Hiring Future

How to Write an Effective Cover Letter: 2025 Dos and Don'ts

In today's competitive job market, 83% of hiring managers say a well-crafted cover letter can secure an interview even when your resume isn't perfect (Saddleback College Survey). This guide reveals exactly what recruiters want to see—and what makes them reject applications immediately.

The Anatomy of a Winning Cover Letter

Perfect Structure (3-4 paragraphs, 250-400 words):
  1. Header: Your contact info + date
  2. Salutation: "Dear [Hiring Manager's Name]"
  3. Opening Hook: Why you're excited about this role
  4. Middle Paragraph(s): Matching skills to job needs
  5. Closing: Call to action + thank you
  6. Signature: "Sincerely, [Your Name]"

1. Opening Paragraph Dos and Don'ts

✅ DO:
  • Name the exact position and company
  • Show enthusiasm for their mission
  • Mention a mutual connection if applicable
Example: "When Sarah Lee mentioned Acme Corp's new sustainability initiative, I knew my 5 years of renewable energy project management could help achieve your 2025 carbon-neutral goals."
❌ DON'T:
  • Use generic "I'm applying for..." openings
  • Focus on what you want (salary, experience)
  • Repeat your resume summary verbatim
Avoid: "I am applying for the Marketing Manager position because it matches my skills and I need a job with better pay."

2. Showcasing Skills and Experience

✅ DO:
  • Pick 2-3 requirements from the job description
  • Provide specific examples of achievements
  • Use numbers/metrics when possible
Example: "Your need for email campaign expertise aligns with my work at XYZ Corp, where I increased open rates by 27% through A/B testing subject lines and segmenting 50,000+ subscribers."
❌ DON'T:
  • Regurgitate your entire work history
  • Use vague statements without proof
  • Include unrelated skills
Avoid: "I have many skills that would make me good at this job. I work hard and learn quickly."

3. Tailoring to the Company

✅ DO:
  • Research the company's recent news
  • Reference their values/mission
  • Use the industry language
Example: "Acme's commitment to DEI (evident in your 2023 Impact Report) mirrors my work establishing mentorship programs for women in tech at my current company."
❌ DON'T:
  • Use a generic template for all applications
  • Make assumptions about the company
  • Overuse flattery without substance
Avoid: "Your company is the best in the world. I've always wanted to work for a famous company like yours."

4. Formatting and Style

✅ DO:
  • Keep to one page (3-5 paragraphs)
  • Use professional fonts (11-12pt Arial/Calibri)
  • Match your resume's design
  • Save as PDF unless specified otherwise
❌ DON'T:
  • Use colorful designs (unless creative field)
  • Write long paragraphs (4-5 lines max)
  • Include personal photos
  • Submit as Word doc (formatting may break)
ATS-Friendly Formatting:
  • No headers/footers (ATS may miss content)
  • Standard section headings ("Dear...", "Sincerely")
  • Avoid tables/text boxes

5. Powerful Closing Paragraph

✅ DO:
  • Restate enthusiasm for the role
  • Include a call to action
  • Thank them for their time
Example: "I'd welcome the opportunity to discuss how my background in supply chain optimization can contribute to Acme's warehouse efficiency goals. Thank you for your consideration—I'm available at your convenience for an interview."
❌ DON'T:
  • Sound desperate or presumptuous
  • Use passive language
  • Forget to sign (for physical letters)
Avoid: "I hope you'll give me a chance. I really need this job."

Industry-Specific Tips

Creative Fields (Design, Writing): Corporate Jobs (Finance, Law):

Cover Letter Checklist Before Sending

  • Recipient's name/title correct? (No "To Whom It May Concern")
  • Tailored to this specific job/company?
  • Mention 2-3 key job requirements?
  • Free of spelling/grammar errors? (Read aloud)
  • Concise (under 400 words)?
  • Saved as PDF with proper filename? ("FirstName_LastName_CoverLetter.pdf")

Need a template? Download our free cover letter samples for different industries and career levels.