What Is a Cover Letter? Types and How To Write One

Andrew Ancheta is a finance editor who has reported extensively on cryptocurrency, NFTs, economics, and history. He previously worked as an editor for China Daily.

What Is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a written document submitted with a job application outlining the applicant’s credentials and interest in the position. As one of only two documents sent to a potential employer, a well-written letter can impact whether the applicant is called for an interview.

Key Takeaways

• A cover letter is submitted with a job application explaining the applicant’s credentials and interest in the position.
• A good cover letter complements the resume and explains why the candidate is the ideal person for the job.
• Common cover letter mistakes can sink a job applicant.

Understanding Cover Letters

Most job postings are done online and no longer require a physical application. Instead, applicants send companies their resume and a cover letter either by email or with a hard copy through the mail. While the resume offers a glimpse into the professional and academic experience of a potential employee, the cover letter acts as an introduction written by the candidate to express their interest in the position and what makes them the best fit.

A good cover letter expands on items relevant to the job and serves as a sales pitch that describes why the applicant is the best person for the position. Career experts advise customizing each cover letter for the specific position, rather than using a generic letter, to stand out from the competition.

The cover letter provides information to the employer about the candidate as a professional and as a person, including their areas of interest, professional goals, skills, achievements, passions, and aspirations. It should be a one-page document that provides a clear and concise idea of why the candidate is the best person for the job and highlights the cultural fit.

Types of Cover Letters

While there is no set template for a cover letter, the type of letter will depend on the requirements of each company or employer. The information included in a cover letter will vary depending on the goals and purpose of the application.

• An application cover letter is written in response to a vacancy posted on a company’s website or a job board. It may also highlight relevant experience or skills for the position.
• A referral cover letter includes the name of a colleague or employee who recommended the applicant for the position.
• A prospecting cover letter, also known as a letter of interest, inquires about open positions in general and highlights any special skills that make the writer suitable for the company.

How to Write a Cover Letter

When employers request a cover letter, they may specify certain requirements for the letter to address. It is important to follow these requirements, as they reflect the applicant’s ability to understand and follow directions.

If no expectations are set, a typical cover letter should be about a page or less and may include a formal greeting, contact information, and links to the applicant’s portfolio or work. It should highlight any special skills and explain why the applicant would be a good fit for the position, impressing the employer and standing out from the competition.

However, it is possible to include too much information. Most employers will simply glance at cover letters, and a concise explanation of skills and reasons for choosing the specific employer should be enough to make a strong impression.

Tips for Writing a Cover Letter

Writing a cover letter doesn’t have to be tedious. Here are a few simple tips to consider:

• Personalize your letter for each role. Write a new letter for each position, highlighting your strengths and skills.
• Include contact information. Address the hiring manager by name or title, and include your own contact information.
• Simplify your letter. Communicate clearly and concisely to convey your intentions effectively.
• Be specific when needed. Quantify your accomplishments and expand on relevant experience.
• Proofread. Check for errors and have someone else review the letter.

A simple, focused cover letter without typos or grammatical errors will get noticed by potential employers.

A perfect resume can be sabotaged by a poorly thought-out or mistake-ridden cover letter. Avoid making these blunders:

• Names matter. Use the correct names and spelling.
• Don’t restate your resume. Complement your resume, don’t summarize it.
• Keep your letter tight. Stick to a one-page format.
• Omit unnecessary details. Stay on topic and relevant to the job application.
• Avoid sounding arrogant. Showcase your accomplishments without overusing self-references.
• Remember that spelling counts. Proofread for errors and be consistent.
• Design matters. Personalize your letter while maintaining professionalism.

How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?

A typical cover letter should be about three or four paragraphs long, focusing on special experiences and achievements that make the applicant well-suited for the position.

How Do You Start a Cover Letter?

A cover letter should start with a formal greeting, preferably addressed to the hiring manager. If the specific recipient is unknown, a generic greeting is acceptable.

What Should a Cover Letter Contain?

An effective cover letter should highlight the applicant’s skills, experience, and any achievements that make them a good fit for the prospective employer. It should also mention anything not included in the resume, such as specific interests or knowledge about the company.

The Bottom Line

In a competitive job market, an effective cover letter can make an application stand out. It gives the applicant a chance to demonstrate why they are the right fit for the job. However, a poorly-written or meandering cover letter can hurt an application more than it helps.