Job seekers often struggle to write an effective cover letter. Even after spending significant time crafting and customizing the letter for a role, they often come across as low-effort, misaligned, self-absorbed, or even unprofessional.
Top Cover Letter Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
- Generic Enthusiasm: “I am very excited about this opportunity.” While enthusiasm is important, this statement lacks specificity and appears low-effort. Instead, explain what specifically excites you about the role or company to demonstrate genuine interest.
- Typos, Spelling, or Grammar Mistakes: Errors in spelling and grammar undermine your professionalism and attention to detail. Always proofread your cover letter multiple times or ask someone else to review it for you.
- Seeming Desperate: “If you give me a chance to prove myself, I would…” This can come off as desperate rather than enthusiastic. Employers are not going to hire you because you need a job. They will hire you because doing so helps them accomplish their goals.
- Making It All About You: Employers want to see how you will meet THEIR NEEDS and add value to their team. So make it about them. Make sure you convey how your experiences and skills relate to their goals with humility and enthusiasm for their mission.
- Misaligned Tone: Writing in a style that doesn’t match the company’s culture, such as using overly formal language for a creative startup or vice-versa. Imagine the hiring manager reading the letter. What tone are they likely to appreciate?
- Too much text: An overly lengthy cover letter can lose the hiring manager’s attention and suggest difficulty in prioritizing information. Demonstrating your ability to be concise and focused highlights your strong communication skills.
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