How to Write a Cover Letter That Gets Read
Plenty of people say cover letters are dead. They're not — a good one still tips close decisions in your favour. The problem is that most are generic filler. Here's how to write one that earns its place.
When a cover letter is worth it
Write one when: the application asks for it, you're changing industries, you have a gap to explain, or you're genuinely excited about a specific company. Skip the generic template either way.
The 4-paragraph structure
1. The hook (2–3 sentences). Skip "I am writing to apply for…". Open with why you're a strong fit or something specific about the company.
"I've spent three years turning messy support queues into 4-hour response times. When I saw your team is scaling customer success, I had to reach out."
2. The proof (1 paragraph). Pick the 2–3 requirements that matter most and show, with a concrete result, that you've done them before.
3. The 'why them' (a few sentences). Show you understand what the company does and why you want to work there specifically. This is what separates you from the mass applicants.
4. The close (2 sentences). Reaffirm interest, thank them, and invite the next step.
Rules that keep it strong
- Keep it to under one page — ideally 250–350 words.
- Address a real person if you can find one.
- Mirror keywords from the job description.
- Never repeat your resume line by line — add context and personality.
- Proofread ruthlessly.
A focused, specific cover letter takes 20 minutes and can be the difference between the "maybe" and "interview" pile. Treat it as a short, confident pitch — not a formality.