How to Write a Cover Letter That Doesn't Get Skipped
Some recruiters read every cover letter; others barely glance at them. Since you never know which kind you will get, your letter needs to earn attention in the first few lines and be worth reading to the end.
Open With Something Specific
Skip “I am writing to apply for…”. The recruiter already knows that. Start with why this role and this company interest you, or with a short, relevant achievement. For example: “Over the last two years I cut customer response times in half at a busy logistics firm — and I would love to bring that experience to your support team.”
Match Their Needs, Not Your Whole History
Read the job advert carefully and pick the two or three requirements that matter most. Dedicate a short paragraph to each, showing how your experience meets it with a concrete example. Your CV covers everything else.
Show You Know the Company
Mention something real: a product, a recent project, their values or the markets they serve. One or two sentences are enough to show you are not sending the same letter to fifty employers.
Keep It Short and Easy to Read
- Aim for three to five short paragraphs — under one page.
- Use plain language and short sentences.
- Address it to a named person if you can find one.
- Match the formality of the company and country you are applying to.
End With a Clear Next Step
Close confidently: thank them, restate your interest and say you would welcome the chance to discuss the role. Avoid apologetic endings like “I hope you will consider me”.
Proofread Before You Send
Typos and the wrong company name are the fastest way to get rejected. Read your letter out loud, check names and titles, and ask someone else to look at it if possible. If you are applying in a second language, a careful review is especially worthwhile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I send a cover letter if it is optional? Usually yes. A good, short letter is an extra chance to stand out, and it rarely hurts.
Can I reuse the same cover letter? You can reuse a structure, but always rewrite the opening and the examples for each role.
This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Requirements and figures change, so always verify current details through official government sources before applying.