Writing a
cover letter can feel like a tedious formality—another hoop to jump through in
the job search. It takes time, and let’s be honest, it doesn’t always feel
worth it. But here’s the thing: while optimizing for applicant tracking systems
(ATS) is the most significant advantage, a strong cover letter can also be the
key to standing out and making a real connection. It’s your chance to tell your
story, show enthusiasm, and make it clear why you're the perfect fit for the
role.
In this
guide, you’ll get practical tips, real examples, and a step-by-step approach to
writing one that not only gets past the ATS but also grabs attention and gets
results.
What is a Cover Letter?
A cover
letter is a one-page document addressed to the interviewer or hiring manager.
It includes your contact details, the position you are applying for, and
elaborates on the information in your CV. It should express your interest in
the role and detail the skills and experiences that make you a suitable
candidate. Your cover letter should align your qualifications and relevant
skills with the job description, demonstrating that you have thoroughly
researched the role and are eager to join the team.
Are Cover Letters Still Important?
Let’s be
honest—writing a cover letter can feel like a chore. Many job seekers wonder if
they’re even necessary anymore, especially when some employers don’t explicitly
ask for them. However, cover letters can still give you a significant
advantage, particularly in roles that require strong communication skills,
relationship-building, or a personal touch.
When a Cover Letter Matters Most
While some
companies may not require them, cover letters can be the key differentiator
in competitive job markets. Here’s when they’re especially valuable:
✅ Jobs in
Communication-Heavy Fields – Roles in marketing, PR, writing, and sales
often require candidates to demonstrate their ability to craft compelling
messages. A well-written cover letter proves you can communicate effectively
before landing the interview.
✅ Positions
That Emphasize Soft Skills – If the role involves leadership, customer
service, or client relations, a cover letter helps you highlight qualities like
emotional intelligence, adaptability, and problem-solving—things that
don’t always shine through in a resume.
✅ Career
Changers or Those with Employment Gaps – If you're transitioning to a new
industry or have gaps in your work history, a cover letter gives you a chance
to explain your story, connect the dots, and show why you’re still an
excellent fit for the role.
✅ Highly
Competitive Roles – If you’re applying for a dream job with many
applicants, a standout cover letter could be the extra push to get you
noticed. According to a survey by ResumeLab, 83% of hiring managers say a strong cover letter
can help secure an interview, even if the resume isn’t a perfect match.
When a Cover Letter Might Not Be Necessary
That said,
there are situations where skipping the cover letter won’t hurt your chances:
❌ High-Volume,
Entry-Level Jobs – For positions in retail, warehouse work, or food
service, recruiters often prioritize efficiency and may not read cover letters
at all.
❌ When the
Employer Explicitly Says It’s Not Required – Some job postings state, "No
cover letter needed." If that’s the case, you can save time and focus
on perfecting
your resume.
The Bottom Line
Still unsure?
Here’s our take—a cover letter is worth it if you have the time and really want
the job. Can we guarantee it will help or that every hiring manager will read
it? No, absolutely not. But when they do, it can make a real difference.
Consider it an extra chance to stand out, tell your story, and show why you're
the right fit. That said, cover letters are a big investment of time and
effort, especially so early in the application process—so be strategic. If it's
a dream job or a highly competitive role, it’s probably worth it. Otherwise,
weigh the opportunity against the effort, and use your time wisely.
How to Write a Cover Letter
A great cover
letter isn’t just about listing skills—it’s about telling a story that connects
your experience to the employer’s needs. Think of it as your personal pitch,
showing why you’re not just qualified but the right person for the job.
Follow these key steps to craft a cover letter that stands out:
1. Research the Company and Role
Before you
start writing, take time to understand the company’s mission, culture, and
job requirements. Browse their website, read recent news, and review the
job posting carefully. Look for keywords and themes that align with your
experience, and weave them naturally into your letter. This extra effort demonstrates
genuine interest and helps tailor your application to what they’re looking
for.
💡 Action
Tip: Include the company name and demonstrate you did your homework
effectively.
- 🚫"I’m excited
to apply"
- ✅ "I admire [Company
Name]’s commitment to innovation, particularly in [specific project or
initiative], and I’m eager to bring my skills in [relevant expertise] to
your team."
2. Structure Your Letter Effectively
A
well-organized cover letter is easy to read and leaves a lasting impression.
Stick to this three-part structure:
Introduction: Grab attention with a compelling first sentence
that expresses enthusiasm and connects you to the role.
Body: Highlight 2-3 key skills or achievements that
align with the job description, using examples to show impact.
Conclusion: End with a confident call to action, inviting the
employer to discuss how you can contribute.
💡 Action
Tip: Avoid generic openings
- 🚫"I’m
applying for X position.”
- ✅ "As a
results-driven marketer with a passion for storytelling, I was excited to
see this opening at [Company Name]. My background in digital campaigns and
audience engagement makes me a strong fit for this role."
3. Showcase Your Unique Value
Employers
want to know what sets you apart from other applicants. Define your Unique Value Proposition (UVP)—what makes you the
best fit for this role at this company. Focus on specific skills,
achievements, or experiences that make you uniquely valuable to their
team
💡 Action
Tip: Use quantifiable results to prove your impact.
- 🚫 "I helped
increase sales."
- ✅ "I led a targeted
email campaign that increased sales by 20% in six months."
If you’re
transitioning careers or have a non-traditional background, frame it as a
strength: "With a background in journalism and content strategy, I
bring a unique storytelling approach to marketing, helping brands create
compelling, audience-driven campaigns."
4. Use Professional Language and Tone
Your cover
letter should sound polished and professional while feeling genuine and
approachable. Avoid clichés and buzzwords—focus on clear, confident
language highlighting your expertise.
💡 Action
Tip: Read your letter aloud to catch awkward phrasing or overly formal
language. The goal is to be professional AND conversational.
- 🚫 "I would
like to express my sincere interest in this esteemed opportunity,"
- ✅ Try: "I’m excited
about the opportunity to contribute my skills in [area of expertise] to
[Company Name]."
Before
hitting send, proofread carefully to ensure it’s error-free. Even minor
typos can leave a negative impression, so use tools like Grammarly or ask a
friend to review them.
Cover Letter Examples
Example 1: Marketing Position
Dear [Hiring
Manager's Name],
I am writing
to express my interest in the Marketing Manager position at [Company Name].
With a proven track record in developing creative marketing strategies that
drive results, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team.
At [Previous
Company], I successfully increased brand awareness by 30% through innovative
social media campaigns and strategic partnerships. My ability to analyze market
trends and consumer behavior has consistently resulted in successful product
launches and increased sales.
I am
particularly drawn to [Company Name] because of your commitment to innovation
and excellence. I am eager to bring my digital marketing and project management
skills to your team and help drive your brand's success.
Thank you for
considering my application. I look forward to discussing how I can contribute
to [Company Name].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 2: Software Engineering Role
Dear [Hiring
Manager's Name],
I am writing
to apply for the Software Engineer position at [Company Name]. With extensive
experience in software development and project management, I am confident in my
ability to contribute to your team.
At [Previous
Company], I led a team of developers in creating a new software platform that
improved efficiency by 25%. My expertise in programming languages such as Java
and Python and my strong problem-solving skills have consistently resulted in
successful project outcomes.
I am
particularly impressed by [Company Name]'s commitment to innovation and
cutting-edge technology. I am eager to bring my technical skills and passion
for software development to your team.
Thank you for
considering my application. I look forward to discussing how I can contribute
to [Company Name].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Final Thoughts
A well-crafted cover letter connects the dots between your experience and the employer’s needs. By researching the company, structuring your letter effectively, defining your Unique Value Proposition, and using professional, engaging language, you can create a compelling cover letter that gets results.