is cover letter good or bad

In an increasingly digitized world, where customer-centric strategies are vital for business success, I am thrilled to apply for the [Job Title] position at HubSpot."

Unhelpful Cover Letter Introduction:

"To Whom it May Concern,

I am applying for the [Job Title] position at HubSpot. I have some experience in marketing and can help your clients grow their businesses."

Relevant Professional Experience

It can be tempting to use the same cover letter for every job. After all, it‘s about your experience, isn’t it? But it's not enough to rephrase the work history in your resume.

Recruiters and hiring managers are looking to fill a specific role, so you need to show how your experience translates to their unique needs.

So, the body of a great cover letter should showcase the specific professional experiences that are relevant to the job you're applying for. Emphasize your accomplishments and skills that directly relate to what the job needs.

To speed up this part of the cover letter writing process, start by creating a list of your transferable skills . Drafting this list can help you quickly focus on the skills to highlight in your cover letter.

Then, use AI tools to summarize job descriptions and narrow in on where your experience and the needs of the role you're applying for overlap. This post is full of useful AI assistant tools if you're new to AI.

Helpful Cover Letter Experience:

“At [Company Name], I had the opportunity to assist a global ecommerce retailer in enhancing their online customer experience. By conducting in-depth market research and customer journey mapping, I identified pain points and areas of improvement in their website navigation and user interface.”

Unhelpful Cover Letter Experience:

“I also worked with an ecommerce retailer to improve the customer experience. We did some surveys and training, and they were happy with the results.”

Useful Examples

To make your cover letter stand out, add specific examples that show how you've solved problems or gotten results in past roles.

Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible, using data to give the reader a clear understanding of your impact.

Helpful Cover Letter Example:

“I lead a team of five content writers while increasing website traffic by 18% year-over-year.”

Unhelpful Cover Letter Example:

“I have a great track record of leadership and achieving fantastic results.”

Research and Company Knowledge

Hiring teams aren‘t hiring anyone with the skills to do the job. They’re hiring a person they'll work alongside at their specific company.

So, to show that you‘re not just looking for any job anywhere, share your knowledge of the company’s industry, values, and culture in your cover letter.

Spend some time on the company website and take notes on what makes this business interesting to you and why you would want to work there.

Then, explain how your skills align with the company's mission and goals and explain how you could add to their chances of success. This will showcase your interest in the company and help them see if you are a good cultural fit.

Helpful Cover Letter Research:

“I was particularly drawn to HubSpot not only for its industry-leading solutions but also for its exceptional company culture. HubSpot's commitment to employee development and fostering a collaborative environment is evident in its recognition as a top workplace consistently. I strongly believe that my passion for continuous learning, self-motivation, and dedication to contributing to a team will make me a valuable asset to HubSpot.”

Unhelpful Cover Letter Research:

“I have been inspired by HubSpot's commitment to inbound marketing and its comprehensive suite of solutions. HubSpot's dedication to providing valuable content and fostering meaningful relationships aligns with my own values and aspirations.”

Clear Writing

Your cover letter needs to pack in a lot of important information. But it's also important that your cover letter is clear and concise.

To accomplish this, use professional but easy-to-understand language. Be sure to remove any grammar or spelling errors and avoid lengthy paragraphs and avoid jargon or overly technical language.

You may also want to use bullet points to make your letter easier to skim. Then, proofread your cover letter for clarity or ask a friend to proofread it for you.

• Guide to Becoming a Better Writer
• Tips for Simplifying Your Writing

Helpful Cover Letter Writing:

"In addition to my academic accomplishments, I gained valuable practical experience through internships at respected law firms.

Working alongside experienced attorneys, I assisted in providing legal support to clients. This hands-on experience helped me develop a deep understanding of client needs and enhanced my ability to effectively communicate complex legal concepts in a straightforward manner."

Unhelpful Cover Letter Writing:

"Furthermore, as a complement to my academic accomplishments, I have garnered invaluable practical experience through internships at esteemed law firms.

Throughout these placements, I actively collaborated with seasoned attorneys to conduct due diligence and furnish clients with comprehensive legal support. Notably, these experiences fostered a profound comprehension of client necessities, whilst honing my legal acumen to articulately convey intricate legal principles within a lucid and concise framework, adhering to applicable precedents and statutes of limitations."

Genuine Interest and Enthusiasm

Find ways to convey your passion for the role and how excited you are to contribute to the company you're applying to. At the same time, make sure your interest feels authentic and outline how it aligns with your career goals.

Your ultimate goal is an enthusiastic letter that feels honest and leaves a lasting positive impression.

Showing excitement in writing doesn't come naturally for everyone. A few tips that can help you boost the genuine enthusiasm in your letter:

• Record audio of yourself speaking about the role, then use voice-to-text technology to transcribe and add these sections to your letter.
• Choose your words carefully .
• Write in active voice.

Helpful Cover Letter Tone:

“I am genuinely enthusiastic about the prospect of joining [Company/Organization Name] as an accountant. My combination of technical proficiency, eagerness to learn, and strong attention to detail make me an ideal candidate for this role. I am confident that my dedication, reliability, and passion for accounting will contribute to the continued success of your organization.”

Unhelpful Cover Letter Tone:

“Honestly, I can hardly contain my excitement when it comes to reconciliations, financial statement analysis, and tax regulations! Engaging in spirited discussions with professors and classmates has allowed me to foster an unbreakable bond with the fascinating world of accounting, and I'm positively bursting with enthusiasm at the prospect of applying my skills in a professional setting.”

Memorable Conclusion

End your cover letter on a strong note. Summarize your top qualifications, restate your interest in the position, and express your interest in future communication.

Then, thank your reader for their time and consideration and include your contact information for easy follow-up.

To make your conclusion memorable, think about what parts of your letter you‘d most like the hiring manager to keep top of mind. Then, consider your word choice and phrasing. If you’re feeling stuck, this list of ways to close an email can help.

Helpful Cover Letter Conclusion:

"Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to further discuss how my qualifications align with the needs of Greenpeace. Please feel free to contact me at your convenience to arrange an interview.

Together, let's make a lasting impact on our planet.

[Your Name]"

Unhelpful Cover Letter Conclusion:

"Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my qualifications further and how I can contribute to Greenpeace's mission. Please feel free to contact me at your convenience to arrange an interview.

I’d like to add another stage to the job search: experimentation.

In today’s competitive landscape, it’s so easy to feel defeated, less-than-good-enough, or like giving up your job search.

But don’t let the process become so monotonous. Have fun discovering the qualitative data I’ve discussed here — then, have even more by getting creative with your cover letter composition.

I certainly can’t guarantee that every prospective employer will respond positively — or at all — to even the most unique, compelling cover letter. But the one that’s right for you will.

So, get inspired by these examples and templates. Write an incredible cover letter that shows the hiring team at your dream job exactly who you are.

Editor's note: This post was originally published in October 2020 and has been updated for comprehensiveness. This article was written by a human, but our team uses AI in our editorial process. Check out our full disclosure to learn more about how we use AI.

Don't forget to share this post!

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6 Things You Should Never Put in Your Cover Letter

Present yourself in the best light possible and emphasize your strengths.

Table of Contents

When submitting a job application, your resume can only go so far. Resumes tell prospective employers about your experience and education, but they’re essentially fact sheets. A cover letter gives applicants the opportunity to share more detailed information on why they’d be a good fit for a particular role at a specific company.

We’ll outline some common cover letter mistakes to avoid and share tips and best practices for cover letters that show you in the best possible light. 

Cover letter mistakes to avoid

A cover letter can show a hiring manager why you’re the best fit for a position, so getting it right is worth your time and effort. However, crafting an effective cover letter can be challenging. You must showcase your skills without appearing self-important or succumbing to cliches.

Here are six cover letter mistakes to avoid at all costs. 

1. Highlighting where you lack specific skills

It’s easy to feel vulnerable when applying for a job, especially if you have limited work experience or few required skills. However, starting a cover letter by underselling yourself or drawing attention to the skills or knowledge you lack is never advisable.

Author and career development professional Lavie Margolin says cover letters aren’t the place to list your weaknesses. “I have seen one too many cover letters with the following phrase: ‘Although I do not yet have,'” Margolin noted. “If you do not have something, why are you emphasizing it?”

Instead, Margolin says job seekers should focus on existing in-demand career skills , experiences and talents that will interest the potential employer.

“If you are looking for a job, then you are in the sales business. What you write in your cover letter should most effectively sell the skills, experience and abilities that you do have, as opposed to emphasizing those things that are lacking,” Margolin advised. “Emphasizing a weakness on your cover letter may be costing you the job.”

2. Not proofreading for typos and cliches

Sometimes, job seekers get so caught up in finding the best way to express their ideas that they forget to pay close attention to their cover letter’s details. Typos, using the wrong company information and cliches are common mistakes to look for in your proofreading efforts. 

• Look for cover letter typos. According to Joe Weinlick, COO of Catalyst Experiential, cover letter typos are an egregious yet common mistake. Rigorously proofreading your cover letter will allow your content to shine. “Spell-check is your friend. Use it, but don’t rely on it,” Weinlick advised. “Print out your cover letter, read it from start to finish and make sure there aren’t any typos before sending it out. Your cover letter is the first impression you make on a hiring manager – make sure it’s a good one.”
• Ensure you use the correct company information. You may be tempted to reuse parts of your cover letter when applying for similar positions with different companies. However, failing to update the company information for each letter is an unforgivable offense. Double-check that you have the correct details for the company, including the specific position for which you are applying and the name of the hiring manager, if possible.
• Watch for cliches and buzzwords. When proofreading your cover letter, look for and eliminate cliches and overused buzzwords . Instead of using vague words to describe your work ethic or experience (“I’m a motivated self-starter”), provide specific examples that demonstrate the qualities you’d like to highlight. “Don’t use buzzwords,” warned Bob Kovalsky, vice president of Volt Workforce Solutions. “Including descriptors such as ‘detail-oriented,’ ‘hardworking,’ ‘team player’ and ‘proactive’ doesn’t tell HR managers anything about your experience.”

3. Remaining stuck in the past

Maybe you were let go from your last job, or maybe you’re looking for new opportunities. Regardless of the reason for your job search , don’t spend your cover letter’s limited space focusing on your past.

“The worst thing a potential employee can do [in a cover letter] is to explain why they left their current or former position,” shared Kim Kaupe, co-founder of Bright Ideas Only. “It’s like starting out a first date by talking about your ex! I don’t want to hear about your past; I want to hear about your now and future and how you are going to become an asset to my company.”

Steering clear of the past is especially important if you had a contentious relationship with an employer. “Saying that you’re looking for a new opportunity because your previous employer was unfair or you had an incompetent boss will only make you look bad,” warned Tracy Russell, a talent acquisition coordinator at Intuit. “Oftentimes, if this type of negative information is in the cover letter, recruiters won’t even look at the resume.”

4. Talking about money too soon

There’s a time and place to discuss salary during the hiring process , but your cover letter isn’t it. Lisa Benson, president and CEO of Mary Kraft HR, advises against providing any unsolicited salary information in the cover letter “unless [you] are specifically asked to do so, particularly if there is a disparity between what is advertised or indicated in the ad [you] are responding to. No prospective employer wants to hire someone who is only about the money.”

5. Making it all about you

Another common mistake applicants make is using their cover letter to boast about their talents without acknowledging how they will use them to benefit a prospective employer.

“The worst thing a candidate can do in their cover letter is make it all about themselves and what they’re looking for,” said Ian Yates, senior director of corporate accounts at Thermo Fisher Scientific. “The best thing to do is focus on why they’ll be a great fit, how they’ll make a contribution, and what they’ve done, or will do, to support [the organization].”

“It is a fine line between confident and arrogant,” added Sue Hardek, managing director at ZRG Partners. Hardek noted that candidates should avoid overselling themselves and being boastful about accomplishments and strengths. 

6. Letting AI do the heavy lifting

Many generative AI companies boast that their AI tools can save time by drafting perfect cover letters. While AI is transforming business , including the job search process, you must be especially careful when using it for your cover letter. 

Opinions about using AI in the workplace are mixed. You don’t want to risk coming across a hiring manager who suspects an AI-generated cover letter and immediately tosses your application. Worse, AI might utilize copied text or provide other job seekers with the same phrasing, leading hiring managers to suspect you of plagiarism. 

AI can be a good place to start, but you should never rely on it for a final product. AI can help you generate ideas, synthesize your experience with the history and needs of the company, or assist with general editing. But when it comes to the final product, you want your voice to shine through, so ensure the writing is your own – even if you’ve had some help. 

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is a company’s first introduction to who you are as a person. Your resume will explain your previous work experience and skills, but your cover letter is an opportunity to show recruiters your personal side. It’s also a chance to demonstrate why you stand out from the crowd. Employers get many applications, many of which display similar backgrounds and experience. A cover letter helps narrow down their talent pool.

Cover letters are typically written in a three-paragraph format and should be no more than 300 words.

The benefits of a cover letter

Some job listings require the candidate to submit a cover letter, while others make it optional. However, applicants should always take the time to write a cover letter to express their interest in the company and flesh out their professional experience. 

A cover letter brings the following advantages: 

1. Cover letters personalize your application.

Even great resumes don’t allow applicants to show off their writing skills. A cover letter can help candidates sell themselves by letting their personalities shine. Recruiters get a sense of who the candidate is beyond their work experience and education. Cover letters also allow candidates to discuss parts of their background that may not be explicitly stated on a resume but are relevant to the job they’re applying for.

2. Cover letters showcase your interest in the position and company.

Many candidates blindly shoot off job applications, believing in quantity over quality. To be as efficient as possible, they’ll either send a generic cover letter or fail to send one. However, this is a missed opportunity. 

A cover letter with specific details about why you’d be a great fit for the company shows you’ve done your research and are interested in working for that organization. Employers will notice candidates who researched the business and its company culture . These candidates show they want to be there specifically – they don’t just want a job.  

3. Cover letters demonstrate your hard work.

Taking the time to draft a well-researched cover letter shows employers you’re self-motivated and passionate about the position. The skills of researching, writing and submitting clean copy before the deadline demonstrate your ability to work and follow directions.

How to write a good cover letter

Hiring managers may receive hundreds of cover letters and resumes for a single job post. Potential employees have only a few seconds to make a good first impression, and a boring cover letter could land them straight in the “no” pile.

Follow these eight tips from hiring experts to write a cover letter that will land you an interview:

1. Be yourself in your cover letter.

You don’t want to sound like everyone else. Give hiring managers a sense of your personality traits and how you might fit into the company.

“One key thing we look for is whether they’ve incorporated aspects of their personality into examples of how they would succeed in this position,” shared Margaret Freel, digital marketing specialist at No Dirty Earth and a former corporate recruiter.

Mentioning experiences that qualify you for a particular position is one way to personalize your letter. “Candidates should be concise and self-aware enough to know how their track record of results makes them unique and [be] able to relate that back to the position,” Freel advised.

2. Do your research and customize your cover letter.

Like your resume, your cover letter should be tailored to each position and company. Instead of a template-style cover letter, use industry-specific language referencing points from the job description and company website.

In your research, determine the hiring manager’s name, if possible. Addressing the hiring manager sets you apart. If you’re unsure who the hiring manager is, use a generic salutation – but only as a last resort.

“Address the cover letter to a specific person within the company, not the general – and much-hated – ‘dear sir or madam,'” advised Alina Cincan, managing director and co-founder of Inbox Translation. “This shows the candidate has done some research and is truly interested in working with that company, not just any company.”

Christa Shapiro, a director at the staffing firm Yoh, said one thing that always draws attention to a cover letter is mentioning why you want to be a part of a particular organization. Show a passion for the organization and industry. Employers don’t want to hire someone who won’t care about their work.

3. Be creative in your cover letter.

Hiring managers won’t finish reading your cover letter if they’re bored after the first line. A strong intro should find a unique way to highlight experiences or something specific from the job posting.

Grabbing their attention is key; hiring managers review tons of cover letters for each position. Find a creative way to stand out so the hiring manager notices you and moves on to your resume. 

A creative cover letter moves beyond stiff cover letter templates and stock phrases. A great way to make your cover letter pop is to include a brief story that connects you to the company through its mission or product. “This exercise will undoubtedly separate you from the majority of other candidates,” advised Kenneth Johnson, founder and president of East Coast Executives.

4. Mention referrals in your cover letter.

If you were introduced or connected to a hiring manager via an employee referral or mutual industry contact, include that person’s name in your cover letter (with their permission).

“Candidates can include referrals in a cover letter to make them stand out,” said Bill Peppler, COO of staffing firm Kavaliro. “They should always gain permission for this before they name-drop, but the cover letter gives a great opportunity to include the name of someone that can vouch for your skills.”

5. Address potential resume concerns in your cover letter.

A well-crafted cover letter does more than explain why you’re the right person for the job. It also gives you a chance to explain items on your resume that might otherwise be considered red flags.

“Address any issues that may give a hiring manager pause, such as gaps in employment,” advised Diane Domeyer Kock, senior vice president and managing director at Robert Half.

Unfortunately, studies have shown that an unemployment bias exists, as some companies are reluctant to hire out-of-work people. However, the cover letter allows you to reclaim the narrative and demonstrate that you are an ideal candidate despite your employment history.

6. Don’t just repeat your resume in your cover letter.

While your cover letter should reference material from your resume, it shouldn’t simply be a word-for-word repeat. According to Jane Trnka, a career coach with Rady School of Management at UC San Diego, job candidates can use their cover letter to expand where necessary and discuss their listed experiences from a different angle.

“Craft the letter to acknowledge the requirements of the role and culture of the organization while highlighting the skills and experiences that align with the job description,” Trnka advised.

7. Proofread and fact-check your resume.

As mentioned earlier, it’s imperative to check and double-check your cover letter for any grammatical or factual errors. Even the smallest mistake can make a bad impression on the person reading your letter.

“If there are errors of any kind, it’s a huge red flag,” warned Guryan Tighe, leadership coach and founder of Fourage. “This is your one opportunity to impress [the hiring manager] and show who you are. If there are typos, misspellings or formatting issues, it’s generally an automatic out.”

8. Keep your cover letter brief.

Hiring managers are busy and usually have many applications to review. Keeping your cover letter concise and to the point will improve the chances of it being read. It also makes the hiring manager’s job easier – which is always a good thing.

“The best cover letters can [be] concise, friendly and transparent,” explained Chris Wood, managing partner of Paige Technologies. “The best cover letters get right to the heart of why we are a great fit for them and why they are the best fit for us.”

Get your foot in the door

Perfecting your cover letter is an essential step in the job search process. You must spend time researching the company and crafting a creative, personalized letter that shows hiring managers you’ll be a valuable addition. Your cover letter should be unique to you and unique to each company you apply for. 

But a great cover letter only gets your foot in the door. If you want to secure the job, you must carefully prepare for each part of the job search process. Whether it’s the cover letter or the interview, each step is a chance to show why you and the company you want to work for are a perfect fit. 

Tom Anziano and Sean Peek contributed to this article. Source interviews were conducted for a previous version of this article.

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Good vs. Bad: Make the Best of Your Cover Letter

A focused, well-written resume is essential to a successful job search . But a strong cover letter can make an even bigger difference in whether you get called in to interview for a job . Like the resume, the cover letter serves as a sales tool for your skills and experience, and the value you can bring to an employer. In fact, think of your cover letter as an advertisement for a new car. You need to sell the car fast, so what will make readers interested enough to call? Would You Buy This Car? Car makers don’t just create one advertisement that says, "Our vehicles have four wheels, an engine, and seats!" An ad for a car identifies the features that appeal to potential buyers of that one specific vehicle. Some ads emphasize towing capacity; others talk about gas mileage; others tout safety features. They target the needs of the specific buyers of each type of vehicle. Like a car advertisement, your cover letter should target the employer’s needs for the specific job you want. It should differentiate you from the crowd, and call attention to the features in your resume that are most relevant for the hiring manager. If your cover letter speaks to the hiring manager’s needs , he or she will take the next steps and read your resume, and if all goes well, call you in for an interview. The ideal cover letter specifically emphasizes your fit for the position and how your unique skills and experience can help the employer. Characteristics of Good and Bad Cover Letters

RELATED LINKS Cover Letter Basics: 5 Steps to a Top-Notch Letter Your Cover Letter: The Gateway to Your Resume Good and Bad Resumes: Want to See the Difference?

Bad Cover Letters vs. Good Cover Letters

Who hasn’t seen bad Cover Letters when viewing possible candidates, let alone 100’s of bad Cover Letters? We notice that a large majority of job seekers tend to send unfocused Cover Letters when applying for jobs .

Perhaps because you assume a single Cover Letter template can work for all jobs you’re applying to or maybe you’re just in a rush.

Regardless, Cover Letters that have not been given much thought and care hardly produce positive results.

Here’s an example of a bad Cover Letter:

Dear Sir/Madam, 

I am writing in response to the Accounting Assistant position advertised on SEEK.com.au on 17 February 2023. This looks like a very good fit for my previous accounting experience and I am keen to join your company. 

I am a seasoned accounting professional with high aptitude across all areas of the accounting scope. I am skilled in accounts payable and invoicing and can excel at tasks such as bookkeeping, reporting and tax. 

Throughout my career, I have had exceptional results as an Accountant in Malaysia. I am goal-oriented and work well in teams. I am a hard-working team player and can deliver month-end reporting results on time for your organisation. 

Enclosed, you will find my Resume with more detail on my accounting skills and value that I can bring to your esteemed company. 

I can meet you for an interview and I am keen to discuss the position with you soon.

Yours sincerely,  Job Seeker

No hiring manager wants to see something like this. Unless you cannot thoughtfully convey through your Cover Letter why they need to hire you for the role, you won’t be shortlisted for the interview stage.

What makes this a bad Cover Letter?

Page Contents

• The job seeker has used ‘sir/madam’. Your Cover Letter needs to be addressed to the hiring manager (first name). Find out who they are!
• You don’t need to tell the reader where you saw the job advertised. Instead, tell them about the number of years’ experience you have or the key skills/experience you can bring to the role (use keywords from the job ad)
• It’s missing 2 – 3 key examples of relatable accounting work from the job seeker’s previous position/internship/university assignments
• The job seeker is using words that should never be used in a Cover Letter or Resume (“hard-working”, “team player” and “esteemed company”)
• It’s missing a bullet point list of keyword-optimised accounting achievements/examples showing how the job seeker will perform the key duties
• The conclusion is weak and doesn’t reinforce why they are the best candidate

What makes a good Cover Letter?

Good Cover Letters are best written when they concisely convey who you are, what your experience brings to a company, and why you would make a good fit.

Specifically, you need to Show, don’t tell . An effective way to do this is a bullet point list of your key skills that link to the job ad.

How do you “Show, Don’t Tell”?

You need to show your relevancy through past achievements earned. If you have experience working within a project team then you need to explain your successes within that line of work.

Analyse the job ad for keywords and use those keywords in your Cover Letter and link them to quantifiable examples.

Hiring managers want to see your past results relevant to the role advertised.   They want to find that you have done your research: on the role and the company .

Make sure to mention what specifically about the company attracts you to the role and makes you the perfect fit. It then makes it easier on the hiring manager to judge your suitability and the level of focus you’ve put into your application.

And remember, there is no one size fits all template for Cover Letters, so spend some time writing Cover Letters that are specific and unique. This will only place you in a better position for career success!

Need Help Writing Your Cover Letter?

We hope this has pointed you in the right direction for writing a Cover Letter that is nothing short of perfect.

A Cover Letter needs to be short and concise (one page). It should show you’ve researched the company, your skills relevant to the role and describe why you best fit this role.

Cover Letter objective 101: Your Cover Letter must entice the reader to read your Resume.

If you are still unsure, please get in touch now.

We wish you all the best in your job search.

Careers Team, Career Success Australia

Our Career Counsellors have helped more than 3000+ Job seekers to get their Dream Job in Australia.

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15 Bad Cover Letter Examples & How To Fix Them?

Writing a good cover letter together with your resume can help you land a job .

While your resume lists your education, experience, and other qualifications, your cover letter can help catch the recruiter’s eye and intrigue them.

When applying for jobs online , it’s typical to write cover letters in the form of an email. Depending on the job-seeking platform you’re using, you may also attach a cover letter as a PDF.

Since the cover letters are likely the first thing the recruiter will see, especially if it’s an email, it’s essential to get it right. Far too many people make common mistakes that cause a poor first impression.

These mistakes might cause a recruiter to not even bother looking at your resume. Here are a few examples of flawed cover letters, why they are bad, and how to fix them.

Also Read : How To Write An Email For A Job ?

Bad Cover Letter Examples & How To Fix Them?

1. focuses on why the job is right for the applicant.

Photo by Sora Shimazaki/ Pexels

“Dear Mrs. Jones,

I saw your job listing on Indeed, and I’d like to apply for it. I believe this job is perfect for me because it offers excellent health insurance, a salary that supports my lifestyle, and working hours that fit my schedule. I’m really excited about the opportunities this job has to offer and how it can improve my life. Please get back to me at your convenience.

Yours truly,

Why This Cover Letter Is Bad

This cover letter focuses on the perks of the job and the benefits it will bring the applicant. However, recruiters aren’t interested in hearing that – they know the job is an incredible opportunity.

They want to hear why you are a good fit for them. Focus on the benefits you will bring to the company and how you will help it grow, not on the benefits the job will bring you.

How to Fix This Cover Letter

It’s okay to say the job is a good fit for you because you are passionate about the industry, love the company culture, or your goals are aligned with the vision and objectives of the firm. All that just shows how you are a good fit for the company and will commit to integrating into the company culture and team.

However, cut out any part that focuses on how much you love the perks of the job. Employers aren’t interested in hearing that you love the number of vacation days the job gives you.

They want to see a candidate who isn’t solely focused on themselves.

2. Talking About the Applicant’s Life Story or Personal Details

Photo by Ketut Subiyanto/ Pexels

“Dear Mr. Geoffrey,

Your job description caught my interest. As a young child, I’ve always been interested in makeup and beauty. Whenever I had a chance, I would always apply makeup, even though the other girls at school made fun of me.

I wasn’t a typical child. Most children preferred to spend time outdoors. However, I chose to stay at home, playing with my dolls and applying makeup on them. Whenever I had a chance, I would practice on my sister, although she didn’t always like the way I made her look. I learned, though!

I would spend countless hours watching makeup tutorials on YouTube. I have never worked in the beauty industry, but I’d say I’m a pretty good makeup artist. My sister now agrees with me, although nowadays, I try to practice with my friends whenever possible, although they sometimes think I’m annoying.

In any case, that’s why I really want this job. I hope you consider me for this position.

Saying you’ve been passionate about the industry or task in question since you were young is not a bad thing. However, the interviewer does not need to know your story.

This cover letter shares too many personal details that are irrelevant to the applicant’s qualifications for the job.

Cut out any personal details that aren’t necessary. That can include not only your life story but also other irrelevant details.

For example, just because your uncle thinks you’re a whiz at computers, that doesn’t mean you’re a great computer technician. Similarly, saying you want to work at a particular firm because your cousin works or worked there is another unnecessary detail.

If a topic has truly interested you since you were young, talk about how you devoted yourself to studying it and improving your skills . Give concrete examples and explain how that makes you a better fit for the position.

3. Poor Spelling and Grammar

Photo by Ivan Samkov/ Pexels

“Dear Mr. Maddison,

I’m really interested in you’re job position. I would love to join an internship sales program. i have always been interested in sales and i believe that i would make a great sales agent. Im also willing to join as an intern so that I can learn. I would really really really appreciate it!!! if you would consider me for this job position. Thanks”

The reasons this cover letter is deficient are apparent. It is rife with spelling and grammar mistakes, such as missing commas and the use of “you’re” instead of “your.”

Of course, this is a more extreme example, but even fewer or more minor grammar and spelling mistakes can make a poor first impression on the recruiter.

Always proofread your cover letter before sending it. Writing it in haste can allow spelling errors to creep in.

Also, use a tool like Grammarly to check for grammar mistakes if English isn’t your strong point. You may also ask a friend or colleague to proofread it for you if you’re not that good at grammar.

4. Overuse of Slang and Abbreviations

Photo by fauxels/ Pexels

“Hi Mrs. Samantha Wilson,

I saw your job post, and I thought it was lit! I think I’d be perfect for this position IMHO. I’m a great artist LOL, so I’d do a banger job for sure. I’m really pumped to join the team, so please hit me up soon.

This cover letter uses slang words and abbreviations, which are inappropriate in most professional communication. While you might text something like that to a friend, writing a cover letter with abbreviations or slang will lead to nobody taking you seriously.

It’s simple: Don’t use slang words and abbreviations. While the above is an extreme example, stay away from all slang words and use professional-sounding alternatives instead.

5. Lack of Personal Tone

Photo by Cytonn Photography/ Pexels

“To whom it may concern,

I saw the job posting your company published for the position of data manager. Due to my extensive experience in the industry, I believe I am a good choice for the role. See my attached resume below for more information about me.

This cover letter lacks any sort of personal tone. The first mistake is starting with “ To whom it may concern .”

It’s a very impersonal greeting. Similarly, openings like “Dear Sir/Madam” are also subpar, as they are impersonal and lacking in enthusiasm.

Instead of using such an impersonal greeting, do your research and find out the name of the recruiter. Then, open the email with a greeting along the lines of “Dear Mr. Brown,” which is a bit more personal.

6. Cover Letter That Is Too Short

“Hi, Jacqueline,

Is the position for computer technician still available?

This cover letter is simply too short. It doesn’t give the recruiter any details about you, why you are applying for the position, and why they should consider you.

Keeping things short and to the point is okay, but if it’s too short, your cover letter won’t help you at all. You might as well not write one in the first place.

Your cover letter should be at least 2-3 paragraphs long, each section containing at least 2-3 lines. You should lead in with why you are applying and give a brief overview of what makes you a good fit for the job .

7. Cover Letter That Is Too Long

Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko/ Pexels

“Dear Mrs. Harrison,

I was looking through various job postings, as I have recently decided to quit my job. I had a long and complicated dispute with my boss, but that’s an issue for another time. In either case, I have been searching for a while, and I came across your job listing on Indeed, in which you seek the services of an in-house marketing manager.

Marketing is my bread and butter. I have a lot of experience in marketing. I have always been interested in advertising and figuring out how to reach people the right way so that they are motivated to make a purchase. It truly is fascinating! A lot of people don’t realize how much human psychology you need to understand to be a good marketer.

I love all kinds of marketing, including digital marketing. Facebook ads, in particular, are really fascinating. As a Facebook user myself, I’m always catching myself getting intrigued by a specific ad. Sometimes, I do it without noticing, and then I ask myself, “How did this happen?”

After all, I’m a marketer myself, and I should know the various tricks marketers use to catch your attention. Surely, they wouldn’t work on me! However, that’s the beauty of marketing for you. In fact, all of those occurrences are simply learning opportunities for me…”

I’m not going to go on with this because you get the point.

There’s too much rambling going on here. Again, it’s okay to discuss how your passion for something permeates your life, but avoid going off on a tangent.

Don’t rant! The recruiter doesn’t need to hear your long-winded opinions about people or the way the industry works; that’s not what your cover letter is for.

If you ramble, you will appear unfocused. Most recruiters will see your long cover letter and not even bother reading it, sending it straight to the trash bin.

Stick to the point. Your cover letter shouldn’t be too short, but it shouldn’t be too long either – you’re not writing a college essay, and you’re not at a bar sharing a drink with a friend.

Avoid going off on tangents.

8. Pretending You Are Special and Don’t Need to Write a Proper Cover Letter

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio/ Pexels

“Dear Hiring Manager,

I’m not going to waste your time with a cover letter. While other candidates may feel the need to write a professional letter and scrutinize it a thousand times before sending it, let’s just cut to the chase, as I know you’re busy and don’t have time to waste reading the same cover letter (with slightly different variations) over and over again from other job candidates.

I’m interested in the job position you have for a regional director. Due to my extensive qualifications, I would dominate in this role. I absolutely would be an asset to your company, and while I’m certainly in demand myself, I believe your company is the right fit. However, please be prompt in your response before I become unavailable.

James Tucker”

This cover letter is terrible for a few reasons. Firstly, it reeks of ego and inflated self-worth.

Nobody wants an employee who thinks they are at the top of the world. Such employees are rarely good at submitting to authority when needed and following orders.

Often, they do whatever they want, thinking they always know better.

Second of all, the writer pretends he is too good to write a cover letter like everyone else. He automatically assumes he is better than the other candidates.

You should write a standard cover letter just like everyone else. While it’s important to toot your own horn sometimes, be humble and don’t be arrogant, as it’s a significant turnoff to recruiters.

Also Read : Most Asked Interview Questions & Answers

9. Pretending You’re Too Good for the Position

Photo by cottonbro studio/ Pexels

“Hi Hiring Manager,

I’m writing about the job position you posted on Indeed for a marketing intern. I consider myself a marketing pro, so I’m only really applying for this position because I need to boost my resume with some actual experience. Besides, I’m pretty bored at the moment, as I’m on a break from my studies, so why not? I could use the extra cash, too.

If you’re interested, let me know.

All the best,

Again, there is too much arrogance here. If you think you’re too good for the position, why are you applying?

Don’t be arrogant. Nobody wants someone who thinks they could do better.

Such a person won’t be passionate about the job.

Also Read : How To Answer “Walk Me Through Your Resume” During An Interview ?

10. Talking About Your Weaknesses

Photo by MIXU/ Pexels

This email is in regard to the open job position of a camp counselor. I’m looking for a summer job, and even though I’m not really that great with kids (I’m an only child and never had much experience dealing with children), I wanted to apply for the job. Some of my strengths include being consistent, always showing up to work on time, and giving each project I take on my best.

Please let me know once you have made a decision.

Don’t list your weaknesses in your cover letter. People usually do that because they aren’t sure of themselves and don’t really think they would be a good fit for the job.

First of all, don’t apply for a job you don’t know how to do. However, everyone has strengths and weaknesses , and if you want to get a job, you need to focus on your strengths.

11. Complaining About Your Job Search

Photo by Alex Green/ Pexels

“Hi Mr. Hunt,

I’d like to apply for a job position at your firm. Man, am I glad to have found your job listing! I really hope you consider my application, because this job search has brought nothing but frustrations up until this point. It seems like most recruiters don’t value true talent and dedication.

Besides, the job market is oversaturated now, with the economy and all. Most of my emails don’t even get answered, which really blows my mind considering how qualified I am…”

Complaining about your job search isn’t a good look. If recruiters are ignoring you and passing you over for other candidates, the problem most likely isn’t them – it’s you.

Don’t mention how frustrating your job search was. For all the recruiter knows, this is the first job you are applying to.

12. Not Showing a Good Work Ethic (Adding Stipulations)

Photo by Acharaporn Kamornboonyarush/ Pexels

I’d love to apply to the open job position you have for a part-time physical therapist. However, the hours don’t work for me. Can I start an hour later each day? I prefer to work in the afternoon as well, so can we change the working hours to the afternoon?

Adding stipulations or trying to change the work requirements shows a lack of a proper work ethic to the hiring manager. You can’t come asking for a job while trying to make it entirely on your terms.

Only apply to job positions where you are able to comply with the rules. Some flexibility is sometimes given, but it will usually be specified (the listing will mention “flexible hours” or something similar).

13. Reasons You’re Right for the Job That Don’t Make Sense

Photo by Alexander Dummer/ Pexels

“Dear Mr. Valencia,

I saw your job post on Craigslist for a groundskeeper, and I’d like to apply. As a 30-year-old guy living in the area, I think I’d be perfect for the job. Please let me know if the job is still available.

It’s important to give a reason why you are a good candidate for the job, but the reason must make sense. Just because you’re a 30-year-old guy, that doesn’t mean you’d be a good groundskeeper or landscaper.

You need to have experience working with gardens, planting things, etc.

If you truly have no experience for the job , cite your passion and willingness to learn, but don’t give illogical reasons you should get the job.

14. Generic Copy and Paste

Photo by Caio/ Pexels

I’m not going to include a text for this, as you can simply go to Google and find any generic cover letter template to copy and paste.

Copy-and-paste templates you find on the first page of Google are easy to find. Other applicants may be using the same copy-and-paste templates.

Even if they are not, the templates are typically generic and do not relate to the specific role in question in any way.

Write your cover letter from scratch. Don’t copy and paste a template from the internet.

Also, don’t send the same cover letter for every job you’re applying to. Yes, it will take time, but it’s worth writing a unique cover letter for each job, although you can use a similar style and follow the same overall format if it works for you.

Also Read : Interview Mistakes To Avoid

15. Not Attaching a Resume

Photo by Anna Shvets/ Pexels

Finally, the last bad cover letter example is the one that doesn’t have a resume attached (or the resume is blank).

Your cover letter is only an introduction, a way to catch the recruiter’s eye so they look at your resume, where your real qualifications shine through.

People send cover letters without resumes because they don’t want to bother, think a cover letter would be enough, or simply forget to attach the resume to their email before sending. That’s why being thorough and double-checking everything is so important.

Bad Cover Letters Examples & How To Fix Them – Wrapping It Up

If you made any of these bad cover letter mistakes, don’t worry.

While you can resend your improved cover letter after fixing your mistakes, it’s better to focus on the new job opportunities. So, create a good cover letter & then have a fresh chance of creating an awesome first impression with the hiring managers.

Tom loves to write on technology, e-commerce & internet marketing. I started my first e-commerce company in college, designing and selling t-shirts for my campus bar crawl using print-on-demand. Having successfully established multiple 6 & 7-figure e-commerce businesses (in women’s fashion and hiking gear), I think I can share a tip or 2 to help you succeed.

7 Cover Letter Words and Phrases That Are Costing You the Job

You want this job. You’re putting everything you’ve got into this  cover letter . You’ve tailored it to the role and company, written an amazing opening , and made sure you’re showing just enough enthusiasm . But still, you want to go that extra mile. You want to make sure you’re not using cover letter words and phrases that the hiring manager has read a hundred times already. You want even the most jaded, exhausted hiring manager to perk up and pay extra attention.

You’ve come to the right place. We’ve put together a list of words and phrases that can sabotage even the greatest cover letters—and will tell you what to write instead.

1. “I think I’d be a great fit…”

When I was in high school, my English teacher told us never to use “I think” in an essay because if we were writing something, well, it was obvious that was what we thought. The same holds true for cover letters. Not only are “I think,” “I feel,” “I believe,” and so on redundant, they also make you sound insecure.

Alternatives to “I think I’d be a great fit…”

Get rid of every “opinion phrase” in your cover letter. Ninety nine percent of the time, you won’t even have to reword the sentence. For example, instead of saying, “I’m confident my communication skills would make me a strong project manager,” write, “My communication skills would make me a strong project manager.” It’s shorter, simpler, and more convincing.

Sure, you could say you’re “a good writer” or “good at working with other people.” But there are so many options out there, and they’re almost all more powerful than “good.”

Alternatives to “good”

Replace “good” with one of these descriptors:

• Experienced
• Accomplished

Note: Make sure the alternative you choose accurately represents your skill or experience. If you’ve got two years’ worth of recruiting under your belt, you’d probably want to call yourself a “skilled,” “capable,” or “enthusiastic” recruiter rather than an “expert” or “experienced” one.

3. “This job would help me because…”

You, your friends, and your family members care why this job would help you. But the hiring manager does not. All they care about is finding the best person for the role. Read: They want to hire the person who would help them the most. So if you find yourself explaining how this position would help you develop your leadership skills, learn more about your desired industry, or get established as a thought leader—hit the delete key.

Alternatives to “This job would help me because…”

You do need to explain how you would help them.

Here’s the magic formula: your abilities + the company’s needs = desirable results.

Let’s say you’re applying for a front-end engineering job. By following this formula, you’d get:

“My four years of experience with open-source JavaScript, HTML5, and CSS3, combined with my passion for building responsive web applications, would allow me to create elegant, maintainable, and functional front-end code—and ultimately make Panther’s products even more user-friendly than they already are.”

4. “As you can see on my resume…”

This is a common filler phrase. But if the hiring manager can see something on your resume, announcing its presence is unnecessary.

Alternatives to “As you can see on my resume…”

All you have to do is remove this phrase—no other changes needed! So instead of saying, “As you can see on my resume, I’ve been working in marketing and PR for the last five years,” you’d write, “I’ve been working in marketing and PR for the last five years.” Bonus: Your directness will project confidence.

5. “I’m the best candidate because…”

Confidence is good, but arrogance is not. And even if you’re sure that you’d be an absolutely fantastic choice, you don’t know you’re the best . Imagine reading through six cover letters in a row from people who all claim to be “the best candidate.” That would get annoying pretty quickly, right?

To stay on the hiring manager’s good side, refrain from using “best.” Along similar lines, I’d also stay away from “ideal” and perfect.”

Alternatives to “I’m the best candidate because…”

You want to choose descriptors that are in between “good” and best.” Words like:

• Outstanding

6. “To whom it may concern”

There’s no quicker way to communicate to a hiring manager that you’re not truly interested in a job than to address your cover letter in such a bland, impersonal way. Not only does it sound old fashioned, but it tells whoever’s reading that you couldn’t be bothered to figure out the name of the hiring manager, an HR employee, or even the department you’d be working for. 

Alternatives to “To whom it may concern”

Your first choice for addressing a cover letter is always the hiring manager for the position. If you can’t figure out who the hiring manager is, read this list of other options —all of which are infinitely better than “To whom it may concern.”

7. “I may not have a lot of experience, but…”

…or any other phrase that  apologizes for not meeting the exact requirements for a position . Your cover letter is a place to make the strongest case possible for yourself, so you don’t want to bring in any negatives.

Alternatives to “I may not have a lot of experience, but…”

Just get rid of this phrase. Instead, focus on the qualifications you do have and all the unique ways you’d be great at this job.

Done cutting? Great, now go send the thing!

Regina Borsellino contributed writing, reporting, and/or advice to this article.

More From Forbes

Irs moratorium on erc processing continues: bad news and good news for businesses.

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As a Senior Consultant at OneBridge Advisors, I partner with top tax attorneys to educate and advise on tax credits. Follow me on LinkedIn .

If you are among the hundreds of thousands of businesses and nonprofits waiting, hoping and wondering about when your employee retention credit claim might be paid, this article is for you.

The ERC is a refundable tax credit that was created to help prevent businesses from laying off workers during the pandemic. The IRS "all but stopped processing these returns” in mid-July 2023, according to the National Taxpayer Advocate’s Annual Report to Congress . By September 28, 2023, the IRS had processed more than 3.5 million claims and paid out around $230 billion to employers who filed for this benefit, the report estimated. That same month, the IRS announced that it would stop processing new ERC claims.

Since the moratorium was put into effect, only 28,000 claims worth approximately $2.2 billion have been paid, according to a press release the IRS recently published in June.

Why Payments Stopped

" To protect taxpayers from scams, IRS orders immediate stop to new Employee Retention Credit processing amid surge of questionable claims; concerns from tax pros." These words atop a September 2023 IRS news release introduced the moratorium and said it would last “through at least the end" of 2023. The announcement also stated that the existing queue of 600,000 claims would be slowed from a “standard processing goal of 90 days to 180 days.” It’s now way beyond year’s end, and the moratorium is still in effect with seemingly no end in sight.

A Letter To The IRS Commissioner In October 2023

On October 3, 2023, roughly two weeks following the moratorium announcement, lawmakers within the Ways and Means Committee in the U.S. House of Representatives wrote a letter to IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel and said, “While we appreciate efforts to protect taxpayers from scams, the announced moratorium will exacerbate wait times, worsen the existing backlog of claims, and prevent taxpayers with legitimate claims from receiving payments.”

Seemingly proving these words true, the backlog of ERC claims has grown from about 600,000 at the time to 1.4 million, according to the June update. The IRS estimated the value of 1 million submitted ERC claims to be more than $86 billion. Based on this, I estimate the value of the total backlog of claims to be about $121 billion.

When Employers Can Expect To Receive Their ERC Claim

In June, the IRS stated it completed a “detailed review” of more than 1 million unprocessed claims, and it determined 10% to 20% to be “low risk.” If you are fortunate to be in this low-risk category and you filed before the September moratorium, the good news is the IRS plans to begin to pay these “later this summer.” The bad news is that it’s hard to say whether you are in the “low-risk” group. Former acting IRS Chief of Staff Tom Cullinan posted on his LinkedIn the same question I’ve seen others asking: “Why not pay out claims with ‘low-risk’ tomorrow?” He added, “I hope the IRS rethinks it.”

Similar to a question asked in the October letter from lawmakers, another question I'm hearing today among taxpayers and practitioners is, “What metrics or data points did the IRS use in its assessment to categorize 10% to 20% of claims to be low risk?” Knowing the answer to this question would help these employers better estimate how much longer they need to wait, which affects their ability to plan. Not knowing can add to fear and uncertainty, which is not healthy for any organization that has a payroll.

The IRS also stated its assessment found 60% to 70% of claims have an “unacceptable level of risk.” That sounds scary, but before you panic, this does not mean 60% to 70% are invalid. Practically speaking, there are 60% to 70% of claims filed prior to September 14, 2023, that the IRS plans to further review.

So, the bad news is that if your claim (or claims) are in the high-risk category and you filed prior to September 14, 2023, when the moratorium began, it seems likely to me these will not be paid for quite some time. If you filed after September 14, 2023, the IRS said, "No claims submitted during the moratorium period will be processed at this time." Unless something changes, I believe it will still be a while before the IRS begins to process claims submitted post-moratorium.

Good News: Congress Can Help

On a positive note, the June press release indicated the IRS will consult with Congress on how to address this situation further. Ultimately, the IRS reports to Congress. If more members of Congress get involved, I believe it can make a big difference. As an example, in April 2023, an exchange between Sen. Mark Warner and the IRS Commissioner led to the Commissioner committing to double processing from 20,000 a week to 40,000 . Other members of Congress recently submitted letters to the IRS Commissioner that encourage resolution as well.

So, take heart. It’s possible.

Action Steps For Business Owners Stuck In The Moratorium

All employers who filed prior to the moratorium or are experiencing hardship can reach out to their respective U.S. Senators or Representatives to request a case be opened for them with Taxpayer Advocate Services. (You can find your Senator or Representative on the Congress.gov website.) The advantage of opening a case with TAS through one of your U.S. Senators or Representatives is that it gains more attention from Congress. Additionally, gaining assistance from TAS can be helpful, as it can help identify any errors and possibly improve a claim's priority.

From my perspective, there is nothing more influential than for a staff member to hear a story or complaint directly from one of their constituents. Regardless of when you filed, you can request your congressional representative take time to show their public support with a letter to the IRS Commissioner or by hosting a call with constituents who are affected.

If it’s been more than six months since filing, a taxpayer can retain a tax attorney to file a refund lawsuit. If a taxpayer wants to file a refund lawsuit, most tax attorneys I've talked to have said it is vital to show they have already made an attempt to resolve the delay through TAS. If you have a valid claim, this may accelerate your processing, but it can be expensive.

Hang in there.

The information provided here is not legal advice and does not purport to be a substitute for advice of counsel on any specific matter. For legal advice, you should consult with an attorney concerning your specific situation.

Forbes Business Council is the foremost growth and networking organization for business owners and leaders. Do I qualify?

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Cover letters: The good and the bad

Need to come up with a great cover letter? When it comes to writing a winning cover letter, it’s often the little things that add up to make a big difference.

Here are two examples of cover letters; one that hits the mark, and one that doesn’t.

Keep these examples in mind when you create a new cover letter , or compare one you have already to see what you could add or adjust.

• How to write a great cover letter
• 5 things employers wish they could say about your cover letter

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19 Facts About Tim Walz, Harris’s Pick for Vice President

Mr. Walz, the governor of Minnesota, worked as a high school social studies teacher and football coach, served in the Army National Guard and chooses Diet Mountain Dew over alcohol.

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By Simon J. Levien and Maggie Astor

• Published Aug. 6, 2024 Updated Aug. 9, 2024

Until recently, Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota was a virtual unknown outside of the Midwest, even among Democrats. But his stock rose fast in the days after President Biden withdrew from the race, clearing a path for Ms. Harris to replace him and pick Mr. Walz as her No. 2.

Here’s a closer look at the Democrats’ new choice for vice president.

1. He is a (very recent) social media darling . Mr. Walz has enjoyed a groundswell of support online from users commenting on his Midwestern “dad vibes” and appealing ordinariness.

2. He started the whole “weird” thing. It was Mr. Walz who labeled former President Donald J. Trump and his running mate, Senator JD Vance of Ohio, “weird” on cable television just a couple of weeks ago. The description soon became a Democratic talking point.

3. He named a highway after Prince and signed the bill in purple ink. “I think we can lay to rest that this is the coolest bill signing we’ll ever do,” he said as he put his name on legislation declaring a stretch of Highway 5 the “Prince Rogers Nelson Memorial Highway” after the musician who had lived in Minnesota.

4. He reminds you of your high school history teacher for a reason. Mr. Walz taught high school social studies and geography — first in Alliance, Neb., and then in Mankato, Minn. — before entering politics.

5. He taught in China in 1989 and speaks some Mandarin. He went to China for a year after graduating from college and taught English there through a program affiliated with Harvard University.

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