Table of Contents
A cover letter is your chance to speak directly to the hiring manager — to tell them why you're excited about the role, what makes you the ideal candidate, and why they should move your application to the top of the pile. While resumes present facts, cover letters tell your story. This guide gives you a clear framework for writing a cover letter that gets interviews.
Do You Really Need a Cover Letter?
Yes — in most cases. Even when a job posting says a cover letter is 'optional,' submitting one gives you a competitive edge. According to hiring surveys, 83% of hiring managers say a great cover letter can convince them to interview a candidate whose resume alone wouldn't have made the cut. The only time you can skip a cover letter is when the application system literally has no way to upload one.
Cover Letter Structure: The 4-Paragraph Framework
A winning cover letter follows a four-paragraph structure: the hook, the proof, the connection, and the close. Each paragraph has a specific job, and together they build a compelling case for why you should be interviewed.
Paragraph 1: The Hook
Your opening paragraph should grab attention immediately. State the role you're applying for, mention how you found the opportunity, and deliver one compelling reason why you're a great fit. Avoid generic openings like 'I am writing to express my interest in…' Instead, lead with an achievement, a connection, or genuine enthusiasm for the company's work.
Example
When I saw the Senior Product Manager opening at [Company], I knew it was exactly the kind of challenge I've been preparing for. Over the past 6 years, I've taken three products from concept to market, generating a combined $12M in annual recurring revenue — and I'm ready to do the same for your team.
Paragraph 2: The Proof
This is where you back up your opening claim with evidence. Choose 2–3 achievements from your career that directly relate to the job requirements. Use specific numbers and outcomes to prove your impact. Don't repeat your resume verbatim — instead, pick stories that provide context and show how you think and work.
Paragraph 3: The Connection
Show that you've done your homework. Explain why this company — not just any company — excites you. Reference something specific: their mission, a recent product launch, a piece of company culture you admire, or a strategic direction you want to be part of. This paragraph proves you're not mass-applying; you're genuinely interested in this opportunity.
Paragraph 4: The Close
End with a clear call to action. Express your enthusiasm, state your availability for an interview, and thank the reader for their time. Keep it confident but not presumptuous — 'I look forward to discussing how I can contribute to your team' strikes the right tone.
Cover Letter Formatting Guidelines
- Keep it to one page — 250–400 words is the sweet spot
- Use the same font and header style as your resume for a cohesive look
- Address the hiring manager by name if possible (check LinkedIn or the company website)
- Use 'Dear Hiring Manager' only if you truly cannot find a name
- Save as PDF with a clear filename: 'FirstName-LastName-CoverLetter.pdf'
- Include a professional sign-off: 'Sincerely,' 'Best regards,' or 'Thank you'
Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid
- Don't rehash your entire resume — expand on your best stories instead
- Don't use a generic template without customizing it for each role
- Don't focus on what the company can do for you — focus on what you bring
- Don't apologize for gaps, lack of experience, or career changes — frame them positively
- Don't exceed one page — hiring managers won't read a two-page cover letter
- Don't include salary requirements unless the posting specifically asks for them
Use ExpertResume's AI Cover Letter Builder to generate a personalized cover letter in seconds. Just paste the job description and your resume, and our AI creates a tailored cover letter that highlights your most relevant qualifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should a cover letter be?
A cover letter should be 250–400 words, which typically fills about half to three-quarters of a page. Hiring managers spend under a minute reviewing cover letters, so every sentence should count. Stick to four focused paragraphs.
Should I address the hiring manager by name?
Whenever possible, yes. Research the hiring manager's name on LinkedIn, the company's About page, or by calling the company directly. A personalized greeting shows initiative. If you truly can't find a name, 'Dear Hiring Manager' or 'Dear [Department] Team' is acceptable.
Can AI write my cover letter?
AI tools like ExpertResume's Cover Letter Builder can generate an excellent first draft based on your resume and the job description. However, you should always review and personalize the output to add your unique voice and specific company references. Think of AI as a powerful starting point, not the finished product.
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ExpertResume Team
The ExpertResume editorial team consists of certified resume writers, career coaches, and HR professionals with decades of combined experience helping job seekers land their dream roles. Every guide is researched, fact-checked, and updated regularly to reflect current hiring trends.