by Cover letter dos and don'ts are essential to keep in mind when crafting a compelling introduction to your job application.
A well-written cover letter can set you apart from other candidates, showcasing your personality, enthusiasm, and fit for the role. On the other hand, making common mistakes can leave a negative impression, no matter how strong your resume may be.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the essential rules of cover letter etiquette, highlighting what to do—and what to avoid.
Cover letter don'ts
A cover letter can be a game-changer in your job search process—if it’s done right. However, certain missteps can harm your chances of landing an interview. To help you avoid common pitfalls, here is what should not be included in a cover letter:
1. Don’t Use a Generic Template
Submitting a one-size-fits-all cover letter suggests a lack of effort and interest in the specific role. Always tailor your letter to the position and company.
2. Don’t Rehash Your Resume
Your letter should complement, not duplicate, your application. Focus on adding context to your achievements and explaining how they relate to the job.
3. Don’t Overuse Buzzwords
While it's tempting to sound impressive, overloading your letter with clichés like "results-oriented" or "team player" can come across as insincere.
4. Don’t Ignore Instructions
If the job posting asks for specific details—like salary expectations or work availability— add them. Ignoring instructions signals a lack of attention to detail.
5. Don’t Make It Too Long
A cover letter should be concise—no more than one page. Long-winded explanations can dilute your main message.
6. Don’t Forget to Proofread
Typos and grammatical errors can leave a poor impression. Double-check your letter or have someone else review it for accuracy and clarity.
7. Don’t Focus Solely on Yourself
While it’s important to highlight your skills, avoid making the letter entirely about your needs or ambitions. Instead, emphasize how you can add value to the company.
8. Don’t Be Too Casual
Sometimes it’s good to show personality, but avoid slang, jokes, or overly informal language. Maintain a professional tone throughout.
9. Don’t Skip the Hiring Manager’s Name
Addressing your paper with "To Whom It May Concern" or "Dear Sir/Madam" can make it feel impersonal. Take the time to find the HR’s name when possible.
10. Don’t End Without a Call to Action
Closing your letter without expressing enthusiasm or inviting further discussion can leave it incomplete. Always end with a confident call to action, such as requesting an interview or stating you’ll follow up.
By steering clear of these common cover letter mistakes, you’ll guarantee your document leaves a positive and lasting impression.
How not to write a cover letter:
John Smith
456 Maple Avenue
Chicago, IL 60601
johnsmith@email.com
(312) 555-7890March 10, 2024
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to apply for the position I saw on your website. I think this job at Global Solutions Inc. would be a good opportunity for me because I’m looking for something new and exciting. I’ve always admired big companies like yours and think working here would be a great experience.
I don’t know all the details of what the job involves, but I’m a quick learner. In my last job at Retail Mart, I did a lot of things like stocking shelves, working the cash register, and talking to customers. I also worked part-time as a delivery driver, which shows I’m versatile. I think these skills would make me an asset to your team.
I haven’t worked in this field before, but I am confident that I could figure it out. I’m good at computers and a hard worker. I don’t have a degree yet, but I took a few classes at the community college and plan to finish someday.
Please see my attached resume for more information. I’d love to work for your company and look forward to hearing back. You can contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
John Smith
- What not to put in a cover letter?
- Casual Tone. Phrases like "I think these skills would make me an asset" and "figure it out" lack professionalism.
- Generic Motivation. Saying "I’m looking for something new and exciting" doesn’t convey interest in the role.
- Unfocused Content. Mentioning unrelated jobs (e.g., delivery driver) without connecting them to the new position is unhelpful.
- Lack of Preparation. "I don’t know all the details of what the job involves" signals a lack of research and seriousness.
- Weak Academic Mention. Bringing up unfinished education without explaining its relevance or plans to complete it can appear unprofessional.
- No Specific Value Add. The letter fails to explain how John’s experiences directly benefit Global Solutions Inc.
Cover letter dos
Crafting a compelling draft goes beyond avoiding mistakes; it’s about strategically highlighting your strengths and enthusiasm. Here are cover letter rules to elevate your document:
1. Find Out the Company’s Culture and Values
Take the time to understand the organization’s mission . Reference these in your letter to demonstrate your alignment and genuine interest in being part of their team.
2. Open with a Strong Hook
Start your letter with an engaging opening sentence. For example, mention an exciting achievement, share a unique insight about the occupation, or reference a mutual connection.
3. Focus on the Employer’s Needs
Display that you understand the company’s challenges and how you can contribute to solving them. Frame your skills and experiences as solutions to their goals.
4. Incorporate Keywords
Reflect the language used in the job listing to highlight your qualifications. This can also help your application pass applicant tracking systems (ATS).
5. Show Passion
Recruiters want to hire people, not just resumes. Let your enthusiasm and personality shine through in a way that remains professional and authentic.
6. Use Action-Oriented Language
Write in an active voice to convey confidence and initiative. Use dynamic verbs like “led,” “achieved,” or “implemented” to describe your accomplishments.
7. Align Your Story to the Job
Share a brief example that illustrates why you’re passionate about the field. Ensure it ties back to how you can benefit the firm.
8. Leverage Your Network
If applicable, mention a referral or mutual contact. This can immediately build trust and make your application stand out.
9. Include Relevant Soft Skills
While technical skills are crucial, employers also value qualities like communication, teamwork, and adaptability. Highlight these with examples.
10. End with Gratitude and Confidence
Close your letter by thanking the HR for their time and consideration, and express confidence in your ability to bring value to the role.
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Good cover letter examples
Cover letter for marketing resume
Lisa Matthews
Austin, TX 73301
lisamatthews@email.com
(512) 555-2345March 10, 2024
Dear Ms. Caroline Foster,
When Sam Thompson from your team suggested I apply for the Marketing Manager position at BrightSpark Creative, I was thrilled. Sam spoke highly of your commitment to innovation and your focus on community-driven campaigns—values that resonate deeply with me.
In my previous role as a Senior Marketing Specialist, I led a campaign that boosted client engagement by 45% over six months. By analyzing audience data and implementing a multi-channel approach, I ensured that the campaign not only exceeded expectations but also earned a national marketing award. I believe this experience positions me to drive similar success at BrightSpark Creative.
What excites me most about BrightSpark is your recent initiative to support small businesses through tailored marketing strategies. My own background includes designing cost-effective, impactful campaigns for startups, and I’d love to bring that expertise to your team.
Thank you for considering my application. I’m eager to discuss how I can contribute to BrightSpark’s mission. I’ll follow up next week, but please don’t hesitate to contact me at your convenience.
Sincerely,
Lisa Matthews
- What are the cover letter dos here?
- The mention of Sam Thompson shows a personal connection, which immediately grabs attention and builds trust.
- References to BrightSpark's community-driven campaigns show that the applicant has done their research.
- The promise to follow up reinforces initiative.
Example of cover letter for healthcare
Dr. Michael Harper, DO
Miami, FL 33101
dr.harper@email.com
(305) 555-6789March 10, 2024
Dear Dr. Elena Gonzalez,
As a family physician with over 12 years of experience, I was excited to learn about the opening for a Lead Clinician at Sunshine Community Health Center. Your emphasis on holistic, patient-centered care aligns perfectly with my professional philosophy.
During my tenure at Pinecrest Family Practice, I implemented a chronic care management program that improved outcomes for patients with diabetes and hypertension. This program reduced hospital readmissions by 30% within a year. Dr. Rachel Kumar, a former colleague and your current staff member, can attest to my ability to lead initiatives.
Your recent expansion into underserved areas is inspiring, and I am eager to bring my expertise to help further this mission. My experience in building trust with diverse patient populations has consistently resulted in high patient satisfaction scores, and I’m confident I can replicate that success at Sunshine Community Health Center.
I appreciate your time in considering my application and would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills align with your needs.
Warm regards,
Dr. Michael Harper
- Why this example works?
- Mentioning Dr. Rachel Kumar adds credibility.
- Expressing enthusiasm for the center’s expansion into underserved areas shows a commitment to the employer’s goals.
- The language is professional yet empathetic, which is critical in the healthcare industry.
Good cover letter for technology
Emily Chang
San Francisco, CA 94105
emilychang@email.com
(415) 555-4521March 10, 2024
Dear Mr. Raj Patel,
As someone who has followed InnovateTech’s work in AI-powered education tools for years, I am thrilled to apply for the Software Engineer position. Your mission to democratize learning through technology is something I’ve long admired.
At Luminary Labs, I developed a personalized learning platform for K-12 students, reducing time spent on grading by 40% for teachers while increasing student engagement by 25%. My ability to merge technical expertise in Python and JavaScript with user-centered design principles helped create tools that were both effective and intuitive.
Beyond my technical skills, I bring a deep passion for education and equity. As a volunteer coding instructor, I’ve taught over 100 students from underserved communities, which has reinforced my commitment to using technology as a force for good.
Joining InnovateTech would allow me to combine my professional skills with my personal values. I would welcome the opportunity to contribute to your team’s groundbreaking work. Thank you for your time and consideration—I look forward to discussing how I can help advance your mission.
Sincerely,
Emily Chang
- Why this sample is effective?
- The genuine enthusiasm for InnovateTech's mission creates a connection and sets the tone.
- Mentioning volunteer coding instruction underscores a personal commitment to education and equity.
- The applicant ties their hard skills and personal values to the company’s goals, making their case compelling.
Cover letter for teacher resume
Anthony Garcia
Denver, CO 80205
anthonygarcia@email.com
(303) 555-6780March 10, 2024
Dear Principal Michelle Harper,
As someone who shares a love for hands-on learning, I was delighted when your colleague, Sarah Nelson, suggested I apply for the 4th Grade Teacher position at Summit Elementary School. She praised your innovative curriculum and the supportive environment you’ve fostered for both students and staff.
For the past six years, I’ve taught elementary students in a dual-language program at Green Valley Academy. By integrating project-based learning with bilingual instruction, I’ve seen students excel academically while building real-world problem-solving skills. Last year, I led my class in a community garden project that not only enhanced their science knowledge but also strengthened their connection to the local community.
Your recent focus on experiential education excites me, and I’m eager to bring my collaborative teaching style and commitment to student growth to Summit Elementary. I’d love the opportunity to contribute to your mission of nurturing lifelong learners.
Thank you for considering my application. I’m happy to provide further information or references from Sarah and other colleagues. I look forward to speaking with you soon.
Best regards,
Anthony Garcia
- Why this cover letter is compelling?
- The community garden project demonstrates innovative teaching methods and student engagement.
- The applicant connects their experience with the school’s focus on experiential learning, showing they are a cultural fit.
- The letter conveys a strong desire to contribute to the school’s mission of nurturing lifelong learners.
Finance good cover letter example
Rachel Henderson, CFA
New York, NY 10022
rachel.henderson@email.com
(917) 555-1234March 10, 2024
Dear Mr. James Donovan,
I am excited to apply for the Investment Analyst position at Sterling Partners. Your reputation for data-driven strategies and fostering talent makes Sterling a firm I am eager to join.
At Nexus Investments, I developed financial models that identified undervalued equities, resulting in a 15% portfolio return above the benchmark over two years. By collaborating closely with portfolio managers and conducting in-depth market research, I consistently delivered actionable insights that drove client success.
What sets me apart is my dedication to precision and my proactive approach to solving complex financial challenges. For instance, I spearheaded the adoption of a new risk analysis tool that reduced reporting time by 25% while enhancing accuracy.
I am confident that my analytical skills and commitment to results would make me a valuable asset to your team. Thank you for considering my application, and I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to Sterling Partners’ continued success.
Sincerely,
Rachel Henderson
- Why to use this cover letter example?
- Spearheading the adoption of a new risk analysis tool highlights problem-solving and leadership skills.
- The letter emphasizes how the applicant’s abilities will benefit Sterling Partners, rather than just listing personal achievements.
- The tone is straightforward, reflecting the precision expected in the finance industry.
Conclusion
A well-crafted cover letter can be your ticket to standing out in a competitive job market.
By following the dos you demonstrate your professionalism and commitment to the opportunity. At the same time, avoiding common don’ts ensures that your application reflects the best version of yourself.
Remember, your cover letter is more than just a formality—it’s your chance to tell your story and connect with the employer on a deeper level. Invest the time to make it polished, specific, and impactful.
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