How to write a better cover letter​ that gets you interviews

While we haven't surveyed our entire candidate pool, we're fairly confident the cover letter part of a job application is one of their least loved. Some people believe they're useless. Certain candidates try to outsmart recruiters using AI, setting up their future employers for mismatched expectations post-interview or hire. Many applicants reiterate the job description and offer nothing of themselves. And others are simply intimidated by putting any words on a page. Does any of this sound familiar?

The cover letter is a challenge, and that's exactly why employers want you to take it on. Today's article will teach you how to write a better cover letter​ to get more interviews and, ultimately, the job you want.
 

Basic elements and rules for cover letters

1. Proofread everything¹

Sending a letter riddled with grammar and punctuation errors gives a potential employer the impression that you don't care about the role you're applying for.
 

2. Write bespoke cover letters¹

While you can start with a template, it is always smart to tailor your cover letters to the individual company. Each time you write, get excited about that specific company and your potential role, and include all those details in the cover letter. The more personal and targeted, the better.
 

2. Don't reiterate your resume¹

They have your resume, don't rehash it. They will look at your tactical experience after you pique their interest with your excellent cover letter.
 

3. Keep it tight⁵

Three paragraphs or so should do it! Think of your cover letter as an elevator pitch. What makes you special? Why do you want the role? Tell them the reasons that you are the best pick.
 

4. Start strong⁵

Grab attention right from the get-go! Don't lose them. Boring first sentences like "I found this role on [insert name of website] and decided to apply" are nonstarters. This sentence is just as important as the first sentence in a book. Should they read on? Make them want to.
 

5. Be simple⁵

No jazzed-up fonts are needed. If you write your cover letter well, it will be an interesting story that doesn't need to be dressed up.
 

Beacon Hill job application resources

We've written extensively about how you can make a great impression when submitting a job application. Here are some other articles you may want to read if you have struggled to catch a recruiter's attention.
 

• How to completely derail your job search in 10 simple steps
• The AI-augmented recruitment and retention landscape
• How to thaw out your candidate toolbox for a spring job search

Our recruiters themselves are also excellent resources! They are trained to find the most aligned matches for job seekers. If you would like their help, simply submit an application to one of our open positions, and if a match exists, you can start a career journey with someone in your corner.
 

Taking your cover letter from good to great

So your cover letter isn't winning any awards, but it's passable, right? Wrong. Passable isn't going to help you compete in this job market. Take these suggestions to heart to increase your odds of getting called for an interview.
 

Use AI in a skills-first way

You can use AI to isolate your transferable skills and then add those to your cover letter.²

Once you assemble them, surface all relevant skills in your cover letter. People may not know what you are capable of right out of the gate, so make it easy for recruiters.

You can also let AI help you pick roles you're a better fit for².These capabilities are present on sites like LinkedIn if you want to use them. You can also upload your materials to LLMs and let them tell you about skills you have that you may not have considered including.
 

Have someone else review your cover letter

Ideally, this would be someone in your industry, a trusted peer. But if not, consider a job search coach. It could even be a recruiter!

Getting feedback on the efficacy of your cover letter is crucial to improving.
 

Work from a framework if you want to move faster⁴

Sometimes, moving fast means getting your cover letter seen first, and you can increase your speed by taking a templated approach.

Fun fact! Many sites with job boards offer the capability to create job alerts. This will put you ahead of more casual job seekers.
 

Offer supplementary materials

If you have supporting items like a portfolio site, include them when possible! These will give recruiters even more reasons to call you and ask questions.
 

Make sure your online presence mirrors your cover letter⁴

When they check you out on LinkedIn, an updated profile will project consistency. Having an outdated presence positions you as disengaged—Not a good look.
 

Improve your odds

A recent study revealed that "among enterprise-level organizations, 1 in 10 referrals results in a hire — a conversion rate significantly higher than that of job boards, where companies often need over 50-60 applicants per hire."⁶

To that end, see if you can network with others at your target company. If you have a close enough connection at a desired workplace, ask them to be your champion.

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At Beacon Hill, we're all about doing what it takes to pair high-quality job seekers with top employers. If you want to be our next success story, browse and apply for an open role.
 

Sources and inspiration

1. How to completely derail your job search in 10 simple steps
2. The AI-augmented recruitment and retention landscape
3. Top hard and soft skills each of our Divisions search for
4. How to thaw out your candidate toolbox for a spring job search
5. How To Format a Cover Letter (With Outline and Examples)
6. Majority of Employee Referrals Made During Work Hours
    

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