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Can a Cover Letter Be Two Pages?

Learn recruiter-backed tips on the perfect cover letter length. Learn when to keep it brief and when more detail is beneficial for your career growth.

3 months ago   •   3 min read

We’ve all been there. Staring at the screen. Wondering whether our cover letter is too long. Or too short. Or just right. Crafting the perfect cover letter is a balancing act between thoroughness and brevity. We want to impress potential employers without overwhelming them. But how much information is too much? It’s a question that’s especially important in the competitive, fast-paced job market of 2024, where every word counts.

Here’s the short answer: A cover letter should generally be no longer than one page. Aim for a cover letter that fills up at least half a page. This length gives you enough space to articulate your value proposition without overwhelming the reader.

Let’s face it: Employers and managers are swamped. They don’t have time to mine through mountains of applications and meticulously review each one. Your cover letter is your first (and perhaps only) chance to grab their attention. So, a crisp, clear, and compelling cover letter can make all the difference.

Of course, like every rule, there are exceptions.

In this article, we’ll share some guidance that’ll help you choose the right length of your cover letter. By the end, you’ll know when a one-page cover letter is sufficient and when a longer letter is more appropriate.

Why the one-page maximum?

The one-page maximum isn’t just a random guideline; it’s about being direct and focused, ensuring your most important qualifications shine without getting buried within pages of text. The idea is simple: Your cover letter should be a teaser, a compelling snapshot of your professional story.

Think of it as your elevator pitch in written form. For instance, if you’re applying for a marketing position, start strong. Open with a statement about a particularly successful campaign you spearheaded. Highlight your role and the outcomes succinctly. This approach shows your capability without veering into verbosity.

Recruiters and hiring managers often view shorter cover letters favorably. They see conciseness as a sign of effective and efficient communication skills—a critical asset in any professional setting.

Focuses on specifics

A brief cover letter forces you to focus on the most relevant aspects of your experience. If your cover letter is longer than 1 page, you likely aren’t tailoring your message to the job’s specific requirements. If you’re eyeing a graphic design role, mention projects that align closely with the skills the employer is seeking. This alignment shows that you’re qualified and attentive to the job’s nuances.

Not diluting key messages

A succinct cover letter ensures that your key points are noticed immediately. When a cover letter extends beyond one page, it risks burying the most crucial information under a pile of irrelevant details. It’s better to share a concise, impactful story about a key professional achievement rather than listing every project or role you’ve been involved in.

Keeping the reader’s attention

The longer your cover letter, the higher the risk of losing the reader’s interest, particularly if it includes irrelevant details. Stay on point by ensuring your anecdotes and examples directly relate to the job requirements. For example, omit personal hobbies or unrelated work experiences that don’t contribute to your specific role candidacy.

A concise cover letter conveys your qualifications and demonstrates your respect for the reader’s time and ability to prioritize and organize information effectively. A well-structured, brief cover letter often leaves a stronger, more positive impression than a lengthy, rambling one.

When it’s ok to use a longer cover letter

In certain circumstances, a two-page cover letter might not only be acceptable but also advantageous.

Senior-level positions

A longer cover letter may be appropriate for roles requiring extensive experience, such as C-level positions. This extra space allows you to detail significant strategic initiatives and leadership experiences. For instance, a candidate with over 15 years of experience might use the additional page to elaborate on the major projects and innovations they led.

Career changes

Transitioning between industries or roles can be complex. You can use extra space in your cover letter to effectively articulate transferable skills and experiences. For example, a professional switching from teaching to corporate training might need extra space to explain how their educational expertise is applicable and valuable in a corporate context.

Complex projects or achievements

Detailed descriptions of specific, relevant projects or significant achievements can justify a longer cover letter. A research scientist, for instance, might expand on their role in a major publication or a groundbreaking project, which requires more than a single page.

Creative fields

In creative fields, a two-page cover letter can offer you the space to showcase your storytelling skills or writing ability. A candidate for a content writing position might use this space to craft a compelling narrative about their writing journey and experiences.

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Can a Cover Letter Be Two Pages?

• POSTED ON November 4, 2023
• by Marcjean Yutuc

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A cover letter gives you an opportunity to highlight your career development journey. It’s your ad campaign, marketing your skills and experiences to your potential employers. Most recruiters want to see how you can impact their company through your letter.

Choosing the ideal page count can make or break your application process. Some companies may appreciate thorough information, while others might not have the time.

Corporate job openings attract around 250 applicants . Therefore, your cover letter should include details directly related to the role to boost your hiring chances.

But is it necessary to submit a two-page cover letter? It depends on your background experience concerning the role and company requirements. Go over these points below to see your ideal cover letter length.

Can a cover letter be two pages?

Most corporate jobs require a one-page cover letter. A survey says 83% of recruiters agree that an effective cover letter can increase your hiring chances even if your resume isn’t good enough. However, some say it’s optional, but it’s better to be ready.

Ensure readability. Your cover letter shouldn’t bore your employers, so avoid filler words. Write simple words instead of using technical industry terms.

A padded letter won’t impress any employer because some details are unnecessary. There are programs like Hemingway and Grammarly to check clarity.

What is the ideal cover letter length?

The ideal cover letter length mustn’t exceed 250 words , so keep it candidly clear. Only include the reasons how you can add value to the company. You don’t need to rewrite your entire resume.

Writing an outstanding cover letter is a balancing act. Writing Tips Institute can agree that it shouldn’t be too little and that it doesn’t have enough information. Nor it shouldn’t be too stuffed with a lot of data.

When to submit a two-page cover letter

Recruiters sift through hundreds of applications per job listing. They may not have enough time to read your lengthy application. Still, some instances may require you to submit a two-page cover letter.

Legal and government responsibilities have enormous selection criteria. They have strict guidelines before accepting the right candidate. So submitting a two-page cover letter detailing your credibility is appropriate in these sectors.

You can submit a two-page cover letter if you fit the following criteria:

• Company requirements. You can use a two-page document if your employer requires you to include testimonials from former bosses. They want to conduct a background check to see if your application letter reflects their feedback.
• Numerous skills and advancements. Senior applicants with diverse background experiences typically submit a two-page cover letter. They want to emphasize how their capabilities can help the company succeed.
• Detailed job description. When a job instructs you to address several requirements, use a two-page cover letter to explain effectively. Call the HR department and ask for key elements on how to outline your letter . These factors may include formatting spaces, fonts, footers, and headings.

When to submit a one-page cover letter

Some employers have strict directions for a cover letter. They may ask for a word limit, a reflection on a given topic, or answer a question. You don’t have to hit the exact word count but focus on the content.

Present a one-page cover letter if you meet the measures below:

• Industry standards. The standard page length of cover letters can fit on a single page. If white spaces worry you, embrace them. Most hiring managers will find it easier to read through your letter over a wall of worthless text.
• Limited job description. Delivering relevant skills that match the job description on one page can save your employer’s time. Include impactful stories using the STAR method , which stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. This strategy gives a clear example of your skill’s effectiveness.
• Ability to express achievements on one page. Some applicants can explain their achievements and how they can enhance the company on a single page. Their paragraphs include strong, simple descriptions to prove their qualifications.

How to write a one-page cover letter

Your cover letter outlines the position you’re applying for and information highlighting why you fit the job. The first part should include the date and contact person’s name, title, company, and address. Choose professional terms to address your contact person in the salutation section—for example, Dear, Mr., or Ms.

Unless you don’t have the contact name, you can simply address the letter as “ Dear, Hiring Manager, or Prospective Employer.” Avoid overly formal words like “To whom it may concern” because they’re outdated.

But remember to always research the company before applying for a job. It shows the commitment and willingness to go the extra mile to gather exact information about your recruiter.

Start your cover letter with an attention-grabbing first paragraph. Then, add strong selling points that stand out from the rest of the applicants. Be explicit and straightforward with your intention from the get-go.

The second paragraph gives a summary of your critical and persuasive skills. Try not to restate your resume. Instead, add professional drama around a central idea. State at least 2-3 key accomplishments that tie back to the role that shaped your career.

Finally, the closing statement. To write an unforgettable cover letter , draw the reader to a call-to-action, summarizing why they should consider you for the role.

Avoid submitting a cover letter without giving it your full attention. You might miss out on bits of unnoticeable errors, so make sure to proofread.

1. Keep your opening brief and concise

Typically, a cover letter should encompass half a page to a full page length. Express your strengths in 3-4 sections that are readable in less than 20 seconds. So be specific. Write your crucial motivation that foreshadows what you’ll do for the company.

2. Do not write a summary of your resume

HR managers spend roughly 30 seconds to a minute reviewing resumes. So make sure to write a banging cover letter that mirrors your resume. Keep fonts in all documents consistent and cohesive to show professionalism.

Apply appropriate text formatting with readable text styles. The best cover letter should have a 12pt font size and use font types like Calibri, Garamond, and Times New Roman.

3. Identify and cut the fluff

Your cover letter shouldn’t have irrelevant fillers that don’t talk about how you can help the company. State precise, impactful information about your skills and professional history. Steer clear from corporate jargon. Use simple, understandable words in place of technical expressions.

4. Avoid using too many adjectives and adverbs

Another way to shorten your cover letter is to minimize your adverbs and adjectives. Though they add color to your letter, using too many is not the best way to persuade your employer. Instead, make an effort to write distinct descriptions without getting out of topic in place of broad terms.

Here’s an example:

• I am an excellent and dedicated employee with a long, impressive work history in this industry.
• I have certifications in SEO content marketing and six years of experience in social media management.

Which of these sentences are likely to convince a recruiter? They both are informative, but the first sentence is too vague, while the second one uses concrete examples.

5. Give two examples to explain your point

You want to market your best traits and abilities that are helpful. So embody confidence. Don’t undersell yourself with words like “I’m probably not the best candidate, but if you give me a chance, I can prove myself to you.”

They don’t know that you don’t have extensive experience in certain skills. But what you can do is emphasize your strengths. Site at least 2 case scenarios wherein you came up with the best possible outcome to an issue.

6. Do not share your entire life story

The cover letter isn’t about the benefits the company can offer you. It’s about what you can put to the table that they can leverage.

Employers don’t want to read about your epiphanies and irrelevant background details. Generally, the first thing they want to see is applicable working experiences. They want to know that you’re capable of working professionally and can handle constructive criticism.

Example of a one-page cover letter: Web developer

June 28, 2022

Mr. Andrew Cole xxx Company Address Company City, State xxxx +111-111-1111 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Cole,

I’m writing this letter to express my interest in the Web Developer position. I’m a progress-focused Web Developer with 9 years of working experience at [Former Company]. While working for the company, I enhanced their web security applications. I also designed an adaptive and user-friendly website capable of mobile and desktop use. Additionally, I trained over 30 staff members regarding internal web functions. 

Throughout my time with [Former Company], I minimized hacker attacks from 3.2% down to 0.03% and redesigned the company website. As a result, I increased visitor clicks by 44% and consumer purchases by 23%.

I wish to work for [Company Name] as I would like to extend my experiences and ideas to help your company reach and surpass its objectives. With a good track record of initiative and dependability, I boosted [Former Company]’s sales and revenue to 39%. What would 39% do for your sales goals? I would train dozens of employees concerning web functions to streamline the process if hired.

I’m looking forward to discussing my qualifications in detail with you soon. Feel free to contact me at +222-222-2222 or email me at [email protected].

Example of a one-page cover letter: Marketing manager

Ms. Liz Claire xxx Company Address Company City, State xxxx +111-111-1111 [email protected]

Dear Ms. Claire,

I’m pleased that [Company Name] has a Marketing Manager job vacancy. I always see your clever ad campaigns and would love to bring my enthusiasm to the team. After working in marketing and advertising for 6 years, I’ve enhanced my marketing strategies and methodical communication approach. 

Being goal-driven and results-oriented, I’ve launched 1,000+ successful online ad campaigns

during my professional career at [Former Company]. With my extensive field-specific skills, I would make a substantial asset to your company.

Here’s an overview of my responsibilities and top accomplishments:

• Wrote and optimized 58 blogs for [Former Company] and ranked 42 articles on the first page of the search engine.
• Launch campaigns that led to an increase in organic engagement and lead generation by more than 110%.
• Planned, monitored, and coordinated the company’s overall marketing and public relations activities.
• Prepared and managed the annual budget for marketing.

Because of my background in sales and marketing, I honed my knowledge in marketing analysis, conducting surveys, and implementing techniques that drive the best outcome. I’m sure that my extensive experience would be valuable for [Company Name].

I’m excited to deliver the same, if not better, marketing results at your esteemed firm. I’m looking forward to meeting you at your most convenient time. You may contact me at +111-111-1111 or email me at [email protected].

Kind Regards,

Danica Fitzpatrick

Example of a one-page cover letter: Accountant

Accounting Hiring Manager xxx Company Address Company City, State xxxx +111-111-1111

Dear Accounting Hiring Manager,

I’m writing to show interest in the Accounting Specialist position at [Company Name]. I recently graduated in accountancy at [Name of School], where I completed a BBA in accounting with competency in business administration.

After graduation, I immediately started an internship at a local accounting firm focusing on small business accounting at [Former Company]. Over the past three years of my internship experience, I honed my skills with accounting software. In addition, I became proficient in tax planning, financial statement preparation, and credit control.

Because of my academic and professional development, I’ve consistently performed at an outstanding level. I intend to bring the same drive and commitment to bringing excellent results to your firm.

Kindly contact me to discuss my qualifications so I can personally explain how I hope to contribute to your business. You may contact me at +000-000-0000 or email me at [email protected]. I look forward to hearing from you. 

Johnn Clements

What experts say about two-page cover letters

“A two-page cover letter is perfectly acceptable in certain cases, such as when an applicant has a lot of experience to discuss or is applying for a senior-level position. In other cases, it might be best to stick to a single page. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what will make the strongest impression on the reader and convince them to give the applicant a chance. If in doubt, err on the side of brevity.

Lengthy cover letters may end up being skimmed or even ignored, so it’s important to make sure that every word counts. If an applicant can succinctly and effectively communicate everything they need to on one page, there’s no need to take up extra space. Conversely, if a two-page letter will allow for a more complete and convincing argument, then it may be worth the extra effort.”

Linda Shaffer Chief People Officer, Checkr

“It’s fine to have a two-page cover letter if you feel it is necessary, but you must understand that you only have so much time in front of an employer before they quickly make a decision, and possibly move on. Many employers treat cover letters/resumes like scrolling through social media channels. They will take a quick look, decide if there’s a possible fit, and make a decision based on the next steps.”

Joana Zambas Career Expert, Career Addict

“As a former recruiter (20 years in the staffing industry), I do not think there are any circumstances that reasonably warrant a two-page cover letter. In most cases, cover letters are barely, quickly skimmed by the recruiter, if that. Recruiting is an extremely fast-paced environment. Recruiters and hiring managers are screening hundreds of candidates weekly, and they simply don’t have time realistically to read 2-page cover letters. In my experience, most cover letters barely get read at all. I strongly recommend keeping your cover letter to one page, preferably just 2-3 concise paragraphs.”

Andrea Clement Owner, Career Collateral and Clemco LLC

“An applicant should always avoid writing a two-page cover letter for the majority of companies. Instead, write a one-page cover letter (between 250–400 words) and try directly targeting your cover letter to the company by mentioning the exact criteria they mention in their job posting. Being intentional about your previous work experience, skills, and other qualifications you include in your cover letter tells employers you’ve paid attention to their job requirements and provided a clear purpose for why you want them to read it.”

Eva Chan Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and Career Coach, Resume Genius

Key Takeaways

To recap, writing a cover letter can be overwhelming, especially for novice professionals. However, learning how to write a cover letter is essential for career development .

Certain companies do accept a two-page cover letter depending on the position. Make sure to research the company before submitting. You want to include the correct details like company culture, names of HR managers, and key players of the organization.

Subscribe to Skill Success All Access Pass and gain access to a comprehensive library of courses designed to elevate your career. Master cover letter writing, ace interviews, enhance your networking skills, and build a strong professional brand.

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Marcjean Yutuc

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• Sep 27, 2023

Can My Cover Letter be 2 Pages?

Revision Resume commonly hears questions like this one. Job seekers often wonder if they can make their cover letter 2 pages, especially since it is currently acceptable to submit a 2-page resume. The quick answer is: no. Although resumes are no longer required to be condensed into only 1 page, the cover letter is still expected to be kept concise. Let's answer a few detailed questions relating to the length of the cover letter.

I have 30 years of work experience. Can't I have a 2-page cover letter as a result?

No, the length of your career does not have any bearing on the length of your cover letter. The 1-page rule is the same for both a recent college graduate and a job seeker at the end of their career. Remember, your cover letter is only intended to highlight why you are a good fit for the job opening. It is not meant to summarize your entire work history. So, focus on the aspects of your work experience and qualifications that align with this particular job opening and remove any content that is not directly related.

What is the negative of submitting a 2-page cover letter?

If your cover letter exceeds 1 page, it reduces the chances that it will be read by the hiring manager or recruiter. They may be put off by the length and decide not to invest their time reading it. Then, none of the information you provide in the cover letter will be seen or evaluated. That is a significant negative! Increase your chances of having your cover letter reviewed by condensing the content to 1 page.

How can I reduce my cover letter content to 1 page?

It can be challenging to remove content from your cover letter. Often, job seekers see everything they included as vital. However, there are a few approaches you can take to pare it down.

Review your resume. Are there areas in which the information is redundant? If so, take the redundancies out of the cover letter. The cover letter should provide different information than the resume.

Review the job posting. Have you included information within the cover letter that isn't really vital for this job opening? Maybe it was important in past roles you have held, but isn't as important for this future opportunity.

Find your focus. Closely read the entire cover letter. Highlight the aspects that are most important. Then look at the remaining, non-highlighted sections and consider if any of the information is not necessary for the cover letter. Would you be able to address it during an interview instead?

Final Thoughts

Although it may feel like a challenge to remove content from your cover letter, it is worth the effort. Submitting a 1-page cover letter shows you understand current hiring standards and are willing to follow directions . It also has the benefit of making it much more likely that your cover letter will be read by a hiring manager or recruiter.

If you are struggling with writing or editing your cover letter, don't hesitate to reach out to Revision Resume . We offer cover letter creation and cover letter critique services and would be happy to help you determine how to reduce the content in your cover letter to an acceptable length.

Related Reading:

Four Reasons to Submit a Cover Letter

Make Sure You Have What it Takes to Compete

Avoid These 8 Common Cover Letter Mistakes

Additional cover letter information can be found here .

• Cover Letter

What’s Next?  With the Right Resume, the Sky’s the Limit!  

The challenge for most job applicants is crafting the right resume. 

Revision Resume is here to help offering the following writing services:

Cover letter

Value proposition letter

Resume critiques are also offered to those who have already created their own resume but would like a second set of eyes to check for errors and to ensure the document is up to modern standards!

With up-to-the-minute knowledge of the hiring industry, Revision Resume can make sure you are submitting the right resume!

In addition to our blog that is packed with useful information and tips, Revision Resume also offers a monthly newsletter and group educational programs. 

Finally, for the "do-it-yourselfer," we offer a checklist package that helps you ensure you haven't missed any vital details. 

To learn more,  contact us .

How Long Should a Cover Letter Be? Ideal Length and Elements

The ideal cover letter length should be between half a page and one page, which equates to 250–400 words spread over three to five paragraphs.

‍ Thirty-six percent of hiring managers spend less than 30 seconds reading a cover letter. It’s a strong indicator that they’re not interested in long cover letters that don't quickly communicate the value you can bring to a role. 

But what do hiring managers have to say about this, and what can you do to optimize your cover letter? We’ll answer these questions, examine the key elements every cover letter should include, and take a look at tips to keep your cover letter short and sweet. Let’s get to it.

Do Hiring Managers Prefer Long or Short Cover Letters?

Seventy percent of surveyed recruiters prefer a shorter cover letter. The ideal cover letter length should be between half a page and one page, which equates to 250–400 words spread over three to five paragraphs. That means your cover letter needs to be concise. 

The goal of a cover letter is to provide more information on how your professional qualifications and experience make you a good fit for a specific role—so focus on emphasizing your value. 

Dr. Kyle Elliott , Founder and Tech Career Coach at Kyle Elliott Consulting advises the following practices when approaching a cover letter:

“Your cover letter doesn't need to summarize your resume, which is a common mistake many job seekers make. Rather, use it as an opportunity to highlight what sets you apart from the hundreds, or thousands, of people applying for the same role as you. Additionally, spend a sentence or two communicating what drew you to this specific company. Finally, include a clear call to action inviting the interviewer to meet with you to further discuss your candidacy.”

While it’s important to be mindful of length, that shouldn’t be your only focus. Use as many words as you need to communicate your value, without being wordy, repetitive, and going off course.  

Key Characteristics of a One-Page Cover Letter

Even though many recruiters skim cover letters, they’re still essential. As much as 65% of recruiters report that cover letters influence their decision on who to interview or hire. Plus, 81% said they value customized cover letters over generic ones. 

Your cover letter is your chance to set yourself apart, says Dr. Kylie Elliott : 

“While not all recruiters and hiring managers read cover letters, those who do choose to read them aren't looking for a mere summary of your resume. Instead, they want to learn more about you and what sets you apart from the other people who applied for the open position.” 

Here are some key features to prioritize to make sure you deliver a well-crafted cover letter.

First, as mentioned, your cover letter should be roughly half a page to a full page long and total 250–400 words. It should be divided into 3–5 paragraphs for easy scanning, and each paragraph should have a clear focus (we dive into the specifics of what to cover in each paragraph, below). 

You should also pay attention to your cover letter formatting. Messy formatting comes across as unprofessional and can hurt your application, say surveyed recruiters and hiring managers . Plus, formatting is key to making it through applicant tracking systems (ATS).  

• Font: Choose standard fonts such as Calibri and Georgia that are easy to read and scan, with a font size between 10 and 12. 
• Spacing and alignment: Your cover letter should have enough white space. It should also be aligned to the left with a standard 1-inch margin. This makes for a clean and uncluttered look. 
• Format: For easy identification and assessment, name your document properly and send it in PDF format. Pay attention to any recruitment criteria on how to name and format your cover letter. 

Cover Letter Outline and Word Count 

No matter the length of your cover letter, there are certain elements it absolutely must include. 

We’ll take a look at each, and give our advice on optimizing each section—so you’re delivering maximum value while keeping your cover letter at the correct length. 

This is the first part of your cover letter and contains your contact details: such as your full name, email address, phone number, and link to a professional profile. It may also include the receiver’s details like the recruiter’s professional title, company name, and address. 

This should be approximately 20 words.

This is where you address the recruiter or hiring manager. If you don’t know their name, your greeting can reference their role, i.e. “Dear hiring manager.” Preferably, address them by their full name as this shows you’ve taken the time to do your research. 

Opening statement

This is where you introduce yourself and briefly outline why you’re the best fit for the role. You can also place a core achievement here to capture the recruiter or hiring manager’s attention. 

This section should be roughly 50 to 70 words. Focus on information that’s specifically relevant to the role and will make your application stand out. 

This is the crux of the cover letter where you sell yourself by stating relevant experience, skills, and qualifications that make you the best fit for the role. The body of the cover letter is usually two to three paragraphs. 

In the first paragraph, include information on achievements from past roles and outline how you can replicate these results for this new company. 

In the second paragraph, include some of your key skills and match these against those outlined in the job description. Note how you applied them in past endeavors. 

The third paragraph should contain information on your professional qualifications, courses taken, and more. 

The cover letter body should be about 150–200 words to keep within our guidelines for cover letter length . 

Closing paragraph

The closing paragraph is where you’ll tie up everything written so far. You should thank the recruiter for their time and include a call to action (CTA), like: “I look forward to hearing from you and am available to discuss my skillset at your earliest convenience.” This should be about 50 words. 

Complimentary close 

The complimentary close includes a formal closing statement, such as “Warm regards,” “Sincerely,” or “Best.” 

How to Keep Your Cover Letter the Correct Length 

Here are some cover letter tips to help you make a great impression and boost your chances of getting interviewed. 

Tip 1: Break it into sections

An ideal cover letter contains an opening statement, a body, and a closing paragraph. 

The first section should contain information about you and your professional background. The next section should focus on your skills, relevant experiences, and how you intend to use them in this new role. The last section contains your closing statement and CTA. 

By breaking your cover letter into logically arranged sections that have set parameters, you’ll avoid repeating information.

Tip 2: Follow professional formatting

The formatting of your cover letter also determines its length. First, embrace whitespace. Single or 1.5 spacing is ideal. 

You should pick an easy-to-read and legible font, like Arial or Georgia, with a font size between 10 and 12. It’s also best to outline your skills in an essay format, where you outline their relevance, rather than bullet points that rehash your resume. 

Using a cover letter template—like those offered by Rezi —will ensure you get these formatting essentials right every time. 

Tip 3: Highlight only relevant skills and experiences

This is the meat of the cover letter that most hiring managers look out for. So, while it may be tempting to list all your skills and work achievements, focus on relevant information that directly relates to the job you’re applying for.

Try the STAR method, which stands for situation, task, action, and result. This helps you state how you applied your skills in a situation when carrying out certain tasks, which in turn leads to the desired result. This will demonstrate the link between your skills and experiences and highlight how you’ll add value to the team.  

Tip 4: Remove fluff

Cut any unnecessary words that don’t add further meaning to what you’re saying. Removing fluff makes your cover letter more concise and easy to read. 

Tip 5: Proofread and edit 

Before you press send, ensure you edit your cover letter or ask someone to do this for you. This helps you identify and correct any grammatical errors, improve the flow of your sentences, and remove redundancies. 

Tip 6: Check the employer’s requirements 

Finally, check the job ad for information on how long the cover letter should be, as some recruiters specify the number of words they’re looking for. Ignoring that instruction will reflect badly on your application. 

In situations where no word count is specified, stay within 250–400 words. 

Example of a One-Page Cover Letter That’ll Impress Managers

Here’s why you should adopt this cover letter template for your next job application: 

• It’s concise and straight to the point. 
• It communicates the applicant’s capabilities and core information and removes unnecessary details.
• It follows the correct format, with enough white space and a font style and size that’s appropriate for an ATS.
• It’s easily scannable with short paragraphs and core details presented first. 

Start Creating an Impressive Cover Letter with Rezi

A great cover letter considers both word count and the relevance of information. Don’t focus solely on how long the letter is, as this may force you to eliminate core details that make you stand out. 

The best way to approach writing your cover is by listing all the relevant information that showcases you as a great fit for a job, and then using a template to help you narrow your points down to the essentials. 

With the Rezi cover letter generator, you have myriad short cover letter samples to choose from—making your job application process that much easier. 

They are optimally formatted and can be tailored to the role and organization with just a few clicks. And you can tailor your application further by using our resume builder , and boost your chances of getting that dream job. 

Sign up to create your short cover letter.

1. Is a 500-word cover letter too long?

A 500-word cover letter may be too long if it includes unnecessary information that doesn’t highlight your value. However, this length is fine if it’s filled with core details that show the recruiter why you’re the best fit for the role. 

Generally, though, the rule of thumb is to write between half a page to one page, or around 250–400 words. 

2. Is it OK if my cover letter is two pages?

No matter how senior you are or how much work experience you have, a two-page cover letter is overboard. Most recruiters use cover letters as a supporting document when assessing your application, so they most likely won’t have the time and energy to read a two-page cover letter. 

Tech career coach Dr. Kyle Elliott has this to say:

“While a two-page cover letter may be needed in certain situations, such as when applying for an academic role or addressing specific questions requested by the prospective employer, a single-page cover letter will suffice in most cases.”

Also, the aim of your cover letter is not to rehash what’s already been stated in your resume but to emphasize key achievements that’ll make you stand out. You can do that in half a page to a full page.

Kels Styles

Kels is a career writer and editor with a background in entertainment, advertising, and startups. Kels aims to provide, reinforce, and organize authentic, digestible content that helps you take the next step in your career. 

Can A Cover Letter Be Two Pages

In This Guide:

Can a cover letter be two pages?

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A cover letter can be longer than one page, but it is generally recommended to keep it to one page or less. Employers typically do not have a lot of time to review cover letters and may not read a lengthy letter. Additionally, a one-page letter allows you to focus on the most important information and highlights your qualifications for the job. It is better to be concise and clear in your cover letter.

How To Create A Cover Letter For An Internal Position

Mastering the 'sell me this pen' interview question, cv (curriculum vitae) format [examples & templates for 2023], what is the best file to save a resume, why we love (and hate) personal resumes, do you need to put a date on your cover letter.

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Should Your Cover Letter Be One Page or Two? Finding the Right Length

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How to Write a Cover Letter [Full Guide & Examples for 2024]

After weeks of heavy job searching, you’re almost there!

You’ve perfected your resume.

You’ve short-listed the coolest jobs you want to apply for.

You’ve even had a friend train you for every single interview question out there.

But then, before you can send in your application and call it a day, you remember that you need to write a cover letter too.

So now, you’re stuck staring at a blank page, wondering where to start...

Don’t panic! We’ve got you covered. Writing a cover letter is a lot simpler than you might think. 

In this guide, we’re going to teach you how to write a cover letter that gets you the job you deserve.

We're going to cover:

What Is a Cover Letter?

• How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter, Step by Step
• 15+ Job-Winning Cover Letter Examples

Let’s get started.

A cover letter is a document that you submit as part of your job application, alongside your resume or CV.

The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce you and briefly summarize your professional background. On average, it should be around 250 to 400 words long .

A good cover letter is supposed to impress the hiring manager and convince them you’re worth interviewing as a candidate.

So, how can your cover letter achieve this?

First of all, it should complement your resume, not copy it. Your cover letter is your chance to elaborate on important achievements, skills, or anything else that your resume doesn’t give you the space to cover. 

For example, if you have an employment gap on your resume, the cover letter is a great place to explain why it happened and how it helped you grow as a person. 

If this is your first time writing a cover letter, writing about yourself might seem complicated. But don’t worry—you don’t need to be super creative or even a good writer .

All you have to do is follow this tried and tested cover letter structure:

• Header. Add all the necessary contact information at the top of your cover letter.
• Formal greeting. Choose an appropriate way to greet your target audience.
• Introduction. Introduce yourself in the opening paragraph and explain your interest in the role.
• Body. Elaborate on why you’re the best candidate for the job and a good match for the company. Focus on “selling” your skills, achievements, and relevant professional experiences.
• Conclusion. Summarize your key points and wrap it up professionally.

Now, let’s take a look at an example of a cover letter that follows our structure perfectly:

New to cover letter writing? Give our cover letter video a watch before diving into the article!

When Should You Write a Cover Letter?

You should always include a cover letter in your job application, even if the hiring manager never reads it. Submitting a cover letter is as important as submitting a resume if you want to look like a serious candidate.

If the employer requests a cover letter as part of the screening process, not sending one is a huge red flag and will probably get your application tossed into the “no” pile immediately.

On the other hand, if the job advertisement doesn’t require a cover letter from the candidates, adding one shows you went the extra mile.

Putting in the effort to write a cover letter can set you apart from other candidates with similar professional experience and skills, and it could even sway the hiring manager to call you for an interview if you do it right.

Need to write a letter to help get you into a good school or volunteer program? Check out our guide to learn how to write a motivation letter !

How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter

Now that you know what a cover letter is, it’s time to learn how to write one!

We’ll go through the process in detail, step by step.

#1. Choose the Right Cover Letter Template

A good cover letter is all about leaving the right first impression.

So, what’s a better way to leave a good impression than a well-formatted, stylish template?

Just choose one of our hand-picked cover letter templates , and you’ll be all set in no time!

As a bonus, our intuitive AI will even give you suggestions on how to improve your cover letter as you write it. You’ll have the perfect cover letter done in minutes!

#2. Put Contact Information in the Header

As with a resume, it’s important to 

start your cover letter

 with your contact details at the top. These should be in your cover letter’s header, separated neatly from the bulk of your text.

Here, you want to include all the essential contact information , including:

• Full Name. Your first and last name should stand out at the top.
• Job Title. Match the professional title underneath your name to the exact job title of the position you’re applying for. Hiring managers often hire for several roles at once, so giving them this cue about what role you’re after helps things go smoother.
• Email Address. Always use a professional and easy-to-spell email address. Ideally, it should combine your first and last names.
• Phone Number. Add a number where the hiring manager can easily reach you.
• Location. Add your city and state/country, no need for more details.
• Relevant Links (optional). You can add links to websites or social media profiles that are relevant to your field. Examples include a LinkedIn profile , Github, or an online portfolio.

Then it’s time to add the recipient’s contact details, such as:

• Hiring Manager's Name. If you can find the name of the hiring manager, add it.
• Hiring Manager's Title. While there’s no harm in writing “hiring manager,” if they’re the head of the department, we recommend you use that title accordingly.
• Company Name. Make sure to write the name of the company you're applying to.
• Location. The city and state/country are usually enough information here, too.
• Date of Writing (Optional). You can include the date you wrote your cover letter for an extra professional touch.

#3. Address the Hiring Manager

Once you’ve properly listed all the contact information, it’s time to start writing the content of the cover letter.

The first thing you need to do here is to address your cover letter directly to the hiring manager.

In fact, you want to address the hiring manager personally .

Forget the old “Dear Sir or Madam” or the impersonal “To Whom It May Concern.” You want to give your future boss a good impression and show them that you did your research before sending in your application.

No one wants to hire a job seeker who just spams 20+ companies and hopes something sticks with their generic approach

So, how do you find out who’s the hiring manager?

First, check the job ad. The hiring manager’s name might be listed somewhere in it.

If that doesn’t work, check the company’s LinkedIn page. You just need to look up the head of the relevant department you’re applying to, and you’re all set.

For example, if you’re applying for the position of Communication Specialist at Novorésumé. The hiring manager is probably the Head of Communications or the Chief Communications Officer.

Here’s what you should look for on LinkedIn:

And there you go! You have your hiring manager.

But let’s say you’re applying for a position as a server . In that case, you’d be looking for the “restaurant manager” or “food and beverage manager.”

If the results don’t come up with anything, try checking out the “Team” page on the company website; there’s a good chance you’ll at least find the right person there.

Make sure to address them as Mr. or Ms., followed by their last name. If you’re not sure about their gender or marital status, you can just stick to their full name, like so:

• Dear Mr. Kurtuy,
• Dear Andrei Kurtuy,

But what if you still can’t find the hiring manager’s name, no matter where you look?

No worries. You can direct your cover letter to the company, department, or team as a whole, or just skip the hiring manager’s name.

• Dear [Department] Hiring Manager
• Dear Hiring Manager
• Dear [Department] Team
• Dear [Company Name]

Are you applying for a research position? Learn how to write an academic personal statement .

#4. Write an Eye-Catching Introduction

First impressions matter, especially when it comes to your job search.

Hiring managers get hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of applications. Chances are, they’re not going to be reading every single cover letter end-to-end.

So, it’s essential to catch their attention from the very first paragraph.

The biggest problem with most opening paragraphs is that they’re usually extremely generic. Here’s an example:

• My name is Jonathan, and I’d like to work as a Sales Manager at XYZ Inc. I’ve worked as a Sales Manager at MadeUpCompany Inc. for 5+ years, so I believe that I’d be a good fit for the position.

See the issue here? This opening paragraph doesn’t say anything except the fact that you’ve worked the job before.

And do you know who else has similar work experience? All the other applicants you’re competing with.

Instead, you want to start with some of your top achievements to grab the reader’s attention. And to get the point across, the achievements should be as relevant as possible to the position.

Your opening paragraph should also show the hiring manager a bit about why you want this specific job. For example, mention how the job relates to your plans for the future or how it can help you grow professionally. This will show the hiring manager that you’re not just applying left and right—you’re actually enthusiastic about getting this particular role.

Now, let’s make our previous example shine:

Dear Mr. Smith,

My name’s Michael, and I’d like to help XYZ Inc. hit and exceed its sales goals as a Sales Manager. I’ve worked as a Sales Representative with Company X, another fin-tech company , for 3+ years, where I generated an average of $30,000+ in sales per month and beat the KPIs by around 40%. I believe that my previous industry experience, passion for finance , and excellence in sales make me the right candidate for the job.

The second candidate starts with what they can do for the company in the future and immediately lists an impressive and relevant achievement. Since they’re experienced in the same industry and interested in finance, the hiring manager can see they’re not just a random applicant.

From this introduction, it’s safe to say that the hiring manager would read the rest of this candidate’s cover letter.

#5. Use the Cover Letter Body for Details

The next part of your cover letter is where you can go into detail about what sets you apart as a qualified candidate for the job.

The main thing you need to remember here is that you shouldn’t make it all about yourself . Your cover letter is supposed to show the hiring manager how you relate to the job and the company you’re applying to.

No matter how cool you make yourself sound in your cover letter, if you don’t tailor it to match what the hiring manager is looking for, you’re not getting an interview.

To get this right, use the job ad as a reference when writing your cover letter. Make sure to highlight skills and achievements that match the job requirements, and you’re good to go.

Since this part of your cover letter is by far the longest, you should split it into at least two paragraphs.

Here’s what each paragraph should cover:

Explain Why You’re the Perfect Candidate for the Role

Before you can show the hiring manager that you’re exactly what they’ve been looking for, you need to know what it is they’re looking for.

Start by doing a bit of research. Learn what the most important skills and responsibilities of the role are according to the job ad, and focus on any relevant experience you have that matches them.

For example, if you’re applying for the position of a Facebook Advertiser. The top requirements on the job ad are:

• Experience managing a Facebook ad budget of $10,000+ / month
• Some skills in advertising on other platforms (Google Search + Twitter)
• Excellent copywriting skills

So, in the body of your cover letter, you need to show how you meet these requirements. Here’s an example of what that can look like:

In my previous role as a Facebook Marketing Expert at XYZ Inc. I handled customer acquisition through ads, managing a monthly Facebook ad budget of $40,000+ . As the sole digital marketer at the company, I managed the ad creation and management process end-to-end. I created the ad copy and images, picked the targeting, ran optimization trials, and so on.

Other than Facebook advertising, I’ve also delved into other online PPC channels, including:

• Google Search

Our example addresses all the necessary requirements and shows off the candidate’s relevant skills.

Are you a student applying for your first internship? Learn how to write an internship cover letter with our dedicated guide.

Explain Why You’re a Good Fit for the Company

As skilled and experienced as you may be, that’s not all the hiring manager is looking for.

They also want someone who’s a good fit for their company and who actually wants to work there.

Employees who don’t fit in with the company culture are likely to quit sooner or later. This ends up costing the company a ton of money, up to 50% of the employee’s annual salary , so hiring managers vet candidates very carefully to avoid this scenario.

So, you have to convince the hiring manager that you’re passionate about working with them.

Start by doing some research about the company. You want to know things like:

• What’s the company’s business model?
• What’s the company’s product or service? Have you used it?
• What’s the company’s culture like?

Chances are, you’ll find all the information you need either on the company website or on job-search websites like Jobscan or Glassdoor.

Then, pick your favorite thing about the company and talk about it in your cover letter.

But don’t just describe the company in its own words just to flatter them. Be super specific—the hiring manager can see through any fluff.

For example, if you’re passionate about their product and you like the company’s culture of innovation and independent work model, you can write something like:

I’ve personally used the XYZ Smartphone, and I believe that it’s the most innovative tech I’ve used in years. The features, such as Made-Up-Feature #1 and Made-Up-Feature #2, were real game changers for the device.

I really admire how Company XYZ strives for excellence in all its product lines, creating market-leading tech. As someone who thrives in a self-driven environment, I truly believe that I’ll be a great match for your Product Design team.

So, make sure to do your fair share of research and come up with good reasons why you're applying to that specific company.

Is the company you want to work for not hiring at the moment? Check out our guide to writing a letter of interest .

#6. Wrap It Up and Sign It

Finally, it’s time to conclude your cover letter.

In the final paragraph, you want to:

• Wrap up any points you couldn't make in the previous paragraphs. Do you have anything left to say? If there’s any other information that could help the hiring manager make their decision, mention it here. If not, just recap your key selling points so far, such as key skills and expertise.
• Express gratitude. Politely thanking the hiring manager for their time is always a good idea.
• Finish the cover letter with a call to action. The very last sentence in your cover letter should be a call to action. This means you should ask the hiring manager to do something, like call you and discuss your application or arrange an interview.
• Remember to sign your cover letter. Just add a formal closing line and sign your name at the bottom.

Here’s an example of how to end your cover letter :

I hope to help Company X make the most of their Facebook marketing initiatives. I'd love to further discuss how my previous success at XYZ Inc. can help you achieve your Facebook marketing goals. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at the provided email address or phone number so that we may arrange an interview.

Thank you for your consideration,

Alice Richards

Feel free to use one of these other popular closing lines for your cover letter:

• Best Regards,
• Kind Regards,

Cover Letter Writing Checklist

Once you’re done with your cover letter, it’s time to check if it meets all industry requirements. 

Give our handy cover letter writing checklist a look to make sure:

Does your cover letter heading include all essential information?

• Professional Email
• Phone Number
• Relevant Links

Do you address the right person? 

• The hiring manager in the company
• Your future direct supervisor
• The company/department in general

Does your introductory paragraph grab the reader's attention?

• Did you mention some of your top achievements?
• Did you use numbers and facts to back up your experience?
• Did you convey enthusiasm for the specific role?

Do you show that you’re the right candidate for the job?

• Did you identify the core requirements for the role?
• Did you show how your experiences helped you fit the requirements perfectly?

Do you convince the hiring manager that you’re passionate about the company you’re applying to?

• Did you identify the top 3 things that you like about the company?
• Did you avoid generic reasons for explaining your interest in the company?

Did you conclude your cover letter properly?

• Did you recap your key selling points in the conclusion?
• Did you end your cover letter with a call to action?
• Did you use the right formal closing line and sign your name?

15 Cover Letter Tips

Now you’re all set to write your cover letter! 

Before you start typing, here are some cover letter tips to help take your cover letter to the next level:

• Customize Your Cover Letter for Each Job. Make sure your cover letter is tailored to the job you're applying for. This shows you're not just sending generic applications left and right, and it tells the hiring manager you’re the right person for the job.
• Showcase Your Skills. Talk about how your skills meet the company’s needs. And while your hard skills should be front and center, you shouldn’t underestimate your soft skills in your cover letter either.
• Avoid Fluff. Don’t make any generic statements you can’t back up. The hiring manager can tell when you’re just throwing words around, and it doesn’t make your cover letter look good.
• Use Specific Examples. Instead of saying you're great at something, give an actual example to back up your claim. Any data you can provide makes you sound more credible, so quantify your achievements. For example, give numbers such as percentages related to your performance and the timeframe it took to accomplish certain achievements.
• Research the Company. Always take time to learn about the company you're applying to. Make sure to mention something about them in your cover letter to show the hiring manager that you're interested.
• Follow the Application Instructions. If the job posting asks for something specific in your cover letter or requires a certain format, make sure you include it. Not following instructions can come off as unattentive or signal to the hiring manager that you’re not taking the job seriously.
• Use the Right Template and Format. Choose the right cover letter format and adapt your cover letter’s look to the industry you’re applying for. For example, if you’re aiming for a job in Law or Finance, you should go for a cleaner, more professional look. But if you’re applying for a field that values innovation, like IT or Design, you have more room for creativity.
• Express Your Enthusiasm. Let the hiring manager know why you're excited about the job. Your passion for the specific role or the field in general can be a big selling point, and show them that you’re genuinely interested, not just applying left and right.
• Address Any Gaps. If there are any employment gaps in your resume , your cover letter is a great place to mention why. Your resume doesn’t give you enough space to elaborate on an employment gap, so addressing it here can set hiring managers at ease—life happens, and employers understand.
• Avoid Quirky Emails. Your email address should be presentable. It’s hard for a hiring manager to take you seriously if your email address is “[email protected].” Just use a [email protected] format.
• Check Your Contact Information. Typos in your email address or phone number can mean a missed opportunity. Double-check these before sending your application.
• Mention if You Want to Relocate. If you’re looking for a job that lets you move somewhere else, specify this in your cover letter.
• Keep It Brief. You want to keep your cover letter short and sweet. Hiring managers don’t have time to read a novel, so if you go over one page, they simply won’t read it at all.
• Use a Professional Tone. Even though a conversational tone isn’t a bad thing, remember that it's still a formal document. Show professionalism in your cover letter by keeping slang, jargon, and emojis out of it.
• Proofread Carefully. Typos and grammar mistakes are a huge deal-breaker. Use a tool like Grammarly or QuillBot to double-check your spelling and grammar, or even get a friend to check it for you.

15+ Cover Letter Examples

Need some inspiration? Check out some perfect cover letter examples for different experience levels and various professions.

5+ Cover Letter Examples by Experience

#1. college student cover letter example.

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

#2. Middle Management Cover Letter Example

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

#3. Team Leader Cover Letter Example

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

#4. Career Change Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to a career change resume and cover letter here.

#5. Management Cover Letter Example

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

#6. Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing an executive resume here.

9+ Cover Letter Examples by Profession

#1. it cover letter example.

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

#2. Consultant Cover Letter Example

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

#3. Human Resources Cover Letter

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

#4. Business Cover Letter Example

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

#5. Sales Cover Letter Example

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

#6. Social Worker Cover Letter

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

#7. Lawyer Cover Letter

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

#8. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter

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

#9. Engineering Cover Letter Example

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

#10. Receptionist Cover Letter Example

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

Need more inspiration? Check out these cover letter examples to learn what makes them stand out.

Plug & Play Cover Letter Template

Not sure how to start your cover letter? Don’t worry!

Just copy and paste our free cover letter template into the cover letter builder, and swap out the blanks for your details.

[Your Full Name]

[Your Profession]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Location]

[Your LinkedIn Profile URL (optional)]

[Your Personal Website URL (optional)]

[Recipient's Name, e.g., Jane Doe],

[Recipient's Position, e.g., Hiring Manager]

[Company Name, e.g., ABC Corporation]

[Company Address]

[City, State/Country]

Dear [Recipient's Name],

As a seasoned [Your Profession] with [Number of Years of Experience] years of industry experience, I am eager to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. With my experience in [Your Industry/Sector] and the successes I've achieved throughout my education and career, I believe I can bring unique value and creativity to your team.

In my current role as [Your Current Job Title], I've taken the lead on more than [Number of Projects/Assignments] projects, some valued up to $[Highest Project Value]. I pride myself on consistently exceeding client expectations and have successfully [Mention a Key Achievement] in just a [Amount of Time] through [Skill] and [Skill].

I've collaborated with various professionals, such as [List Roles], ensuring that all [projects/tasks] meet [relevant standards or objectives]. This hands-on experience, coupled with my dedication to understanding each [client's/customer's] vision, has equipped me to navigate and deliver on complex projects.

My key strengths include:

• Improving [Achievement] by [%] over [Amount of Time] which resulted in [Quantified Result].
• Optimizing [Work Process/Responsibility] which saved [Previous Employer] [Amount of Time/Budget/Other Metric] over [Weeks/Months/Years]
• Spearheading team of [Number of People] to [Task] and achieving [Quantified Result].

Alongside this letter, I've attached my resume. My educational background, a [Your Degree] with a concentration in [Your Specialization], complements the practical skills that I'm particularly eager to share with [Company Name].

I'm excited about the possibility of contributing to [Something Notable About the Company or Its Mission]. I'd be grateful for the chance to delve deeper into how my expertise aligns with your needs.

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

The Heart of Your Job Search - Creating a Killer Resume

Your cover letter is only as good as your resume. If either one is weak, your entire application falls through.

After all, your cover letter is meant to complement your resume. Imagine going through all this effort to leave an amazing first impression in your cover letter, only for the hiring manager to never read it because your resume was mediocre.

But don’t worry; we’ve got you covered here, too.

Check out our dedicated guide on how to make a resume and learn everything you need to know to land your dream job!

Just pick one of our resume templates and start writing your own job-winning resume.

Key Takeaways

Now that we’ve walked you through all the steps of writing a cover letter, let’s summarize everything we’ve learned:

• A cover letter is a 250 - 400 word document that’s meant to convince the hiring manager that you’re the best candidate for the job.
• Your job application should always include a cover letter alongside your resume.
• To grab the hiring manager’s attention, write a strong opening paragraph. Mention who you are, why you’re applying, and a standout achievement to pique their interest.
• Your cover letter should focus on why you’re the perfect candidate for the job and why you’re passionate about working in this specific company.
• Use the body of your cover letter to provide details on your skills, achievements, and qualifications, as well as make sure to convey your enthusiasm throughout your whole cover letter.
• Recap your key selling points towards the end of your cover letter, and end it with a formal closing line and your full name signed underneath.

At Novorésumé, we’re committed to helping you get the job you deserve every step of the way! 

Follow our career blog for more valuable advice, or check out some of our top guides, such as:

• How to Make a Resume in 2024 | Beginner's Guide
• How to Write a CV (Curriculum Vitae) in 2024 [31+ Examples]
• 35+ Job Interview Questions and Answers [Full List]

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How to Write a Cover Letter When You’re Changing Careers (or a New Grad)

Apr 16, 2024

By Nancy Koziol

Across the world, people as young as 15 are put in the position of choosing the line of work they'd like to pursue. At this early age, we're barely beyond aspiring to be astronauts or superheroes. Forced to choose, be it during the early teen years outside of the US or the late teens and early twenties in the US, many of us find ourselves in one of two positions. Either we decide changing careers is the right move, or we're entering the workforce with zero experience and approaching a job application. We discussed how to craft a resume if you find yourself in this position but didn't cover the other half of the application equation. How is it possible to accomplish writing a cover letter with no experience? That's today's topic.

Stats on Career Changers

Career changes are more common than you might think.

• 70% of the workforce is actively seeking a career change . That's not a typo! Most people seek a change in their career path. In 2020, 87% of people under 25 were considering a career change . The five most common reasons for changing careers probably won't surprise you.
• Most (41%) consider leaving because their employer ignored their distress during the pandemic .
• In 2020, the main reason people considered changing careers was to make more money . That accounted for 39%.
• 27% of people change careers for improved work-life balance . This was the #1 reason in 2021.
• 26% of workers planned to change careers once the pandemic ended . This likely links back to the fact that many felt their employers weren't responsive to the significant emotional toll the pandemic took.
• 22% of workers wanted to leave their career to start a business . A bold, but fairly common move!

Understanding the Career Change Cover Letter

When changing careers, or as a new entrant into the job search, it's common to have to submit a well-crafted cover letter and resume to hiring managers.

There are several approaches to this task. Some people choose to introduce themselves and turn their resume into a narrative. Most hiring managers find these resumes at best boring and, at worst, lazy.

Candidates can capture the reader's attention by drafting a personalized cover letter that illustrates how the candidate fits the position. This can be communicated through sharing quantified metrics, platform fluency and relevant skills.

But what about when you're a new grad or career changer? Here, the key is showing prospective employers what you bring to the table while not drawing attention to the fact that you're lacking experience.

An Effective Cover Letter Hooks the Reader

We're not suggesting you do anything too outside of the box for your cover letter, but if you're in the position we're discussing today, it's important to take a bold approach to your cover letter.

The most important thing, just like when crafting a resume, is to understand what the company's values are and what skills match you and the position. There are two ways to discover this information.

Research Your Prospective Employer

Before writing a cover letter with no experience, be sure to understand both the position and the company you're applying to.

The two best resources to help you on this first step to your new career path are the company website and the job description.

Peruse the company website. See if you can find the mission statement (where they are now) and vision statement (who they'd like to become). Words used in these that are repeated elsewhere on the site will give you a good sense of their values and what they're seeking.

For example, if the mission and vision include words like "community-minded," "independent" and "fresh perspective" and you see these elsewhere on the site, you know these are important.

Does the job description include these? Chances are it does. Jot down the most common words and phrases and use those to plan your cover letter.

Organizing a Strong Cover Letter

If you're writing a career change cover letter or one where you don't have experience, do not lead with this information. Instead, structure your introductory letter to show how you embody the keywords you noticed.

Using our existing example of "community-minded," "independent," and "fresh perspective," the first thing you'll want to do is make three columns. Under each, list examples of how you've exhibited these traits. The lists don't have to be equal in length or quality, it's even okay if you can't think of anything under a list.

Review your lists and highlight places where you have direct experience. Including this will make a strong impression.

Drafting The Meat of Your Letter

Pick two things from your list that exemplify both that you align with the values of the company and that you have relevant skills.

You'll craft two strong paragraphs illustrating this. For example, if you did an independent study project that you won an award for, this shows independence. It may not be directly related to the position or career, but it shows the ability to work both doggedly and independently.

Your paragraphs should feature two different aspects of their values, the job description and your lists. Follow the sage writing advice "show, don't tell," and approach it as storytelling.

Craft a Strong Opening Paragraph for your Cover Letter

Imagine you're meeting someone for the first time and when they hold out their hand to shake yours they say, "I've never shaken someone's hand before." Whether or not their handshake is a good one, you'll go into it expecting a mediocre one at best.

Do not start a cover letter with a self-deprecating statement like, "I know you can tell from my resume that I don't have any transferable skills or relevant experience."

Instead, start stronger.

If you're feeling particularly brave, you can dive right into one of your middle paragraphs. But, it's fine to start with a more traditional opening.

Many people choose to start with an introduction and why they are applying. The hiring manager is also going to see your resume, so don't be redundant. We recommend showing that you're excited by the job. Here you can weave in some of those words and values you've found.

Starting with, "When I saw that [COMPANY] was hiring a [POSITION APPLYING FOR], I knew I had to apply," is an example of a strong opening statement. It shows interest and knowledge and that the cover letter is not just a boilerplate. Remember, hiring managers want personalized resumes and cover letters.

Keep your opening brief and punchy. Balance your language. Don't use overly casual language, but don't try to sound too formal. This can give the impression that a candidate is lacking communication skills.

Ending Your Letter

Near the end of your cover letter, it is okay to acknowledge that you are a career changer or new to the workforce . Your letter, thus far, has been engaging and showed off how you're a good fit. You've told a story of who you are and how you'll fit in.

Never Complain, Never Explain

Don't apologize or put yourself down over a lack of experience. A cover letter should convey confidence. Try language like, "My experience may not be exactly what you'd expect from an applicant but my proven ability to work independently and innovative approach to budgeting align with your values and needs."

Downplay what you don't have. Highlight what you do.

Cover Letter Tips for Everyone

No matter the job opening you're applying for, your level of experience or transferable skills, here are the most important tips for your cover letter.

Do not go Over one Page

The hiring manager in charge of reading cover letters and resumes is not going to spend much time, so make sure your letter is tight and doesn't require going onto a second page.

Use the Active Voice

Consider the following two sentences:

• I have been managing lower-ranking employees at my place of work and was responsible for creating a system to get people to show up on time.
• I increased timeliness by 90% as a manager. (Also acceptable: As a manager, I increased timeliness by 90%.

The first sentence uses more words to say less.

The second sentence better communicates information and adds quantification. You've not only saved room; you've gotten your point across!

Don't be Fancy

Do not use unusual or paid fonts, colored text or extensive formatting. And please, do not ever include a picture on your resume. Hiring managers will not take these seriously.

Use a serif font (one with feet like Times New Roman) if you are submitting a print copy. For digital and online resumes , use a sans serif font (like Arial).

An 11- or 12- point font is the right choice. Be sure the font color is set to black.

Proofread Carefully

Proofreading is very different from using spell check. Yes, you should use spelling and grammar checkers (Google now includes a decent proofreading functionality in its workspace) but take time to actually read it yourself, too.

If possible, ask someone you trust to proofread for you. We recommend asking for specific feedback. For example, "Can you proofread this and only focus on places where you think I could be more concise?" This will avoid everyone trying to rewrite your letter to suit their personal tastes.

Don't Give up

The job search is grueling. But if you take the time to craft personalized, job opening specific cover letters and resumes that follow these guidelines you're far more likely to get a response.

Reading next

How to Write a Resume With No Experience

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