A well-crafted cover letter is your opportunity to make a strong first impression on a potential employer. It goes beyond the resume, offering a personalised introduction that highlights your qualifications, enthusiasm, and fit for the role.
Whether you're wondering what a cover letter looks like or searching for cover letter examples to guide your writing, this guide will walk you through essential tips, do's and don'ts, and sample cover letters tailored to various career situations.
why a cover letter still matters
Some job seekers may question the importance of a cover letter in today's fast-paced hiring environment. However, a cover letter remains a powerful tool to:
- Showcase your communication skills.
- Highlight your personality and enthusiasm.
- Provide context for your resume.
- Tailor your application to the specific job and company.
With the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT, writing a personalised, polished cover letter has never been easier. Whether you need a cover letter for a resume or are exploring how to create a standout application, leveraging technology can save you time and boost your confidence.
the do's and don'ts of writing a cover letter
do's:
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personalise your letter
Address the hiring manager by name whenever possible. Mention the job title and where you found the job listing.
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introduce yourself clearly
Start with your current role, years of experience, and relevant qualifications.
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showcase your knowledge of the company
Mention specific projects, values, or initiatives that attract you to the organisation.
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connect your skills to the role
Explain how your experience aligns with the company’s goals and how you can contribute.
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include a call to action
Express interest in discussing the role further and provide your contact details.
don'ts:
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avoid generic or copy-paste cover letters
Tailor each cover letter to the specific job and company.
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skip the "to whom It may concern."
Take time to find the hiring manager's name or use a personalised alternative like "Dear Hiring Team."
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keep it concise
Limit your cover letter to one page, focusing on relevant skills and experiences.
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don’t repeat your resume verbatim
Use the cover letter to provide context or expand on key achievements.
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proofread thoroughly
Typos and grammatical errors can undermine your professionalism. Use AI tools like ChatGPT to polish your letter but review it yourself as well.
cover letter examples for different situations
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standard cover letter (for candidates with relevant experience)
Example:
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am excited to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Job Board]. With [X years] of experience in [Industry/Role], I have developed skills in [mention key skills] that align perfectly with the requirements of this role.In my previous role at [Previous Company], I led a team of [number] and managed projects that resulted in [specific achievement or metric]. I am particularly drawn to [Company Name] because of its commitment to [mention company value, project, or initiative], and I am eager to contribute to this vision.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience can benefit [Company Name]. I can be reached at [Contact Information].
Sincerely,
[Your Name] -
career change cover letter (for candidates transitioning to a new field)
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] role at [Company Name]. After [X years] in [Previous Industry], I am excited to transition into [New Industry], where I can leverage my skills in [mention transferable skills] to drive success in this role.In my previous position as [Job Title], I was responsible for [key responsibilities]. These experiences have equipped me with [skills], which I believe are highly relevant to the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I am particularly drawn to your recent project on [mention project], which aligns with my passion for [related interest].
I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my background can contribute to [Company Name]. Thank you for your time and consideration. I can be reached at [Contact Information].
Sincerely,
[Your Name] -
cover letter for a company you admire (no current openings)
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am reaching out to express my interest in potential opportunities at [Company Name]. Your recent work on [specific project or initiative] deeply resonated with me, and I am eager to contribute to your team.As a [Your Current Role/Industry], I have developed expertise in [mention skills or experiences] that I believe align with your company’s mission. I would love the opportunity to discuss how I can add value to your team.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to connecting and exploring how I can support your ongoing success.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
what does a cover letter look like?
A professional cover letter should follow a clean, easy-to-read format:
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header
Include your contact information and the date.
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greeting
Address the hiring manager by name.
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introduction
State the role you’re applying for and a brief summary of your qualifications.
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body
Expand on your experience, skills, and why you’re a great fit for the company.
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conclusion
Thank the hiring manager and include a call to action.
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signature
End with your name and contact information.
By following these tips and using these examples, you can create a cover letter that sets you apart from other candidates. And if you need additional assistance, consider using ChatGPT cover letter tools to help draft and refine your letter. A strong cover letter, tailored to each role, can be the key to landing your next job.
