Writing a persuasive cover letter is your chance to tell a meaningful story to the employer — not just list your experience. Use this guide to walk through why a cover letter matters, how to structure one, and what to include so your application stands out.
Why Write a Cover Letter?
A cover letter complements your résumé by linking your past achievements to the role you now seek. It shows how you understand the position and the company, and it helps the reader envision you succeeding in the job.
Beyond that:
- It highlights your communication style (important in nearly any role).
- It signals you took the time to tailor your message and understand the employer’s needs.
- Even when not explicitly required, a well‑written letter can differentiate you from candidates who skip this step.
How to Format Your Letter
- Header: Your name, address (or city/state), email, phone — aligned with your résumé.
- Date + Employer Contact Info: Include the date, hiring manager’s name (if known), company name and address.
- Greeting: Address the person by name if possible (“Dear Ms. Smith”), otherwise “Dear Hiring Manager” is acceptable. Avoid “To Whom It May Concern”.
- Body (3‑4 paragraphs)
- Intro: Mention the role you’re applying for, and a hook that shows you understand the company or opportunity.
- Middle paragraph(s): Select 1‑2 strong accomplishments or skills that align with the job. Explain the “so what” — how you made an impact.
- Closing paragraph: Reiterate your interest, reference your readiness to contribute, thank the reader, and offer a next step.
- Closing/signature: Use a professional sign‑off like “Sincerely,” follow by your typed name. If submitting physically, you could include your signature above your name.
- Length: Aim for 250‑400 words, or roughly one page. Many guides suggest staying under 400 words.
What to Include
- Opening that reflects the job: Show you paid attention to the posting or company, and you’re not sending a generic letter.
- Highlight of your value: Focus on how your experience translates into value — for example reducing costs, improving processes, driving growth.
- Connection to the company: Mention something specific about the organization — mission, recent initiative, culture — and link that to your motivations or skills.
- Concise, clear language: Avoid repeating your résumé in paragraph form. The letter should add context, not duplicate.
- Tailoring: Use wording from the job description or company website — this signals alignment.
- Professional tone, good grammar: Errors or sloppy formatting send the wrong message.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Sending a generic letter without customization.
- Making the letter a résumé in prose form.
- Exceeding one page or filling it with too many long paragraphs.
- Using a greeting that ignores the name when it’s available.
- Neglecting to proofread for grammar, spelling, or formatting errors.
- Ignoring the company entirely — stating only what you want without explaining how you help.
Quick Outline to Use
- Heading (your info)
- Date & Employer Info
- Greeting
- Intro paragraph (1‑2 lines) – Why you’re writing and your hook.
- Body paragraph (1‑2) – Your relevant experience and contribution.
- Closing paragraph – Your enthusiasm, mention of attachments/resumé, thanks.
- Signature
Using This Guide to Level Up Your Application
If you’re ready to draft your own letter, consider starting with this structure and tailoring each piece to the job. For an AI‑enhanced starting point or to refine your draft, you might explore LetterLab — it can help you generate a strong first version and then personalize it from there.