What a cover letter is for
It answers three questions the employer is quietly asking: Why this role? Why this company? Why you? Keep it to under one page, three or four short paragraphs, and make every line earn its place. If a role doesn't ask for one, a short, sharp letter can still help you stand out.
A structure you can reuse
- Opening: the role you're applying for and a genuine, specific reason you're interested — not generic praise.
- Why you: two or three of your most relevant strengths, each backed by a quick example. Mirror the words the advert uses.
- Why them: show you understand what this employer actually does and why it fits your goals.
- Close: a confident, polite sign-off and a thank you.
Tailor every letter
A recycled letter is obvious. You can reuse the structure, but the specifics — the reason you're interested, the examples, the reference to the company — should change every time. Decode the advert for the two or three things that matter most and speak to them directly.
Cover letter mistakes to avoid
- Repeating your CV word for word.
- Generic openings that could go to any employer.
- Making it about what you want, rather than what you offer.
- Typos and the wrong company name — always check.
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Frequently asked questions
How long should a graduate cover letter be?
Under one page — three or four short paragraphs. Make every line count and avoid repeating your CV.
What should a cover letter include?
Why you want this role, why this employer, and why you're a good fit — with a couple of specific examples of relevant strengths, in language that mirrors the advert.
Do I need a cover letter if it's optional?
If it's genuinely optional, a short, sharp, tailored letter can still help you stand out — but a rushed, generic one can hurt. Only include one if you'll do it well.
How do I start a cover letter?
With the role you're applying for and one genuine, specific reason you're interested — avoid generic openings that could be sent to any company.
Written and reviewed by the Career Agenting System team at Culture & Clarity Limited · Last reviewed August 2026 · Our editorial standards