Cover Letters
Cover Letter Tips: How to Write One That Gets Read
A great cover letter doesn't repeat your resume. It tells the story your resume can't. Here's how to write one that makes hiring managers want to meet you.
Do Cover Letters Still Matter?
The honest answer: it depends. Many recruiters skim or skip cover letters. But here's what matters—when a hiring manager DOES read your cover letter, it can be the deciding factor between you and another qualified candidate.
Write One When:
- • The application requires it
- • You're changing careers
- • You have gaps to explain
- • You have a personal connection
- • It's a competitive role
Skip It When:
- • It says "optional" and you're a perfect match
- • You're applying to 50+ jobs quickly
- • There's no place to upload one
The 4-Paragraph Cover Letter Formula
Paragraph 1: The Hook
Skip "I'm writing to apply for..."—they know that. Instead, lead with something that grabs attention:
- • A specific achievement relevant to the role
- • Why you're genuinely excited about THIS company
- • A mutual connection or referral
- • A problem you noticed that you can solve
Paragraph 2: Why You're Qualified
Connect 2-3 of your most relevant experiences to their requirements. Don't just list skills—tell mini-stories. "When I led the CRM migration at [Company], I learned to manage cross-functional teams under tight deadlines—exactly what this role requires."
Paragraph 3: Why This Company
Show you've done your research. Mention something specific—a recent product launch, company culture, mission, or industry position. Explain why that resonates with you and how you'd contribute to it.
Paragraph 4: The Close
Keep it simple. Thank them for their time, express enthusiasm for discussing the role further, and sign off professionally. No need for gimmicks.
Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid
Don't Do This
- ✗ "To Whom It May Concern"
- ✗ Repeating your entire resume
- ✗ Generic templates with no customization
- ✗ Focusing on what YOU want from the job
- ✗ Apologizing for what you lack
- ✗ Writing more than one page
- ✗ Using clichés like "team player"
Do This Instead
- ✓ "Dear [Hiring Manager Name]"
- ✓ Add context and stories your resume can't
- ✓ Reference specific company details
- ✓ Focus on what you bring to THEM
- ✓ Emphasize relevant strengths
- ✓ Keep it under 300 words
- ✓ Use specific examples and metrics
Example Opening Lines
Generic (Weak)
"I am writing to apply for the Marketing Manager position at ABC Company. I believe I would be a great fit for this role."
Specific (Strong)
"When I saw that ABC Company is expanding into the enterprise market, I immediately thought of the B2B launch I led at XYZ Corp—where we captured 15% market share in 6 months. I'd love to bring that same playbook to your team."
Quick Tips for Better Cover Letters
Find the hiring manager
Check LinkedIn or the company website. "Dear Sarah" beats "Dear Hiring Manager."
Match the company tone
Startups appreciate personality. Law firms expect formality. Read their content first.
Use numbers
"Increased sales by 30%" is stronger than "significantly improved sales."
Proofread twice
Typos in cover letters are worse than in resumes. They show lack of attention to detail.
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