Telling Your Story: The Art of a Truly Great Cover Letter

How to write an interview-winning cover letter for your CV and get noticed every time!

How to Write a Powerful Cover Letter That Gets Interviews
Stand out to employers and boost your chances of landing your ideal role

If you want to secure top job opportunities, submitting a well-crafted cover letter alongside your CV is essential. A strong cover letter not only highlights your suitability for the role but also encourages hiring managers to read your CV and invite you for an interview!

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to write a compelling cover letter that grabs attention, showcases your strengths, and gets results.

What You’ll Learn:

To create an effective cover letter that impresses employers, you must:

• Use a professional format and clear layout
• Personally address the hiring manager (where possible)
• Clearly explain why you’re a strong fit for the role
• Communicate your motivation for applying
• Persuade the recruiter to open and read your CV

What Is a Cover Letter?

Before diving into the writing process, it’s important to understand the purpose of a cover letter.

A cover letter is a brief, tailored introduction that accompanies your CV. It serves to highlight your most relevant skills, express your interest in the role, and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the company.

Understanding what a cover letter is as well as what it’s designed to achieve will help you write one that stands out in a competitive job market.

What Is the Purpose of a Cover Letter?
Why Every Job Application Needs One

A well-written cover letter plays a vital role in any successful job application. Its core purpose is to:

• Introduce you to the recruiter or hiring manager
• Create a personal connection and spark interest
• Prompt the reader to open and engage with your CV

Think of your cover letter as your first impression—it should demonstrate your professionalism, enthusiasm, and suitability for the role in just a few short paragraphs.

How to Format a Cover Letter
Cover Letter Structure That Gets Attention

Before you begin writing, it’s essential to understand how to format your cover letter correctly. A clear and professional structure makes it easier for busy hiring managers to scan and extract the key information they’re looking for.

Follow these formatting tips to ensure your cover letter is both effective and easy to read:

• Keep your layout clean, simple, and professional
• Use short paragraphs and bullet points to break up text
• Focus on relevance – highlight only your most applicable skills and experience
• Align the tone and style with the company’s culture and the job description

Where to Write Your Cover Letter
Send It in the Body of Your Email – Not as an Attachment!

One of the most effective cover letter tips is to write it directly in the body of your email or application message (rather than attaching it as a separate document). This makes it more likely to be seen and read by the employer, especially when they’re reviewing dozens of applications at speed.

Why You Should Never Attach Your Cover Letter as a Separate Document
Maximise Visibility and Response Rates with This Simple Strategy

For your cover letter to be effective, it needs to be seen, immediately.

Avoid attaching your cover letter as a separate document. Instead, include it in the body of your email or online application message. This ensures that recruiters and hiring managers see it the moment they open your application, without needing to download or open additional files.

Attaching it separately can slow down the review process and may even result in your cover letter being overlooked especially if the file is slow to load or incompatible with the employer’s system.

Best Practice:
Always write your cover letter directly in the message body to create an instant connection with the recipient and boost your chances of engagement.

Pro Tip:
Use a compelling email subject line that highlights your value proposition. For example:

“Full-Stack Developer | 5 Years’ Experience in Scalable Web Applications”

This grabs attention and gives recruiters a reason to open your email.

Cover Letter Layout That Gets Results
Structure Your Cover Letter for Maximum Impact

While every cover letter should be tailored to the specific role and employer, following a consistent layout ensures you present the right information in a logical, persuasive order.

A clear, professional structure makes it easier for hiring managers to understand your value quickly—helping you build rapport and make a strong impression within the few seconds they spend reviewing your application.

Start by Addressing the Hiring Manager…

Begin your cover letter by addressing the recipient directly. Whenever possible, find and use the hiring manager’s name. Personalising your greeting shows initiative and creates an immediate sense of connection—setting a professional and respectful tone from the start.

Use a Friendly Yet Professional Greeting
Strike the Right Tone in Your Cover Letter Opening

While professionalism is key in any job application, it’s equally important to come across as approachable and personable. After addressing the hiring manager by name, follow up with a warm, friendly greeting to help establish rapport.

Consider using a line such as:

• I hope you’re well
• I hope this message finds you well

Remember, your cover letter will be read by a real person—and a courteous tone can go a long way in creating a positive first impression.

Clearly State the Role You’re Applying For
Get Straight to the Point with a Focused Introduction

After your greeting, make it immediately clear which position you’re applying for. Recruiters often handle multiple vacancies at once, so clarity is crucial.

Example:
I’m writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Job Board/Company Website].

This not only shows professionalism but also helps the recruiter quickly match your application to the correct role—making their job easier and improving your chances of consideration.

Be Specific—Recruiters Are Reviewing Dozens of Applications
Clarity Helps Your Application Stand Out

Keep in mind that many recruiters are juggling multiple job openings at once. To avoid confusion and ensure your application is matched to the right role, always be as specific as possible when referencing the job title and company.

Highlight Why You’re the Right Fit for the Role
Make a Strong Case for Your Suitability

The core of your cover letter should focus on demonstrating why you’re a strong candidate for the position. Briefly outline your most relevant skills, experience, and achievements that align with the job requirements.

This section is your opportunity to showcase your value and convince the hiring manager that you’re worth considering—ultimately motivating them to open your CV and learn more.

Example:
With over five years’ experience in digital marketing and a proven track record in driving targeted campaigns, I’m confident in my ability to deliver measurable results in this role.

I will cover how to do this in more detail in the “What to include in a cover letter” section of the guide.

End Your Cover Letter with a Professional, Friendly Sign-Off
Leave a Positive Final Impression

Your cover letter is a direct communication with the hiring manager, so it’s important to close on a courteous and professional note. Choose a sign-off that reflects both confidence and warmth, such as:

• Kind regards
• Best regards
• I look forward to hearing from you

A well-chosen closing reinforces your professionalism while leaving the reader with a positive impression.

Include a Professional Email Signature
Make It Easy for Employers to Contact You

To finish, include a polished email signature at the bottom of your message. This should feature your full name, phone number, email address, and (if relevant) a link to your LinkedIn profile or online portfolio.

Including a clear signature not only enhances the professionalism of your application but also makes it easy for recruiters to get in touch.

Pro Tip: When writing a cover letter via email, format your signature to appear clean and professional. Save it as your default email signature to ensure every message you send leaves a strong, consistent impression.

How to Start a Cover Letter

Begin your cover letter by addressing the recipient by name whenever possible. Personalising your greeting is the most effective way to establish rapport and create a connection right from the start.

How to Find the Name of the Hiring Manager
Personalize Your Cover Letter by Addressing the Right Person

You may be wondering, “How do I find the name of the person reviewing my application?” Fortunately, there are several ways to track down the appropriate contact:

• Job Advertisement: Often, the hiring manager’s name and contact information will be listed directly in the job posting.
• Company Website: When applying directly to a company, explore their “About Us” or “Team” sections to identify the recruitment team or department head.
• LinkedIn: If you know the company and the department handling the vacancy, LinkedIn can be an excellent resource to find the most likely contact responsible for recruitment.

What If I Can’t Find a Name?
No Name? No Problem—Use a Professional Alternative

If you’re unable to find the hiring manager’s name, don’t worry. It’s not always possible to get a direct contact. In this case, simply use a friendly and professional greeting like “Hi” or “Hello”.

Avoid outdated and impersonal phrases like “Dear Sir or Madam”, which can come across as stiff and old-fashioned.

How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?
Keep It Concise and Impactful

A cover letter should be brief yet powerful. Its primary goal is to grab the recruiter’s attention and encourage them to open your CV—so there’s no need for a lengthy explanation.

Aim for 3 to 6 sentences that clearly convey your value and interest in the role. Remember, hiring managers are often pressed for time, so you need to quickly capture their attention and make it easy for them to move on to your CV.

What to Include in a Cover Letter
Craft a Cover Letter That Captivates and Gets Your CV Noticed

The content of your cover letter plays a crucial role in determining whether a recruiter will be impressed enough to open your CV. It’s essential to provide the information they’re looking for in a clear and compelling way.

Here’s what to include in your cover letter to make a strong impact:

Step 1: Thoroughly Review the Job Advertisement
Understand Exactly What the Recruiter is Seeking

Before you begin drafting your cover letter, take time to carefully review the job advertisement. Understanding the key requirements and expectations for the role will help you tailor your cover letter effectively.

Identify the most important qualifications and skills the recruiter is looking for, and make sure to highlight these in your letter. This shows you’re a focused candidate and ensures your cover letter directly addresses their needs.

Step 2: Highlight Key Skills That Matter Most to Employers
Focus on Hard Skills and Industry Experience to Stand Out

When crafting your cover letter, prioritize hard skills that are directly relevant to the job—such as proficiency in specific languages, IT systems, or industry-specific tools. These are the qualifications that employers value most and are the best way to differentiate yourself.

Avoid focusing on personal traits (like adaptability or teamwork), as these are typically expected in most roles and won’t set you apart from other candidates. Instead, tailor your cover letter to highlight the specific skills and expertise the recruiter is seeking.

Step 3: Industry-Specific Skills
Showcase Your Relevant Experience or Transferable Skills

If you have significant experience in the industry, make sure to emphasize your hands-on expertise. Highlight the tools and technologies you are familiar with, the types of projects you’ve managed, and the specific outcomes you’ve achieved. This demonstrates your ability to hit the ground running.

For less experienced candidates, such as recent graduates or school leavers, focus on transferable skills gained through education or internships. These might include analytical thinking, problem-solving, or communication skills, all of which are valuable in any workplace setting.

Step 4: Highlight Your Experience and Qualifications
Provide Clear Information to Match the Role’s Requirements

Recruiters need a clear understanding of your experience level to assess your suitability for the position. Be sure to mention:

• Are you a recent graduate?
• Do you have junior-level experience?
• Or are you a senior professional with extensive industry expertise (e.g., 15+ years)?

Clarifying your experience level will help recruiters quickly determine if you’re a fit for the role.

Step 5: (Optional) Qualifications: Showcase What’s Relevant
Mention Required Credentials to Strengthen Your Application

If the job requires specific qualifications, it’s essential to highlight them in your cover letter. However, if the job posting doesn’t mention qualifications or if they aren’t essential for performing the role, you can skip this section. Tailor your cover letter to focus on the qualifications that truly matter for the position you’re applying for.

Step 6: Clarify Your Current Situation
Give Recruiters a Clear Picture of Your Employment Status

Recruiters will want to understand your current professional situation, so make sure to address this in your cover letter. Clearly state:

• Are you currently employed in a similar role?
• Have you recently graduated or completed your studies?
• Are you available to start immediately, or do you have a notice period to serve?

This helps recruiters quickly gauge your availability and whether you’re the right fit for the role.

Step 7: Express Your Motivation for Applying
Showcase Your Commitment and Drive

Recruiters will often wonder, “Why is this candidate interested in this role?” It’s essential to address this in your cover letter by explaining your motivation in a positive, professional tone. Your reasons for applying should reflect your enthusiasm for the position and demonstrate that you are committed to the opportunity.

Do write:
“After two years as Senior Manager at my current company, I’m eager to step into a larger leadership role, managing a bigger team within a more specialized market.”

Don’t write:
“I was recently let go from my last job and need something quickly.”

By framing your motivations positively, you convey your readiness for the next step in your career and your dedication to contributing to the employer’s success.

Step 8: Highlight the Results You’ve Delivered for Employers
Showcase Your Impact and Achievements

For experienced candidates, it’s crucial to demonstrate the tangible results you’ve contributed to past employers. Briefly mention any key achievements that highlight your value, such as:

• Reducing costs or saving money
• Attracting new clients or customers
• Streamlining processes for greater efficiency
• Generating significant sales or revenue growth

Keep your examples concise in the cover letter to maintain focus and brevity, saving the detailed accomplishments for your CV where they can be fully showcased.

How to Conclude Your Cover Letter

A) End with Impact: A Clear Call-to-Action and a Professional Sign-Off

To effectively conclude your cover letter, there are two essential elements: a strong call-to-action and a polished sign-off.

B) Craft a Clear Call-to-Action
Encourage the Next Step

A call-to-action (CTA) is a direct request encouraging the reader to take a specific action. In the context of your cover letter, the action you want to prompt is for the recruiter to open and review your CV.

For example, you can include a line like:

“I have attached my CV for your review and would appreciate the opportunity to discuss how my skills align with your needs.”

This simple statement subtly encourages the recruiter to take the next step—opening your CV.

Sign off professionally

Finish your cover letter with a friendly term such as, “kind regards” followed by your name.
Then add a professional signature to the bottom, like the one below:

(This makes the cover letter look professional and ensures that recruiters have)

• Your full name
• Phone number
• Email address
• (Optional) LinkedIn

Common Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid
Ensure Your Cover Letter Stands Out for All the Right Reasons

When crafting your cover letter, it’s essential to avoid these common pitfalls to make the best impression on recruiters and increase your chances of landing an interview.

1. Don’t Attach Your Cover Letter as a Separate Document
Ensure Instant Visibility and Engagement

To make an immediate impact, your cover letter should be easily visible to the recruiter the moment they open your application. Attaching it as a separate document can slow down this process and may even result in it being overlooked. Instead, include your cover letter directly in the body of your email or message to ensure seamless access.

2. Don’t Write a Lengthy Cover Letter
Keep It Brief and Focused on Key Points

Your cover letter should be a concise introduction to your qualifications and interest in the role. Avoid writing long paragraphs—keeping it brief will ensure you hold the recruiter’s attention. The goal is to spark enough interest for them to open your CV and dive deeper into your experience. Save the detailed information for your CV.

3. Don’t Use the Same Cover Letter for Every Application
Personalize Your Approach for Each Role

While it may be tempting to use a generic cover letter for multiple job applications, doing so can harm your chances. Tailoring each cover letter to the specific job description shows that you’ve taken the time to understand the role and how your skills align. Using a template for structure is fine, but always adjust key points to reflect the unique requirements of each job.

4. Don’t Use “Dear Sir or Madam”
Adopt a Modern and Professional Greeting

The outdated phrase “Dear Sir or Madam” can make your cover letter seem impersonal and out of touch. Instead, opt for a more modern greeting like “Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name]” or simply “Hello.” A personal yet professional greeting helps build rapport from the start.

By avoiding these common mistakes and following best practices, you’ll improve the effectiveness of your cover letter and make a stronger impression on potential employers.

Conclusion: How to Write a Cover Letter That Gets Results

Your cover letter plays a key role in helping you stand out in a competitive job market.

By following the tips outlined above—keeping your message concise, tailored, and engaging—you’ll be well on your way to writing a compelling cover letter that grabs the recruiter’s attention and encourages them to open your CV.

Put in the effort, stay authentic, and you’ll boost your chances of landing interviews and securing that next career move.

Best of luck with your job search! ~ Mossayed