How to Write a Cover Letter That Gets Read

A good cover letter is short, specific and addressed to the person hiring. Aim for one page, or about 250 to 350 words.

Use a simple structure

1. Opening: name the job, and say in one sentence why you are a strong fit.
2. Middle: give two or three examples of results that match the advert, with numbers where you can.
3. Close: say you would welcome an interview, and thank the reader.

Make it specific

Mention the employer by name and say what attracts you to the role. Copying a template word for word is easy to spot.

Avoid common mistakes

• Repeating your CV line by line
• Spelling errors or the wrong company name
• Over-long paragraphs and vague claims such as “hardworking team player”

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