A specific reason
Name what genuinely attracted you to the role or company: the product, clients, growth stage, technology or a particular problem. “Your vacancy caught my attention” says nothing.
WHAT A COVER LETTER SHOULD DO
Add to your CV, not retell it.
A cover letter should answer what your CV may not: why this role interests you, why your background makes sense for it and what specific value you can bring.
It is neither a writing exam nor ceremonial correspondence. Three short paragraphs written for one employer and one position are usually enough.
A STRUCTURE THAT WORKS
Why this role. Why you. What happens next.
Relevant evidence
Choose one or two experiences that best match the role. Do not repeat your whole CV; connect the employer’s need to a result you achieved.
A simple close
Express interest in a conversation and add practical information if it matters—availability, relocation or a reason for changing fields. No pleading and no theatrical finale.
EXAMPLE
A generic phrase offends nobody. It rarely interests anyone either.
“I am communicative, flexible and enjoy teamwork. I believe I would be an asset to your dynamic company.”
The same sentence could go to an accountancy firm, a factory or a zoo.
“Over the past two years, I led the introduction of a CRM for an 18-person sales team. Your role appeals to me because it combines sales with process management, the direction in which I want to continue.”
Specific experience is connected to a specific reason.
WHEN TO WRITE ONE
Not every application needs a letter. Every application needs a reason.
You are changing field or role
Explain the connection that previous job titles do not show. Someone has to name the transferable skills—ideally you.
The company genuinely matters to you
You have a concrete connection to its product, sector or problem. That is much stronger than generic enthusiasm.
Your CV needs context
You have a career gap, are relocating, returning after parental leave or have worked freelance. A brief explanation removes needless speculation.
When to skip it: If the employer does not ask for one and you would only repeat your CV in full sentences. A sharp, short email is better than a compulsory page of empty words.
AI AND TEMPLATES
Use help with the phrasing. Do not outsource your personality.
Supply your own facts
A tool does not know your results, motivation or why this company matters. Without specific input it will only produce polished nothing.
Remove borrowed language
If you never say “synergy” or “proactive mindset”, do not start in your letter. The mask will fall off in the interview anyway.
Verify every claim
Figures, technologies and experience must be true. AI may sharpen the text; it must not manufacture your professional history.
BEFORE YOU SEND IT
The letter is ready when it cannot easily be sent to another company
- The role I want is immediately clear.
- There is a specific reason for my interest in the role or company.
- I use no more than two relevant examples and their results.
- I do not repeat information already obvious from my CV.
- The letter is roughly 150–250 words.
- The greeting, company and recipient’s name are correct.
- It sounds like me, not a corporate phrase generator.
Three paragraphs. One specific company. Done.
If you need a novel, you probably have not chosen what matters yet.