What Should a Cover Letter Say & What to Avoid

Professional cover letters tend to follow the same format:

• Personalized header
• Salutation that hooks the recruiters’ attention
• A paragraph detailing your best achievements and qualifications
• Why you’re the perfect fit for the job
• Listing your availability and a call-to-action statement

Personalized Header

The header is where you need to list all your contact information in an organized format. This includes:

• Your full name
• Your address
• Your phone number
• Your professional email address
• (If applicable) Link to a portfolio or LinkedIn profile

You also need to include the hiring manager’s information as well, including:

• The hiring manager’s name
• The company name and address
• The company phone number
• The hiring manager’s email
• Opening Paragraph: Salutation and Hook

The opening paragraph is crucial because it needs to hook the hiring manager’s attention. A great way of doing this is by starting with a personalized salutation. “To whom it may concern”, “Dear hiring manager”, or “Dear sir” are all generic, lazy openings that will show that you have not done your research into the company you are applying to.

Using the hiring manager’s name in the cover letter can establish an immediate connection between you and Human Resources, which can help you stand out from other candidates who used generic openings in their cover letters.

Second Paragraph: Your Best Qualifications and Achievements

Start off by discussing your most relevant experience and any achievements you earned working in your recent positions. Holding specific certifications or awards can also be notable achievements that a hiring manager will take notice of.

If you’re unsure of what skills or qualifications to mention, try scanning the job description for specific keywords to use on both your cover letter and your resume. A resume builder tool can also help you determine which roles to discuss in this section.

Third Paragraph: Why You’re the Perfect Fit for the Role

You can then go into detail about why your particular skills and experiences make you the perfect fit for the role. Using a brief work anecdote that elaborates on your work history can also help the hiring manager mentally connect you to the role.

Closing Paragraph: Availability and Call-to-Action

Use the last paragraph to summarize what you just wrote and to invite the recruiter to reach out to you for a job interview during specific times you are available. Using a sign-off such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards” is always a good practice, too. Keep it simple, and follow up if you don’t hear back from your potential employer in seven to ten days.