying to jobs, the employer lays out the fields you need to complete right there in the application.

But when you're writing a cover letter, you probably find yourself staring at a blank Word document wishing the right words would will themselves onto the page.

Most of us don't consider ourselves to be the next Walter Isaacson , and the task of crafting the perfect story sits well outside of our comfort zone. It doesn't help that most of the advice out there on the subject is vague at best.

And that's exactly why I wrote this post! My hope is that this guide will be the last (and only) cover letter article you'll ever need to read. We're going to take a deep dive into:

• How To Write A Cover Letter That Actually Gets Results

The 7 Cover Letter Mistakes That Cost People Jobs

• The Anatomy of a Highly Effective Cover Letter
• Nailing Your Cover Letter Format: Aesthetics, Structure, Style, & File Type
• Cover Letter Templates & Real Examples From Microsoft, Google, & More

Ready to rock and roll? Let's dive in:

Writing A Cover Letter That Actually Gets You Hired

I did a quick Google search for “How To Write A Cover Letter,” and here are a few things that the “experts” recommend:

• Assess the employer's needs and your skills. Then try to match them in the letter in a way that will appeal to the employer's self-interest.
• Arrange the points in a logical sequence; organize each paragraph around a main point.
• Basic fonts like Arial, Calibri, Georgia, Verdana, and Times New Roman work well. A font size of 10 or 12 points is easy to read. Standard margins are 1” on the top, bottom, and left and right sides of the page.
• Be sure to include positive traits like “Focused,” “Hard Working,” and “Results Oriented”

While all of this advice is technically correct, did you feel your confidence skyrocket when you went back to type out that first sentence?

Yeah, me neither…

Here's the thing – most career “experts” out there give vague advice that they've seen work in their corner of the market. It doesn't get too specific because many career coaches (even recruiters) have never been through the application process at a world class company. They don't know the nitty gritty.

When they do give specific advice, it's usually tailored to a niche – software development, tech sales, finance, etc. But what works for one person in one industry or role might not work for a similar person in a different situation.

I'm hoping to change things with this article.

Over the course of this post, I'm going to lay out the cover letter strategies that thousands of my clients have used to land jobs across industries and at companies like Apple, Amazon, Google, Facebook, Microsoft, Deloitte, ESPN, American Express, and more.

The Truth About Cover Letters (Does Anyone Read Them?)

Before we dive into the actionable stuff, I want to provide some context on where cover letters fit in the hiring process.

Cover letters are a strange animal. People seem to think that they are the missing link that will suddenly skyrocket the response rates of potential employers.

When I asked my audience to choose between a guide on cover letters, resumes or LinkedIn profiles, cover letters won out by a significant margin.

The truth is, in the mind of a recruiter/hiring manager, your cover letter is a tie breaker that is only read after the rest of your application has been reviewed. 74% of recruiters don't even read cover letters. However, over half of employers noted that they prefer candidates who submit a cover letter:

This leaves us in an interesting place.

We need to craft a good cover letter to help boost our chances, but we don't want to spend several hours doing so because there are far better ways to spend our time to get results during the job search. If you follow the networking and value-add strategies in my other articles , those strategies are going to be far more effective at breaking ties than an 8.5 x 11″ sheet of paper.

My hope is that this guide will give you a framework that enables you to efficiently craft cover letters that are more likely to get you hired.

If we want our cover letter to be as effective as possible we need to make sure we avoid the mistakes that employers hate to see, yet most people still make.

In order to be as accurate as possible, I went out and spoke to recruiters from Google, Microsoft, and a few Wall Street firms on top of my own research. Then I cross referenced that information with the several hundred cover letters that have come across my desk at Cultivated Culture.

After all was said and done, here are the 7 most common mistakes people make on cover letters that will cause recruiters to throw out their application:

#1: Typos, Grammatical Errors, And General Sloppiness

This is the most obvious and most common issue. 80% of recruiters noted that they would automatically toss a cover letter with some type of spelling or grammatical error. The good news is that it's also the easiest mistake to fix.

Before you submit your cover letter, make sure it's reviewed by at least two other parties. You might want to consider hiring a professional editor/proofreader as they're not too expensive for a short document and they will pick up on things most people would miss. It's easy enough to find one on Upwork .

Another trick you can use is including an obvious mistake about 75% of the way through. If you have “catching Bustin Jeiber's sweaty t shirt at a concert” sitting in there and someone doesn't call you out, you know they probably didn't read it very carefully.

#2: Going Over A Single Page

The vast majority of the resumes and cover letters I receive are over a single page. Funnily enough, the vast majority of the recruiters I speak to also tell me that they absolutely hate resumes and cover letters that are more than one page.

The ideal length for a cover letter is one page. Changing the margins, font, and font size are all fair game – just keep things on one page, capisce?

#3: Regurgitating Your Resume In A Slightly Different Format

Your cover letter is a space for you to truly differentiate yourself. If you're just taking the bullets on your resume and turning them into full sentences, you're missing out on a HUGE opportunity.

Use the cover letter to show a little personality and share something that people wouldn't know if they just scanned through your resume (more on that in a sec).

Remember, this is a tie breaker. If your cover letter isn't holding people's attention it's probably going to lose out.

#4: Focusing On Training Or Arbitrary Credentials Instead Of Results

Many of us feel unqualified for the jobs we want. As a result, we try to twist our experience to match the traditional qualifications for our target role.

The problem with this approach is that you are competing against people who qualify for the traditional credentials, no matter what role you're applying for. If you try to beat them at their own game, you're going to lose 9 times out of 10.

Am I saying you should forget about trying to spin your experience to position yourself well? Absolutely not. However, adding that business class on your resume when you're 4-5 years out of college isn't going to help much.

Instead, focus your time outside of work on building tangible results that you can showcase in your cover letter (and resume). If you want to be a developer, take a few coding courses and build something cool. If you want to be in digital marketing, land a few clients and run their ads for them.

Telling a story about how you took proactive steps to build experience in a field will beat traditional credentials in most cases. Companies love to see that you're hungry to learn.

#5: Not Addressing Your Cover Letter To An Actual Person

I die a little bit inside when I see cover letters addressed as “Dear Hiring Manager” or “To Whom It May Concern.”

Anyone who reads that is immediately going to mentally bucket it as impersonal. It's far better to address your cover letter to an actual human, even if it doesn't end up in their hands. Here is my strategy.

Let's say I'm applying for an Account Manager role at Google:

I'm going to head over to LinkedIn and start by working to find the specific person who would manage the role I'm applying for. If I can't find them, or I'm unsure, then I'll aim for the most senior person that my target role would fall under.

The ladder for Account Managers typically follows with Senior Account Manager, Account Director, and VP. I'm going plug in “Account Director” under LinkedIn's title filter to cover all of the bases there. Then I'm going to add “Google” in the company filter and “Greater New York Area” in the location filter:

That search is going to bring up a slew of people that I could address directly in my cover letter:

Regardless of who reads your cover letter, they'll know that you did your research. On top of that, your cover letter might even make it into the hands of the person you addressed it to!

#6: Failing To Showcase Any Personality

As mentioned earlier, your cover letter is one of the few opportunities for you to truly differentiate yourself from the competition. If you're applying for jobs online (which I don't recommend), the only thing you have to sell yourself is your resume, your cover letter, and your application.

Instead of rehashing the experience on your resume, tell a story about how you got that experience.  Make it unique and personable. I had the most success when I talked about how I transitioned from a job in medicine to the tech world by starting a side business generating leads for real estate agents. I'd speak openly about the challenges I faced, the mistakes I made, and why I went through it all in the first place.

Use this space to tell your story. Remember, people don't buy what you do – they buy you why you do it.

#7: Writing About An Uncomfortable Situation

While we're on the topic of telling stories, there is one thing you want to avoid – talking about something extremely uncomfortable. What might have worked for your college essay isn't going to work here.

You want to keep things professional. It's okay to talk about business-related mistakes and challenges, but try to steer away from deeply personal stories. They are far more likely to hurt than help.

If your cover letter doesn't violate any of the rules above, you're off to a good start! Next, we want to make sure your cover letter is formatted the right way and your content is on point to grab the reader's attention and get you in the door.

The Anatomy Of A Highly Effective Cover Letter

When I was job searching, one of the most frustrating things was trying to get a clear picture of what to include in my resume/cover letter/application. There is so much conflicting “expert” advice online it makes you feel like you're shooting in the dark.

When I started Cultivated Culture, I began tracking how different factors influenced the success of my students. After working with hundreds of job seekers over the past few years, I've found a strong correlation between the following factors and a high rate of successfully landing interviews:

Capitalize On Your Cover Letter's Header

Most people don't realize that when they hit “submit” on their app, their cover letter gets scanned by a piece of software that extracts specific information and stores the data so recruiters can easily find and assess candidates.

One of the major keywords they look for is a matching or relevant job title. If you're applying for a Project Manager role, are you including Project Manager, Project Management, PMP, or something similar in your cover letter? That's what the robot is looking for and the header is a great place to inject it. I recommend dropping it in right below your name.

After that, your cover letter is going to end up in the hands of a real human.

We want to make it as easy as possible for this person to learn more about us and get in contact if they want. I always recommend that you include the following right at the top of your cover letter:

Email Address  – Make sure it's simple and professional. 76% of applications are rejected for having unprofessional email addresses. Also, don't forget to hyperlink it! You want the employer to be able to click and get in touch.

LinkedIn Profile – A recent study showed that applications that include a link to a comprehensive LinkedIn profile increase their chances of hearing back by 71%!

The key thing to note is that the 71% stemmed from people who had a highly optimized LinkedIn profile. If you're wondering how you should be optimizing your LinkedIn profile for more interviews, check out my LinkedIn optimization guide here.

Phone Number  – If they like what they read, make it easy for them to pick up the phone and dial.

Relevant Links  – Your header is also a great place to share links to things like Github, relevant social profiles, personal websites, your blog, etc.

Finally, a lot of people ask me about including a location. I don't recommend adding your location when writing a cover letter unless the application requires it. It's not necessary to give that information away and it can cause more harm than good.

Here's an example of a great cover letter header that capitalizes on everything I mentioned above:

Tell A Story In Your Cover Letter's Opening Paragraph

This is an overarching theme that you want to include in each section of your cover letter.

Science has proven that people are more likely to remember information (or candidates in this case) when it's delivered in the form of a story. Stories also help build a positive psychological association with the reader (or recruiter/hiring manger here).

Remember Dan Brown's book  The Da Vinci Code ?

It was a novel about cryptic clues in some of Leonardo da Vinci's most famous paintings leading to the holy grail. While the book itself is fictitious, the artists, pieces, and much of the history behind them is accurate.

Now, if you asked most people about their opinion on art history, they'd tell you it was boring. They'd also groan in disappointment if you tried to get them to read a book on the subject. However, Dan Brown's novel skyrocketed to the top of the New York Times bestseller list and became an international sensation. In fact, it caused applications for art history degrees to jump up 25% in the years following its publication.

Why were all of these people suddenly interested in field previously considered to be “boring?” Because Dan Brown fed historical facts in the context of an interesting story!

We're aiming to do the same in our cover letter – specific examples below.

Talk About Why You're Interested In The Company

In the first section of your cover letter, you want to briefly talk about why you are interested in the role and the company. Remember, we want to drive the message through a story.

When I was applying at Google, I wanted to work there because they were a household name that was focused on cutting edge technology, but they also cared about impacting lives. Here is the story I used to drive that point home:

I wanted to recount a story from my referral [Name]. He’s in the education vertical and spends a significant amount of time at rural schools. When he was down in South Carolina, a teacher asked him about the possibility of getting wifi for the town and its students. [Name] said he would do his best and upon returning he asked around. He sent an email to Astro Teller who responded and they discussed the feasibility of implementing project Loon in the area. I don’t think it panned out but the fact that the communication took place over a tiny town in South Carolina sold me. That’s the kind of stuff I want to be doing.

If you don't have a story that immediately jumps to mind, the best way to get one is by talking to people who work at the company. Look up the company's mission or their core values beforehand and ask that person to tell you about the best example they've personally experienced.

You can check out this article if you want to know how to find someone's corporate email address.

Highlight What You Bring To The Role

The second section of your cover letter should showcase what you're going to bring to the role by talking about your past achievements. Be sure to use measurable metrics (actual numbers and quantitative results) to support your points.

If you're coming from a non-traditional background (and don't feel like you're “qualified”) this is the time to address that objection. Here is another excerpt from my Google cover letter that addresses my background using measurable results:

You might notice that there isn’t much “traditional” digital experience on my resume. That is because, coming from a scientific background, I needed to take a different path. In an effort to gain experience, I created my own agency called OpenWater Analytics. I specialized in using AdWords to generate real estate leads for private communities. I managed the entire sales process from cold outreach, to closing, to servicing the accounts on your platform. Most recently, I helped a community in South Carolina sell every listing on their site (about 15 homes) in less than 6 months. Our cost per lead was half of the competition and we did it all for less than the commission the realtor would have made on a single house (including ad spend).

When I wrote this, I didn't have much digital experience to speak to. Rather than trying to spin what I had, I went out and built the experience myself by starting a digital marketing firm. Again, if you feel like your experience is lacking, get out there are create your own!

Reference Your “Value Validation” Project

If you've read my article on How To Get A Job Anywhere With No Connections , you know that I always advocate for creating what I like to call a “Value Validation Project.”

This consists of having a conversation with someone at the company you want to work for and identifying their largest challenge or upcoming initiative. You then use that information to research on your own and come up with several solutions/suggestions for your contact.

In the final section of your cover letter you want to mention this project and include a call to action to discuss it. It could look something like this:

In hopes of learning more about [Company], I had a meeting with [Name]. She told me that her team's largest challenge was upselling customers into the company's new, complementary platform. She noted that, despite the platform increasing retention and lowering costs for clients, the upfront cost to onboard was a major obstacle.

In my previous role, we dealt with a similar situation. Our clients were receptive to adopting a new platform despite the data showing that it would be beneficial for all parties. I spearheaded an initiative where we tested and analyzed several revenue models that maximized adoption rates and profit margins. In the end, we increased adoption rates by 30% without impacting revenue.

Using the information that [Name] gave me, I outlined the process in detail as it relates to your platform. I believe that your team could implement these strategies immediately and see similar results. If you'd like me to send it to you, please let me know! My email is [email protected] .

This section is incredibly powerful because it shows that you are not only interested, you went ahead and proved out the value you could bring to the team. Additionally, the call to action can lead to conversations with the very people who will make the decision to hire you!

Nailing Your Cover Letter Format: Aesthetics, Structure, & Style

Now that you know what's going in your cover letter, it's time to talk about formatting it in a way that will get you results.

You probably didn't think that your paragraph structure, font choice, or margins matter, but they do. Your cover letter format says a lot about who you are as a person and a candidate. It also affects the scan-ability of your cover letter which is critical is you want to make it past those Applicant Tracking Systems!

Formatting Your Cover Letter Heading

I shared an image at the very top of this blog post that breaks down the general format and flow of a great cover letter. Here it is again:

The very first thing I mentioned was the Heading.

The Heading is where you're going to share things like your name, your contact info, and any other info that's relevant to the role. I always aim to include:

• First and last name
• Email address
• Phone number
• Link to my LinkedIn profile
• Any other links that are relevant (Github, personal websites, relevant social profiles, etc.)

When you're formatting your cover letter's header, make sure you don't use the header feature in Microsoft Word or Google Docs. Most Applicant Tracking Systems can't read what's inside of those headers so you're better off just including it in the “body” of the document.

Choosing An Awesome Font For Your Cover Letter (& Why That Matters)

Did I say “fonts?” For real? Who cares?

I used to just use the default Calibri or Arial too until I came across this post on the Psychology of Fonts . The author combed through 75+ academic studies on the subject which all pointed to a similar conclusion – fonts have a massive impact on our perception of an author.

That's right, people are judging you based on your font choice! Better pick a good one.

There are five main font categories out there today: Serif, Sans Serif, Monospace, Fantasy, and Cursive. Here’s an infographic illustrating the emotions that each of these font families evoke in the reader:

When it comes to the  “best” font for your cover letter , the safest bet is to use something simple and easy to read. In my opinion, Sans Serif fits that bill best so choose from fonts like Avenir, Helvetica, or Open Sans.

Formatting Your Cover Letter With Your Resume

If you're writing a cover letter, I bet you're also thinking about how it will tie into your resume. Both of these documents tend to go hand-in-hand when applying for jobs and staying consistent in both is a great way to show off some organizational skills and attention to detail.

The best rule of thumb is to match the formatting you're using on both your resume and cover letter. That means you want to:

• Use the same color scheme (matching down to the specific hex code )
• Use the same font and sizing (if you use 12 point for headers and 10 point for paragraphs, stay consistent on both)
• Use the same header (you can just copy and paste it from your resume to your cover letter and vice versa!)
• Use the same margins and spacing (if you went with 0.5″ on one, do it for both!)

If you pick an awesome cover letter template (like the one I linked below) and you match the formatting with your resume, your materials are going to look awesome and give you a great first impression.

Finally, when all that work pays off and you make it past the final round, make sure your resume references sheet matches the templates you choose here.

How To Upload & Submit Your Cover Letter (Choosing The Right File Type)

So you're finally ready to upload your cover letter and hit “submit” on that online app. Not so fast!

When you upload your cover letter, the application will accept certain file types — and they're not created equal. Usually the online portals will accept Word (.doc and .dox), PDFs, TXT files, and more.

So which one should you choose?

First, you should look to see if there are any instructions on the page. If the application tells you to use a specific format or file type, you should use that format or file type.

This is important because different applicant tracking systems can read applications in different ways.  Most  modern applicant tracking systems can read PDFs , but not every company uses a modern ATS system. So if the application specifically asks for a Word doc, you should use a Word doc.

If there are no instructions, Word is usually your safest bet but you should be fine using a PDF in most cases as well (unless the site specifically states otherwise).

Cover Letter Templates & Examples

At this point you should have a solid understanding of the science behind writing a killer cover letter. You should also have a good handle on what mistakes to avoid so your cover letter makes an awesome first impression.

Now we need to apply all of that to ink on paper! In order to make that easy for you, I'm including a copy of the cover letter templates that I used to land an interview at Google so you can see exactly how I wrote it.

Steal The Exact Cover Letter I Used At Google, Microsoft, & Twitter (For Free)!

Context For The Free Cover Letter Template

Before we dive into the exact cover letter template, I want to give you some context so you can better understand the content of the letter.

I was applying for a Digital Advertising Sales Account Manager at Google's offices in New York. I started by doing some research on LinkedIn to find who I believed to be the hiring manager (her name was Emmy).

I knew that my non-traditional background was a big red flag for most employers so my goal was to proactively address it in my cover letter by calling it out, talking through what I'd done to build the right skills, and highlight the results I'd achieved from those efforts.

Finally, I had spoken to several Google employees who all told me that “Googliness” (cultural fit) was a huge factor in the company's hiring decisions. If I wanted to have a chance, I needed a compelling narrative around why I wanted to work for them and why I was a good fit.

With all of that in mind, here's the cover letter I wrote:

Austin's Cover Letter Template Dear Emmy Anlyan, I grew up with Google. When I was seven years old, I used to sneak down to my Dad’s office at five in the morning to play video games. I still remember opening the browser and seeing the bright, multi-colored letters above the search box for the first time. I’ve always been interested in the tech space and, while my background has mainly been in the sciences, I’m ready to dive head first into the digital world. I believe I would be a great fit for the Digital Advertising Sales Account Manager role because I have a deep understanding of the businesses that partner with Google and how they define success. You might notice that there isn’t much “traditional” digital experience on my resume. That is because, coming from a scientific background, I needed to take a different path. In an effort to gain experience, I created my own agency called OpenWater Analytics. I specialized in using AdWords to generate real estate leads for private communities. I managed the entire sales process from cold outreach, to closing, to servicing the accounts on your platform. Most recently, I helped a community in South Carolina sell every listing on their site (about 15 homes) in less than 6 months. Our cost per lead was half of the competition and we did it all for less than the commission the realtor would have made on a single house (including ad spend). Understanding how these small businesses worked was critical to my success, and I believe those skills will help Google acquire happier, more successful customers who are inclined to spend. In addition, I’ve done some research on your team and have come to understand that your largest challenge is around successfully growing smaller accounts at scale. Based on my experience, I’ve put together a few suggestions below this letter – I’m happy to chat through them in more detail if you’d like. I wanted to close with a quick story about Google that solidified my choice to apply. My referral, [Name of Referral] , works in the education vertical. He services the southeast and many of his accounts are rural. On his last visit down there, in a South Carolina town of 1,500 with no wifi, a teacher asked him if Google could help bring the internet to them. When [Name of Referral] made it back to the office, he emailed Astro Teller asking about the potential for Project Loon to help bring this town in the 21st century. To his surprise, Astro wrote him back within the week mentioning that he’d look into it. While things didn’t pan out, the fact that director of Google’s moonshot project division wrote back an employee about an elementary school in South Carolina blew me away. That is the kind of work I want to be doing. Thank you for taking the time to read my note, I’m incredibly excited to have the opportunity to be considered for this position. Best, Austin

Another Cover Letter Example From A Real Client

It's always helpful to see things from a few different angles so I wanted to include an example of the cover letter one of my clients created using the same template.

She was a high school Spanish teacher aiming to break into marketing. The company in question was an online education company that provides amazing video content for teachers to use in the classroom.

She had been leveraging the company's videos in her “Culture Corner” that she used to start every class. She decided to use that as the basis for her opening.

She starts off with a fantastic hook, “Grapes & [Company Name].”

If you're seeing that as a hiring manager, you're probably thinking “huh??” and you are  most definitely  be reading more.

Then she dives right into the story about one of her favorite memories that included one of the company's videos. Genius!

Next, she goes on to address her non-traditional background and shifts the conversation towards her value by illustrating her knowledge of the company and linking to a value validation project she put together.

This cover letter example is a 10/10, check out the full thing here:

My Client's Cover Letter Example Dear [Hiring Manager] , Grapes and [Company Name] . Both are amazing in their own right, but I never thought I’d get so much joy from combining them. I currently teach high school Spanish and I set aside time each class to teach my students about Spanish culture. A few weeks ago, we watched the “Virtual Viewing Party: Holidays from Around The World” video by [Company Name] . My students particularly loved the segment on the Spanish New Year’s 12 grapes tradition. This got my students interested in other aspects of Spanish culture. Now, we’re working on a culture project where students research a Spanish tradition and create a 3D representation of it. I’ve never seen so much energy in my classroom. Amazing stories like these are why I want to work for [Company Name] . You may notice that my resume does not reflect “traditional” marketing experience. After completing my master’s, I worked as the marketing manager for the UNCC Department of Languages program. I created a strategic marketing plan to increase enrollment for the Master’s in Spanish program. At the end of the year, the program saw a 50% increase in student enrollment (the largest jump in four years). Soon after, I pursued teaching for a few years. In order to get more experienced in the marketing analytics space, I created my own online education website to teach Spanish to adult learners. After testing various digital marketing strategies, my first product launch resulted in a 10% sell through rate. In addition, I am Google Analytics Certified and have working knowledge of SQL. My marketing experience coupled with my education experience gives me a unique perspective on Discovery Education’s product. After analyzing the company through the lens of both a marketer and a user, I put together a report outlining step-by-step data backed strategies that can help Discovery Education: Drive 4.5X more qualified leads Enhance its user experience for both prospects and current customers Implement a digital marketing strategy that has helped companies increase revenue by 760%. Leverage Google Analytics Goal Paths to test these ideas Finally, I’d like to add that I had the pleasure of connecting with [Current Employee] , one of your product marketing managers. [Employee] spoke so passionately about the product, and told me about the new partnerships [Company Name] has with the NFL and MLB. His drive to get the product in front of thousands of students is extraordinary. I’m extremely excited for the opportunity to join such a passionate group of people, and help impact students on such a large scale. Thank you for taking the time to read my letter. I’m looking forward to next steps. Regards, [Client's Name]

Download A Copy Of Austin's Free Cover Letter Template

If you want a copy of that cover letter template with the header included and everything formatted, here's a link to a copy on my Google Drive.

After you click through the link, just hit File > Make A Copy > Organize to add it to your own Google Drive! You can also download it in a variety of formats.

What's Next? Writing A Resume That Actually Gets Results

Now that your cover letter is taken care of, check out our super comprehensive guide on writing a resume that actually gets results. After giving that a read, you can check out our slew of free resume tools, like our free resume builder that will allow you to create an ATS-friendly resume in just a few minutes:

If you still have questions or thoughts about writing an awesome cover letter, drop a comment below — I'm happy to reply with an answer!

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Austin Belcak

Austin is the founder of Cultivated Culture where he helps people land jobs without connections, without traditional experience, and without applying online. His strategies have been featured in Forbes, Business Insider, & Fast Company and has helped people just like you land jobs at Google, Facebook, Amazon, Apple, Microsoft, Twitter, & more.

19 thoughts on How To Write A Job-Winning Cover Letter [Free Templates & Examples]

Useful article for all job seekers who are likely to make cover letters to find a job but they should know that a poorly crafted cover letter may cost their dream job. Cover letter is important part of job application as it is first impression we’ll make with our prospective employer. Thanks for sharing these cover letter mistakes to avoid.

Thanks so much for reading and dropping a comment Mayur!

I was unaware before applying that cover letter plays this much of importance in interview so decided to create one for myself but didn’t had any idea about how and what should i include or which mistakes should i avoid while creating one but this article helped me while creating Cover Letter so thank you for the help.Cheers to this article.

You’re so welcome Ritesh! I’m super happy to hear it helped give you some direction 🙂

Thanks so much Rubel! Glad you liked it.

Great advice.

Thanks Steven!

Great guide! However, what would you recommend for job seekers who work in a field where there is no/little measurement of the impact of your work, e.g. software testing? Surely, no one expects us to make up figures for the impact that our work did. How exactly can one sell oneself here?

Sure Andeel – when you’re testing software, you still have measurable outcomes. You probably have a rate at which you identify issues, or you have a track record of approval while minimizing issues, etc. On top of that, it doesn’t necessarily need to be measurable. You could say something like “I Help Companies Deliver High Quality Software Products That Launch Without Issues” or something similar.

i hope it will help .. so as i can be able to change the situation i am currently in

I think it will, keep me posted on how things go!

Great Advice! I sure will avoid the mistakes listed and use your pointers for my next cover letter. Thank you.

I’m wishing you a ton of success out there Biko!

Really good post, loved it! i just have 1 question while building resume using your tool, we are able to create single page resume. Is there any chance to upgrade the tool so that we can add 2 page resume using Resybild.io

Yes! We are upgrading the tool the support multi-page resumes right now 🙂

Hello Austin could you write something, either for a cover letter or informational interview how to do so if you have a referral already?

Thanks Austin. It’s 2023, and this still gives me great insights on how to write compelling cover letter that works. Thanks

You got it Thompson! I know how frustrating cover letters can be, thanks so much for the kind words!

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• Job Application Documents
• Cover Letters

How to Write a Cover Letter

Last Updated: October 26, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Amber Rosenberg, PCC . Amber Rosenberg is a Professional Life Coach, Career Coach, and Executive Coach based in the San Francisco Bay Area. As the owner of Pacific Life Coach, she has 20+ years of coaching experience and a background in corporations, tech companies, and nonprofits. Amber trained with the Coaches Training Institute and is a member of the International Coaching Federation (ICF). There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 19,041,820 times.

Cover letters. As much as they require more work, cover letters are a great opportunity to cover qualifications we can’t fully explain in our resumes. In addition, they help personalize job applicants to enable them to come across more as real people to potential employers. If you throw together a cover letter in the hopes that nobody will actually read it, you might be missing a chance to land the job. To take advantage of a cover letter's full potential, follow these steps below. You’ll find advice on formatting, reviewing, and researching cover letters. You will also find links to three free samples, which you can copy and adapt to your own personal cover letter.

Sample Cover Letters

Here are some well-written sample letters you can copy and use as a starting point.

Write an Email Cover Letter

How to Address Your Cover Letter Figure out the name of the hiring manager. This small detail makes a huge difference. It makes your letter seem less formulaic, and shows the hiring manager that you care about this opportunity enough to figure out who to write to. Go with another manager’s name if you can’t find the hiring manager. Look up the company’s employee roster and make an educated guess as to who will be reading your cover letter. Even if you’re incorrect, it’s better than using “Dear Hiring Manager” or “To whom it may concern”. If you can't find the name of an employee, you can also address the team (for example, “Dear Digital Marketing Team“). Use “Dear” and their formal title. Make sure to use the hiring manager’s proper title, like Mr., Ms., or Dr. If you can’t tell from their name what the manager’s gender is, address it to their full name. [1] X Research source End with a comma or semi-colon. Ending the salutation with a comma is typically acceptable. If you want your letter to be more formal, opt for a semi-colon instead.

• The introduction is your chance to hook the reader and convince them that reading your cover letter is worth their time. If they aren't convinced in the first few sentences, they may not read the rest of the letter.
• Start with a few unique, attention-grabbing lines that are creative and original. This can include relevant anecdotes, facts, or quotes. Always think about it from the perspective of the hiring manager or recruiter: what is the specific value you bring to the company, organization or role?
• Carefully evaluating a job posting is a great way of gauging the type of company that you’re applying for and can help determine the tone you’ll use in writing your letter from the first paragraph to the last.

Want Feedback on your Cover Letter? Submit your cover letter for professional editing and feedback when you take wikiHow's New Cover Letter Basics Course !

Make Sure to Talk About… Why you’re a qualified candidate for the position. What work experience you have that fits the listed job requirements. Why you want to work for this company specifically. What tangible actions and improvements you could make in this role.

Wrapping Up the Cover Letter Reiterate why you’re a perfect fit. Sum your qualifications up in one succinct sentence to remind the manager why you’re the right person to hire. Discuss what you’ll do next. If you plan on following up with the hiring manager in a week or two, include a specific date. Otherwise, just say that you look forward to interviewing for the position and discussing your qualifications further. Give your contact information. Include your email address and phone number to make sure the manager can get in touch with you. Mention any attachments you’ve included. This could be references, a resume, your portfolio, or other requested materials. Thank the person for their time and consideration. Say something like, “Thank you very much for your time and I look forward to speaking with you soon.”

Write a Paper Cover Letter

Formatting the Letterhead Write your name at the top. If you’re stylizing your letterhead horizontally, bold your name and write it in 14- or 16-point font. If not, put it in 12-point. Include your address, phone number, and email. Make sure your information is up-to-date so the employer can easily contact you, and write it in normal, 12-point font. Use a professional, legible font. You can use a different font from the rest of the letter to help your information stand out, but it should be clear and professional. Avoid fonts with stylistic curls and add-ons. Include an extra line under the letterhead. This creates visual appeal and separates the letterhead from the rest of the letter.

• From here on out, use 12-point Arial or Times New Roman throughout the entire letter, set your margins to one inch, and use single spacing. Be sure your font is black, and if you're printing your letter out, use standard-sized paper (8 1/2” by 11”).

• You don't necessarily need to include how you became aware of the position unless it was through a mutual contact or recruiting program—in which case you should make the most of the connection.
• If you are writing a letter of interest (also known as a prospecting or inquiry letter) in which you are asking about positions that might be available, specify why you are interested in working for the employer.

Writing Stand-Out Body Paragraphs Research the company and tailor your letter accordingly. The tone and content of your letter depend on the company you’re applying for, so it’s important to learn as much as you can about it. Take a look at their website and look up any outside articles about the work that they’re doing. Use language directly from the job listing. Incorporating the exact skills, requirements, and wordings used in the job listing will make your letter stand out to your employer and show that you’re exactly what they’re looking for. [7] X Research source Use a direct tone that matches the company’s atmosphere. If you’re applying to write for a blogging website, go for a friendly or informative tone like the site uses. If you’re applying for a finance position, a more serious tone will work better. Tailoring your voice shows the manager that you’ll fit in well at the company. Research the employer’s mission and history. What makes the company stand out? How have they evolved over time and what’s their stated mission? Incorporating bits of the company’s history and current projects will show that you’re invested and well-informed with their work.

Review Your Cover Letter

Watch Out For: Common misspellings and incorrect punctuation. Comb over your letter carefully to make sure you catch any mistakes that your spelling and grammar checker may have missed. Writing in the passive voice. Now’s the time to own your accomplishments. Replace phrases like “This experience gave me the opportunity to…” with “I used this opportunity to grow and learn that…” Informal writing. Aim to sound professional and educated. Avoid all forms of slang and unnecessary abbreviations.

Checklist for Preparing Your Cover Letter

• The complete name of the company to which you are applying for a job
• The name of the person to whom you are addressing the cover letter
• The address of the person to whom you are sending the letter
• The title of the job for which you are applying and/or its reference number, if it exists

• "room for advancement"
• "an opportunity to learn new skills"

• "graduate student in environmental science"
• "customer service professional specializing in the high-end retail market"

• "fifteen years of excellent customer service experience"
• "an outstanding background in scientific research and discovery"
• "a solid history of dependability in the automotive industry"

• "extensive experience with start-ups"
• "demonstrated ability to solve problems"
• "refined ability to manage teams"
• What will you help the company accomplish, if given the job you desire?
• "increase its bottom line"
• "meet its goal of providing only the best in customer service"
• "expand its customer base and increase its revenue"

• "entry-level"
• "management"
• "senior level"

Expert Q&A

• Be concise. Never use two words when one will do. Always strike the word "very" and eliminate the word "that" as much as you can. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• Consider name-dropping if you are confident that the person you know at the company you are applying to will vouch for you — but do that with their consent. Sometimes a bit of inside help does go a long way, so don't dismiss this option if it is open to you. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Tweak your cover letter depending upon your target. If you are applying for specific jobs then make it as relevant as possible. Include the job reference number and address your cover letter directly to the company contact (if you have their name). Alternatively, if you are applying speculatively you can start with the salutation 'Dear Sirs,' and finish with 'Yours faithfully' rather than 'Sincerely' Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• This is not your autobiography . Keep it well under a page. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
• Avoid generic, empty language ("I will bring a depth of experience," or "I believe my qualifications and experience suit the demands of the position"). Be specific and concrete about what you can bring to the position. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• Be careful not to overplay your cover letter's role in the job application process. Yes, a good cover letter is important and a well-written cover letter should help entice the employer to read your resume. Even so, you should still be aware that your resume/CV is the main player, whereas the cover letter's role is a supporting one. If you get the balance wrong and place too much emphasis on the cover letter (making it too long and complex), then it could deter the employer from reading your resume. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• If you're doing a thorough job search, you will get rejected sometimes. If you're not getting rejected, you're not putting yourself out there enough. In addition, if you don't learn to see rejection as a chance to improve your approach, then you'll have a very difficult time getting a job. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/how-to-address-a-cover-letter-with-examples
• ↑ https://writing.wisc.edu/handbook/assignments/coverletters/
• ↑ https://www.careers.govt.nz/job-hunting/cvs-and-cover-letters/how-to-write-a-cover-letter/
• ↑ https://www.livecareer.com/resources/cover-letters/how-to/write/yes-coverletter-letterhead-sho
• ↑ https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/careers-advice/covering-letter
• ↑ https://www.youthcentral.vic.gov.au/jobs-and-careers/applying-for-a-job/what-is-a-cover-letter/how-to-write-a-cover-letter
• ↑ https://nus.edu.sg/cfg/students/career-resources/cover-letter

About This Article

Address your cover letter directly to the hiring manager for an important personal touch. In your first paragraph, introduce yourself and state the job you’re applying for. In 1-2 body paragraphs, describe why you’re a great candidate, what relevant experience you’ve had, and why you want to work at that company, using language from the job posting. In the last paragraph, give your contact information and thank them for their time. Sign off with “Sincerely,” and send! To find out the differences between how to write an email cover letter versus a paper cover letter, continue reading the article! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Write a Cover Letter: A Complete Guide for 2020

Kate williams.

24 March 2022

The job-hunting process can be exhausting. Searching for job offers, preparing a resume, following up, and finally, attending the interview, and facing the interviewer. But do you know what else is dreary? When all these efforts go down the drain.  There might be several reasons why you didn’t make it up to the mark, and one of them undoubtedly is the absence of an effective cover letter.

Type in “cover letter” on Google, and you get a number of tricks and tips. Well if you are a beginner, then you need a complete guide, to guide you from the A to Z of cover letter making. Voila, you are at the right place and without much ado, let’s see how to write a cover letter that does the work.

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is nothing but an introductory letter, that is addressed to the officials of an organization where you have applied for a job position. A cover letter is no place for bluffing. It should be to the point and introduce you personally as well as professionally.

A cover letter helps the interviewer to gauge your communication skills and view how you see yourself as a professional. Thus, the tone of the letter matters. Make it sound optimistic, enthusiastic, but not persuasive.

Why is a cover letter necessary?

Many a time, you might have steered past the optional button near the cover letter column when applying for a job. According to Michael Tomaszewski, a certified career expert, and resume writer, nearly 77% of the recruiters prefer candidates who send-in cover letters even when it is optional. But, only 35% of the candidates attach a cover letter when it’s optional, and around 38% do it when it’s mandatory.

And that’s what the stats say. So, if you attach a cover letter, you are among the top few candidates who did so, and being among the top 38% isn’t a position you want to miss.

Furthermore, two reasons why recruiters give preference to candidates with a cover letter:

Makes you appear as a serious candidate

Preparing a cover letter isn’t easy. From typos to getting the tone incorrect, plenty of things can go wrong. If a candidate takes such risks to impress the recruiters, why shouldn’t they be impressed? Attaching a cover letter makes you appear as a serious candidate who knows what he/she is signing up for.

Gives insight about your skillset

A cover letter isn’t the elaborate version of a resume; rather, it complements the statements you made in the latter. It describes in detail how you managed to use your skillset for the successful completion of your duties. This can impress the recruiter and thereby, increase your chance of securing the job.

Reasons enough to make a cover letter?

How to Write a Cover Letter: The Ultimate Checklist

Writing a cover letter can be a daunting task if you aren’t sure of what to include and what not to. Before you start writing, think of all the points that can make you a unique talent among thousands of candidates that apply for the job. Here’s a checklist on what to include and what not to, and the dos and don’ts.

What to include in a cover letter:

• Your address and contact details
• Brief introduction about yourself
• Address the person (official) you are writing to
• Mention the job position you are applying for
• Mention your skillset
• Explain how your skill set matches the job profile
• Why do you prefer to work with them
• Prompt the recruiter to go through the resume and additional documents
• Conclude on a friendly note and include a compelling call to action

What not to include in a cover letter:

• Irrelevant skills or achievements
• Expected salary or other benefits
• Negative comments about your previous job
• Misleading information about yourself
• Personal reasons to apply for the job

The Do’s of a cover letter

• Do use jargons related to the job position
• Do use keywords mentioned in the job description
• Do mention the internal referrer name (if any)
• Do get the cover letter peer-reviewed

The Don’ts of a cover letter

• Don’t have typos and grammatical errors
• Don’t use readymade templates
• Don’t write in long paragraphs
• Don’t exceed the maximum limit (max. one page)
• Don’t use over-flattering words

How to make a cover letter: a step-by-step guide

A cover letter can be divided into five parts: The header, the salutation, the body of the letter, the conclusive para along with a call to action, and the signature.

1. The header

The header or the first section of the cover letter is where you include your address and the recruiter’s address. This is an essential part of every cover letter and shouldn’t be excluded at any cost unless if you are sending it as a mail. In that case, you can include your address after the signature, and the recruiter’s address isn’t a necessity.

Here’s what to include in your address

• Your first name and surname
• Street address
• City and Zipcode/Pin code
• Phone number with country code
• Your professional email
• LinkedIn credentials (optional)

While choosing the style (fonts and themes), make sure that you list out the components of your address in such a way that it is easily readable. Avoid using italics or any unnecessary fonts to type your header section. Use a professional font and also stay away from colors in this section of the cover letter.

2. The salutation

Addressing the employer/recruiter by name will impress the reader and shows that you have done your bit of research about the company. You can get the name of the recruiter either from the job posting notice or from the company’s website.

Whatever you do, try to obtain the employer’s details and, make sure that you don’t use “To Whomsoever It May Concern” or “Respected Sir/Madam”.

3. The body of the letter

The body of the letter informs the employer about the position you are applying for, your skillset, what makes you an eligible candidate for the job, and the follow-up procedures. This section of the cover letter is further structured into three paragraphs for better readability and understanding:

The First Paragraph

The first paragraph is the bait you prepare to attract the reader. If this para isn’t exciting enough, then no employer is going to read your letter further. The paragraph should include the details of the job position you applied for and how your skills and goals align with that of the job.

To make this para enjoyable, you need to have thorough knowledge about the job position, beyond what was mentioned in the job description.

The Mid Para

The Mid Para is where you offer value to the employer. If you have mentioned about any achievements from your past role in the resume, this is the place where you explain how you achieved the feat. You could draw references from your resume, but avoid copying the sentences as such. If you play it smart, you can prompt even the employer to go through your resume as well.

You are free to use bold letters and bullet points to grab the attention of the reader, but follow a scheme and ensure the flow of reading isn’t disturbed. If you mention some figures that are crucial to your previous achievement, you can bold it. If there is more than one achievement you need to mention, then use bullet points.

The Final Para

The final paragraph is where you can impress the employer with the knowledge you have about the company. But mention only relevant facts. The employer doesn’t want to know the founding members, or established date of the company. Instead, draw a comparison with the company’s mission and your personal goals, and illustrate how it aligns perfectly. Give the recruiter a solid reason to follow up and consider you as a serious candidate.

4. The conclusive para/ CTA para

Choose an appropriate call to action based on your final para.

Along with the CTA, try to include a brief summary of the points mentioned in the body of the letter and gently remind the employer why you value this job position.

Eg. I am keen on meeting you in person and would love to know more about the job position as it aligns with my goals. I am available at so and so hours of the day for a phone call to discuss how I can help the company with the XYZ issues.

Once you have completed your conclusive para, end the letter with a formal closing like Sincerely, or Yours Truly. Make sure you don’t resort to informal closings like cheers, or lovingly as the goal is to maintain a formal tone throughout the letter.

5. The Signature

The format for the signature section of the cover letter depends on the way you plan to send the letter.

Hard copy Sincerely/Yours Truly, (Space for Signature) Name

Email Sincerely/Yours Truly, Name Address City and Zipcode/Pin code Email Phone number with country code

3 bonus tips to make an effective cover letter

By now, you might be having an overview of how to make a cover letter. Once you have drafted a rough copy, use these three bonus tips to make your cover letter even more compelling.

1. Start with a passion/humor/creativity

Instead of “I am writing this letter to apply for XYZ position…”, start the cover letter with a short, yet catchy story that clearly showcases your passion for the role. This not only helps to grab the attention of the recruiter but also tells them how serious you are about the job.

2. Limit your achievement to two

If you have a number of achievements to share, control your instincts. Select two of the most relevant ones. If you go overboard with your achievements, not only you won’t have space to explain how you managed to achieve it, but also it bores the reader.

3. Be precise and to the point

This can be tricky because whatever you do, there might be a sentence or two that flatters you or the company in some ways. In that case, consider the three questions mentioned below and check if your cover letter answers it impressively.

• Who are you (professionally)?
• Why this role and company?
•  What makes you unique?

If you have managed to answer these three questions, then your cover letter offers the value it is supposed to.

Once you have the final copy in hand, pass it onto your peers for review. Implement the constructive feedbacks and then go for the second round of review as well. The more your letter gets reviewed, the more refined it becomes, and the more refined it is, the more chances that the employer would read it till the end.

Congratulations, we have just cracked the ultimate guide on how to write a cover letter . Whatever you scribble on your cover letter, make it unique. Uniqueness is rare, and companies’ value that. Your zest and zeal for the job role should be conveyed throughout, and passion should prevail over the needs.

What are you waiting for? Take a print out of this guide, write a cover letter, and grab the opportunity.

Cheers for being one step closer to your dream job!!

Content Marketer at SurveySparrow

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Write A Killer Cover Letter In 15 Minutes With This Simple Formula

T here are some things that college just doesn’t prepare you for. For example, how to dress business casual (seriously, how ?), or how to prepare for working a 9-to-5 job for the rest of your life. As someone who has recently entered the world of job searching , I’m finding that there’s one thing I really wish I had learned in a college class: How to write a cover letter.

Most jobs I’ve seen require both a resume and cover letter to apply, and I’ve found myself dreading having to write a new letter for every single position I want. (Seriously, who has time for all this?) I know I’m not alone: In a 2024 Her Campus survey of 562 respondents, nearly 3 out of 10 said they are unlikely to apply for a job that requires a cover letter. While taking the extra time to write a cover letter seems like a pain, skipping out on applying altogether could mean you end up missing out on some great opportunities.

When you’re trying to put yourself out there to employers, crafting individual letters can really slow the process down; honestly, it’s discouraging to think about spending hours and hours writing when you want to be searching for more opportunities. 

To perfect the art of writing a quick and easy cover letter, I spoke with LinkedIn’s Top Recruiting Voice and Director of Recruitment at Swan Resumes, Brittney Swan . Not only did I get some amazing advice on what to include in one of these letters, but Swan also gave me tips to create the perfect cover letter template that you can use any time you need one. And the best part is, it won’t take you more than 15 minutes to put together.

First, let’s establish what a cover letter is.

So, what is a cover letter, exactly? Cover letters are an introduction to your resume and your application. “It should be a quick snapshot of your qualifications and it should directly link your experience with a specific job description or company,” Swan tells Her Campus.

When you’re browsing LinkedIn or Indeed, job posts will (hopefully) have a blurb that describes the positions, tasks, and qualifications the company is looking for. This is what you want to connect your own skills and experiences to in your cover letter. 

It’s important to distinguish what a cover letter shouldn’t be, though. “Candidates might not realize that cover letters are not the same as a letter of intent or a SOQ letter (which is a set of questions designed to demonstrate your knowledge on a subject),” Swan says. “Companies [may] ask for a letter of intent , which means you need to explain what you would do in the role if accepted versus a cover letter, which is explaining your qualifications and professional experiences.” 

One other thing a cover letter should not be is a retelling of your life story. Adding extra information that is not needed or not applicable can actually hurt your chances of getting hired. “Your life story, your family’s life story, or personal information can make it illegal to hire you based on [workplace] bias laws,” Swan says. So, it’s best to stay away from these personal details in a cover letter. 

Here’s a quick and easy format hack for your cover letter intro.

Essentially, the simple format for a cover letter is this: an introduction + qualification + qualification + qualification + conclusion = a completed letter. 

A great way to open your letter is by establishing your interest in the company and giving a brief introduction to your recent experience. “Write an opening statement starting with the job title and explaining your experience,” Swan says.  “Then write what you’re looking for in this role or joining the company — growth, challenge, et cetera.”

Swan provided a sample introduction that you can tailor to your own needs: 

“This letter is to express my interest in joining your growing organization, through an open (title) position. The last XXX years have encompassed [explanation, explanation, explanation]. My hope is to become a part of your organization, as I believe [explanation, explanation, explanation].” 

Here’s what to include in the middle. 

After your intro, this is where the bulk of your explanation comes in. “The second paragraph directly links what the company is asking for with the experiences you have,” Swan says. This is a great time to tie in all that information from the job posting blurb back to what you bring to the table. 

This explanation section doesn’t have to be super long. It’s just telling the company that over the span of however many years, you did a certain amount of relevant work, and since the job listing indicates a need for someone with a certain set of skills, you believe you would be a great fit for the position. 

Then wrap it all up with a short and sweet conclusion.

Closing out a cover letter can be thought of like any other concluding paragraph, or the end of a term paper. You want to reiterate your main points briefly, and then thank the hiring manager for their time or consideration. 

Swan gives another excellent sample, saying in the closing: 

“Given the opportunity, I can bring significant value to your corporation by utilizing my specific skill sets, work experience, and education. I have enclosed my resume and appreciate the time you have taken to get to know who I am and what I could possibly offer to this already inspiring system.”

Cover letters don’t have to be stressful or ridiculously long. Just remember to stick to some basic formatting like this so you don’t overthink it, and you’ll be a pro just like that!

For more insights on navigating a difficult job market and the top jobs, industries, and cities to pursue right now, check out  LinkedIn’s 2024 Guide to Kickstarting Your Career .

The post Write A Killer Cover Letter In 15 Minutes With This Simple Formula first appeared on Her Campus .

See all the jobs at Lisinski Law Firm here: http://lisinskilaw.recruiterbox.com/jobs

Buenos Aires , Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires , Argentina | Legal | Full-time | Fully remote

Are you seeking an exciting opportunity to grow your legal or technical writing skills? Look no further! We are a rapidly expanding Immigration law firm looking for someone like you to help us draft legal brief responses to USCIS requests. We are a high-volume and fast-growing Immigration law firm seeking a legal or technical writer to assist with drafting legal brief responses to USCIS requests. We have had explosive growth over the past year and continue to grow in new and exciting ways.  Apply now! It's an excellent opportunity to grow your career with us! As our RFE Cover Letter writer, you will be working closely with our attorneys and RFE team to develop strategies and draft responses to Requests for Evidence (RFE) and Notices of Intent to Deny (NOID), motions, and appeal briefs. We are looking for someone who is a motivated problem solver and can work independently. Your role will involve evaluating, researching, and drafting responses to RFEs and NOIDs from USCIS. If you have specific experience in family-based or humanitarian immigration cases, it's a plus! Besides, if you have technical writing skills that require applying specific facts to a standard, it's relevant experience that we're looking for. Job Responsibilities: • Analyze and evaluate communications from USCIS, including RFEs, NOIDs, and other inquiries • Evaluate application materials and identify additional evidence to provide to USCIS • Draft response incorporating evidence to support conclusions • Review FOIA records, including USCIS, CBP, OBIM, and EOIR • Coordinate with the legal services team to collect additional evidence • Perform occasional legal and factual research • Create initial drafts of cover letters and templates that follow a legal writing structure • Work with team lead and attorneys to edit work product Why Work for Us? • Fantastic work culture that focuses on positive feedback • Nine paid holidays Qualifications and Requirements • Preferred one year of experience with substantive experience researching and preparing responses to RFEs or NOIDs • Experience with VAWA, T-Visa, U-Visa, Asylum, Medical DA, I-601, DS-260, and DS-160 applications is a plus! But, if you are a great writer with experience in other areas of immigration, we can train you on these case types! • Attention to detail • Problem-solver • Strong writer • Experience reviewing immigration records, including USCIS, OBIM, CBP, and EOIR • Excellent communication and organization skills • Computer skills (Typing - MS Word and MS Excel, Document Management - • DropBox, Email - MS Outlook) Job Type: Full-time Schedule: • 8-hour shift, 9AM -5 PM EST • Monday to Friday Experience: • Immigration law: 1 year (Preferred) We offer more than just an opportunity to make a difference. At this Firm we care about our team members, work hard to provide a great culture, and keep our whole firm connected so that we remain close, even if separated by distance. And we have FUN while changing LIVES.  Join us now and be a part of our exciting journey!

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