improving your resume and cover letter

How to Write a Cover Letter: A Comprehensive Guide with Examples (2024)

Crafting a compelling cover letter is the first step towards landing an interview. It’s usually the first impression an employer gets before even seeing your resume, and it will help to set the tone and establish your personality before getting into your qualifications and suitability for the position.

Whether you're applying for a job, internship, or generally submitting your resume for consideration, understanding how to write a cover letter can significantly enhance your chances of success.

What is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a formal document accompanying your resume that introduces yourself to potential employers, highlighting your qualifications, experiences, and interest in a specific job or internship. It offers you the opportunity to showcase your personality and passion for the role in a more personalized manner than a resume alone.

Cover Letter Format

The format of a cover letter typically follows a standard business letter structure. It includes your contact information, the date, the recipient's contact details, a salutation, body paragraphs, and a closing. Ensure that your cover letter is concise, well-organized, and visually appealing, using a professional font and maintaining consistent formatting throughout.

As your cover letter will often be sent as an email, check this guide on how to write an email for some general tips on subject lines, email greetings, structuring the main content, and signing off.

Cover Letter for a Job

When applying for a job, a cover letter for your resume is often expected, and it serves as your initial introduction to potential employers. It should be customized for each position, showcasing how your skills and experiences fit the job requirements. A well-crafted cover letter can distinguish you from other applicants and increase your chances of securing an interview, especially if you can show that you’re genuinely aligned with the company’s goals.

Cover Letter for an Internship

For internship applications, a cover letter is equally essential. It allows you to convey your enthusiasm for the opportunity, relevant skills, and willingness to learn. Even if you have limited professional experience, your cover letter can highlight academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and relevant coursework that demonstrate your potential value to the organization.

Writing a Cover Letter

Let’s get into how to write a cover letter, step by step:

Step 1: How to Address a Cover Letter

When addressing your cover letter, it's essential to find out the name and title of the hiring manager or recruiter whenever possible. Addressing the letter to a specific individual adds a personal touch and demonstrates your initiative. A quick note on how to address a cover letter without a name. If you're unable to identify the recipient, you can use a general greeting such as "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Company Name] Recruiting Team."

Step 2: What to Include in a Cover Letter

Writing a compelling cover letter requires careful attention to detail and a strategic approach. Begin by thoroughly researching the company and the position to tailor your letter accordingly. Highlight your most relevant experiences and accomplishments, using specific examples to demonstrate your qualifications. Keep your language professional, yet engaging, and avoid using generic templates or clichés. Instead, strive to make a memorable impression that sets you apart from other candidates by showing you understand what the company is about.

Structure-wise, a well-written cover letter should include the following elements:

Introduction : Start by stating the position you're applying for and how you learned about it. Express your enthusiasm for the opportunity and briefly introduce yourself.

Body Paragraphs : Use one or two paragraphs to highlight your relevant experiences, skills, and achievements. Provide specific examples that demonstrate your qualifications and fit for the role. Tailor your content to align with the job description and company's needs.

Closing Paragraph : Summarize your interest in the position and reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity. Thank the employer for considering your application and express your willingness to discuss further in an interview.

Closing : End your cover letter with a professional closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your name and contact information.

By using this kind of cover letter template, you can keep a clear and structured approach whilst also easily adjusting your content each time to customize it for each specific contact.

Before you send

Remember maintain professionalism throughout and always proofread your cover letter before you send it off. Check this quick list of cover letter dos and don’ts so you can ensure you’ve done everything you can and haven’t made any glaring errors along the way.

Note for students: While it may be reasonable to apply for internships with your university email, it probably won’t come across as particularly professional for proper job applications. Contacting an employer from a free email account with a funny name you made when you were an adolescent also won’t be particularly impressive. You may want to use a service like Inbox.com and create a business email account that shows you’re a serious professional.

Cover letter examples

Here are some short cover letter samples that you can use as templates for your own letter. Note that although the content should be adapted both to you and to the company you’re applying to, a similar structure applies in all cases.

1. Marketing Manager Cover Letter:

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the Marketing Manager position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. With over five years of experience in marketing strategy development, campaign management, and brand positioning, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and drive results for [Company Name].

In my previous role at [Previous Company], I led cross-functional teams to develop and execute innovative marketing campaigns that resulted in a 30% increase in brand awareness and a 25% boost in lead generation. My ability to analyze market trends, identify customer insights, and leverage data-driven strategies has consistently delivered impactful results and exceeded organizational objectives.

I am particularly drawn to [specific aspect of the company or job description], and I am eager to bring my expertise in digital marketing, social media management, and content development to support [Company Name]'s mission of [mention company mission or values].

Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the possibility of joining [Company Name] and contributing to its continued success. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address].

Sincerely, [Your Name]

2. Software Engineer Cover Letter:

I am writing to apply for the Software Engineer position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. With a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and three years of hands-on experience in software development and coding, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and develop innovative solutions for [Company Name].

In my previous role at [Previous Company], I played a key role in designing and implementing scalable software solutions that optimized workflow efficiency and enhanced user experience. My proficiency in programming languages such as Java, Python, and JavaScript, coupled with my strong problem-solving skills, has enabled me to deliver high-quality software solutions that meet and exceed client expectations.

I am impressed by [specific aspect of the company or job description], and I am eager to leverage my technical skills and passion for innovation to support [Company Name]'s goals of [mention company goals or objectives].

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to further discuss how my background and expertise align with the needs of [Company Name] and am available for an interview at your earliest convenience. Please feel free to contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address] to schedule a discussion.

3. Graphic Designer Cover Letter:

I am thrilled to apply for the Graphic Designer position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. With a strong background in visual communication, brand identity development, and multimedia design, I am excited about the opportunity to bring my creativity and expertise to your team and contribute to [Company Name]'s success.

In my previous role at [Previous Company], I collaborated with cross-functional teams to create visually compelling designs that effectively communicated brand messages and engaged target audiences. My proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, coupled with my attention to detail and passion for design, has allowed me to deliver innovative solutions that align with client objectives and exceed expectations.

I am particularly drawn to [specific aspect of the company or job description], and I am eager to leverage my design skills and artistic vision to support [Company Name]'s mission of [mention company mission or values].

Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the possibility of joining [Company Name] and contributing to its creative endeavors. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address].

What is a cover letter for a job?

A cover letter for a job is a formal document submitted alongside a resume during the application process. It introduces the applicant to the potential employer and highlights their qualifications, experiences, and interest in the specific job position.

What is a cover letter for a resume?

A cover letter for a resume is a document that accompanies a resume when applying for a job. While the resume provides a summary of the applicant's skills and experiences, the cover letter offers additional context and insight into their suitability for the position.

What is the purpose of a cover letter?

The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce the applicant to the potential employer, showcase their qualifications and experiences, and express their interest in the job position. It allows applicants to personalize their application and demonstrate their enthusiasm and suitability for the role.

What does a cover letter look like?

A cover letter typically follows a formal business letter format, including the sender's and recipient's contact information, a salutation, body paragraphs, and a closing. It should be well-organized, concise, and visually appealing, with a professional tone and consistent formatting.

How long should a cover letter be?

A cover letter should be concise and to the point, typically no longer than one page. It should provide enough information to highlight the applicant's qualifications and interest in the position without overwhelming the reader with unnecessary details.

What should be in a cover letter?

A cover letter should include the sender's and recipient's contact information, a formal salutation, an introduction stating the position being applied for and how the applicant learned about it, body paragraphs highlighting relevant qualifications and experiences, and a closing expressing gratitude and interest in further discussion.

How to Start a Cover Letter

To start your cover letter effectively, consider using a strong opening sentence or attention-grabbing statement that immediately captures the reader's interest. You can mention a mutual connection, reference a recent company accomplishment, or highlight a specific aspect of the job that excites you.

How to End a Cover Letter

Ending your cover letter on a high note is crucial to leave a lasting impression. In the closing paragraph, reiterate your interest in the position and express your gratitude for the opportunity to apply. Convey confidence in your ability to contribute to the company's success. Finally, use a professional closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your name.

Updated: April 10, 2024 at 4:33 PM

Published: April 10, 2024 at 4:33 PM

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How to Write a Cover Letter [Full Guide & Examples for 2024]

After weeks of heavy job searching, you’re almost there!

You’ve perfected your resume.

You’ve short-listed the coolest jobs you want to apply for.

You’ve even had a friend train you for every single interview question out there.

But then, before you can send in your application and call it a day, you remember that you need to write a cover letter too.

So now, you’re stuck staring at a blank page, wondering where to start...

Don’t panic! We’ve got you covered. Writing a cover letter is a lot simpler than you might think. 

In this guide, we’re going to teach you how to write a cover letter that gets you the job you deserve.

We're going to cover:

What Is a Cover Letter?

• How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter, Step by Step
• 15+ Job-Winning Cover Letter Examples

Let’s get started.

A cover letter is a document that you submit as part of your job application, alongside your resume or CV.

The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce you and briefly summarize your professional background. On average, it should be around 250 to 400 words long .

A good cover letter is supposed to impress the hiring manager and convince them you’re worth interviewing as a candidate.

So, how can your cover letter achieve this?

First of all, it should complement your resume, not copy it. Your cover letter is your chance to elaborate on important achievements, skills, or anything else that your resume doesn’t give you the space to cover. 

For example, if you have an employment gap on your resume, the cover letter is a great place to explain why it happened and how it helped you grow as a person. 

If this is your first time writing a cover letter, writing about yourself might seem complicated. But don’t worry—you don’t need to be super creative or even a good writer .

All you have to do is follow this tried and tested cover letter structure:

• Header. Add all the necessary contact information at the top of your cover letter.
• Formal greeting. Choose an appropriate way to greet your target audience.
• Introduction. Introduce yourself in the opening paragraph and explain your interest in the role.
• Body. Elaborate on why you’re the best candidate for the job and a good match for the company. Focus on “selling” your skills, achievements, and relevant professional experiences.
• Conclusion. Summarize your key points and wrap it up professionally.

Now, let’s take a look at an example of a cover letter that follows our structure perfectly:

New to cover letter writing? Give our cover letter video a watch before diving into the article!

When Should You Write a Cover Letter?

You should always include a cover letter in your job application, even if the hiring manager never reads it. Submitting a cover letter is as important as submitting a resume if you want to look like a serious candidate.

If the employer requests a cover letter as part of the screening process, not sending one is a huge red flag and will probably get your application tossed into the “no” pile immediately.

On the other hand, if the job advertisement doesn’t require a cover letter from the candidates, adding one shows you went the extra mile.

Putting in the effort to write a cover letter can set you apart from other candidates with similar professional experience and skills, and it could even sway the hiring manager to call you for an interview if you do it right.

Need to write a letter to help get you into a good school or volunteer program? Check out our guide to learn how to write a motivation letter !

How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter

Now that you know what a cover letter is, it’s time to learn how to write one!

We’ll go through the process in detail, step by step.

#1. Choose the Right Cover Letter Template

A good cover letter is all about leaving the right first impression.

So, what’s a better way to leave a good impression than a well-formatted, stylish template?

Just choose one of our hand-picked cover letter templates , and you’ll be all set in no time!

As a bonus, our intuitive AI will even give you suggestions on how to improve your cover letter as you write it. You’ll have the perfect cover letter done in minutes!

#2. Put Contact Information in the Header

As with a resume, it’s important to 

start your cover letter

 with your contact details at the top. These should be in your cover letter’s header, separated neatly from the bulk of your text.

Here, you want to include all the essential contact information , including:

• Full Name. Your first and last name should stand out at the top.
• Job Title. Match the professional title underneath your name to the exact job title of the position you’re applying for. Hiring managers often hire for several roles at once, so giving them this cue about what role you’re after helps things go smoother.
• Email Address. Always use a professional and easy-to-spell email address. Ideally, it should combine your first and last names.
• Phone Number. Add a number where the hiring manager can easily reach you.
• Location. Add your city and state/country, no need for more details.
• Relevant Links (optional). You can add links to websites or social media profiles that are relevant to your field. Examples include a LinkedIn profile , Github, or an online portfolio.

Then it’s time to add the recipient’s contact details, such as:

• Hiring Manager's Name. If you can find the name of the hiring manager, add it.
• Hiring Manager's Title. While there’s no harm in writing “hiring manager,” if they’re the head of the department, we recommend you use that title accordingly.
• Company Name. Make sure to write the name of the company you're applying to.
• Location. The city and state/country are usually enough information here, too.
• Date of Writing (Optional). You can include the date you wrote your cover letter for an extra professional touch.

#3. Address the Hiring Manager

Once you’ve properly listed all the contact information, it’s time to start writing the content of the cover letter.

The first thing you need to do here is to address your cover letter directly to the hiring manager.

In fact, you want to address the hiring manager personally .

Forget the old “Dear Sir or Madam” or the impersonal “To Whom It May Concern.” You want to give your future boss a good impression and show them that you did your research before sending in your application.

No one wants to hire a job seeker who just spams 20+ companies and hopes something sticks with their generic approach

So, how do you find out who’s the hiring manager?

First, check the job ad. The hiring manager’s name might be listed somewhere in it.

If that doesn’t work, check the company’s LinkedIn page. You just need to look up the head of the relevant department you’re applying to, and you’re all set.

For example, if you’re applying for the position of Communication Specialist at Novorésumé. The hiring manager is probably the Head of Communications or the Chief Communications Officer.

Here’s what you should look for on LinkedIn:

And there you go! You have your hiring manager.

But let’s say you’re applying for a position as a server . In that case, you’d be looking for the “restaurant manager” or “food and beverage manager.”

If the results don’t come up with anything, try checking out the “Team” page on the company website; there’s a good chance you’ll at least find the right person there.

Make sure to address them as Mr. or Ms., followed by their last name. If you’re not sure about their gender or marital status, you can just stick to their full name, like so:

• Dear Mr. Kurtuy,
• Dear Andrei Kurtuy,

But what if you still can’t find the hiring manager’s name, no matter where you look?

No worries. You can direct your cover letter to the company, department, or team as a whole, or just skip the hiring manager’s name.

• Dear [Department] Hiring Manager
• Dear Hiring Manager
• Dear [Department] Team
• Dear [Company Name]

Are you applying for a research position? Learn how to write an academic personal statement .

#4. Write an Eye-Catching Introduction

First impressions matter, especially when it comes to your job search.

Hiring managers get hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of applications. Chances are, they’re not going to be reading every single cover letter end-to-end.

So, it’s essential to catch their attention from the very first paragraph.

The biggest problem with most opening paragraphs is that they’re usually extremely generic. Here’s an example:

• My name is Jonathan, and I’d like to work as a Sales Manager at XYZ Inc. I’ve worked as a Sales Manager at MadeUpCompany Inc. for 5+ years, so I believe that I’d be a good fit for the position.

See the issue here? This opening paragraph doesn’t say anything except the fact that you’ve worked the job before.

And do you know who else has similar work experience? All the other applicants you’re competing with.

Instead, you want to start with some of your top achievements to grab the reader’s attention. And to get the point across, the achievements should be as relevant as possible to the position.

Your opening paragraph should also show the hiring manager a bit about why you want this specific job. For example, mention how the job relates to your plans for the future or how it can help you grow professionally. This will show the hiring manager that you’re not just applying left and right—you’re actually enthusiastic about getting this particular role.

Now, let’s make our previous example shine:

Dear Mr. Smith,

My name’s Michael, and I’d like to help XYZ Inc. hit and exceed its sales goals as a Sales Manager. I’ve worked as a Sales Representative with Company X, another fin-tech company , for 3+ years, where I generated an average of $30,000+ in sales per month and beat the KPIs by around 40%. I believe that my previous industry experience, passion for finance , and excellence in sales make me the right candidate for the job.

The second candidate starts with what they can do for the company in the future and immediately lists an impressive and relevant achievement. Since they’re experienced in the same industry and interested in finance, the hiring manager can see they’re not just a random applicant.

From this introduction, it’s safe to say that the hiring manager would read the rest of this candidate’s cover letter.

#5. Use the Cover Letter Body for Details

The next part of your cover letter is where you can go into detail about what sets you apart as a qualified candidate for the job.

The main thing you need to remember here is that you shouldn’t make it all about yourself . Your cover letter is supposed to show the hiring manager how you relate to the job and the company you’re applying to.

No matter how cool you make yourself sound in your cover letter, if you don’t tailor it to match what the hiring manager is looking for, you’re not getting an interview.

To get this right, use the job ad as a reference when writing your cover letter. Make sure to highlight skills and achievements that match the job requirements, and you’re good to go.

Since this part of your cover letter is by far the longest, you should split it into at least two paragraphs.

Here’s what each paragraph should cover:

Explain Why You’re the Perfect Candidate for the Role

Before you can show the hiring manager that you’re exactly what they’ve been looking for, you need to know what it is they’re looking for.

Start by doing a bit of research. Learn what the most important skills and responsibilities of the role are according to the job ad, and focus on any relevant experience you have that matches them.

For example, if you’re applying for the position of a Facebook Advertiser. The top requirements on the job ad are:

• Experience managing a Facebook ad budget of $10,000+ / month
• Some skills in advertising on other platforms (Google Search + Twitter)
• Excellent copywriting skills

So, in the body of your cover letter, you need to show how you meet these requirements. Here’s an example of what that can look like:

In my previous role as a Facebook Marketing Expert at XYZ Inc. I handled customer acquisition through ads, managing a monthly Facebook ad budget of $40,000+ . As the sole digital marketer at the company, I managed the ad creation and management process end-to-end. I created the ad copy and images, picked the targeting, ran optimization trials, and so on.

Other than Facebook advertising, I’ve also delved into other online PPC channels, including:

• Google Search

Our example addresses all the necessary requirements and shows off the candidate’s relevant skills.

Are you a student applying for your first internship? Learn how to write an internship cover letter with our dedicated guide.

Explain Why You’re a Good Fit for the Company

As skilled and experienced as you may be, that’s not all the hiring manager is looking for.

They also want someone who’s a good fit for their company and who actually wants to work there.

Employees who don’t fit in with the company culture are likely to quit sooner or later. This ends up costing the company a ton of money, up to 50% of the employee’s annual salary , so hiring managers vet candidates very carefully to avoid this scenario.

So, you have to convince the hiring manager that you’re passionate about working with them.

Start by doing some research about the company. You want to know things like:

• What’s the company’s business model?
• What’s the company’s product or service? Have you used it?
• What’s the company’s culture like?

Chances are, you’ll find all the information you need either on the company website or on job-search websites like Jobscan or Glassdoor.

Then, pick your favorite thing about the company and talk about it in your cover letter.

But don’t just describe the company in its own words just to flatter them. Be super specific—the hiring manager can see through any fluff.

For example, if you’re passionate about their product and you like the company’s culture of innovation and independent work model, you can write something like:

I’ve personally used the XYZ Smartphone, and I believe that it’s the most innovative tech I’ve used in years. The features, such as Made-Up-Feature #1 and Made-Up-Feature #2, were real game changers for the device.

I really admire how Company XYZ strives for excellence in all its product lines, creating market-leading tech. As someone who thrives in a self-driven environment, I truly believe that I’ll be a great match for your Product Design team.

So, make sure to do your fair share of research and come up with good reasons why you're applying to that specific company.

Is the company you want to work for not hiring at the moment? Check out our guide to writing a letter of interest .

#6. Wrap It Up and Sign It

Finally, it’s time to conclude your cover letter.

In the final paragraph, you want to:

• Wrap up any points you couldn't make in the previous paragraphs. Do you have anything left to say? If there’s any other information that could help the hiring manager make their decision, mention it here. If not, just recap your key selling points so far, such as key skills and expertise.
• Express gratitude. Politely thanking the hiring manager for their time is always a good idea.
• Finish the cover letter with a call to action. The very last sentence in your cover letter should be a call to action. This means you should ask the hiring manager to do something, like call you and discuss your application or arrange an interview.
• Remember to sign your cover letter. Just add a formal closing line and sign your name at the bottom.

Here’s an example of how to end your cover letter :

I hope to help Company X make the most of their Facebook marketing initiatives. I'd love to further discuss how my previous success at XYZ Inc. can help you achieve your Facebook marketing goals. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at the provided email address or phone number so that we may arrange an interview.

Thank you for your consideration,

Alice Richards

Feel free to use one of these other popular closing lines for your cover letter:

• Best Regards,
• Kind Regards,

Cover Letter Writing Checklist

Once you’re done with your cover letter, it’s time to check if it meets all industry requirements. 

Give our handy cover letter writing checklist a look to make sure:

Does your cover letter heading include all essential information?

• Professional Email
• Phone Number
• Relevant Links

Do you address the right person? 

• The hiring manager in the company
• Your future direct supervisor
• The company/department in general

Does your introductory paragraph grab the reader's attention?

• Did you mention some of your top achievements?
• Did you use numbers and facts to back up your experience?
• Did you convey enthusiasm for the specific role?

Do you show that you’re the right candidate for the job?

• Did you identify the core requirements for the role?
• Did you show how your experiences helped you fit the requirements perfectly?

Do you convince the hiring manager that you’re passionate about the company you’re applying to?

• Did you identify the top 3 things that you like about the company?
• Did you avoid generic reasons for explaining your interest in the company?

Did you conclude your cover letter properly?

• Did you recap your key selling points in the conclusion?
• Did you end your cover letter with a call to action?
• Did you use the right formal closing line and sign your name?

15 Cover Letter Tips

Now you’re all set to write your cover letter! 

Before you start typing, here are some cover letter tips to help take your cover letter to the next level:

• Customize Your Cover Letter for Each Job. Make sure your cover letter is tailored to the job you're applying for. This shows you're not just sending generic applications left and right, and it tells the hiring manager you’re the right person for the job.
• Showcase Your Skills. Talk about how your skills meet the company’s needs. And while your hard skills should be front and center, you shouldn’t underestimate your soft skills in your cover letter either.
• Avoid Fluff. Don’t make any generic statements you can’t back up. The hiring manager can tell when you’re just throwing words around, and it doesn’t make your cover letter look good.
• Use Specific Examples. Instead of saying you're great at something, give an actual example to back up your claim. Any data you can provide makes you sound more credible, so quantify your achievements. For example, give numbers such as percentages related to your performance and the timeframe it took to accomplish certain achievements.
• Research the Company. Always take time to learn about the company you're applying to. Make sure to mention something about them in your cover letter to show the hiring manager that you're interested.
• Follow the Application Instructions. If the job posting asks for something specific in your cover letter or requires a certain format, make sure you include it. Not following instructions can come off as unattentive or signal to the hiring manager that you’re not taking the job seriously.
• Use the Right Template and Format. Choose the right cover letter format and adapt your cover letter’s look to the industry you’re applying for. For example, if you’re aiming for a job in Law or Finance, you should go for a cleaner, more professional look. But if you’re applying for a field that values innovation, like IT or Design, you have more room for creativity.
• Express Your Enthusiasm. Let the hiring manager know why you're excited about the job. Your passion for the specific role or the field in general can be a big selling point, and show them that you’re genuinely interested, not just applying left and right.
• Address Any Gaps. If there are any employment gaps in your resume , your cover letter is a great place to mention why. Your resume doesn’t give you enough space to elaborate on an employment gap, so addressing it here can set hiring managers at ease—life happens, and employers understand.
• Avoid Quirky Emails. Your email address should be presentable. It’s hard for a hiring manager to take you seriously if your email address is “[email protected].” Just use a [email protected] format.
• Check Your Contact Information. Typos in your email address or phone number can mean a missed opportunity. Double-check these before sending your application.
• Mention if You Want to Relocate. If you’re looking for a job that lets you move somewhere else, specify this in your cover letter.
• Keep It Brief. You want to keep your cover letter short and sweet. Hiring managers don’t have time to read a novel, so if you go over one page, they simply won’t read it at all.
• Use a Professional Tone. Even though a conversational tone isn’t a bad thing, remember that it's still a formal document. Show professionalism in your cover letter by keeping slang, jargon, and emojis out of it.
• Proofread Carefully. Typos and grammar mistakes are a huge deal-breaker. Use a tool like Grammarly or QuillBot to double-check your spelling and grammar, or even get a friend to check it for you.

15+ Cover Letter Examples

Need some inspiration? Check out some perfect cover letter examples for different experience levels and various professions.

5+ Cover Letter Examples by Experience

#1. college student cover letter example.

Check out our full guide to writing a college student cover letter here.

#2. Middle Management Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a project manager cover letter here.

#3. Team Leader Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a team leader cover letter here.

#4. Career Change Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to a career change resume and cover letter here.

#5. Management Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a management cover letter here.

#6. Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing an executive resume here.

9+ Cover Letter Examples by Profession

#1. it cover letter example.

Check out our full guide to writing an IT cover letter here.

#2. Consultant Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a consultant cover letter here.

#3. Human Resources Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a human resources cover letter here.

#4. Business Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a business cover letter here.

#5. Sales Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a sales cover letter here.

#6. Social Worker Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a social worker cover letter here.

#7. Lawyer Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a lawyer cover letter here.

#8. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing an administrative assistant cover letter here.

#9. Engineering Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing an engineer cover letter here.

#10. Receptionist Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a receptionist cover letter here.

Need more inspiration? Check out these cover letter examples to learn what makes them stand out.

Plug & Play Cover Letter Template

Not sure how to start your cover letter? Don’t worry!

Just copy and paste our free cover letter template into the cover letter builder, and swap out the blanks for your details.

[Your Full Name]

[Your Profession]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Location]

[Your LinkedIn Profile URL (optional)]

[Your Personal Website URL (optional)]

[Recipient's Name, e.g., Jane Doe],

[Recipient's Position, e.g., Hiring Manager]

[Company Name, e.g., ABC Corporation]

[Company Address]

[City, State/Country]

Dear [Recipient's Name],

As a seasoned [Your Profession] with [Number of Years of Experience] years of industry experience, I am eager to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. With my experience in [Your Industry/Sector] and the successes I've achieved throughout my education and career, I believe I can bring unique value and creativity to your team.

In my current role as [Your Current Job Title], I've taken the lead on more than [Number of Projects/Assignments] projects, some valued up to $[Highest Project Value]. I pride myself on consistently exceeding client expectations and have successfully [Mention a Key Achievement] in just a [Amount of Time] through [Skill] and [Skill].

I've collaborated with various professionals, such as [List Roles], ensuring that all [projects/tasks] meet [relevant standards or objectives]. This hands-on experience, coupled with my dedication to understanding each [client's/customer's] vision, has equipped me to navigate and deliver on complex projects.

My key strengths include:

• Improving [Achievement] by [%] over [Amount of Time] which resulted in [Quantified Result].
• Optimizing [Work Process/Responsibility] which saved [Previous Employer] [Amount of Time/Budget/Other Metric] over [Weeks/Months/Years]
• Spearheading team of [Number of People] to [Task] and achieving [Quantified Result].

Alongside this letter, I've attached my resume. My educational background, a [Your Degree] with a concentration in [Your Specialization], complements the practical skills that I'm particularly eager to share with [Company Name].

I'm excited about the possibility of contributing to [Something Notable About the Company or Its Mission]. I'd be grateful for the chance to delve deeper into how my expertise aligns with your needs.

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

The Heart of Your Job Search - Creating a Killer Resume

Your cover letter is only as good as your resume. If either one is weak, your entire application falls through.

After all, your cover letter is meant to complement your resume. Imagine going through all this effort to leave an amazing first impression in your cover letter, only for the hiring manager to never read it because your resume was mediocre.

But don’t worry; we’ve got you covered here, too.

Check out our dedicated guide on how to make a resume and learn everything you need to know to land your dream job!

Just pick one of our resume templates and start writing your own job-winning resume.

Key Takeaways

Now that we’ve walked you through all the steps of writing a cover letter, let’s summarize everything we’ve learned:

• A cover letter is a 250 - 400 word document that’s meant to convince the hiring manager that you’re the best candidate for the job.
• Your job application should always include a cover letter alongside your resume.
• To grab the hiring manager’s attention, write a strong opening paragraph. Mention who you are, why you’re applying, and a standout achievement to pique their interest.
• Your cover letter should focus on why you’re the perfect candidate for the job and why you’re passionate about working in this specific company.
• Use the body of your cover letter to provide details on your skills, achievements, and qualifications, as well as make sure to convey your enthusiasm throughout your whole cover letter.
• Recap your key selling points towards the end of your cover letter, and end it with a formal closing line and your full name signed underneath.

At Novorésumé, we’re committed to helping you get the job you deserve every step of the way! 

Follow our career blog for more valuable advice, or check out some of our top guides, such as:

• How to Make a Resume in 2024 | Beginner's Guide
• How to Write a CV (Curriculum Vitae) in 2024 [31+ Examples]
• 35+ Job Interview Questions and Answers [Full List]

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7 Ways to Improve Your Cover Letter Today

• February 5, 2022
• In Resumes & Cover Letters

Having an original and attractive cover letter along with a polished resume can be your golden ticket to a job interview. Most employers agree that cover letters often play a crucial part in their decision. Essentially, a well-written cover letter is your chance to stand out, so don’t miss out on it.

Your cover letter can do one of two things. In some cases, it can grab the attention of the hiring manager and get you an interview . In others, it can make you seem uncreative and boring. What is the difference? Mostly, it is the way you structure it.

Most importantly, remember that the goal of a cover letter is to land an interview . A cover letter should be more than an expansion of your resume . Essentially, it should make the hiring manager want to know more. It should be written with the employer in mind. In other words, address their needs and potential questions. In other words, think about what you can offer the employer, not the other way around.

Here are 7 ways how to improve your cover letter

1. Research the company (Analyze the job listing) 2. Address your cover letter to the right person 3. Capture the reader’s attention 4. Make your cover letter stand out 5. Choose the right cover letter template 6. Don’t repeat your resume 7. Check for typos and grammatical errors

Undoubtedly, your cover letter should address the points mentioned in the job listing. However, avoid copy-pasting phrases and keywords. Instead, simply ensure you use the same language as the advertisement. To further improve your cover letter, include the requirements from the job listing.

Addressing the hiring manager by name is a sure way to improve your cover letter. Essentially, using a name instead of a generic greeting will make your cover letter stand out. You can even try and search online or call the company to find out the name of the hiring manager. Sometimes, you may not know who you are addressing at all. In this case, skip the greetings and get right to the body of your cover letter.

Attracting the reader from the very beginning of your cover letter is crucial. Unfortunately, many cover letters end up in the trash because they are hard or boring to read. For this reason, remember to improve your cover letter by editing it to be concise and capturing. First, use the keywords from the job description in the first paragraph. Second, summarize your key competencies in the first few sentences. Also, avoid sending the same letter to more companies. Always tailor the cover letter to the position and company you are applying for.

Remember, your hiring manager will likely read hundreds of cover letters in a day. For this reason, it is important to make yours stand out. Within the first paragraph, include something extraordinary. This may be an internship you had, your biggest achievement, or a piece of rare knowledge. Moreover, if you have studied or worked abroad, be sure to mention it. Essentially, show what makes you unique. It is important to avoid generic phrases. Starting a cover letter with “I am … and I applied for … position” will likely not wow anyone.

Match your cover letter to your resume. Choose the same font for both your resume and cover letter. Your application will look polished and professional. Want to write your cover letter in minutes? Use our pre-made resume and cover letter templates . A template produced by a professional designer is a great starting point. Choose from classic, modern, or elegant styling.

To improve your cover letter, avoid repeating your resume . Unfortunately, many cover letters end up being resumes in paragraph form. Remember that your cover letter will be attached to your resume , so there is no need for repetition. Rather, improve your cover letter by providing a glance at your personality. For example, show off some fun facts about your field of work. Likewise, showing your curiosity by mentioning recent news is sure to grab attention.

Regardless of experience and skill , a cover letter with typos rarely gets approved. Thus, double-checking your spelling is the easiest way to improve your cover letter. If there are spelling errors in your cover letter, the employer may feel like the job is not important to you.

Popular related posts:

• How to Make Your Resume, Cover Letter, and Linkedin Profile Work Together, and Help You Get The Job of Your Dreams
• “Why are You Leaving Your Current Job?“ 4 Best Answers
• How To Get a Job Faster With a Professionally Written Resume
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12 Cover Letter Tips and Tricks to Improve Your Application (With Examples)

12 good cover letter tips that we advise for all job seekers and applicants to infuse for a better chance of getting invited for an interview.

Here are 12 cover letter tips to improve your chances of getting an interview. Following each of these will help you:

• Explain the backstory of your skills and experience
• Showcase your personality and attitude
• Tailor your application to the company you’re applying to

We’ll also share 3 bonus executive cover letter writing tips as well as how to create a unique cover letter following the best practices in less than 60 seconds.

Without further ado, let’s dive right in.

12 Best Cover Letter Writing Tips

Use these tips to write a cover letter for any job . Following each of these will boost your chances of securing a job interview. 

1. Personalize Every Cover Letter You Send

Hiring managers can tell apart the difference between a generic application and a tailored application. 

Cover letters are meant to be personalized. The purpose of your cover letter is to prove that you’re the best person to hire. However, using the same cover letter for all companies you’re applying to reflects a lack of interest.

Personalizing your cover letter doesn’t mean you need to start again from scratch. Instead, make some tweaks by: 

• Including job description keywords
• Mentioning a company’s core values
• Being selective with the skills and experiences to highlight

Quality gets more results than quantity. Still, it’s possible to do both with an AI cover letter generator . 

2. Use the Active Voice to Write Impact-Driven Sentences 

Active voice focuses on the subject of the sentence. Passive voice focuses on the object of the sentence. 

Here’s an example: 

• I am proficient in dealing with cross-functional teams to complete projects within tight time frames.
• Dealing with cross-functional teams to complete projects within tight deadlines is one of my proficiencies.

The former highlights the significance of your actions compared to the latter. 

Your resume and cover letter are supposed to show the hiring manager how you can make an impact on the company. That’s why the active voice is used rather than the passive voice because it puts more emphasis on your actions and efforts. 

3. Show How You Align With the Company Culture

When you’re applying for a competitive job opening, other candidates will likely have similar work experience and skills. So to help make a decision, a prospective employer would take into account transferable skills and personal traits. 

Those of you whose personality matches the company’s core values have a competitive advantage, even if you have no relevant experience .

Here’s a few things to consider: 

• Mention career goals that align with the company’s mission
• Share what impressed you most about the company and why
• Give examples of how you overcame challenges that the company is facing
• Highlight your passions, hobbies, and interests

4. Paint a Picture of the Future

Resumes give recruiters an overview of your work history. In other words, your past. Cover letters, on the other hand, are more about proving how you can be valuable to the company’s success moving forward. 

Another tip here is to start by outlining before making a draft so that you know what to highlight in each paragraph. 

Aside from writing a call to action, imply how your experiences make you stand out as well as how you can continue to stand out when employed. 

Here’s a few examples: 

• My success in exceeding sales quotas and instituting a customer cost savings program demonstrate my ability to consistently meet and exceed the expectations of my employers.
• I believe that my experience aligns with your current needs. After reviewing my resume, I am confident you will agree that my proven performance record and ambition will be an asset to the company.

5. Use a Variety of Sentence Openers

It makes your writing boring. It also looks amateur. It also looks unpleasant to the eye. 

Notice the problem with that entire line? 

Overusing the same words makes your application a lot less engaging. Too much repetition itself kills your writing. So instead, aim to use a range of sentence openers to retain your reader’s interest. 

6. Use a Conversational Tone 

Write in the same way you would talk in a professional environment. Have a friendly tone of voice but keep it semi-formal. 

Taking a conversational approach makes your writing more engaging. It’s also how you showcase personality. That said, don’t be too friendly and too much on the casual side as if you were speaking to a family member.

7. Mention Mutual Connections or Personal Experiences With the Company

After mentioning the job opportunity you’re interested in, mention how you found out about it in the first place. For some of you, it’s because you were introduced to the company by a mutual connection. 

Whether you’ve met the team before on a previous occasion or have a mutual connection, it makes for a strong conversation starter. 

Here’s an example below on how to bring this up on a cover letter. 

“I am pleased to present my application for the Product Manager position at Google. I have spoken with several members of Google’s Product Management team and was impressed by their acuity and passion for developing products that are a pleasure to use.”

8. Write With Conviction 

Companies want to hire someone who can help them reach their goals. Not someone who thinks that they can do it. 

Here’s some words to replace:

• Swap “if” for “when”
• Swap “but” for “so”
• Swap “could” for “would”

Write with confidence. Reinforce your points with statistics from key achievements to not come off as cocky or too subjective.

9. Keep It Short

Be concise. Get straight to the point. The ideal length for a good cover letter format is around half a page long. 

Longer applications don’t always equate to good applications. A shorter cover letter that’s selective with what to include will get more results compared to a cover letter that includes irrelevant information for the sake of length. 

10. Elaborate on Points From Your Resume

Copying your resume without introducing any new information is a common cover letter mistake . However, it’s not a mistake to go in-depth on the points you mentioned on your resume. 

For example, say there’s a projects section on your resume. Although your resume lists down what you achieved, use your cover letter to write about the obstacles you had to overcome. Then, explain how that experience gives you confidence that you’re the ideal candidate on the list. 

On that note, avoid repeating the same points on your resume. Although cover letters aren’t always necessary, sending a bad cover letter could hurt your chances of getting an interview. 

11. Ask a Friend or Family Member to Read Your Cover Letter

To be absolutely certain, ask a friend or family member to read your application. They’re more likely to catch small slipups than you are, especially when you’ve already read through your cover letter numerous times. 

Never send off your cover letter without proofreading it twice. 

12. Do Some LinkedIn Research 

Here’s a hack to use to your advantage: 

• Find the company you’re applying for on LinkedIn
• Check the people page
• Use the search bar to enter your job position, e.g. software engineer
• Click on the software engineer’s profile that’s currently employed at the company
• Get inspiration from their profile

In other words, see what other successful candidates and current employees at the company are currently working on. Then determine if any of those details could be mentioned on your cover letter. This makes it clear that one, you’ve done your research, and two, you’re motivated.

3 More Bonus Executive Cover Letter Tips

Here’s a bonus: we’ll share 3 executive cover letter tips. This is applicable for c-suite professionals as well as workers at all levels. Or, feel free to check out our breakdowns of proven cover letter examples for inspiration. 

1. Expand on the Success of a Passion Project

Share about the success of a relevant passion project that you worked on. Or you can share how many projects you’ve worked on in the past that’s related to the field you’re in.

The goal here isn’t just to flex your professional achievements. It’s also to demonstrate in-depth expertise and self-motivation. Explaining the backstory of your employment timeline as well as your work history alongside side projects is one of the best ways to show that you have a genuine interest . 

2. Use Industry-Related Terms 

Executives are industry leaders. Therefore, it makes sense to use industry-related terms when you live and breathe your profession. However, use these buzzwords naturally, sparingly, and in the context of your skills. 

And to reinforce your industry knowledge, share relevant accomplishments using data.  

3. Include Examples That Demonstrate Leadership Ability

Demonstrate leadership ability by giving examples from your professional experiences that highlight soft skills.

Cover letters are all about telling a story. With that in mind, explain how you developed soft skills and refer to past wins to support your claims. Hiring managers are interested in learning about your professional growth. 

If you’re applying for internship roles , you can still mention examples that showcase leadership ability. Instead of referring to work experience though, you’d refer to your academic background.

Spend 60 Seconds or Less Creating Unique, Tailored Cover Letters

Rezi’s AI cover letter generator makes it possible to create a cover letter instantly based on both your work background and the job description. 

Here’s how it works: 

• Enter the company name.
• Write the job title you’re applying for. 
• Select a previous role to highlight. 
• Press “AI Writer Ready”.

Thanks to this, users can send more tailored job applications in minutes. 

Sign up here to get started for free. 

Or watch the short clip below to see it in action.

Final Thoughts

Resumes are important but so are cover letters. 

Apply these tips to write a compelling cover letter. And if you want to speed up the writing process, try giving Rezi AI a go.

Explore Rezi 🔥 Comes with 5,000 AI Credits, and is free forever, no credit card required.

Astley Cervania

Astley Cervania is a career writer and editor who has helped hundreds of thousands of job seekers build resumes and cover letters that land interviews. He is a Rezi-acknowledged expert in the field of career advice and has been delivering job success insights for 4+ years, helping readers translate their work background into a compelling job application.

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• CV and Cover Letter
• Proofread Like a Pro -...

Proofread Like a Pro - Elevate your Resume and Cover Letter

14 min read · Updated on April 16, 2024

Rise above the rest by presenting a perfect, error-free resume

When you're writing a resume, you have a whole lifetime to consider – and to condense into a couple of pages. Looking back over the years at the skills you've developed, the qualifications you've gained, the courses you've completed, and the experience you've acquired both professionally and personally, you have a tough job on your hands to produce a resume that not only looks great but is packed with content that makes you shine. 

Well done if you manage to wrestle your life onto two pages ! Now comes the next stage - polishing it so that you're presenting the very best version of yourself. As you're so close to it, it's natural that the odd mistake will creep in. Don't let a silly typo or misplaced apostrophe create a poor first impression and prevent you from progressing further in the hiring process. 

In this article we'll give you some hints and tips to help you with resume proofreading so that you can knock the socks off the hiring manager - for all the right reasons. We've also got some examples of common mistakes, so that you can elevate your resume above the crowd. 

Why should you proofread your resume?

Whichever role you're applying for, you only get one chance to make a first impression. Don't let that impression be one of sloppy work and carelessness! When they evaluate your resume and cover letter, employers aren't only looking at your skills, experience, and qualifications. They're also looking at the presentation of the documents. 

How well you lay out the content and articulate your suitability for the role and, yes, how good your spelling, grammar and punctuation is, all form part of that first impression. Have you noticed how many job postings specify that applicants need “ good communication skills ?” Accurate writing is just one of the ways you can meet their expectations. 

Throughout the hiring process, it's likely that multiple people will review your resume - and every single one of them will be left with their own impression of you. All of these people have the potential to influence hiring decisions, so why expect them all to overlook your careless typo or your poor phrasing? 

As you can see, resume proofreading isn't optional - it's a necessity! So, without further ado, let's dive into some techniques you can use to banish even the most easily overlooked errors. 

How do you proofread a resume?

There are many different ways that you can eliminate errors and polish punctuation. While you won't want to use all the methods suggested here, it's recommended that you use a variety of techniques to ensure you capture every little mistake that's crept in. 

Use spell check

Your first port of call for resume proofreading is likely to be the built-in spellchecker on Word. We've all experienced the typos that arise from rushed typing or made some of the common spelling errors that seem to be entering our daily lexicon. Working with spell check turned on means that you can make changes while you type the document, so your first draft should already have several errors removed. Beware of relying solely on spell check though - there are several common errors it won't pick up and it also won't check for sense or accuracy. 

Pro tip: Make sure your spell check is set to the right version of English for where you're applying – American English is unlikely to go down well in the UK and vice versa. 

Read the document very slowly

Great – using spell check means you now have a good draft to work with. Next up, go through the document again yourself, word by word and line by line. Try not to read what you think it says, but what it actually says. Take as long as you can to read it – don't rush. You're more likely to catch errors and typos if you take your time. 

Next up, you might like to find a quiet place to work, because you'll be reading your resume and cover letter aloud. There are two ways you can do this. The first is to read each word out loud yourself. The second, and best, way is to use the Read Aloud function on Word, which will read the entire document to you. 

This is a great resume proofreading technique, as you'll be able to hear errors you may not pick up visually. An added bonus is that it forces you to slow down your reading, so as each word is highlighted you'll automatically pick up further errors, such as missing commas or jarring phrases. 

Leverage technology 

While we'd never advocate using AI to write your resume , technology is your friend and can be leveraged to improve your application. While no specific resume proofreading software exists, common tools such as Grammarly and Hemmingway will flag potential issues. You could also prompt ChatGPT to spot typos or other mistakes. This is an easy way to upgrade your resume proofreading free of charge.

Pro tip: There's no substitute for a human brain – yet! Rather than blindly implementing every recommendation from these tools, take a critical approach to determine whether the suggestions are actually correct. If they wouldn't improve your documents – or would even introduce further errors – leave them by the wayside. 

Change the font

Why not try switching your standard font for one you don't normally use? Pick a serif font, rather than serif, for example. Seeing the words look different, with different spacing, might just make that misplaced letter jump out. Don't forget to change it back to your preferred font afterwards though!

Take a break

Writing a resume can be draining! You don't just need to trawl back through a lifetime of information to identify your skills, experience, and qualifications; you also need to summarize them into a compelling and persuasive document that looks good, sells you, and meets the requirements of the role. And when you've done that, you need to start on the cover letter too – or even a personal statement! 

Treat yourself to a break; you deserve it. Come back to the resume after a good night's sleep, or a day out – or even a holiday. Reading it with fresh eyes and a clear mind will help you to spot mistakes that would otherwise have gone unnoticed. 

Read it backwards

This tip won't help you to ensure that the document makes sense, but it could help you to pick up little typos and spelling errors that have crept in. Start at the end of the document and read one word at a time until you get to the top. Removing the context will prevent you from predicting the next word rather than checking it properly – and you'll read much more slowly, too!

Print it out or use a different device 

You've seen the resume on the screen you created it on – it's time to switch it up. Try printing the document on paper or viewing it on a phone or tablet. You could even do your resume proofreading in a different room. Changing the medium and the location will help you to see the document in a different light and maybe catch the last remaining errors. 

Call in your wingman

That's it – you've done all you can to catch those pesky problems. But you can still go one step further! Who is your wingman? Who do you trust above all others? Whether you have a colleague who's a whizz with words, an auntie who can spot an aberrant apostrophe at 50 yards, or a mate who'd happily take a machete to your work, don't be afraid to ask for help. After all, your own eyes are probably sick of the sight of your resume and cover letter by now. Worse, all that typing and tweaking and revisiting may have introduced even more errors!

Pro tip: A second pair of eyes on your work is invaluable - just make sure you pick someone who is willing to speak up and provide constructive feedback. Someone who tells you it's great, even if it's not, is doing more harm than good. 

Rely on the experts

If you don't want to impose on friends and family, or even if you're just keeping your job search on the down-low for now, you can still get help with your resume. Resume editing services such as TopResume have writers with excellent skills in English and proofreading and – as a bonus – they've seen all the most common resume errors a hundred times so they know what to look out for. Why not ask them to give your resume the once-over, for real peace of mind? 

Proofreading a resume - common errors

We've covered some general resume proofreading tips to make sure your resume is as error-free as possible, but we still have more for you! There are some types of mistakes that our resume writers see so often that they're almost predictable. A quick survey of experienced resume writers came up with some common resume mistakes that you'll want to avoid. 

False friends

These are words that have more than one spelling, sound similar, or are regular victims of typos. Check that none of these have slid in when you settle down to your resume proofreading:

Role / roll: You almost certainly want to use role – this is the job you do, as opposed to roll – a bread product or the action of turning over. 

Manager / manger : Your manager is your boss, a manger is where the baby Jesus was born. It's a dead certainty that the first version is what you should be using on your resume, but unfortunately in March 2024 there were 14,000+ people on LinkedIn describing themselves as mangers. Don't be one of them!

Customer / costumer: A customer is the person you serve, a costumer is someone dealing in snazzy outfits. Again, you probably need the first option. 

Diary / dairy: Executive Assistants and Administrators who say they're involved in dairy management can expect to see more cows than anticipated in their next role. Use a diary for recording your appointments and a dairy for milking your herd of cattle. 

Compliment / complement: Hopefully you get a lot of compliments at work – that's when someone says something nice about your work (or your new hairdo). Complement means that things fit well together – like apple pie and custard. 

Lead / led: While both words have a place on many resumes, led is the past tense (e.g. I led a team in my previous job) and lead is the present tense (e.g. I lead a team at the moment).

Rapport / Rapour: You strike up a rapport with someone – rapour isn't even a word, but is a common example of people spelling as they talk. Spellcheck has underlined it for a reason!

Ethic / ethnic: Ethic commonly sits with work (e.g. I have a great work ethic), whereas ethnic commonly sits with minority (e.g. a disproportionate number of ethnic minority children are excluded). Choose wisely as that one letter makes all the difference!

Other common resume and cover letter errors

Of course, not all mistakes are caused by false friends like those above. Some are introduced as deliberate choices due to a misunderstanding on the part of the writer. That's why having someone else review your resume can be vital in picking up errors that would otherwise be missed. Common examples are: 

Spelling of proper nouns: Proper nouns are names and therefore are often not in a spellcheck dictionary. You can expect to see spell check highlighting some proper nouns on your resume, but that doesn't mean they're wrong – they may even highlight your own name as a typo! Don't automatically ignore the spell check in these instances though – on a resume, it's important to double-check the spelling of company names and software in particular. 

Check not just the spelling, but also capitalisation and spacing as well. Brands are often keen to stand out by taking a quirky or unconventional approach to spelling, punctuation, and grammar! Make sure you use the brand name exactly as it's designed. 

Capitalization: When you're proofreading your resume, watch out for your use of capital letters. Often they sneak in when they shouldn't. Capitals are most commonly used correctly to start sentences or for names and titles. Don't use them to add emphasis or just because something seems important. For example, “I specialize in Financial Investigation, Reporting, and Data Analysis” has altogether far too many capitals. 

Apostrophes: Those that can, love them. Those that can't, hate them. The controversial topic of apostrophes is very relevant to resumes, as they are so frequently misplaced. Acronyms don't need them and neither do plurals – it's KPIs not KPI's, and targets not target's, for example. Apostrophes are only ever used for omission and possession, but if in doubt, call in your wingman. Or a professional. Or even AI. Just don't throw them around like confetti!

Spacing: Resume proofreading isn't just about the words, it's also about what's between them. Ensure there's plenty of white space between sections and that the spacing is consistent throughout the document. Also, remember that the standard these days is one space after a period, not two.

Consistency: A resume that uses words and abbreviations consistently is one that shines with attention to detail and accuracy. Choose your format and stick to it. For example, don't write “$10million” in one place, “$10M” in another, and “$10m” in yet another. Similarly, keep monetary values in one currency wherever possible to support comparisons – don't mix $, £ and € unless it's unavoidable. 

Repetition: Is your resume an engaging and interesting read? Or is it dull as ditchwater? If you've started every other bullet point with “managed” or “responsible for,” I'm afraid you fall into the latter category. Shake up your vocabulary and use a variety of words to stop your reader falling asleep halfway through. Why not create a word cloud of your resume? The words you use most often will appear in a larger font and you can use this information to identify where you need to switch it up. 

Accessibility: This is another area where input from your wingman is invaluable. Do they understand the entire resume? Remember that, initially at least, the resume may not be read by someone with an in-depth understanding of your role. Maybe a recruiter, HR Manager or executive has got their hands on it. If it's filled with acronyms, abbreviations, and industry jargon, their eyes will glaze over and their brain will switch off. TL:DR: make sure your resume makes sense to a layperson.

Finally: Don't forget to proofread your resume any time you make changes to it. If you're doing a major update, such as adding your latest role, you'll definitely want to check through the entire document at least once more to catch mistakes and ensure it aligns with your current career aspirations . 

It's all about how you're presenting yourself

Of course, everyone wants an error-free resume and cover letter when they're applying for a new job. With these hints, tips, and hacks, and a commitment to resume proofreading, your job search documents should be ready to wow hiring managers and land you that interview.

If you'd like a fresh pair of eyes on your resume, why not submit it for a free resume review by our experts ? Take the guesswork out and increase your confidence with the knowledge that you've done all you can to make the recruiter's jaw drop.

This article was originally written by Amanda Augustine and has been updated by Jen David.

Recommended reading: 

17 Resume Tips to Get Seen and Hired Faster

5 Signs You Need a Professional Resume Review

Resume Spelling and Accent Explained

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11 Best Marketing Skills for Your Resume + Examples

Unique Facts: Beyond Your Resume Content

How to Feature a Minor on Your Resume Effectively (Update)

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10-Minute Transformation: Give Your Resume A Power Punch!

Writing your resume is hard! As if being unemployed wasn’t enough of a morale-buster, you’re now pressured to put the best version of yourself on paper. An experienced writer balks at this task! But I’ll let you in on a secret: you already have more than you think you do.

Related: Top 100 Most Powerful Resume Words

Here are some quick ways to take whatever you’ve got (blank screen, job description, old resume, first draft) and transform in with a 10-minute power punch! The hiring manager has already given you a blatant ‘edge’ over your competition, but so few applicants take advantage of it! The posting you read online contains a secret giveaway of what the employer considers an ideal candidate. Your ten-minute task is to make yourself fit that bill. With this 10-minute transformation, you can give your resume a power punch!

Grab Your Cheat Sheet

Delete the obvious, insert personality, active voice, quantify everything.

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Spring Cleaning: 4 Ways To Fix Your Job Search

Is your job search turning into a grind with no end in sight? It may be time to take a step back and reevaluate your entire approach.

In cold weather climates, the beginning of spring is a time to clean the house and get organized—a practice known as spring cleaning. Through the years, spring cleaning has taken on a larger meaning with people using the time to organize and declutter things in their lives.

For professionals on the job hunt, a little spring cleaning (metaphorically speaking) could be a great way to reinvigorate your job search. Here are a few strategies your job search spring cleaning should include.

Reevaluate Your Job Search Approach

Make a list of the last handful of jobs you applied for and see if you can identify any positive or negative trends. Consider things like:

• How did I learn about this job?
• How did I apply for the job?
• Did I earn an interview?
• What was the ultimate result?

A lot can be learned about your job search approach just by answering these questions and identifying patterns. For example:

Negative Trends

You discovered five jobs through job boards, applied to all of them via the job boards, and never heard back from any of them.

The common pattern here is applying through job boards. This isn't to say that job boards don't serve a purpose in the job search process, but they have their limitations , and you can't run your job search entirely off of them. When you apply through a job board, there's a good chance that your materials will never get past the applicant tracking system (ATS) and never be seen by an actual person.

One simple fix is to research who the hiring manager or recruiter is that posted the position and email your materials to them directly.

The more efficient fix would be to take a proactive approach by putting together a bucket list of companies that you want to work for and start making connections on LinkedIn with people who work at those companies. You may already know some people who work there or have connections that can refer you to some individuals.

This is a great way to network your way onto a company's radar.

Positive Trends

You applied to three jobs via referral, were invited to two job interviews, and made it through multiple rounds of interviews for one of the jobs before being passed over for someone with a little more experience.

The pattern here is that getting referred to a job by a professional acquaintance is a great way to land a job interview . This indicates that you're leveraging your network well and you should continue to focus on your networking efforts.

The next step is to review the interview process and determine what went well and what needs to be improved. Sometimes the interviewer will provide feedback , and that feedback can be valuable. However, not everyone is comfortable with giving feedback.

Chances are you probably have a good idea about areas of improvement and the skills you need to gain. Put together a plan for addressing those shortfalls.

The good news in making it deep into any interview process is that it indicates that the company likes you as a potential employee (even if the timing just wasn't right) and the experience could be a roadmap to a job with that company at a later date, or another similar opportunity elsewhere.

Give Your Resume & Cover Letter Some Much-Needed Attention

Are you continuously sending similar resumes and cover letters to each job opening with only minor adjustments? If so, your strategy needs some serious spring cleaning.

Let's start with resumes!

Every resume should be tailored to the position in order for it to stand out to recruiters and hiring managers . It may seem like a lot of work, but it's actually less work than submitting the same resume over and over again and never hearing back.

The reason why it's so important to tailor your resume is that throughout your career, you acquire numerous skills, but the job you're applying for may only be focusing on 6-8 of those skills. In that case, those skills must rise to the top of the resume with quantifiable examples of how you successfully used those skills at previous jobs.

Remember, recruiters go through hundreds of resumes. They need to be able to tell from a quick glance whether or not you're a potential candidate for the position.

While updating your resume, you could also spruce up your LinkedIn profile by highlighting the skill sets that you want to be noticed for by recruiters.

As for writing a good cover letter , the key to success is writing a disruptive cover letter . When you write a disruptive cover letter , you're basically telling a story. The story should focus on how you connect with the particular company and job position. The story could also focus on your personal journey, and how you got to where you currently are in your career.

If your resumes and cover letters aren't unique, now is the time to clean things up and get on track.

Build Your Personal Brand

Just because you're looking for work doesn't mean that you don't have anything to offer. Use previous career experiences and passions to build your personal brand .

Ask yourself, "How do I want other professionals to view me?"

Pick an area of expertise and start sharing your knowledge and experience with your professional network by pushing out content on your LinkedIn and social media accounts. Good content can include blogs, social media posts, and videos.

By sharing content about your experiences and passions, you slowly build your personal brand, and others will start to notice. The content could lead to good discussions with others in your network. It could also lead to reconnecting with connections that you haven't spoken to in years, or making new connections.

You never know when one of these connections could turn into a job lead or referral. The trick is to get on people's radars. So, when you're cleaning up your job search, be sure to build a plan for personal branding.

Maintain Healthy Habits During Your Job Search

Your job search is important, but it's even more important to know when to pull back and focus on personal health and spending time with family and friends.

There are actually things that you can do for your own enjoyment that could help your job search in the long run, such as:

• Grab coffee with a friend - It's good to engage in light conversation with friends during challenging times. And if your job search does come up, remember that most people have been through it themselves and you never know when a friend may provide you with a good idea or lead on a job.
• Volunteer - Volunteering is a great way to get involved in the community and help others. In addition, if you develop a little bit of a career gap while looking for a job, you can always talk about how you filled that time volunteering, if you're asked about it during a job interview.
• Continue to focus on other passions - Are you a fitness nut? Blogger? Crafter? Continue to do the things that bring you happiness. And if you're in a position to profit from your passion through a freelance job or side hustle , even better!

Spring is the perfect time to clean up and improve your job search so you can land the job you want. If you're struggling to find a job, follow the tips above to reinvigorate your job search—and watch your career blossom!

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This article was originally published at an earlier date.

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