Writing a Good Cover Letter
A cover letter is your first opportunity to attract the attention of a potential employer. A good cover letter convinces the reader that you are a serious contender and that your resume is worth reading. When crafted effectively, it serves as a powerful introduction that can set you apart from other candidates.
Essential Elements of a Strong Cover Letter
Opening Paragraph
- Address the hiring manager by name whenever possible
- State the position you’re applying for
- Mention how you learned about the opportunity
- Create a compelling hook that captures interest
- Show enthusiasm for the role and company
Body Paragraphs
- Highlight relevant achievements and experiences
- Connect your skills to job requirements
- Provide specific examples of success
- Demonstrate knowledge of the company
- Explain why you’re the ideal candidate
Closing Paragraph
- Reiterate your interest in the position
- Request an interview or meeting
- Thank the reader for their time
- Provide your contact information
- Reference your attached resume
Structure and Format
Professional Formatting
- Use standard business letter format
- Include current date and contact information
- Keep length to one page
- Use clean, professional fonts
- Maintain consistent spacing and margins
- Ensure proper alignment
Content Organization
- Clear paragraph structure
- Logical flow of information
- Bullet points when appropriate
- Consistent formatting throughout
- Professional signature block
Customization Is Key
Research the Company
- Study the company website
- Review recent news and developments
- Understand their mission and values
- Research their products or services
- Note company culture and environment
Match the Job Description
- Mirror key terms from the posting
- Address specific requirements
- Highlight relevant qualifications
- Show understanding of role
- Demonstrate cultural fit
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Content Errors
- Generic, templated content
- Repeating resume information verbatim
- Focusing on what you want
- Including irrelevant information
- Being too formal or informal
Technical Errors
- Spelling and grammar mistakes
- Wrong company or contact information
- Incorrect letter formatting
- Poor paragraph structure
- Inconsistent styling
Making Your Letter Stand Out
Use Power Language
- Action verbs
- Concrete examples
- Quantifiable achievements
- Industry-specific terminology
- Positive, confident tone
Show Personality
- Maintain professionalism
- Include relevant anecdotes
- Display genuine enthusiasm
- Demonstrate cultural fit
- Share appropriate personal insights
Industry-Specific Considerations
Corporate Roles
- Focus on achievements
- Use business terminology
- Highlight leadership experience
- Demonstrate commercial awareness
- Show strategic thinking
Creative Positions
- Display innovative thinking
- Show portfolio awareness
- Demonstrate creativity
- Highlight unique approaches
- Express artistic vision
Technical Positions
- Emphasize technical skills
- Show problem-solving abilities
- Highlight relevant projects
- Demonstrate analytical thinking
- Include technical certifications
International Applications
Cultural Awareness
- Research local business customs
- Adapt tone appropriately
- Consider language differences
- Follow regional formats
- Include relevant international experience
Digital Considerations
Email Submissions
- Professional subject line
- Clear email formatting
- Proper attachment naming
- Follow submission guidelines
- Professional email signature
Online Applications
- Follow platform guidelines
- Maintain formatting in uploads
- Use appropriate file formats
- Check character limits
- Save copies of submissions
Final Tips for Success
Before Sending
- Proofread multiple times
- Have others review
- Check all names and details
- Verify attachments
- Save a copy
Follow-up
- Note application date
- Plan follow-up timing
- Keep copies of all versions
- Track responses
- Maintain professional communication
Final Thoughts
A well-written cover letter can be the difference between getting an interview and being overlooked. Take the time to craft a compelling letter that showcases your value to potential employers and demonstrates why you’re the ideal candidate for the role.