Cover letter mistakes that get you rejected instantly

A bad cover letter can undo an otherwise strong application. Here are the mistakes that signal to recruiters that you haven't done the work — and how to avoid every one of them.

1. Starting with "I am writing to apply"

It's the most common cover letter opener in the world, which means it's also the most ignored. Recruiters have read this sentence thousands of times. It tells them nothing about you and makes no case for why they should keep reading.

2. Summarising your resume instead of adding to it

Your cover letter and resume should work together, not repeat each other. The cover letter is your opportunity to add context, tell a story, and show personality. If you're just restating what's already in your resume, you've wasted everyone's time.

3. Writing a generic letter you use for every application

Recruiters can tell. A letter that could apply to any company at any time tells a recruiter that you're not particularly interested in their company. Mention something specific — the role, the team, the product, the company's mission. Show you've done the work.

4. Making it all about you

The hiring manager's question isn't "what does this person want?" — it's "what can this person do for us?" Frame everything in terms of value delivered, not career goals achieved.

5. Spelling or grammar errors

One typo can end your application. Read it aloud, run it through a spell checker, and have someone else read it before you send. There's no excuse for errors in a document you've had unlimited time to prepare.