Learn how to write compelling cover letters that get you noticed by employers and land interviews
A cover letter is a one-page document that accompanies your resume when applying for a job. It serves as your introduction to potential employers and provides an opportunity to explain why you're the ideal candidate for the position. Unlike a resume, which focuses on facts and achievements, a cover letter allows you to tell your story, demonstrate your personality, and show genuine interest in the company and role.
Key Point:
A well-written cover letter can be the difference between getting an interview and being overlooked. It's your chance to make a personal connection with the hiring manager and demonstrate that you understand the company's needs.
Cover letters allow you to show your personality and passion for the role, helping you stand out from other applicants.
You can tailor your cover letter to the specific job and company, demonstrating your understanding of their needs.
Address employment gaps, career changes, or other aspects of your background that might need clarification.
Taking the time to write a thoughtful cover letter shows employers that you're serious about the position.
Address the hiring manager by name if possible. Use "Dear [Name]" or "Dear Hiring Manager" if the name is unknown.
Examples: "Dear Mr. Smith," "Dear Ms. Johnson," "Dear Hiring Manager,"
Use a professional closing:
Examples: "Sincerely," "Best regards," "Yours truly,"
Include your typed name and signature (if submitting a physical copy)
Learn about the company's mission, values, culture, recent news, and the specific role. This research will help you tailor your letter.
Identify key requirements, skills, and qualifications mentioned in the job posting. Make a list of how your experience matches these.
Begin with a compelling hook that captures attention. Mention the position and express genuine enthusiasm.
Use the body paragraphs to explain how your skills, experience, and achievements align with the job requirements. Provide specific examples.
Show that you've researched the company and explain why you want to work there specifically.
End with a strong closing that reiterates your interest and requests an interview. Thank them for their consideration.
Review for spelling, grammar, and clarity. Read it aloud to ensure it flows well. Have someone else review it.
Never send the same cover letter to multiple companies. Always tailor it to the specific role and organization.
Submitted with your resume when applying for a specific, advertised position. This is the most common type.
Use when: Responding to a job posting
Sent to companies where you'd like to work, even if they haven't advertised a position (cold outreach).
Use when: Exploring opportunities at companies of interest
Sent to contacts in your network to request informational interviews or job search advice.
Use when: Reaching out to professional contacts
Mentions a mutual contact or referral who suggested you apply for the position.
Use when: Someone referred you to the position
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone] | [Your Email]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Name],
[Opening Paragraph - 3-4 sentences]
[Body Paragraph 1 - 4-5 sentences]
[Body Paragraph 2 - 4-5 sentences]
[Closing Paragraph - 2-3 sentences]
Sincerely,
[Your Typed Name]
Use specific examples and quantifiable achievements rather than generic statements.
Demonstrate genuine excitement about the role and company. Your passion should come through.
Use keywords from the job posting and show how your skills align with their requirements.
Connect your experiences to show how they've prepared you for this specific role.
Mention specific company values, recent achievements, or projects that interest you.
Respect the reader's time. One page is sufficient. Make every word count.
Maintain a professional yet personable tone. Avoid being too formal or too casual.
Check for spelling, grammar, and typos. One error can significantly impact your credibility.
Never send the same cover letter to multiple employers. Always customize it for each application.
Don't simply restate what's in your resume. Use the cover letter to add context and tell your story.
Focus on what you can offer the employer, not what you want from them.
Avoid generic phrases like "I'm a hard worker." Instead, provide specific examples of your achievements.
Keep it to one page. Hiring managers are busy and won't read lengthy cover letters.
Try to find the hiring manager's name. If you can't, use "Dear Hiring Manager" instead of "To Whom It May Concern."
Always spell-check. Misspelling the company name or hiring manager's name is a major red flag.
Read your cover letter multiple times and have someone else review it before submitting.
View real cover letter examples for different job roles and industries:
Browse our collection of cover letter examples and resume samples to get started