What Is a Cover Letter?
A cover letter is a one-page document that accompanies your resume to introduce yourself, explain your interest in a specific role, and highlight why you’re a good fit. It complements—not repeats—your resume by giving context to key accomplishments, demonstrating fit with the company, and showing your communication skills.
Key Takeaways
- A tailored cover letter helps you stand out in a competitive job market.
- Write a new, specific letter for each application rather than using a generic template.
- Keep it concise (one page), focused, and error-free.
- Use the letter to highlight relevant achievements and cultural fit, not to restate your resume.
Role and Impact
A cover letter acts as a sales pitch: it explains why you’re the right person for the job and how your skills map to the employer’s needs. Employers often use cover letters to assess communication ability, motivation, and attention to detail. Customizing your letter to the job and company demonstrates initiative and makes your application more memorable.
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Types of Cover Letters
- Application cover letter: Responds to a specific vacancy and explains why you meet the job’s requirements.
- Referral cover letter: Mentions a colleague or employee who recommended you; a strong referral can boost your candidacy.
- Prospecting (letter of interest): Sent to a company you’d like to work for even when no specific role is advertised; emphasizes transferable skills and interest in the organization.
How to Write an Effective Cover Letter
Structure your letter so it’s easy to skim and purposeful.
- Greeting
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Address the hiring manager by name when possible. If unknown, use “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear [Team Name].”
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Opening paragraph
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State the role you’re applying for, how you learned about it (if relevant), and a one-line hook that summarizes your fit.
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Middle paragraphs (1–2 short paragraphs)
- Highlight 2–3 specific achievements or skills relevant to the job, using numbers or outcomes when possible.
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Explain how these experiences will help you succeed in the role and contribute to the company.
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Closing paragraph
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Reiterate enthusiasm, indicate next steps (e.g., availability for an interview), and thank the reader.
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Sign-off
- Use a professional closing and include your contact information (email, phone, LinkedIn or portfolio link if relevant).
Essential Tips
- Personalize each letter: reference the company, role, and how your background matches their needs.
- Include accurate contact details and the correct names—double-check spellings.
- Be concise and clear—use simple language and short paragraphs.
- Quantify achievements (e.g., “increased sales by 20%,” “managed a team of 8”) to provide concrete evidence.
- Proofread thoroughly and, if possible, have someone else review it.
- Keep design professional: consistent fonts and spacing can reinforce your personal brand without distracting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Restating your resume verbatim—use the letter to add context and narrative.
- Using a generic letter for multiple jobs—tailor the content to each role.
- Overlong letters—limit yourself to one page.
- Including irrelevant personal details, hobbies, or excessive self-praise.
- Typos, inconsistent punctuation, and incorrect names—these undermine credibility.
- Poor formatting or overly flashy design that reduces readability.
How Long Should It Be?
Aim for three to four short paragraphs, one page maximum. Recruiters often skim letters, so prioritize brevity and clarity.
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How to Start a Cover Letter
Preferably address a named hiring manager. If the name isn’t available, use a title such as “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear Talent Acquisition Team.” Open with a clear statement of the role and a concise reason you’re interested or a brief value proposition.
What to Include
- Your name and contact information
- The position you’re applying for
- A brief explanation of why you’re a good fit, supported by 1–2 concrete examples
- A sentence about why you want to work at that company (culture, product, mission)
- A professional closing with availability and contact details
Conclusion
A well-crafted, tailored cover letter can make a strong impression and increase your chances of getting an interview. Keep it focused, fact-based, and free of errors. Use specific achievements to demonstrate impact and show genuine interest in the company to make your application stand out.