How to Write a Cover Letter That Actually Gets Read

"Nobody reads cover letters anymore." You've heard this. It's partly true — many hiring managers don't read them for every application. But a well-written cover letter does get read, and when it does, it can move a borderline candidate to the shortlist and a shortlisted candidate to the top.

The problem isn't that cover letters don't work. The problem is that most cover letters are terrible.

Why Most Cover Letters Fail

They start with "I am writing to apply for the position of..." — an opening so generic it signals immediately that this letter was written for a template, not for this role.

They repeat the resume bullet-for-bullet, adding no new information.

They focus entirely on what the candidate wants, not what they offer.

A great cover letter does three things: it shows you understand the role, demonstrates you've done your research on the company, and makes a compelling case that you specifically are the right choice.

The Four-Paragraph Formula

Paragraph 1 — The Hook

Open with something specific and energetic. A result, a genuine connection to the company's mission, or a direct statement of fit.

"When I saw that [Company] is building out its data infrastructure team in West Africa, it immediately resonated — for the past three years I've been doing exactly that work at [Previous Company], and I've been watching your expansion closely."

Lead with what you bring to them, not what you're looking for.

Paragraph 2 — Your Strongest Relevant Achievement

One story. One number. Make it real and make it land.

"In my current role as Operations Manager, I redesigned our supplier onboarding process and reduced the average time from contract to first delivery from 34 days to 11. That's the kind of problem I actively enjoy solving."

Paragraph 3 — Why This Company, Specifically

Show genuine research. Mention a specific product feature, a recent news item, a stated mission, a market strategy you've followed. Generic phrases like "I admire your commitment to innovation" say nothing.

"I've been following how your team has approached the informal economy segment — the USSD integration work from last year was genuinely clever, and I'd love to be part of what comes next."

Paragraph 4 — The Close

Confident and specific. Not desperate.

"I'd welcome the opportunity to discuss how my background could contribute to [specific team or project]. I'm available for a conversation at any time that works for you."

Format and Length

• 250–350 words — long enough to say something, short enough to actually be read
• Same font and styling as your resume — they should look like a pair
• No headers or footers unless the company specifically requests a structured format
• Always a PDF unless told otherwise

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Starting with "I" (many senior recruiters have a personal rule against this)
• Mentioning salary in a first-contact letter unless the posting asks for it
• Copying the same letter without changing the company name (this happens more than you'd think and is immediately obvious)
• Over-explaining why you're leaving your current role — save that for the interview
• Being excessively formal or using HR-speak: "I am a dynamic, synergy-focused professional..."

When They Say "Cover Letter Optional"

Write one anyway. Optional means it might be read — and if yours is the only one submitted, it becomes a differentiator.