A well-crafted cover letter can be the difference between your resume being read or ignored. While your resume shows what you've done, your cover letter explains why you're the perfect fit. This comprehensive guide will teach you how to write cover letters that get results.
Why Cover Letters Still Matter in 2026
Despite what you might hear, cover letters are far from dead. In fact, 83% of hiring managers say cover letters are important in their hiring decisions. A great cover letter:
- Shows you've researched the company and role
- Demonstrates your communication skills
- Explains gaps or career changes
- Highlights your personality and cultural fit
- Sets you apart from other candidates
Cover Letter Structure
A professional cover letter follows a standard structure. Here's the framework:
1. Header (Contact Information)
Include your name, address, phone, email, and LinkedIn URL. Match the formatting of your resume header.
2. Date and Recipient Information
Include the date and the hiring manager's name and title. If you can't find a name, use "Hiring Manager" or the department name.
3. Opening Paragraph (The Hook)
Start with a strong opening that grabs attention. Mention the specific position and how you learned about it.
4. Body Paragraphs (2-3 paragraphs)
Explain why you're a great fit. Connect your experience to their needs. Show you understand their challenges.
5. Closing Paragraph
Reiterate your interest, mention next steps, and include a call to action.
6. Professional Closing
Use "Sincerely" or "Best regards" followed by your signature and typed name.
Writing Each Section
The Opening Paragraph
Your opening should immediately show you've done your research and understand the role. Avoid generic openings.
✗ Generic Opening:
"I am writing to apply for the Marketing Manager position I saw on Indeed."
✓ Strong Opening:
"As a marketing professional who has increased B2B SaaS revenue by 300% over the past three years, I was thrilled to see Acme Corp's opening for a Marketing Manager. Your company's innovative approach to customer acquisition aligns perfectly with my expertise in growth marketing and data-driven campaigns."
The Body Paragraphs
Use the body to tell a story that connects your experience to their needs. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your examples.
Body Paragraph Formula:
- Identify a key requirement from the job description
- Share a specific example from your experience
- Quantify your impact with numbers
- Connect it back to how you'll help them
The Closing Paragraph
End strong with enthusiasm and a clear next step. Don't be passive.
✗ Weak Closing:
"I hope to hear from you soon. Thank you for your consideration."
✓ Strong Closing:
"I'm excited about the opportunity to bring my growth marketing expertise to Acme Corp and help scale your customer acquisition efforts. I'd welcome the chance to discuss how my experience in scaling B2B SaaS companies can contribute to your team's success. I'm available for an interview at your convenience."
Common Cover Letter Mistakes
❌ Repeating Your Resume
Your cover letter should complement, not duplicate, your resume. Use it to tell stories and provide context that your resume can't.
❌ Using a Generic Template
Every cover letter should be customized. Generic letters are obvious and show lack of interest.
❌ Focusing on What You Want
Focus on what you can do for them, not what they can do for you. Employers care about their needs, not your career goals.
❌ Being Too Long
Keep it to one page (3-4 paragraphs). Hiring managers are busy and won't read lengthy cover letters.
Cover Letter Length and Formatting
- Length: 250-400 words (one page)
- Font: Professional font (Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman), 10-12pt
- Spacing: Single or 1.15 line spacing
- Margins: 1 inch on all sides
- Format: PDF (unless they request Word doc)
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