How to write a cover letter

A cover letter explains what your CV can't: why you want this specific job and why you're a fit. It doesn't repeat the CV; it picks 2–3 things and connects them to what the posting asks for.

Send one whenever the posting asks for it, when you're applying speculatively or when you need to explain something (a career change, a move, a gap).

Opening, your fit, why this company and close form the four-paragraph structure.

1. 1Opening: the role you're applying for and a hook (why you, why them).
2. 2Your fit: 2–3 achievements or experiences that answer the job's main requirements.
3. 3Why this company: what draws you to them, with something specific (a product, a project, their values).
4. 4Close: availability for an interview and thanks, without fuss.

250 to 350 words in total: one page, never more.

If you know the person's name: “Dear Ms Garcia,”. If not: “Dear Hiring Manager,” — avoid the dated “To whom it may concern”.

To sign off, “Yours sincerely,” when you've named the person, or “Kind regards,” — followed by your name.

Comparing a generic opening with a metric-driven, role-specific hook shows a strong first paragraph.

Generic letters, repeating the CV, self-centred focus, wrong names and clichés are mistakes to avoid.

• A generic letter that would work for any company.
• Repeating your CV line by line.
• Talking only about what you want, not what you bring.
• Getting the company or person's name wrong (it happens more than you think).
• Clichés: “proactive person eager to grow”.