How to write a cover letter that actually gets read

Most cover letters are ignored. Recruiters spend an average of 6 seconds scanning a resume — and even less on a cover letter that looks like every other one they've seen. But a genuinely good cover letter can be the difference between an interview and a rejection.

Start with something that stops them

Never open with "I am writing to apply for..." — it's the most common opener in existence and immediately signals a generic letter. Instead, open with a specific achievement, a compelling observation about the company, or a direct statement of value. You have one sentence to make them want to keep reading.

Connect your experience to their need

Your cover letter isn't about you — it's about how you solve their problem. Read the job description as a brief. What are they most worried about? What outcome do they need? Then show specifically how your background addresses that. Two or three concrete examples beat a list of adjectives every time.

Close with confidence, not desperation

Don't end with "I hope to hear from you." End with a confident statement of your interest and a clear next step — something like "I'd welcome the chance to discuss how my experience aligns with what you're building." Confidence is attractive. Desperation isn't.

Keep it to one page

Three to four paragraphs. No longer. Recruiters don't have time for essays, and a long cover letter signals that you don't respect theirs.