How to write a cover letter

A cover letter is not a repeat of your CV. It is a short, persuasive argument for why you fit this specific role — the one chance you have to show you understand the job and are worth an interview.

What it is

A cover letter is a one-page letter that introduces you and connects your experience to the requirements of a specific job. It supplements, rather than repeats, your CV.

Why it matters

When many people have similar qualifications, a strong cover letter sets you apart. It shows you read the job, understand what is needed, and can communicate it.

Structure

1. Greeting to a named person if you can find one; otherwise a polite opening.
2. The role and your interest — state the job you are applying for and a line on why you are interested.
3. Your best relevant evidence — match your experience to the job's key requirements. Two or three concrete examples, not a list of every skill.
4. Why you fit — connect the dots between what the job needs and what you offer.
5. What you can do for them — a forward-looking line on the value you would bring.
6. Close — thanks, a note on your availability, and a sign-off.

How to write it

Read the job properly. Match your letter to the actual requirements, not a template. A tailored letter stands out; a generic one does not.

Lead with the relevant. Put your most relevant achievement or experience first, not in the middle. Show you are the answer to their problem.

Use specifics, not adjectives. "I grew the newsletter from 200 to 2,000 subscribers" beats "I am good at marketing." Numbers and outcomes persuade.

Keep it to one page. Recruiters skim. Short and targeted is better than long and exhaustive.

Match the company's tone. A formal institution and a startup sound different. Adjust the register to the role.

Proofread. A cover letter with a typo is a poor first impression. Read it once before sending.

Common mistakes

Repeating your CV. A generic letter sent to every employer. Spelling mistakes. Starting with "I am writing to apply for…" as your whole opening with no substance. Being vague about your value. Oversharing personal detail.

Practical tips

• Put the strongest match in the first paragraph.
• Name the specific company and role — never leave placeholders.
• End with a clear, polite next step.

Checklist

• I addressed it to a person when I could.
• I stated the role and my interest clearly.
• I matched my best evidence to the job's requirements.
• I used specifics and outcomes, not adjectives.
• I kept it to one page and to the company's tone.
• I proofread before sending.