Most cover letters are terrible.
I’m talking about the ones that start with, "Dear Hiring Manager, I’m writing to apply for the [Insert Job Title] position." Yawn.
If that’s how you’re approaching your cover letter, you’re already way behind the competition.
Most people treat the cover letter as a formality. They think it’s just a space where you briefly explain why you're a great fit. It’s a “required document,” and you rush through it because it feels like a chore.
This is your one shot to convince them to call you in for an interview.
It’s your first (and maybe last) opportunity to stand out.
You want them to beg you to interview? Then, treat your cover letter as your marketing tool. Let’s get into the tactics that will make them take notice.
Here’s a secret: The first line of your cover letter is your make-or-break moment. Too many people start with the bland “I’m writing to apply for…” and it’s such a missed opportunity. You have only seconds to capture their attention. So, what do you do? Shift the focus from you to them.
Example of a weak opening: "I am writing to express my interest in the Digital Marketing Manager position at XYZ Company."
Now, here’s how you make it strong: “I saw your ad for the Digital Marketing Manager position, and I was immediately excited because I’m a data-driven marketer who thrives on driving growth for brands like yours. I’ve worked with companies in similar industries to help them double their online revenue in just 12 months. And here’s why I know I can help you do the same…”
Boom. You’ve just captured their attention. Instead of saying, “I’m applying for this job,” you’ve immediately shown them that you understand their needs and you’re the solution to their problem. It’s not about your career history — it’s about what you bring to the table and how it directly benefits them.
Avoid vague statements like, "I believe I’m a good fit." Be specific. Make them see how your skills will directly impact their company’s success.
The next mistake I see? People tell employers about their skills, instead of showing them. Anyone can say, “I’m a hardworking, dedicated employee,” but those words mean nothing without context. Employers don’t want to hear empty claims; they want to see results.
Here’s an example:
Weak: “I am a great marketer with a lot of experience in SEO.”
Strong: “At XYZ Company, I launched a campaign that generated a 20% increase in website traffic within the first three months. I did this by leveraging SEO and content marketing strategies that I know will work for your business.”
Now, you’ve demonstrated your success with numbers. People love numbers. A specific achievement like a 20% increase in traffic makes you stand out. It shows you’re not just a “good person” — you’re someone who delivers results. And that's what employers care about.
Use specific figures and examples whenever you can. Percentage increases, revenue growth, time saved — these are the things that will get them excited to talk to you.
Employers read dozens, sometimes hundreds, of cover letters. So if you’re writing long-winded paragraphs that meander and don't get to the point, you're wasting their time — and yours.
Your cover letter should be 3-4 short, impactful paragraphs. Focus on your core skills, your achievements, and how they’ll benefit the company. And then make sure you end with something memorable.
For example: “I’d love the chance to discuss how my skills can help XYZ Company reach its goals. I’ll follow up in a few days to schedule a time to chat.”
Don’t leave it to them to decide when to reach out. Take control of the situation. You’ve just told them you’re going to follow up — and you actually do it. That kind of confidence and initiative speaks volumes.
Be bold. Don’t just end your letter with a generic “I look forward to hearing from you.” Instead, show them that you’re eager, confident, and proactive.
Listen, a single typo could cost you an interview. I don’t care how brilliant your qualifications are or how stellar your cover letter is — if you’ve got an embarrassing mistake, you risk looking careless or unprofessional.
Proofread your cover letter. Then proofread it again. And if possible, ask someone else to read it over as well. A fresh set of eyes will catch mistakes you might have missed.
Pro Tip: Get someone else to proofread your letter, ideally someone with a keen eye for detail. Typos are easy to overlook, but they can be devastating in the competitive job market.
Here’s the bottom line: Your cover letter is not just a document. It’s a marketing tool. You are selling yourself to potential employers, and you need to position yourself as the solution to their problem. You’re not just looking for a job — you’re showing them how your unique skills can make their company stronger, more profitable, and more successful.
So the next time you sit down to write one, remember this: Don’t be average. Be bold. Be memorable. Make them sit up, pay attention, and, most importantly, call you for an interview.
If you do this right, your cover letter won’t just be a formality — it’ll be the reason they can’t wait to meet you.