How to Write a Cover Letter
Learn how to write a cover letter with a clear structure, opening, tailored examples, mistakes to avoid, troubleshooting, and FAQs.
Quick Answer
To write a cover letter, address the hiring manager if possible, name the role, explain why you are a strong match, prove it with one or two relevant examples, connect your interest to the company, close politely, and proofread before sending.
What You Need
- Job description
- Current resume
- Company name
- Hiring manager name if available
- Two relevant achievements
- Contact details
Safety Precautions
- Do not copy a generic template without tailoring it.
- Avoid exaggerating experience or making claims you cannot support.
- Keep private salary, ID, or personal documents out unless requested through a trusted application system.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Step 1
Read the job description
Highlight the skills, responsibilities, and keywords that matter most for the role.
- Step 2
Use a clean format
Add your contact details, date, employer details if appropriate, greeting, body, closing, and signature.
- Step 3
Open with the role and fit
State the position you are applying for and give one clear reason you are a strong candidate.
- Step 4
Match your experience to the job
Choose one or two examples that show results, tools, responsibilities, or achievements related to the posting.
- Step 5
Show company interest
Mention a real reason the role or organization fits your goals, values, or experience.
- Step 6
Close with next step
Thank the reader and say you would welcome the opportunity to discuss the role.
- Step 7
Proofread carefully
Check names, role title, grammar, dates, and attachment names before sending.
Practical Example
Example: For a customer support role, your cover letter might highlight two years handling support tickets, a measured improvement in response time, and interest in the companys user-focused product.
Common Mistakes
- Repeating the resume word for word
- Using the wrong company name
- Writing too much
- Opening with vague enthusiasm only
- Forgetting measurable examples
- Sending without proofreading
Troubleshooting
I do not know the hiring manager name
Use a neutral greeting such as Dear Hiring Manager.
I have little experience
Use coursework, projects, volunteering, internships, or transferable skills.
The letter sounds generic
Add one detail from the job description and one specific achievement.
It is too long
Aim for three or four short paragraphs and remove repeated resume details.
Helpful Internal Links
FAQs
How long should a cover letter be?
Usually one page or less, with three or four focused paragraphs.
Do I need a cover letter for every job?
If the employer requests one, yes. If optional, a tailored short letter can still help.
Should I mention salary?
Only mention salary if the application specifically asks for it.
Can I use AI to draft a cover letter?
Yes, but review it carefully, add your real examples, and avoid generic or false claims.
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