Most people write cover letters just because they feel they have to. The result? Generic, boring, and often ignored by hiring managers. If you’re applying for jobs and not hearing back, your cover letter might be part of the problem. But with the right approach, it can become your strongest asset.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to write a cover letter that actually gets read, feels personal, and connects with the people who matter—those doing the hiring.
Before getting start if you want to know how
Why Cover Letters Still Matter
A resume shows what you’ve done. A cover letter tells who you are and why you care about the job. It’s your chance to talk directly to the employer, explain why you’re a great fit, and show that you’ve done your homework. Good recruiters use cover letters to spot motivated candidates who take the extra step.
Start With Research and Purpose
Before typing anything, take a moment to understand the company and the job. Go beyond the job description. Look into the company’s values, recent projects, and team culture. Try to find the name of the hiring manager. When you write directly to someone, it feels personal—and that’s exactly the impression you want to leave.
Also, think about why this job matters to you. If you don’t care, it’ll show. But if you do, even a few thoughtful lines can make a huge difference.
What Makes a Great Cover Letter
A good cover letter has a clear structure but never feels robotic. Start with your contact info and the employer’s details, like a formal letter. Then, in your first paragraph, skip the boring intro. Avoid “I’m writing to apply for…” Instead, jump right into something that shows energy and interest. Mention the role, but do it in a way that feels natural.
In the next one or two paragraphs, connect your skills to the job. Don’t just repeat your resume. Instead, tell a short story or give a real example that proves you’ve done something similar. Use numbers if you can—metrics are powerful. Show how your work made a difference, and how that same mindset can help this new employer.
Close with warmth. Say why you’re excited about this opportunity, and invite them to reach out. Keep it brief, respectful, and confident. End with a simple, professional sign-off.
Ways to Stand Out
You don’t need flashy graphics or gimmicks. What stands out is relevance and genuine interest. Tailor your letter to each company. Even if you’re applying for similar roles, avoid using the same letter every time.
The tone matters, too. Write like a real person. Be respectful and professional, but don’t be afraid to let your personality show. People hire people, not robots. Show that you care and that you took time to write something thoughtful.
Another powerful trick? Use the company’s own language. If their job listing uses phrases like “data-driven” or “cross-functional teamwork,” reflect that back when it fits your experience. It shows alignment.
Format and Polish
A clean layout helps people actually read what you wrote. Use a basic font like Arial or Calibri, size 11 or 12. Keep paragraphs short. Use standard margins, and avoid walls of text. One page is enough. Save the file as a PDF unless instructed otherwise.
Also, pay attention to the file name. “John_Doe_Cover_Letter.pdf” is better than just “coverletterfinal.pdf”. Small details show that you’re organized and thoughtful.
What Not to Do
Don’t copy and paste from the internet. Recruiters can tell. Avoid buzzwords like “hard-working team player” unless you prove them with real actions. Don’t simply rehash your resume. And definitely don’t send a letter addressed to “To Whom It May Concern” if a name is available. It feels lazy.
Also, skip your salary expectations unless the posting asks for them. Don’t focus on what you want. Focus on what the company needs—and how you can help.
Example That Works
Here’s a quick idea of what a strong start might sound like:
When I saw that [Company] is looking for a content strategist who believes in storytelling and data, I knew I had to apply. At my last role, I increased organic traffic by 58% in six months using a similar strategy—and I’d love to bring that energy to your growing team.
It’s personal. It’s relevant. It shows value. That’s the tone you’re going for.
Helpful Tools
Use Grammarly or Hemingway to catch grammar and tone issues. Research on Glassdoor and LinkedIn can help you understand the company better. If you’re using AI tools to draft your letter, be sure to edit them to sound human and personal.
Conclusion
Writing a cover letter doesn’t have to feel like a chore. When you approach it with purpose, it becomes a powerful way to connect. Keep it clear, kind, and focused on how you can help the company succeed. That’s what hiring managers want to see—and what gets your foot in the door.
Curious about how your current job might evolve in the future? Try our free AI-Powered Job Future Predictor to see where your role is headed and how to stay ahead in your career.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do hiring managers still read cover letters in 2025?
Yes, especially when roles are competitive or communication skills matter. A strong cover letter can be the tie-breaker.
How long should a cover letter be?
Stick to one page, ideally 250–400 words. Short, sharp, and clear wins.
Can I use the same cover letter for every job?
You can—but you shouldn’t. Personalized letters perform far better and show you actually care.
What should I avoid in a cover letter?
Don’t copy your resume, use vague buzzwords, or ignore the company’s needs. Avoid generic intros and spelling mistakes.
Should I include salary expectations?
Only if the job posting asks for them. Otherwise, save that for the interview stage.