When applying for a new job, ensuring that your cover letter is precisely the right length and well-organized is essential. With my extensive experience in recruiting, development, and coaching, I understand the nuances of creating an impactful cover letter. This includes knowing the ideal word count, structuring each section effectively, and providing tips for making your cover letter stand out. By applying these insights, you can significantly enhance your application and make a compelling case to potential employers.
A cover letter should typically be between half a page to a full page long. Aim for a word count of 250 to 400 words, spread across three to six paragraphs.
A short, concise cover letter introduces you to a prospective employer and demonstrates why you’re the best candidate for the job. Submitted alongside your resume, the cover letter highlights your experience and explains how your skills and personality align with the company’s needs.
Beyond wondering about the length of a cover letter, you might also be unsure about what to include. To assist, we’ll provide guidance on the optimal length, present an outline to follow, and share writing tips that can impress hiring managers and increase your chances of securing an interview.
Cover Letter Length and Outline
A cover letter should be concise, ideally taking up between half a page and a full page. The length depends on the format—whether you’re sending it in the body of an email or as an attachment. For an email, aim for a half-page length. If you’re attaching the cover letter, you can extend it but keep it within one page.
Although both formats are acceptable, including your cover letter in the email body ensures immediate visibility, whereas an attachment requires the recipient to open an additional file. Always check the job description for specific submission instructions. If no guidelines are provided, sending the cover letter in the email body is usually best.
When applying for a new job, the precision of your cover letter’s length and organization can greatly influence its impact. With my extensive background in career coaching and development, I recommend aiming for a cover letter that is concise yet comprehensive—ideally between 250 and 400 words. This length, spread across three to six well-structured paragraphs, allows you to introduce yourself effectively while highlighting why you’re the best fit for the role.
A well-organized cover letter demonstrates not only your qualifications but also your ability to communicate clearly and professionally. Whether you’re including it in the body of an email or as an attachment, make sure it remains within a single page. If no specific submission instructions are provided, placing the cover letter in the email body is generally preferable as it ensures immediate visibility. By adhering to these guidelines and focusing on clarity and relevance, you can significantly enhance your application and capture the attention of hiring managers.
What Should Be Included in Your Cover Letter?
Contact Information and Greeting
- Contact Information: At the top, include your full name, city and state, phone number, and email address.
- Recipient’s Information: Follow this with the date and the recipient’s contact information if you are sending an attachment. If your cover letter is in the email body, skip this step.
- Greeting: Address the hiring manager by name if possible. If the name is unknown, “Hiring Manager” is acceptable.
Example Structure
1. Contact Information (for attachments):
- Full Name
- City, State
- Phone Number
- Email Address
- Date
- Hiring Manager’s Name
- Company Name
- Company Address
2. Greeting:
- Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name] / Hiring Manager,
3. Opening Paragraph:
- Introduce yourself and mention the position you’re applying for. Highlight a strong, relevant achievement to grab attention.
4. Middle Paragraphs (1-2 paragraphs):
- Discuss your relevant experience, skills, and achievements. Explain how they align with the job requirements and the company’s goals.
5. Closing Paragraph:
- Reiterate your interest in the position, express enthusiasm about the opportunity to contribute to the company, and mention your attached resume.
6. Sign-Off:
- Thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration.
- Use a professional closing such as “Sincerely,” followed by your full name.
By adhering to this structure, you ensure your cover letter is both professional and impactful, increasing your chances of making a strong impression on potential employers.
Tips for Writing an Effective Cover Letter
Make your cover letter stand out by showcasing your qualifications and potential for growth. First, review the job description for any specific instructions, such as length or required information. Address the hiring manager by name if possible; if not, use a general greeting as a last resort. Customize your cover letter for each job application by including company-specific details.
Use standard formatting: maintain regular margins, select a legible font like Arial or Times New Roman, and use a font size of 11 or 12. Organize your qualifications with bullet points to make the letter easy to skim. Complement your resume by expanding on its points rather than repeating them.
Keep your sentences clear and concise, removing any filler phrases. End with a call to action, such as suggesting an interview to discuss your qualifications further. By following these tips, your cover letter will effectively capture the attention of hiring managers and enhance your job application.
