Your cover letter is your chance to show an employer why you’re the right fit for the job. This guide explains what a cover letter is and what you need to include to write an effective one.
What is a cover letter?
A cover letter is a one-page document included in your job application (along with your resume). When written well, your cover letter provides employers with important context that isn’t covered in your resume.
Unlike a resume, which lists your qualifications in bullet-point form, a cover letter allows you to explain why you’re a good fit for the job in more detail. It gives you space to explain exactly how your background aligns with the job and show your enthusiasm for the opportunity.
Why are cover letters necessary?
Cover letters are necessary because they provide an opportunity for employers to learn additional information about your qualifications, character, and why you’re interested in working for them.
While many people think of cover letters as a nuisance, they’re actually an essential part of your job application. A recent study found that 94% of hiring managers consider cover letters important, and many of them actually read your cover letter before your resume.
What to include in a cover letter for a job
Here’s what to include in a cover letter for a job:
- Contact information: List your name and contact details in your cover letter’s header.
- Salutation: Greet the hiring manager ideally with their preferred title (Mr. / Mrs. / Ms. / Dr. / etc.) and their name. Can’t find their name? “Dear Hiring Manager” is also fine.
- Opening paragraph: Open with a strong hook that shows your enthusiasm for the role and immediately connects your skills to the company’s needs.
- Body paragraph(s): Demonstrate your value by showcasing key accomplishments (using metrics when possible) and showing how your experience aligns with the job description.
- Closing paragraph: Wrap up your letter by restating your excitement for the position, expressing appreciation for the reader’s time, and inviting further discussion in an interview.
- Sign-off: End your cover letter with a sign-off like “Sincerely,” and then type or sign your name on the following line.
Fill-in-the-blank cover letter template
Need help getting started? Use this template as a guide to structure your own cover letter:
[Your Name]
[City, State]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager’s Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name or “Hiring Team”],
I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Job Board or Company Website]. With [X years] of experience in [Your Field/Industry], I am confident in my ability to contribute to your team and help achieve [Company Goal or Value Relevant to the Role].
In my previous role at [Previous Company Name], I [Briefly describe a key responsibility or project] and successfully [State a quantifiable result or achievement]. I am particularly drawn to this opportunity because [Explain why you’re interested in this company or role—mention values, mission, or work culture if relevant].
I believe my skills in [List 2–3 relevant skills or strengths] make me a strong match for the role. I am excited about the opportunity to bring my expertise to [Company Name] and contribute to your ongoing success.
Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my experience aligns with your needs in more detail. Please feel free to contact me at [Your Phone Number] or via email at [Your Email Address] to schedule an interview.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Cover letter dos and don’ts
Here are some quick tips to help you write an effective cover letter:
Do: Match your cover letter to the job description
A one-size-fits-all cover letter won’t get you noticed. A tailored cover letter shows employers that you’ve taken the time to understand the role and how your qualifications align with their needs.
By highlighting relevant skills, experiences, and achievements from the job description, you make it easier for employers to see why you’re a strong candidate.
Do: Express genuine interest
Explain why you’re excited about the opportunity. Mention what draws you to the company, whether it’s their mission, culture, or a recent project of theirs. Expressing authentic enthusiasm helps differentiate you from other candidates.
Do: Be concise
An effective cover letter is clear and to the point. Keep it to one page and focus on the most relevant details. Hiring managers often skim applications, so avoid long paragraphs and unnecessary repetition. Every sentence should add value and keep the reader engaged.
Do: Mention referrals
If someone referred you to the position, include their name in the opening paragraph of your cover letter. A referral from a trusted employee or mutual connection can significantly boost your chances of getting noticed.
Don’t: Repeat information from your resume
Your cover letter should complement your resume, not duplicate it. Use it to add context, explain career transitions, or highlight a particularly relevant experience in more detail.
Don’t: Use the same cover letter for every application
You shouldn’t use the same cover letter for multiple applications. While using a general cover letter may save time, it will also reduce your chances of getting hired. A customized letter that reflects the company’s values and specific job requirements will always be more effective than a generic one.
Don’t: Focus only on yourself
While it’s important to highlight your experience and skills, one of the biggest mistakes job seekers make is focusing entirely on what they want (more responsibility, a better salary, career growth, etc.) without showing how they can add value to the company.
Instead, shift the focus to the employer’s needs. Show that you understand the company’s goals or challenges and explain how your background can help address them. Use your achievements to illustrate the results you can deliver.
Our cover letter builder can make you a cover letter in as little as 5 minutes. Just pick the template you want, and our software will format everything for you.
Frequently asked questions
Here are a few of the most frequently asked questions about cover letters:
Are cover letters always necessary?
Yes, cover letters are almost always necessary. Cover letters give you an opportunity to explain why you’re a strong fit and make a personal connection with the hiring team.
That said, not every job requires one. For roles that prioritize quick hiring or have straightforward requirements — like retail, food service, or warehouse positions — a cover letter may not be expected. In those cases, submitting a clear, well-organized resume is often enough.
What should not be included in a cover letter?
Here’s what shouldn’t be included in a cover letter:
- Salary expectations: Your cover letter isn’t the appropriate place to discuss salary. Instead, talk about this once you’re offered the job.
- Inappropriate personal details: Information about your sexuality, race, or religion doesn’t belong on your cover letter and puts you at risk of hiring discrimination.
- Lies or exaggerations: If employers find out you aren’t being honest, they won’t want to hire you.
- Too much information: Your cover letter should be concise and only highlight your most relevant qualifications.
- Negative comments about previous employers: Even if you had a bad experience at a previous job, focusing on the negative can give the impression that you’re difficult to work with.
- Apologies for a lack of experience: Even if you don’t meet every requirement, focus on your transferable skills instead of drawing attention to what you lack.
How long should a cover letter be?
The ideal cover letter length is no more than one page, ideally between 250 to 400 words. Hiring managers often skim applications, so your letter should be focused, highlighting only your most relevant skills and experiences.
About the Author
Lauren Mastroni is a Digital Content Writer at Resume Genius, where she creates data-driven career content and actionable job search advice. With a background in academic research, she brings a research-focused approach to topics like resume writing, interviewing, and career development. Lauren is dedicated to helping job seekers at all stages navigate the hiring process and present themselves more effectively to employers.
