Cover Letters

Get Hired in 30 Days! Applying to Jobs Cover Letters

A cover letter is your chance to add a personal touch to your job application. In short, it’s a document that accompanies a resume when applying for a job.

While a resume serves as a factual, rapid-fire list of your skills and experience, a cover letter is more personal and anecdotal. It’s a chance to give a hiring manager or recruiter a better feel for your personality as a candidate and win them over with what makes you unique.

This lesson will guide you through writing a cover letter that stands out, avoids common pitfalls, and leaves a lasting impression on hiring managers.

Why cover letters matter

They create a personal connection

Your cover letter allows you to speak directly to your potential employer. It’s a chance to explain why you’re excited about the company and the role, beyond the bullet points on your resume.

They showcase your personality

Employers want candidates who will fit into their team and company culture. A well-crafted letter lets your personality shine through, giving employers a glimpse of who you are – not just what you can do.

They highlight your achievements

It’s the perfect place to elaborate on key accomplishments that make you a strong candidate. You can provide context and tell the stories behind your successes, demonstrating how your experiences align with the job requirements.

When to use a cover letter

When it’s requested
Always include one if the job posting asks for it.

When applying directly
A cover letter can make a strong first impression if you’re emailing your application or reaching out on LinkedIn.

When you have unique circumstances
It’s the perfect tool for explaining things like employment gaps, career changes, or other situations that aren’t easily conveyed in a resume.

When you want to stand out
Even if it’s not required, a cover letter shows your enthusiasm and willingness to put in extra effort.

Best practices for writing a standout cover letter

Personalize each letter

Address the recruiter or hiring manager by name: If possible, find out who will review your application.
Mention the company and role: Reference the specific position you’re applying for and why you’re excited about it.
Acknowledge recent company news: Show you’ve done your research by mentioning a recent project or success story.

Insider Tip

Use LinkedIn or the company’s website to try to find the hiring manager’s name. A personalized greeting makes a strong first impression.

Start with a strong opening

Hook them: Begin with a statement about why you’re passionate about the industry or the company.
Show enthusiasm: Express your excitement for the role in a genuine way.

Example: When I discovered that ABC Energy Company is pioneering sustainable solutions in renewable energy, I immediately wanted to be part of your team.

Tell your story

Highlight relevant experiences: Focus on experiences that directly relate to the job.
Provide context: Explain how your background has prepared you for this role.
Use specific examples: Quantify your achievements when possible.

Example: During my internship at XYZ Corp, I led a project that increased social media engagement by 40%, which taught me the power of data-driven strategies.

Focus on what you can offer

Align your skills with their needs: Match your qualifications to the job description.
Be solution-oriented: Show how you can help the company overcome challenges or achieve goals.

Don’t

Don’t make the letter all about what you hope to gain. Avoid statements like “This job will help me grow my skills.”

Maintain the right tone

Match the company’s culture: Research the company’s tone—formal or casual—and adjust accordingly.
Be professional yet personable: Let your personality shine while keeping it professional.

Don’t

Don’t use slang or overly casual language, even if the company culture is relaxed.

Keep it concise

Limit to one page: No more than 3 paragraphs.
Be clear and direct: Use concise sentences and avoid fluff.

Include a strong closing

Express enthusiasm: Reiterate your interest in the role.
Include a call to action: Encourage the next step, such as scheduling an interview.

Example: I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my background in data analysis can contribute to your team’s success. Thank you for considering my application.

Proofread meticulously

Check for typos and grammar mistakes: Read your letter multiple times.
Get a second opinion: Have a friend or mentor review it.

Don’t

Don’t rely solely on spell-check tools; they may miss context-specific errors.

Common mistakes to avoid

Using a generic template

Instead

Personalize every cover letter for the specific company and role
Reference specifics from the job description

Repeating your resume

Instead

Expand on key points with stories and context
Highlight different aspects of your experiences

An overly formal or casual tone

Instead

Research the company’s communication style
Use professional language, but let your personality show

Focusing too much on yourself

Instead

Emphasize how your skills meet their needs
Avoid statements that only express what you hope to gain

Neglecting to proofread

Instead

Proofread multiple times
Read aloud to catch errors
Ask someone else to review it

Writing a long-winded letter

Instead

Stick to one page
Be concise and relevant

Not using the company’s words

Instead

Use keywords and phrases from the job description
Integrate them naturally into your letter

Failing to include a call to action

Instead

Express interest in an interview
Provide your contact information

Alternative cover letter formats with examples

LinkedIn messages

A concise message can serve as your cover letter when reaching out directly on LinkedIn.

Example: Hi [Name], I came across the [Position] at [Company] and am excited to apply. With my background in [Skill/Experience], I believe I can positively contribute to your team. I’ve attached my resume and would welcome the opportunity to discuss further. Thank you!

Emails

When emailing your application, the body of the email acts as your cover letter.

Subject: Application for [Position] – [Your Name]

Dear [Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the [Position] at [Company]. My experience in [Field] and skills in [Specific Skill] align with your team’s needs. Attached is my resume for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your team.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Handwritten notes

A handwritten note can add a personal touch in certain situations, like following up after an interview or networking event.

Dear [Name],

It was a pleasure meeting you at [Event]. I’m impressed by the work [Company] is doing in [Area], and I’d be excited to contribute my skills in [Skill]. Thank you for your time, and I hope to speak with you soon.

Warm regards,
[Your Name]

Sample traditional cover letters

Sample 1:

Dear [Employer’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the [Position] at [Company]. With a degree in [Your Degree] from [University] and experience in [Relevant Skill], I am confident in my ability to contribute effectively to your team. During my internship at [Previous Company], I developed [Specific Achievement], which aligns well with your current needs. I am particularly excited about [Company’s Project or Value], and I am eager to bring my skills to your innovative team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing this exciting opportunity with you.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Sample 2:

Dear [Employer’s Name],

I am excited to apply for the [Position] at [Company]. As a recent graduate from [University] with a degree in [Your Degree], I have developed strong skills in [Relevant Skill]. My project at [Previous Company or University Project], where I [Specific Achievement], has prepared me to excel in this role. I am particularly drawn to [Company’s Unique Aspect or Project], and I am confident that my background and enthusiasm make me a great fit for your team.

I would love to further discuss how my skills and experiences align with the needs of your team.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Key Takeaways

A cover letter is your opportunity to stand out: It’s your chance to show the hiring manager or recruiter that you’re not only qualified for the job but genuinely excited about the company and role.
Make it personal: Address the hiring manager by name, reference the company, and highlight specific achievements that align with the job description. Personalization shows effort and enthusiasm.
Keep it focused on what you can offer: Instead of focusing on what the job can do for you, emphasize how your skills and experiences can meet the company’s needs. Think solutions, not aspirations.
Start strong: Hook the reader with an engaging opening statement that shows why you’re passionate about the role or company. A great first impression can make all the difference.
Be clear and concise: Stick to a few paragraphs at most, and keep your message on point. Avoid unnecessary details or long-winded explanations.
Use alternate formats when needed: LinkedIn messages, emails, and even handwritten notes can act as more concise versions of a cover letter. Tailor the format to the situation.
Avoid common mistakes: Don’t use generic templates, repeat your resume, or neglect to proofread. Every detail counts when you’re making an impression.
Always include a call to action: Whether it’s scheduling an interview or requesting further discussion, make sure your letter closes with a clear next step.

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