Cover Letter Guide: How to Write One That Actually Gets Read

Here's a confession: most cover letters are boring. They're generic, they repeat what's already in the resume, and they all start with "I am writing to apply for..." No wonder some hiring managers skip them entirely. But a well-crafted cover letter? That's your chance to show personality, demonstrate genuine interest, and explain why you're the perfect fit – something a resume simply can't do.

Why Cover Letters Still Matter (Yes, Even in 2025)

"Do people even read cover letters anymore?" I hear this all the time. Here's the truth: according to a 2024 survey by Resume Genius, 83% of hiring managers say a compelling cover letter can convince them to interview a candidate whose resume doesn't quite check all the boxes. That's huge.

Another study by CareerBuilder found that 49% of HR managers consider cover letters the second most important piece of an application (after the resume, obviously). And here's the kicker – when everyone else is skipping the cover letter, yours becomes an instant differentiator.

Think about it: your resume shows what you've done. Your cover letter shows who you areand why you care. It's where you explain career transitions, express genuine enthusiasm, and prove you actually researched this specific company – not just mass-applied to 50 jobs before lunch.

The Perfect Structure

A great cover letter follows a simple structure. Here's how to organize yours:

Opening Lines That Actually Work

Stop starting with "I am writing to apply for..." Everyone does that, and it's instantly forgettable. Here are better alternatives:

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• ✕Being generic – "I am a hard worker who is passionate about [industry]" says nothing useful
• ✕Repeating your resume word for word – expand on stories, don't just summarize
• ✕Writing a novel – keep it under one page, ideally 3-4 paragraphs
• ✕Focusing on what you want – talk about what you can do for them, not just what you want from them
• ✕Typos and addressing the wrong company – seriously, triple-check everything
• ✕Being too formal or stiff – you can be professional while still sounding human

Final Tips for Success

• Always customize for each application – generic letters are obvious
• Research the hiring manager and address them by name if possible
• Match the tone of the company (startup vs. corporate)
• Read it aloud to catch awkward phrasing
• Have someone else proofread before sending
• Follow any specific instructions in the job posting

Make Every Word Count

A cover letter is your opportunity to be more than a list of qualifications. It's where you show enthusiasm, explain your unique perspective, and make a case for why you specifically are the right person for this role.

Take the time to craft something genuine. Hiring managers can tell the difference between a mass-produced letter and one that was written specifically for them. That extra effort often makes the difference between the "maybe" pile and the "definitely interview" pile. Once you've sent it, check out our guide on how to email your resume properly.