8 Tips on How to Write a Cover Letter

Wondering how to write a cover letter? Whether you’re applying for your first job or are a seasoned professional with 20 years of experience behind you, here are our top tips for crafting a cover letter that recruiters will want to read—plus six common mistakes that could hold you back. 

A great cover letter isn’t just about listing your skills—it’s about telling your story in a way that creates an impact. At FDM, we understand that success isn’t just about ticking the right boxes; it’s about standing out. Your cover letter is your chance to showcase what makes you unique and why you’re the ideal fit for the role. 

Address your letter to the recruiter by name 

Address your letter to the hiring manager or recruiter by name. For example – ‘Dear Mr. John Smith’ or ‘Dear Mr. Smith.’ However, if you’re unsure about the title or gender, you might find it better to use their first or last name, or both. For example – ‘Dear John’ or ‘Dear John Smith.’ You could also skip the formal ‘Dear’ and open with ‘Hello’ instead. Whenever possible, avoid generic salutations like ‘Dear Sir or Madam’ or ‘To Whom It May Concern.’ Read the job advert carefully to find the name of the hiring manager or HR representative and only use generic salutations when you’ve made every effort to find a first and/or last name. 

Format your letter 

Presentation is key, so it’s essential to format your cover letter correctly. Try to use the same font style and size as your CV. The recommended length for cover letters is one page, divided into four or five paragraphs. It’s helpful to have a template for your cover letter that mirrors your CV design. Include your name, email, and contact number at the top. This ensures consistency across all your application materials. Use bullet points  to break up long paragraphs and keep your statements concise and direct. 

Read our advice on writing a CV with no experience. 

Follow a structure 

Each section in your cover letter should communicate a clear message. For example, the first paragraph should reference the role you’re applying for, mentioning where you found the advert, and providing a brief overview of your current role. Example: ‘I came across your advertisement for the Business Analyst role on ‘___’ and am interested in applying.’ 

The second paragraph should highlight your relevant skills and experience and explain how they align with the criteria in the job description. This is also a great opportunity to mention any additional skills that would benefit the company. A valuable tip is to reference the skills listed as ‘Desirable but not essential’ in this section, as this could give you a competitive edge over other candidates who may not possess these additional skills. Also, tailor your language to match the job description and include keywords. 

For example – if the job description mentions ‘keen attention to detail,’ reference this in your cover letter and describe how you’ve leveraged this skill in your work. If you don’t have direct work experience, feel free to provide examples from your personal life—whether organising a school fair or volunteering. The third paragraph should shift the focus to the company. Use this section to highlight what specifically attracted you to this role and explain why you’re the ideal fit. 

The final paragraph should reiterate your interest in the role. Request an interview consideration and end the letter with a polite ‘Thank you’ and ‘Yours sincerely’ if addressing someone by name, or ‘Yours faithfully’ for a generic salutation. You can also mention your availability for interviews in this section. 

Keep it short 

Hiring managers often have limited time to review numerous applications, which is why it’s important to keep your cover letter concise, while still including all key details. Every sentence should serve a purpose—if it doesn’t strengthen your case, remove it. 

Providing a brief cover letter allows the reader to quickly understand your key qualifications and motivations. It also demonstrates your ability to communicate effectively and efficiently—an essential skill in many professional roles. A short cover letter shows respect for the reader’s time while presenting a polished, focused application. 

Explain your interest and suitability for this role 

Yes, your cover letter should showcase your skills and experience, but it should also clearly connect those attributes to the company’s needs. Employers don’t just want to know what you’re looking for—they want to understand how you can add value to their team. Shift the focus from “I want to work here because…” to “Here’s how I can contribute to your success.” 

You may feel you’re a great fit for the role, and you likely are! But remember, a hiring manager who has never met you will need some convincing before inviting you for an interview. Use your cover letter to explain why you’re the perfect hire for this position. 

Do your research on the company and its culture, and mention something specific that piqued your interest. For instance, if the company has an excellent (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DE&I) policy, bring it up. This shows you’ve done your homework and allows you to commend the company for its initiatives. You should also highlight any relevant projects or campaigns the company has launched and explain how your skills can benefit them. 

Consider this approach: ‘I know your company is working to expand its social media reach. I have extensive experience across all major platforms, with a strong following on Instagram. I’m excited about the opportunity to help optimise your social media presence and increase your following.’ 

Back up qualifications/skills with examples 

A cover letter should not only state your skills but also demonstrate how you’ve applied them. Simply claiming to be a “passionate problem-solver” or a “results-driven team player” means little without concrete proof. Instead of relying on vague buzzwords, provide real examples to back up your skills. Show how you’ve solved problems, led projects, or made an impact—evidence is far more compelling than general statements. 

For instance – ‘I led a team to develop a chatbot prototype under tight deadlines.’ 

Convey enthusiasm and passion 

Enthusiasm is contagious and can leave a lasting impression, setting you apart from other candidates. It shows your motivation and drive, indicating that you’re not simply looking for any job but are genuinely excited about the opportunity. A passionate cover letter helps express your dedication and commitment to contributing meaningfully. Moreover, it fosters an emotional connection with the reader, making them more likely to consider you as a candidate and invite you for an interview. 

Get feedback before hitting send 

Receiving feedback on your cover letter from colleagues or peers before sending it to recruiters is crucial. External input offers a fresh perspective on your writing, allowing you to spot areas that need improvement or clarification. Colleagues can provide valuable suggestions to help fine-tune your message, ensuring it effectively communicates your skills and motivations. Additionally, feedback helps catch any potential errors or inconsistencies that could come across as unprofessional. 

Conclusion 

By following these guidelines, you can craft a cover letter that stands out from the competition, highlights your accomplishments, and demonstrates to potential employers why you’re an ideal fit for the role. Just remember to tailor your letter to each specific position, showcasing your unique skills and experiences. Maintain a professional tone while also expressing your enthusiasm and always proofread before sending. With a well-crafted cover letter, you’ll make a memorable impression on recruiters and boost your chances of landing your dream job. 

Are you ready to take the next step in your career? Explore opportunities with our award-winning Graduate Programme.