5 Tips for Writing a Cover Letter That Actually Gets Read
Learn how to write a compelling cover letter that stands out to recruiters. Follow our 5 expert tips to craft a cover letter that lands you the interview.
July 25, 2024
Beyond the Application: Why Your Cover Letter Still Matters
In a world of one-click applications, it's tempting to think the cover letter is dead. But a great cover letter is your single best opportunity to speak directly to the hiring manager, show your personality, and explain why you're not just qualified, but the perfect fit for the role.
Your CV lists your experience; your cover letter tells the story behind it. Here are five tips to ensure your story gets read.
1. Don't Just Repeat Your CV
Your cover letter should complement your CV, not be a long-form version of it. Use this space to connect the dots.
- Explain your "why": Why this company? Why this specific role? Show that you've done your research and are genuinely enthusiastic.
- Highlight a key project: Pick one or two achievements from your CV that are highly relevant to the job and expand on them. Explain the challenge, the action you took, and the impressive result.
2. Tailor It. Every. Single. Time.
A generic "To Whom It May Concern" letter is a fast track to the rejection pile. Customization is non-negotiable.
- Address the Hiring Manager: A quick LinkedIn search can often reveal the name of the hiring manager or head of the department. Addressing them directly shows initiative.
- Mirror Keywords: Just like with your CV, use keywords and phrases from the job description. This shows you understand what they're looking for.
- Reference the Company: Mention a recent company achievement, a value that resonates with you, or a product you admire. This proves you're not just mass-applying.
3. Start with a Strong Opening Hook
The first sentence is the most important. Don't waste it with "I am writing to apply for..."
- Lead with enthusiasm: "I was thrilled to see the opening for a Senior Marketing Manager at [Company Name], as I have been following your innovative work in the sustainable packaging space for years."
- Lead with a major achievement: "My proudest professional moment was leading a team that increased user retention by 30%—a result I am confident I can replicate for your team at [Company Name]."
4. Focus on What You Can Do For Them
Shift the focus from what you want to what you can offer. Instead of saying "I am seeking a challenging opportunity," frame it as "I am excited to bring my expertise in [Skill X] and [Skill Y] to help your team achieve [Company Goal Z]."
5. Keep It Concise and Professional
Your cover letter should be a quick, compelling read.
- Length: Aim for around 3-4 paragraphs, and never more than one page.
- Format: Keep it clean and professional. Use a standard font and ensure there's plenty of white space.
- Proofread: Typos or grammatical errors can undermine your entire message. Read it aloud to catch mistakes.
Crafting a great cover letter takes effort, but it's one of the highest-leverage activities in a job search.
Ready to get started? Use our Cover Letter Generator to create a professional, well-structured letter in minutes.