Tips and Common Errors

Tips:

Limit your cover letter to a 3 to 5 paragraph maximum

When using email, your cover letter may be shorter.

Match your resume font and header

Use the same font on both your resume and cover letter. It is also helpful to include your resume contact header on your cover letter for document continuity.

Address your cover letter to a specific contact

Company websites and social media platforms, (i.e., LinkedIn) can help you to identify a key individual who has not been listed. If you are unable to locate a contact, you can use the terms: “Dear Hiring Manager…”, “Dear Hiring Committee…”, etc.

Keep it simple

Avoid using overly complicated, flowery language on your cover letter.

Ensure your cover letter is written with clarity and detail.

Outline the point and objective of your cover letter within the first paragraph

Why are you writing this self-marketing document in the first place? Why are you interested in an upcoming opportunity (advertised or not)?

Common Errors in Cover Letters

Greeting

Use “Dear Angella” or “Dear Ms Smith” but NOT “Dear Angella Smith”

One Size Fits All Mindset

Resist the temptation to send the same cover letter in response to different opportunities. The person reading the letter can usually spot this type of letter immediately and may assume you’re not interested enough to take the time to craft a tailored version. Conduct preparatory research and customize the letter to fit the job description.

Too Much/Not Enough Length

Cover letters that are too short or lengthy miss the point of the document, which is intended to concisely represent your interest in a given opportunity as well as your background, qualifications and skills. Keep your cover letter target at a maximum of 3-5 paragraphs.

Unremarkable Openings

Ideally, the first paragraph of your cover letter serves to intrigue potential employers (i.e., like a movie trailer). Instead of cutting to your objective right away, include a thoughtful opening and information about your unique background to leave a lasting impression.

Repeating Your Resume

Do not copy and paste elements of your resume into your cover letter. This document is your opportunity to provide the prospective employer with more background information about yourself, including your goals, ambitions and value.

Over-Reference to Me, Myself and I

While cover letters are commonly composed using the first person stance, try not to over-populate your document with “me, myself and I.” If you notice more than 5 of these references, take another look and see if you can include more information about the prospective employer.

Under-Promoting Yourself

In a nutshell, your cover letter can provide an employer with the motivation to reach out to you. Market your selling points and achievements accordingly.

Leaving Out Your Contact Information

Resumes and cover letters can become separated. Mirroring your resume, ensure that you include accurate contact information.

Forgetting to Spell Check & Grammar Check

Prior to sending your cover letter, it is essential to check the content for spelling and grammatical errors. It is also highly recommended that you have friends, family members and other important contacts review your letter for mistakes, consistency and flow.