A cover letter is not a written copy of your CV. Its purpose is to give the employer a clear reason to keep reviewing your application.
The strongest letter is the most relevant one. Explain who you are, why the role interests you, and what you can contribute.
1. Read the job posting before writing
Identify the skills, experience, responsibilities, tools, and sector. Then choose two or three parts of your background that genuinely match the employer’s needs.
2. Open directly
Avoid a long generic introduction. The reader should immediately understand why you are writing.
3. Explain the value you can add
Do not simply claim to be hardworking. Connect your claim to evidence.
4. Tailor the letter to every role
- Job title.
- Company name.
- Why the role interests you.
- Skills you emphasize.
- Example from your experience.
5. Keep it to a useful length
For most applications, 200 to 400 words is enough.
- 1
Opening: the role and your reason.
- 2
Experience: your relevant skills.
- 3
Motivation: why this employer.
- 4
Closing: an invitation to talk.
6. A simple template
7. Avoid common mistakes
- Repeating the CV.
- Omitting the role.
- Using the wrong company name.
- Writing long paragraphs.
- Exaggerating.
- Making claims without examples.
- Leaving spelling errors.
- Sending AI text without review and tailoring.
8. Review before sending
- Is the role correct?
- Have I explained why I fit?
- Did I use a real example?
- Is it easy to read?
- Are the names correct?
- Can anything be shorter?
Conclusion
A good cover letter needs clarity, tailoring, and simple evidence that your experience meets the need. Help the reader understand your value rather than impressing them with length.
Frequently asked questions
Is a cover letter always required?
It is required when requested and useful for explaining a career change or strong interest.
Can I reuse the same letter?
Reuse the structure, but tailor the main arguments to each role and company.
Which language should I use?
Follow the job posting and company’s usual language unless a specific language is requested.
