How to Write a Cover Letter That Gets Read
A good cover letter is short, specific to the employer and focused on what you can do for them. This guide covers structure, tone and a simple template you can adapt in 20 minutes.
Not every employer reads cover letters, but many do, especially for competitive roles, career changes and smaller organisations. A strong letter explains why you want this particular job and why you are a good fit, in a way a resume cannot.
Keep it short
Three to four short paragraphs, under one page. Hiring managers are busy; a focused letter shows respect for their time.
A four-paragraph structure
- Opening: the role you are applying for and one sentence on why you are interested in this organisation specifically. Avoid "I am writing to apply for..." as your entire first line.
- Your fit: two or three of your most relevant achievements, connected directly to the job's main requirements.
- Why them: show you understand the organisation: a recent project, its customers, its values or a challenge it faces, and how you would contribute.
- Close: thank them, express enthusiasm and invite next steps.
Tailor every letter
Read the job description and the organisation's website. Mention the hiring manager by name if you can find it. Use the same key terms as the job ad where they truthfully describe your experience, as you would in an ATS-friendly resume.
Focus on them, not you
Instead of "This role would be a great next step for my career", write "I would bring five years of experience streamlining customer onboarding, which could help as you expand into new markets." Frame your experience around their needs.
Address gaps or changes honestly
If you are changing careers or have an employment gap, the cover letter is the place to explain briefly and positively, focusing on transferable skills and what you have learned. Occupation databases such as O*NET can help you describe transferable skills in standard terms.
Final checks
- Correct company name and role title throughout
- No spelling or grammar mistakes; read it aloud
- Saved with a clear file name, such as "Firstname-Lastname-Cover-Letter"
Once your letter and resume land an interview, prepare with the STAR method.
Cover photo by Nick Morrison on Unsplash.
