Everyone understands the groan of having to open up a document and edit your standard cover letter and ensure it fits the job description you’re working on. We doubt there are many people who get a thrill when it comes to writing a customized cover letter.
Almost every job application asks for a cover letter, and even if it’s listed as optional, submitting one can significantly increase your chances of landing an interview. While writing a cover letter may feel like an extra step, it’s a critical component of your job application. It’s your first opportunity to introduce yourself to potential employers, convey your enthusiasm, and demonstrate why you’re the perfect fit for the role.
If you’re wondering whether cover letters still matter, the short answer is—absolutely. Here’s everything you need to know about what a cover letter is, why it matters, and how to write one that gets you noticed.
What is a Cover Letter?
A cover letter is a one-page document submitted alongside your resume as part of a job application. Unlike a resume, which provides a structured overview of your work history, education, and skills, a cover letter is your chance to tell a more personalized story. It gives you the opportunity to highlight your most relevant experiences, explain why you’re interested in the role, and showcase your passion for the company.
The best cover letters aren’t just a simple summary of your resume. They are meant to provide insight into who you are as a person and why you would be an excellent addition to the team. Think of it as your first conversation with the employer, where you can let your personality shine and make a memorable impression.
Why are Cover Letters Important?
A well-written cover letter can be the difference between landing an interview and being overlooked. In competitive job markets, employers often receive hundreds of applications for a single position. Your cover letter is your chance to stand out from the crowd by making a strong first impression. Not only are cover letters read by hiring managers, but they’re also read by applicant tracking systems (ATS). So it’s important that your cover letter makes an impression personally while also getting through the robot review as well!
Your resume provides the facts like your work experience, skills, and education, and your cover letter adds the personality and context needed to see if you could be a good fit for a role. It allows you to explain in your own words why you’re the right person for the job and how your unique combination of skills and experiences aligns with the company’s needs.
Additionally, cover letters give you the opportunity to address any gaps in your resume, highlight career changes, or elaborate on how your background makes you the perfect fit for the role. Most importantly, a well written cover letter demonstrates your genuine interest in the company and shows that you’ve taken the time to craft a tailored application.
7 Tips to Write a Great Cover Letter
Writing a truly great cover letter doesn’t have to be daunting. Employers aren’t looking for the next Shakespeare, they’re looking for a cover letter that shows clear communication abilities, attention to detail, and a willingness to read and follow instructions. You can use these seven tips to craft a standout cover letter that will grab the hiring manager’s attention.
1. Match Keywords from the Job Posting
As we mentioned, many companies use ATS to screen cover letters and resumes before they even reach a human. To increase your chances of making it through this initial screening, carefully review the job posting and include relevant keywords throughout your cover letter. Use language from the job description to highlight your skills and experiences that align with what the employer is seeking.
2. Keep It to One Page
Your cover letter should be concise and to the point—no more than one page, including your signature and address information. Hiring managers often have limited time to review applications, so make sure every sentence serves a purpose. Focus on the most important details and avoid repeating information from your resume.
3. Follow Instructions Carefully
Some job postings provide specific instructions on what to include in your cover letter—such as addressing it to a particular person, answering specific questions, including a job reference number, or even something fun like your favourite pancake topping to ensure you read the full description. Failing to follow these instructions can result in your application being automatically rejected. Always read the job posting carefully and double-check that you’ve included everything requested.
4. Let Your Personality Shine
While it’s important to maintain a professional tone, your cover letter is also a chance to showcase some personality with your application. Hiring managers want to get a sense of who you are as a person, not just your qualifications. Use language that feels authentic and shows your enthusiasm for the role and the company.
5. Include Relevant Information
Always reference the job title, job number (if applicable), and the hiring manager’s name in your cover letter. This small but essential detail shows that you’ve tailored your application to the specific role. If the hiring manager’s name isn’t listed in the job posting, take the time to research the company’s website or LinkedIn to find the correct contact.
Related: How to Address a Hiring Manager in a Cover Letter
6. Focus on the Company, Not Just Yourself
It’s easy to fall into the trap of making your cover letter all about you, but the best cover letters explain how you can contribute to the company’s goals. Demonstrate that you’ve researched the organization by mentioning what excites you about their mission, culture, or recent projects. Then, connect your skills and experiences to how they align with the company’s needs.
7. Proofread, Then Proofread Again
Typos and grammatical errors can quickly ruin an otherwise strong application. Before submitting your cover letter, proofread it multiple times. Consider asking a friend, family member, or professional service to review it as well. Fresh eyes can catch mistakes you might have overlooked and provide valuable feedback.
How RPI Will Help
At RPI, we know that writing a great cover letter can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re applying to multiple jobs at once. Our team of expert recruiters can help you craft cover letters that make you stand out from the competition.
We’ll work with you to understand your background, career goals, and the jobs you’re applying for. From there, we’ll help you create customized cover letters that follow best practices, align with job descriptions, and highlight your most impressive skills and experiences. Whether you’re applying for your dream job or making a career transition, we’ll help you put your best foot forward.
If you’re the right fit for a job, we’ll help you get there.
Writing a Perfect Cover Letter
While writing a cover letter may feel like an extra step in the job application process, it’s one of the most powerful tools you have to make a great first impression. By taking the time to craft a personalized, well-researched cover letter, you’ll set yourself apart from other applicants and increase your chances of landing an interview.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your career, let RPI help you create a cover letter that showcases your strengths, highlights your passion, and gets you noticed. Because when it comes to job applications, every word counts.
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