Job search cover letters
None of this is expert advice. It's what people worked out for themselves, usually the hard way — what actually helped, and what they'd tell someone standing where you are. Take what fits and leave the rest.
If you only read a few
Stick to facts in your CV and avoid clichés or exaggerated claims.
Resume readers have heard all common lines and are tired of them.
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Do not include your Social Security Number on your resume or CV.
It is not standard practice.
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Include examples of your work, such as writing samples, marketing materials, or customer reviews, depending on the job.
Having examples helps you stand out.
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Write and include a cover letter even if it is listed as optional.
It can make the difference between getting an interview or not.
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Avoid applying to jobs that require cover letters, especially if they also require re-typing resume data, use clichés like 'we are a family,' or do not list salary expectations.
These practices are cited as indicators of poor hiring processes.
- This advice may not apply to all regions or industries, such as roles within the NHS in the UK where cover letters are necessary.
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Print your resume on thicker paper or card stock to draw attention during physical reviews.
Thicker paper naturally draws more attention.
- Most people apply online now; thick paper can be annoying to shuffle through and may clog scanning machines used by headhunting firms.
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Name your cover letter file with your name and the company name to keep track of submissions and ensure you attach the correct document.
Helps prevent confusion and ensures the right file is uploaded.
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Include practical logistical details in your cover letter, such as willingness to relocate, remote work preferences, reasons for career changes, or availability dates if currently studying.
Prevents recruiters from passing over applications because they cannot determine if the position makes practical sense without an interview.
- One person stated they never read cover letters and consider them a waste of time.
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Use verbs and important keywords from the company's website or application page in your cover letter to strengthen alignment with the role.
It strengthens your letter.
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Ensure your cover letter is free of spelling, grammar, formatting errors, and copy-paste mistakes to prove basic professionalism and attention to detail.
Errors seem low effort or lazy and raise concerns about work attitude; they serve as a filter for remedial competency.
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Draft your first cover letter as if emailing a friend why you are excited about the job to overcome writer's block and maintain enthusiasm.
Helps bypass the difficulty of drafting while keeping genuine excitement; note that this draft will still need to include points for the hiring manager that a friend would already know.
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Place your resume and supporting documents in page protectors inside a report folder labeled with the position title.
One person reported this made the interviewer amazed and led to being hired on the spot.
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If you lack extensive work experience, highlight unique projects, internships, or personal initiatives in your cover letter rather than just meeting minimum degree requirements.
Demonstrates interesting, unique, and challenging experiences.
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Emphasize achievements and the specific skills demonstrated to get them on school application CVs.
Format is less important for college applications, allowing personality to shine through.
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Proofread AI-generated cover letters carefully before submitting them.
Generated texts can contain errors and require edits.
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Show some personality in your cover letter, but avoid irrelevant personal anecdotes like talking about pets.
To maintain focus on professional relevance.
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