How to Write a Cover Letter That Gets You Hired

A cover letter is often the first impression you make on a potential employer. While your resume lists your skills and experience, a cover letter provides the opportunity to demonstrate your personality, enthusiasm, and unique qualifications for the role.

A well-crafted cover letter can significantly increase your chances of landing an interview, while a generic or poorly written one may cost you the opportunity. Writing a cover letter that gets you hired doesn’t need to be complicated, but it does require thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to write a compelling cover letter that grabs the attention of hiring managers and boosts your job prospects.

1. Start with a Strong Header

The first step in creating a professional cover letter is to start with a well-structured header. This section includes your contact information and that of the hiring manager, as well as the date you’re submitting the letter.

What to Include in Your Header:

• Your name

• Your address (optional)

• Your email address

• Your phone number

• The date

• Hiring manager’s name

• The company’s name

• Company address

If you're unsure of the hiring manager’s name, try to find it on the company’s website or LinkedIn. If you can’t find it, "Dear Hiring Manager" is a good default. Avoid using outdated or overly formal language like "To Whom It May Concern."

2. Open with a Compelling Introduction

The opening paragraph should immediately grab the hiring manager’s attention. Begin by stating the position you're applying for and how you came across the job listing. It’s helpful to mention something about the company or role that excites you, which shows that you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested.

What to Include in Your Introduction:

• The job title and where you found the listing.

• A brief mention of why you're excited about the company or position.

• A clear statement that you’re applying for the role.

Example:

"I was thrilled to see your posting for the Marketing Manager position on your company’s website. I’ve followed XYZ Corporation’s innovative marketing campaigns for years, and I admire your commitment to creative, data-driven strategies. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my expertise in digital marketing to your team."

3. Showcase Your Qualifications in the Body Paragraphs

The body of your cover letter is where you get the chance to demonstrate why you’re the ideal candidate for the job. This section should be around two to three paragraphs and should highlight your relevant skills, experience, and accomplishments.

Make sure you tailor this section to the specific job description and match your qualifications with the skills and qualities the employer is looking for.

What to Include in the Body:

• Highlight relevant skills and experience that align with the job.

• Focus on achievements that demonstrate your impact in previous roles.

• Use specific examples to show your value.

• Match your qualifications with what the employer is seeking (refer to the job description for clues).

Example:

"As a seasoned digital marketer with over five years of experience, I’ve led successful campaigns that increased brand visibility and boosted engagement. At ABC Company, I managed social media marketing strategies that resulted in a 30% increase in organic traffic over six months. I’m highly proficient in tools such as Google Analytics, SEO, and social media ad management, all of which are essential for the Marketing Manager role at XYZ Corporation."

4. Highlight Your Fit with the Company

Employers want to know not just that you’re qualified but that you’re a good fit for their company culture. In this section, demonstrate your understanding of the company’s values, mission, and goals. Explain how your personal values or career aspirations align with theirs.

What to Include in this Section:

• Show you’ve researched the company and understand its mission, goals, and culture.

• Explain why you’re drawn to working at this company specifically.

• Discuss how your values align with the company’s values.

Example:

"One of the reasons I’m excited about the opportunity at XYZ Corporation is your focus on sustainability and social responsibility. I strongly believe in the power of purpose-driven marketing, and I’d love to work for a company that shares my commitment to environmental sustainability and community engagement."

5. Close with a Call to Action

The closing paragraph is your final opportunity to leave a lasting impression. Restate your enthusiasm for the role and express your desire to discuss your qualifications further in an interview.

Be polite but assertive, and always include a call to action that encourages the hiring manager to contact you.

What to Include in Your Closing:

• Express your excitement about the next step.

• Invite the hiring manager to contact you for an interview.

• Thank the employer for their time and consideration.

• Be polite, confident, and forward-looking.

Example:

"I would welcome the opportunity to further discuss how my background, skills, and enthusiasm can contribute to the continued success of XYZ Corporation. Thank you for considering my application—I look forward to the possibility of working together."

6. Sign Off Professionally

End your cover letter with a professional sign-off, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards.” Follow it with your full name. If you're submitting a physical copy, you can add a handwritten signature above your typed name.

Examples of Professional Closures:

• Sincerely

• Best regards

• Kind regards

• Warmest regards

7. Proofread for Perfection

Before you submit your cover letter, proofread it carefully to avoid any spelling or grammatical errors. Even minor mistakes can leave a negative impression on hiring managers. Read through your letter several times, and if possible, ask a trusted friend or mentor to review it as well.

Check for:

• Spelling and grammar errors.

• Typos and missing words.

• Consistency in formatting, such as font size and margins.

• Proper punctuation and sentence structure.

Additional Tips for Writing a Cover Letter That Stands Out:

1. Be Concise: Keep your cover letter to one page. Hiring managers often have many applications to review, so clarity and brevity are appreciated.

2. Personalize It: Avoid using generic phrases like “I’m a hard worker” or “I’m a team player.” Instead, provide specific examples that show you’re a good fit.

3. Use Numbers and Data: Whenever possible, quantify your achievements. This shows tangible results and adds credibility.

4. Customize for Every Job: Tailor each cover letter to the specific job you’re applying for. A generic cover letter won’t stand out.

5. Be Confident, Not Arrogant: Express your skills and experiences with confidence, but avoid sounding boastful or entitled.

6. Focus on What You Can Offer: Emphasize what you can contribute to the company rather than what you hope to gain from the role.

Final Thoughts

Writing a cover letter that gets you hired is about more than just listing your qualifications. It’s your chance to present yourself as a unique and valuable candidate who understands the company’s needs and is genuinely excited about the opportunity.

By following this step-by-step guide, you can craft a cover letter that not only showcases your skills and enthusiasm but also leaves a positive impression on hiring managers.

Remember, your cover letter should reflect your personality and passion for the role while demonstrating that you’re the right person for the job. With careful attention to detail, a well-crafted cover letter can be the key to landing your dream job. Good luck!