Cover Letter tips & Tricks

Cover letters can feel like an afterthought when applying for jobs. But when done right, a cover letter can take your application from “meh” to “must-interview.”

The key? Crafting a cover letter that’s engaging, relevant, and ATS-friendly so it makes it into the hands of a human hiring manager. Here’s how to make your cover letter reach human eyes.

What to Include in a Cover Letter

1. A Strong Opening Hook

Grab the reader’s attention immediately.

• What to Do: Start with something specific about the role or company that excites you.

  • Example: “As a long-time admirer of [Company’s] commitment to innovation, I was excited to see the [Job Title] opening on your team.”

• Why It Works: A personalised hook shows you’ve done your homework and aren’t just copying and pasting a template.

2. Relevant Achievements

This is your chance to show why you’re the perfect fit.

• What to Do: Highlight 1–2 key achievements that align with the job requirements. Use numbers if possible.

  • Example: “At [Previous Company], I increased client retention by 25% through personalised engagement strategies.”

• Why It Works: It connects your past success to the employer’s needs.

3. Enthusiasm for the Role

Employers want to know why you care about this job, not just any job.

• What to Do: Mention what excites you about the role and how it aligns with your goals.

  • Example: “The opportunity to contribute to [Company’s] mission of sustainability aligns with my passion for creating impact-driven solutions.”

• Why It Works: Genuine enthusiasm stands out in a sea of generic applications.

4. A Call to Action

End with confidence and a clear next step.

• What to Do: Invite further conversation.

  • Example: “I’d love the opportunity to discuss how my skills can contribute to [Company’s] goals. I’m available for an interview at your earliest convenience.”

• Why It Works: A strong close leaves a lasting impression.

What to Omit from a Cover Letter

1. Fluff and Filler

Get straight to the point.

• What to Avoid: Phrases like “I’m writing to apply for…” are redundant—they already know that.

2. Irrelevant Details

Stick to what matters.

• What to Avoid: Personal anecdotes or unrelated hobbies unless they directly tie to the role.

3. Overused Buzzwords

Be specific, not generic.

• What to Avoid: Phrases like “hard worker” or “team player” without concrete examples.

4. Negative Language

Keep it positive.

• What to Avoid: Statements like “I know I lack experience in…” Focus on what you can offer.

How to Pass the ATS and Get Noticed

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are the gatekeepers between your application and the hiring manager. Here’s how to beat them:

1. Use Keywords Strategically

Tailor your cover letter to the job description.

• What to Do: Identify key phrases in the job posting (e.g., “project management,” “customer engagement”) and naturally incorporate them.

• Why It Works: ATS scans for these keywords to determine if you’re a match.

2. Keep Formatting Simple

ATS struggles with overly designed documents.

• What to Do: Use a standard font, simple bullet points, and avoid graphics or tables.

• Why It Works: Clean formatting ensures the ATS can read your cover letter without errors.

3. Match Your Resume

Consistency is key.

• What to Do: Use the same header and layout as your resume for a cohesive look.

• Why It Works: It creates a professional, unified application.

4. Upload the Right File Type

Not all ATS systems are created equal.

• What to Do: Save your cover letter as a Word document or PDF, depending on the application instructions.

• Why It Works: These formats are most commonly ATS-compatible.

Final Tips for a Standout Cover Letter

• Customise for Every Job: Tailoring shows effort and interest.

• Keep It Concise: Aim for 3–4 short paragraphs.

• Proofread Relentlessly: Typos can ruin even the best content.

• Focus on Value: Emphasise how you can solve the employer’s problems.

Cover Letter Is Your Voice

A resume tells your story, but a cover letter is your chance to speak directly to the hiring manager. By including what matters, cutting out what doesn’t, and optimising for ATS, you can ensure your cover letter gets the attention it deserves.

Remember, the goal is to make them think, “I need to meet this person.” And with the right cover letter, you’ll do just that.

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