How to Write a Cover Letter That Actually Gets Read
In a world of online applications and automated systems, is the cover letter dead? Not at all. A well-crafted cover letter is your chance to tell your story, showcase your personality, and make a compelling case for why you are the perfect candidate for the job. Here’s how to write a cover letter that recruiters will actually read.
1. Don’t Rehash Your Resume
Your cover letter should complement your resume, not repeat it. Use this space to connect the dots between your experiences and the specific requirements of the role. Tell a story that your resume can’t.
2. Personalize, Personalize, Personalize
A generic “To Whom It May Concern” is a red flag. Do your research to find the name of the hiring manager. If you can’t find it, use a specific title like “Dear [Department Name] Hiring Manager.” Mention something specific about the company that excites you—a recent project, a company value, or a product you admire. This shows you’ve done your homework.
3. Hook Them in the First Paragraph
The first paragraph is the most important. Start with a bang. Instead of the tired “I am writing to apply for the [position] I saw on [platform],” try something more engaging. Lead with a major accomplishment, a passionate statement about the company, or a strong connection to their mission.
4. Show, Don’t Just Tell
Don’t just say you have a skill; provide evidence. Instead of “I have strong communication skills,” describe a situation where your communication skills made a difference. For example, “As the project lead for my senior capstone, I facilitated daily stand-ups and presented our final product to a panel of 50 industry professionals, resulting in top honors.”
5. Focus on Their Needs, Not Yours
Frame your experience in the context of what you can do for the company. How can your skills help them solve their problems or achieve their goals? Shift the focus from “I need an internship” to “Here’s how I can add value to your team.”
6. Keep It Concise
Your cover letter should be no more than one page, typically 3-4 paragraphs. Be respectful of the recruiter’s time. Every sentence should have a purpose.
7. End with a Clear Call to Action
End your cover letter with confidence. Reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and state that you are looking forward to discussing your qualifications further. For example, “I am excited about the opportunity to bring my skills in [specific skill] to your team and am confident I can help you achieve [company goal]. I look forward to hearing from you soon.”
Cover Letter Template to Get You Started
[Your Name] [Your Phone Number] | [Your Email] | [Your LinkedIn/Portfolio URL] [Date] [Hiring Manager Name] (if known, otherwise use title) [Hiring Manager Title] [Company Name] [Company Address] Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name], [Paragraph 1: The Hook] Start with an engaging opening that expresses your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention a specific project or value that resonates with you. [Paragraph 2: The Pitch] Connect your skills and experiences to the job description. Pick 2-3 key requirements from the job posting and provide specific examples of how you’ve demonstrated those qualifications. Show, don’t tell. [Paragraph 3: The Fit] Explain why you are a great fit for the company culture. Show that you understand their mission and values and how you align with them. This is where you demonstrate your passion and personality. [Paragraph 4: The Close] Reiterate your interest and end with a confident call to action. Thank them for their time and consideration. Sincerely, [Your Name]Conclusion
A great cover letter can be the deciding factor in a competitive application process. It’s your chance to go beyond the bullet points on your resume and show the person behind the qualifications. Take the time to write a thoughtful, personalized cover letter, and you’ll be one step closer to landing that interview.