Career Guides

How to write a Cover Letter

Here are some tips on how to write a Cover Letter, what to look out for and what you could include.

Best Practice

Format your Cover Letter properly

  • Use a professional and business-like format.
  • Include your contact information at the top (name, address, phone number, email).
  • Use a formal greeting (e.g. "Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name").


Start with a strong opening paragraph

  • State the position you're applying for.
  • Express your enthusiasm for the role and the company.
  • Consider including a brief statement that highlights your relevant qualifications or achievements.


Tailor your cover letter to the job

  • Research the company and the position to understand their needs and requirements.
  • Highlight your skills, experiences, and accomplishments that align with the job description.


Showcase your qualifications

  • Emphasize your most relevant skills, experiences, and achievements.
  • Highlight how your background aligns with the requirements of the position.
  • Use examples to illustrate your capabilities and accomplishments.
  • Don't simply restate your resume; provide additionalinsights and context.


Demonstrate your knowledge of the company

  • Mention why you're interested in working for the company.
  • Explain how your skills and experiences align with the company's goals.


Convey your enthusiasm and motivation

  • Show genuine excitement for the opportunity.
  • Explain why you're interested in the position and how it aligns with your career goals.


Keep it concise and focused

  • Aim for a one-page cover letter.
  • Use paragraphs to organize your thoughts effectively.


Close with a strong conclusion

  • Restate your interest in the position and the company.
  • Express your willingness to provide further information or attend an interview.
  • Thank the reader for considering your application.
  • Use a professional closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards."


Proofread and edit carefully

  • Check for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.
  • Read the cover letter aloud or have someone else review it for clarity and coherence.
  • Ensure that the tone is professional and appropriate.


Use a professional tone and language

  • Write in a formal, yet personable style.
  • Avoid jargon, slang, or overly technical language.
  • Use positive and confident language to convey your qualifications and abilities.



Why it works and why it is impactful

This cover letter is effective because it is tailored to the company and highlights John Mayfield’s most relevant skills and achievements. It grabs attention with a strong introduction, clearly demonstrating enthusiasm for the role. The letter avoids generic statements by showcasing a concrete accomplishment (AI-powered workflow automation that improved productivity by 20%). It also aligns John’s expertise in Agile project management and stakeholder coordination with TechNova Solutions’ mission. Finally, the closing paragraph reinforces his interest and includes a clear call to action, making it more likely to secure an interview.

Let's look at an example

Let's look at an example

This cover letter is effective because it is tailored to the company and highlights John Mayfield’s most relevant skills and achievements. It grabs attention with a strong introduction, clearly demonstrating enthusiasm for the role. The letter avoids generic statements by showcasing a concrete accomplishment (AI-powered workflow automation that improved productivity by 20%). It also aligns John’s expertise in Agile project management and stakeholder coordination with TechNova Solutions’ mission. Finally, the closing paragraph reinforces his interest and includes a clear call to action, making it more likely to secure an interview.

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