Let’s be honest—cover letters don’t have the best reputation. People call them outdated, tedious, even pointless. Some say no one reads them. But in my own job search, a few thoughtfully written cover letters have made all the difference. In fact, I’m convinced they’ve helped me land roles that a resume alone couldn’t.
I’ve found that when done right, a cover letter becomes the most personal part of an application. It’s not just about qualifications—it’s about telling your story, showing motivation, and making a real connection. I’ve never understood why some people find them boring. After all, when else do you get to write (professionally) about yourself?
If you’re wondering how to write a cover letter that actually gets read (and makes an impact), this guide is for you. We’ll walk you through how to craft one that’s structured, thoughtful, and personal—without sounding like a copy-paste template. Because truthfully? I’ve never understood why people find them boring. They’re one of the few chances you get to talk about yourself on your own terms.
Key takeaways
- A cover letter is your chance to show personality, intent, and alignment with the role—beyond what’s on your resume.
- Tailoring your letter to each job application is essential to stand out and show genuine interest.
- Use a clear, professional structure with a polished header, personalized greeting, focused body, and confident closing.
- Strong introductions and measurable achievements help immediately capture attention.
- Storytelling or bulleted formats can work—choose what best fits your style and the role.
- A concise, well-formatted letter (ideally 250–400 words) improves readability and impact.
What is a cover letter?
A cover letter is a one-page document that you include with your resume as part of your application for a job. Despite popular belief, it’s not just a formality—it’s your opportunity to show why you’re the right fit for a role, beyond what’s already outlined in your resume.
It allows you to express personality and intent—something hiring managers always care about, even in highly competitive or technical fields.
In 2025, AI-generated resumes and automated applications are becoming more and more common. However, a thoughtful cover letter stands out more than ever. It signals initiative, professionalism, and genuine interest.
At Enhancv, we value the power of human-written content—nothing can replace your unique voice and perspective. But if you're short on time or want a head start, we also offer our Cover Letter Builder to help you create a polished draft quickly and easily.
Do cover letters still matter?
Despite the never-ending debate, cover letters still matter. They remain one of the few ways you can speak directly to a recruiter or hiring manager.
Here’s why they still make a difference:
They show intent: Submitting a tailored cover letter signals that you’ve put thought into the application and that you’re genuinely interested—not just spraying out resumes.
They differentiate you: When many applicants have similar qualifications, your cover letter helps you stand out by highlighting personality, communication style, and values.
They humanize your application: A cover letter can show empathy, cultural fit, and motivation—all things that matter to real people, not just algorithms.
What’s the difference between a cover letter and a resume?
A cover letter and a resume serve different but complementary purposes in a job application.
While a great resume presents a structured, bullet-pointed overview of your experience, skills, and achievements, a cover letter gives you the space to tell your story. It explains why you're applying, how your background aligns with the role, and what excites you about the company.
A resume is about qualifications. A cover letter is about motivation, personality, and fit. It connects the dots between your resume and the job description, adding context that numbers alone can't fully capture.
Simple cover letter format
Now that you know why a cover letter matters, let’s look at how to write one. Sometimes, all you need is a clean, simple starting point—and we’ve got you covered. Just copy the format below, fill in your details, and you’ll have an effective cover letter ready to send.
Name Surname
[Job Position Applying For]
(000) 000-0XXX | Name.Of.Candidate@enhancv.com | @LinkedIn | Location
[Today’s Date]
Hiring Manager’s Name
Company Name
Company Address
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Introductory paragraph
Start with a brief sentence stating the role you’re applying for and how you found it. Follow up with one to two sentences summarizing why you’re excited about the opportunity and a key strength that makes you a good fit.
Body paragraph(s)
Expand on your most relevant experience. Mention one or two roles, responsibilities, or achievements that align with the position. Focus on measurable results or unique contributions.
Closing paragraph
Wrap up with a short statement expressing enthusiasm about joining the team. Mention that your resume is attached and offer to discuss your qualifications further in an interview.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Tailor your cover letter to the job
Templates are helpful, but no single version will work for every application. To stand out, you need to tailor your letter to each company and role.
Hiring managers can spot a generic cover letter in seconds—and when they do, it’s often game over. Customizing your letter doesn’t just mean inserting the company’s name. It means aligning your experience with the job description and speaking directly to the company’s needs.
Need a faster way to tailor your letter to each application? Try our Cover Letter Generator—it helps you generate targeted content based on your resume and the description of your desired job.
Cover letter formatting basics
Formatting isn’t just about aesthetics—it directly affects how your letter is read and perceived. A professional layout makes your content easier to absorb and leaves a positive impression.
- Start by using single spacing within paragraphs and adding a full blank line between each paragraph or section (like between your greeting and the introduction, or between body paragraphs). This improves readability and helps guide the eye naturally through your letter.
- For margins, stick to the size you used on your resume. This standard spacing ensures your letter looks balanced and doesn’t appear cramped or stretched. It also keeps your text aligned neatly on the page.
- All text should be left-aligned, with no paragraph indents. Left alignment is the most readable format for business communication, and skipping indentations keeps the layout clean. Rely on spacing—not indentation—for structure.
- For the font, choose something professional and simple like Rubik, Arial, or Calibri in a 10–12 pt size. The goal is clarity, not creativity—your words should do the heavy lifting, not the typography.
- Keep your letter to one page max, ideally around 250–400 words. That usually works out to three to four short paragraphs, with a header, greeting, body, and closing. A concise letter with proper spacing and structure will be easier to read and more effective than a dense block of text.
How to write a good cover letter in 6 simple steps
Cover letters get a lot of hate over at Harvard Business Review, but I don’t think they’re simply a necessary evil. In fact, they’re the best way to show who you really are to the hiring managers. So why miss out on that?
Whether you’re starting from scratch or improving a specific section, the next steps will walk you through each part of your cover letter—from the header to the final sign-off. Follow them in order, and you’ll end up with a clear, compelling document that’s tailored to the job you want.
Step 1. Polish your cover letter header (contact information)
Your cover letter header serves as the first impression for hiring managers. It ensures your contact information is easily accessible and sets the tone for the rest of your letter.
Make sure the cover letter header matches the one on your resume. It’s easiest if you copy and paste it directly.
Here’s an example:
Let’s break down its components:
- Full name: Use your full, professional name. Capitalize for emphasis (e.g., TAYLOR FOSTER).
- (Optional) Nickname: If you go by a nickname professionally, it’s perfectly fine to add it to your header as First Name "Nickname" Last Name to maintain both clarity and consistency across your application.
- Job title: Tailor this to match the position or highlight a specialization (e.g., Customer Service Specialist – SaaS). Depending on your industry, this can be strictly professional or slightly more creative. For example, in tech or design fields, titles like UX Storyteller or Visual Problem Solver might help you stand out, as long as they still align with the job posting and tone of the company.
- Email address: Use a dedicated personal email (e.g., FirstNameLastName@email.com). Avoid high school nicknames, so you don’t look unprofessional.
- Phone number: Format it clearly and write an area or country code if needed (e.g., (234) 555-1234 or +1 234 555 1234).
- LinkedIn or professional link (or both): Add a LinkedIn profile or a portfolio URL to present your work. You can also add a link to your website or GitHub profile.
- Location: City and state are enough (e.g., Chicago, IL). You might also include a postal code, but no street name and number are needed. If you work remotely, you can simply state “Remote.”
- Date: After you’ve added your personal information, write the date you’re sending the letter to the hiring managers.
Cover letter address
Including the company address before the salutation in your cover letter is a classic and still-recommended formatting practice, especially for formal or traditional applications. It typically appears below the date and above the greeting.
Here’s a quick example of how it should look:
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Info]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager’s Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address Line 1]
[City, State ZIP Code]
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Step 2. Add a personalized salutation
Your salutation sets the tone for the rest of your cover letter. This one line may seem like a small detail but it shows you’ve taken the time to address your application thoughtfully. It also shows that you're not sending a generic copy-paste letter to every employer.
Addressing your cover letter to a specific person shows initiative and effort—two traits every hiring manager appreciates. If the job post doesn’t list a name, here are a few ways to track it down.
How to find the hiring manager’s name
- Check the job listing carefully: Sometimes, the hiring manager's name is buried in the fine print, reply-to address, or contact section of the job post.
- Look on the company’s website: Visit the “About,” “Team,” or “Careers” pages. Smaller companies often list team members and their roles publicly.
- Search LinkedIn: Use LinkedIn's search function to look for people with titles like “Recruiter,” “Talent Acquisition Manager,” “Hiring Manager,” or “[Department] Manager” at the company. Even if you don’t find the exact person, naming the department (e.g., “Dear Product Team Hiring Manager”) still adds a personal touch.
- Use advanced Google searches: Try:site:companywebsite.com hiring manager [department]
or"[Company Name]" + "hiring manager" + "marketing" - Call or email the company (if appropriate): If the company culture seems open or the posting is vague, a quick call or email to HR or the front desk can get you the name you need.
If, after trying these steps, you still can't find a name, it’s totally acceptable to address your letter to “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear [Department] Hiring Team.” The effort still shows.
Just don’t resort to “Dear Sir/Madam” or “To Whom It May Concern.” These can sound generic and outdated.
What about more creative greetings?
In some creative environments—like startups, agencies, or design studios—a slightly unconventional greeting can be a great way to reflect the tone of the company and stand out.
For example:
- “To the Humans Behind [Product Name],”
- “Dear IT magicians at [Company Name].”
These greetings feel more casual and personal, but they only work when they match the company’s vibe. If you use a creative greeting in a formal environment, it could feel out of place or unprofessional.
To make sure you have flexibility, research the company’s overall communication for tone clues. Also see the team bios or blog posts. Brands with quirky, human-driven voices on platforms like LinkedIn or Instagram are often more open to a creative approach in applications.
A light touch of personality goes a long way—but being overly casual (e.g., “Hey there!”) risks coming off as flippant if misjudged.
Step 3. Write a strong introduction paragraph
Your cover letter introduction is your first real chance to make an impression—and it needs to do more than just say you're applying.
Rather than opening with a tired phrase like “I’m writing to apply for the [Job Title] position” or “I’m excited to submit my application,” aim for an introduction that reflects your understanding of the role, your connection to the company, and the unique value you bring.
Try to hook the hiring manager with something compelling right from the start.
What to include in a strong intro
- State the job you’re applying for clearly: It helps the reader immediately understand the purpose of the letter, especially if they’re hiring for multiple roles.
- Lead with a value-based hook: Open with a recent achievement, measurable result, or trait that aligns directly with what the role requires.
- Imply culture fit or role alignment: A quick nod to how your approach, mindset, or work style matches the company’s tone or structure can go a long way.
Now let’s look at some hooks that'll compel the hiring manager right from the start.
A relevant achievement that aligns with the job’s core needs
“After improving customer satisfaction scores by 42% in under six months, I’m now looking to apply that same approach to CX innovation at [Company Name].”
A powerful career shift insight that fits the job’s context
“After five years in healthcare administration, I’m now focused on simplifying patient journeys through product design—an area I know your team is actively reimagining.”
Another instance of a strong start would be а referral mention from someone inside the company.
Let’s see how.
Name-dropping in a cover letter
When executed thoughtfully, name-dropping signals that someone familiar with the company or industry recognizes your qualifications and endorses your fit for the role.
Here are some good practices you can apply:
- Obtain permission first: Always ask the individual's consent before mentioning their name. This ensures they're comfortable being referenced and prepared to speak on your behalf if contacted.
- Integrate naturally: Incorporate the name into your narrative seamlessly. Rather than making the name the focal point, use it to support your qualifications and experiences.
- Highlight shared experiences: If you've worked with the person on relevant projects or initiatives, briefly mention these collaborations to provide context and reinforce your capabilities.
- Place early in the letter: Introduce the referral in the opening paragraph to immediately capture the hiring manager's attention and establish a connection.
- Maintain professional tone: Make sure the mention is respectful and aligns with the overall tone of your cover letter, avoiding any semblance of name-dropping for prestige alone
Step 4. Craft a compelling body paragraph (or two)
You could say this is the heart of your letter—the place where you show your experience and skills through specific stories or achievements. There are two reliable ways to structure this section, depending on your writing style and what you want to highlight.
PRO TIP
Before we review them, something to keep in mind. Your body paragraph isn’t supposed to restate your resume word for word. Instead, use the cover letter to add context, show personality, and underline the why behind your achievements.
The narrative approach
A short, story-driven paragraph (or two) that walks the reader through your experience, emphasizes your strengths, and shows how they align with the role. It's conversational, cohesive, and focuses on flow and connection.
Why storytelling works
Storytelling is one of the most effective psychological strategies in a cover letter because it creates emotional engagement.
According to research in narrative psychology, the stories we tell help us make sense of our experiences and shape our identities. When you share a compelling narrative in your cover letter, you're not just listing qualifications; you're inviting the hiring manager into your professional journey, making your experiences more relatable and memorable.
You can use the STAR method to tell a story. STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, Result, and it helps you frame your accomplishments as short, purposeful stories. Instead of simply stating what you did, this method allows you to show how you approached a challenge, the steps you took, and the tangible outcome you achieved.
The narrative strategy is best for:
- Career changers
- Applicants with a cohesive story to tell
- Roles where communication and storytelling matter (marketing, education, leadership)
Cover letter body for a customer success manager
Over the past four years as a customer success lead at a fast-growing SaaS startup, I’ve helped reduce churn by 25% and built a customer education program that improved onboarding satisfaction scores by 40%. I’m now looking to bring that same relationship-first, results-driven approach to a team focused on scaling sustainable customer growth—just like the one you’re building at [Company Name].
The bulleted approach
This is a more structured format that opens with a brief paragraph for context, followed by two to four bullet points that showcase your top achievements or skills. It's direct, skimmable, and focused on impact.
Bullets make your accomplishments easy to skim, especially for hiring managers reviewing dozens of applications. They allow you to focus on outcomes, use power verbs (the same as you would on your resume), and present a snapshot of value without diving into a full narrative.
This strategy is best for:
- Technical roles (e.g., engineering, IT, data science), where tools, outcomes, and efficiency are key.
- Candidates with diverse experience who want to display a range of accomplishments without overwhelming the reader.
- Applicants with measurable results that translate well into data points or performance metrics.
Front-end engineer cover letter body
In my role as a front-end developer at Jetstream Tech, I focused on building fast, scalable UI components across multiple product teams.
Highlights include:
- Developed a reusable design system adopted across 3 departments
- Reduced page load times by 38% through React optimization
- Spearheaded A/B testing on new checkout flow, boosting conversions by 17%
- Led accessibility overhaul, achieving WCAG 2.1 compliance
Why use metrics in your cover letter
Metrics make your achievements concrete. While soft skills and enthusiasm are important, numbers help quantify your impact—whether it’s a percentage increase in customer satisfaction, hours saved through process improvements, or revenue generated from a successful campaign. It’s a good idea to use them on both your cover letter and your resume.
Including real data builds credibility and helps hiring managers visualize the value you could bring to their team. You don’t need to overload your letter with stats, but even one or two well-placed figures can elevate your narrative.
If exact numbers aren't available, use estimates or ratios (e.g., “reduced processing time by nearly half”) to give context. The goal is to move from vague claims to measurable results that support your case.
Salary expectations
Given we’re on the topic of metrics, something important that you can disclose in a cover letter is your salary expectations.
If a job posting asks for salary expectations, including them directly in your cover letter can show that you're both transparent and mindful of expectations. However, it’s best to keep it brief and flexible to leave room for negotiation.
Here’s a tactful way to integrate this:
Outlining salary expectations in a cover letter
Based on my experience and research, I’m seeking a salary in the range of $70,000 to $80,000, though I’m open to discussing what’s appropriate for the role and team.
If you're unsure whether to include a number, consider referencing a range or stating that you're open to a conversation about compensation during the interview process.
Step 5. Finish with a memorable closing paragraph
The closing paragraph is your final chance to leave a strong impression—so make it count. A great closing wraps up your letter by summarizing your value, expressing genuine enthusiasm, and inviting the hiring manager to take the next step.
What to have in a closing paragraph
- Summarize your value proposition: Reiterate the most relevant strength you bring to the role, without simply repeating your resume or opening paragraph. Keep it concise and focused.
- Express enthusiasm: Show that you’re not only qualified but genuinely interested in the company’s mission, product, or culture.
- Include a clear call to action: Politely signal your interest in moving forward—whether that’s an interview, a portfolio review, or a follow-up conversation.
Let’s see an example:
Closing paragraph for a project manager
With a proven track record of delivering complex projects on time and within scope, I’m confident in my ability to help drive operational excellence at [Company Name]. Your focus on cross-functional collaboration and agile development aligns directly with how I’ve led product launches and scaled team operations. I’d be glad to connect for a brief conversation to explore how my background in [specific skill or project area] can support your upcoming initiatives.
A note on cover letter CTAs
A call-to-action in a cover letter shouldn’t sound pushy or generic.
Still, in trying to prevent that, candidates too often default to phrases like:
- “Please don’t hesitate to contact me…”
- “I look forward to hearing from you…”
- “Let me know if you need anything else…”
Although these sound polite, they can also be perceived as passive. They might not give the reader a compelling reason to take action.
Instead, aim for a CTA that:
- Restates the value you bring.
- Expresses genuine interest in contributing.
- Politely suggests the next step.
For example:
- “I’d love the opportunity to share how I’ve led similar projects and how that experience could support your team’s goals.”
- “If it sounds like a good fit, I’d be happy to discuss how my background in [specific area] could benefit [Company Name].”
Step 6. Sign off professionally
Your cover letter's sign-off is your final opportunity to leave a lasting impression. It conveys professionalism, reinforces your interest, and ensures your application concludes on a strong note.
What to include in a sign-off
- A professional closing phrase: Choose a formal sign-off that matches the tone of your letter and the company’s culture.
- Your full name: Always include your full name below the closing phrase.
- (Optional) Contact information: If not already provided in your header or email signature, consider adding your phone number, email, or LinkedIn profile.
Here’s a handy table you can use if you’re wondering what the best sign-off for your cover letter is:
| Sign-off | What’s the tone, and when to use |
|---|---|
| Best regards | Tone: Professional, neutral
|
| Kind regards | Tone: Professional, slightly warm
|
| Sincerely | Tone: Formal, traditional
|
| With appreciation | Tone: Grateful, polite
|
| Respectfully | Tone: Very formal
|
| Thank you | Tone: Courteous, direct Use when:
|
| Warm regards | Tone: Friendly, slightly informal Use when:
|
| Yours truly | Tone: Traditional, conservative Use when:
|
Cover letter enclosure
After your sign-off, you might want to note if you’ve attached any documents, such as a portfolio, a resume, or a reference list.
To indicate enclosures, skip two lines after your closing and type "Enclosure:" for a single document or "Enclosures:" for multiple, followed by a list of the included documents.
Cover letters vs. e-notes
In some cases, particularly when the job posting requests it or you're reaching out to a recruiter directly, your cover letter might be written in the body of the email itself, rather than as a separate document. This shorter format is called an e-note. It’s more concise, less formal, and often easier for recruiters to read on a mobile device.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| COVER LETTERS | E-NOTES |
|---|---|
| The classic way to go | Easier to read on mobile devices |
| Follow standard business letter format | Follow a standard email format |
| More formal and longer | Less formal than a cover letter and shorter than one page |
| Enclosed as a separate printed document/attachment | Written directly in the email body |
And now let’s check out an example:
How to write a cover letter with no experience
Not having experience doesn’t mean you have nothing to say. And sometimes, a well-thought-out cover letter is even more important for someone just starting out or changing careers. It gives you a chance to stand out beyond a resume full of bullet points.
The key—just like in an entry-level resume—is to shift the focus from what you’ve done to what you can offer, and to highlight your potential, motivation, and transferable skills.
A confident introduction: Lead with clarity and energy. Mention the role and company, and show why it speaks to you.
“I'm applying for the [Job Title] role at [Company Name] because of your focus on [industry/mission detail]. As someone who’s passionate about [relevant topic], I’m excited to bring a strong foundation in [key skill or field] and a drive to learn.”
Transferable skills and education: Focus on strengths from other areas—academic projects, volunteer work, or even hobbies that demonstrate relevant traits.
“In my university capstone project, I worked closely with a team to develop a brand strategy for a nonprofit. I handled research, client communication, and data analysis—skills I know are valuable in this role.”
Motivation and cultural fit: Prove that you’re not just looking for a job—you’re interested in this team, this mission.
“What stood out to me about [Company] is your focus on collaboration and learning. That’s the kind of environment I’m looking for as I begin my career—where I can grow, contribute, and make a real impact.”
A positive, forward-looking closing: Don’t apologize for lack of experience. Instead, focus on what you’re ready to bring.
“Thank you for considering my application. I’d love the chance to discuss how my enthusiasm, adaptability, and commitment to growth could support your team.”
Some more tips for first-time applicants
- Avoid phrases like “Although I don’t have experience…”: Employers already know you're new to the field—it’s more effective to highlight skills and traits that make you a strong learner or team contributor.
- Be specific: Generic statements like “I’m passionate about marketing” don’t mean much without context. Instead, say: “I’ve followed [Company]'s content strategy and admired how you simplified a complex product for everyday users.”
- Let your attitude shine: Initiative, curiosity, and coachability often matter more than direct experience. Mention projects you’ve taken on yourself or times you stepped up in a team setting.
- Don’t underestimate non-work experience: Volunteering, school projects, personal initiatives, part-time jobs, or student leadership all demonstrate responsibility, work ethic, and people skills.
- Use the job description as your roadmap: Look at the soft skills and tools mentioned—even if you haven’t used them in a professional setting, you can reflect familiarity or eagerness to learn them.
- Keep the tone confident, not apologetic: Avoid disclaimers like “While I may not be the most qualified…” and instead focus on what you do bring to the table.
- Keep it concise and well-structured: A first-time cover letter should be no longer than one page, with clear sections and no fluff. Every sentence should serve a purpose.
Cover letter examples that work (2025 templates)
Not sure how to put the tips into practice? Below are three clear, tailored cover letter examples designed to match different job-seeking scenarios in 2025. Use them as a starting point or inspiration for writing your own.
Each one reflects best practices in structure, tone, personalization, and clarity—as outlined in our full guide on how to write a cover letter.
Entry-level cover letter example
Jane Jones
(123) 456-7XXX
jane.jones@enhancv.com
New York, NY
LinkedIn
May 21, 2025
Hiring Manager’s Name
Acme Marketing
456 Madison Ave
New York, NY 10001
Dear [Hiring Manager],
Your recent campaigns at Acme Marketing caught my attention for their originality and data-driven strategy. I’m applying for the Marketing Assistant role to bring my own creative energy and research skills to your growing team.
As a recent Communications graduate, I led a university campaign that boosted engagement by 30%, showcasing my strengths in content planning and social media analytics. I’m eager to contribute to Acme’s brand strategy with the same initiative and results-focused mindset.
Thank you for considering my application. I’d love the opportunity to discuss how I can support your team’s marketing efforts.
Sincerely,
Jane Jones
Career change cover letter example
Chris Taylor
chris.taylor@enhancv.com
(000) 111-2XXX
Austin, TX
LinkedIn
May 21, 2025
Hiring Manager’s Name
GreenPath Technologies
234 Eco Way
Austin, TX 78701
Dear [Hiring Manager],
I’m excited to apply for the Operations Associate role at GreenPath Technologies. After eight years leading teams in hospitality, I’m transitioning into clean tech to align my professional path with my passion for sustainability and process optimization.
Over the past year, I’ve completed a sustainability certificate and led a green initiative at my current company that reduced waste by 20%. My hands-on leadership style and focus on operational improvement are a strong match for GreenPath’s mission.
I’d be glad to speak further about how I can contribute to your operations and support your team’s growth.
Warm regards,
Chris Taylor
Short and simple cover letter example
Alex Rivera
alex.rivera@enhancv.com
(444) 555-6XXX
Denver, CO
May 21, 2025
Hiring Manager
CivicTech Solutions
789 Community Blvd
Denver, CO 80203
Dear Hiring Manager,
I’m applying for the Customer Support Representative role at CivicTech because I admire your mission to improve public digital access. With strong communication skills and a background in coordinating volunteers, I’m ready to help your users feel heard and supported.
I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to your community-focused team.
Sincerely,
Alex Rivera
Frequently asked questions about writing a cover letter
We’ve made our article pretty extensive, but if you still have some questions, take a look at the section below to see if you can find your answer.
How do I write a short cover letter?
Writing a concise cover letter is about striking a balance between clarity and personality. The most effective short cover letters include three essential parts: a strong opening that clearly states the position and hooks the reader, a focused middle section that highlights one or two key qualifications or achievements relevant to the role, and a confident closing with a clear call to action.
The goal is to communicate your value in roughly 150–200 words—enough to make an impression, but brief enough to respect the reader’s time.
A short cover letter works especially well for roles where directness and clarity are valued, and using a tool like Enhancv’s Cover Letter Builder can help you structure your message without sounding generic.
Do cover letters help with ATS?
While cover letters aren’t the primary documents parsed by applicant tracking systems (ATS), they can still support your application when recruiters review them manually after an initial screen. More importantly, well-structured cover letters that include keywords from the job description can reinforce your alignment with the role and demonstrate your communication skills.
In some systems, cover letters are searchable or attached to candidate profiles, so using relevant terms and phrases can boost your visibility post-ATS screening.
Can I use AI to write my cover letter?
Lots of people use AI to help them write or optimize their resumes. It’s only natural to try and apply the process to cover letters as well. Tools like ChatGPT are great for generating structure, polishing your tone, and proofreading your document.
However, do remember that a cover letter is supposed to show personality, so it’s crucial to review the output. AI tools can’t fully capture your uniqueness, experiences, or voice without guidance. Think of AI as a drafting assistant, not a replacement. The most impactful cover letters combine smart tools with your unique story and insight.
What is the basic format of a cover letter?
The basic format of a cover letter includes:
- a header with your contact information and the employer’s details;
- a greeting (ideally personalized);
- an introduction that states the role you're applying for;
- one or two body paragraphs connecting your experience to the job;
- a closing paragraph with a call to action.
- a professional sign-off and your name.
The structure should be clean, left-aligned, and no longer than one page—ideally 250–400 words.
What are some tips for a successful job interview?
A successful interview starts with solid preparation. Research the company’s values, recent projects, and the specific role you're applying for so you can speak to how your strengths match.
Review the job description closely and think about how your past experience fits their needs.
Practice speaking clearly about your accomplishments, focusing on impact and relevance rather than reciting your resume.
On the day of the interview, dress appropriately for the company’s culture, arrive on time (or a few minutes early), and bring a couple of thoughtful questions to show genuine interest. During the conversation, be attentive, confident, and authentic. Afterward, send a thank-you email to express appreciation and reinforce why you're a strong fit for the role.
What is the rule of 3 in a cover letter?
The "rule of three" in a cover letter is a simple guideline for structuring your content into three focused sections: 1) why you're writing, 2) why you're qualified, and 3) why you're a good match for the company.
This rule helps keep your letter clear and organized while ensuring you hit the key points recruiters care about. It's also often reflected in the letter’s format:
- an opening;
- a middle section with two to three achievements or points of alignment;
- and a strong closing.
Conclusion
A great cover letter is more than just a formality—it’s a strategic tool to help you connect with hiring managers on a human level.
Whether you’re entering the workforce, switching careers, or aiming for a role that truly excites you, a tailored, thoughtful letter can open doors. Use this guide to create a cover letter that feels authentic, well-structured, and aligned with your goals.
We’ve packed in everything you might need to write a strong cover letter. Ambitious? Definitely. But so are you—use your letter to show it.
Make one that's truly you.
