How to Write a Compelling Cover Letter That Complements Your Resume

Learn to write a compelling cover letter in 7 steps!

Your cover letter is the first opportunity to make an impression on a potential employer. It’s your chance to introduce yourself, highlight your skills, and explain why you’re the best fit for the role—all before they even glance at your resume. While your resume gives a structured overview of your qualifications, the cover letter allows you to tell your story in a more personal and compelling way.

In this post, we’ll show you how to craft a cover letter that not only complements your resume but helps you stand out from the crowd.

1. Start with a Strong Opening

The first few lines of your cover letter are crucial. You want to grab the reader’s attention and make them want to keep reading. Start by addressing the hiring manager by name if possible—it shows you’ve done your homework and adds a personal touch. If you can’t find the name, a simple "Dear Hiring Manager" will suffice.

Your opening should also convey enthusiasm for the role. For example:

“I’m excited to apply for the Marketing Specialist position at [Company Name], as I’ve followed your brand’s innovative approach for years and believe my experience in digital marketing can contribute to your team’s success.”

This type of opening sets the tone and immediately shows the hiring manager you’re genuinely interested in their company, not just any job.

2. Tailor It to the Job Description

Just like your resume, your cover letter should be tailored to each job you apply for. Refer to specific responsibilities and qualifications listed in the job description, and explain how your experience aligns with what the employer is looking for.

For instance, if the job description emphasizes project management skills, you might write:

"In my previous role at XYZ Corp, I led a cross-functional team on multiple marketing campaigns, successfully delivering projects on time and under budget. I’m confident that my strong project management experience would allow me to excel in this role at [Company Name]."

By tailoring your cover letter to the job description, you show the employer that you’ve paid attention to their needs and are the right fit for the role.

3. Highlight Your Key Achievements

While your resume lists your achievements, your cover letter allows you to expand on them and provide context. Use this space to discuss key projects or accomplishments that make you stand out.

For example, instead of just stating that you “increased sales by 20%,” you could add:

"During my time at ABC Inc., I spearheaded a social media campaign that led to a 20% increase in sales within six months. This initiative involved coordinating with designers, analyzing market trends, and adjusting our strategy in real time to maximize ROI."

This not only highlights your achievement but also gives insight into your process and your ability to contribute value to the company.

4. Keep It Concise and Relevant

While it’s important to share your story, remember that hiring managers often read through dozens of cover letters. Keep yours concise—ideally no longer than one page. Stick to the most relevant information, focusing on how your experience aligns with the role and the value you can bring to the company.

Use clear, direct language, and avoid unnecessary details. Every sentence should serve a purpose: to strengthen your case for why you’re the best fit for the job.

5. Show Your Personality

While your resume is all about professionalism, your cover letter offers a chance to let a bit of your personality shine through. Hiring managers are looking for someone who not only has the right skills but also fits in with the company culture.

If appropriate, you can mention your enthusiasm for the company’s mission or values, or share a personal connection to the industry. For example:

"As someone who’s always been passionate about sustainable fashion, I admire [Company Name]’s commitment to eco-friendly practices, and I would be thrilled to contribute to your mission of creating ethical, stylish apparel."

This kind of personal touch helps hiring managers see you as a real person, not just a list of qualifications.

6. End with a Strong Closing

Your closing should be polite but assertive. Express your enthusiasm for the opportunity and mention your eagerness to discuss your qualifications further in an interview. Here’s an example of a strong closing statement:

"Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to further discuss how my experience and skills can contribute to the continued success of [Company Name]. I am available at your convenience for an interview and can be reached at [Your Contact Information]."

This shows you’re eager but respectful, leaving the door open for further conversation.

7. Proofread Thoroughly

Before hitting "send," proofread your cover letter carefully. Typos and grammatical errors can leave a negative impression, no matter how well-written the rest of the letter is. Consider reading it aloud or having a friend review it for you—fresh eyes can often spot mistakes you might miss.

Example of a Cover Letter Without the STAR Method:

“I am interested in applying for the role of Sales Manager at XYZ Corp. I have five years of experience in sales and believe I would be a good fit. In my previous role, I was responsible for managing a team and increasing sales.”

This example is vague and doesn’t provide much detail about the candidate’s experience or how it aligns with the role.

Example of a Cover Letter Using the STAR Method:

"I am excited to apply for the Sales Manager position at XYZ Corp. With over five years of experience leading sales teams, I have consistently exceeded targets. At ABC Corp, I led a team of 10 sales associates, and through a combination of coaching and performance tracking, we increased sales by 25% in one year. I am confident that my results-driven approach would make me a valuable asset to your team."

Here, the candidate highlights specific achievements and ties them to the responsibilities of the new role.

Final Thoughts

A well-written cover letter can be the key to standing out in the job application process. By tailoring it to the job, highlighting your achievements, and showing a bit of your personality, you can create a compelling narrative that complements your resume. Remember to keep it concise, proofread thoroughly, and most importantly, let your passion for the role shine through.

Need help with your cover letter? Whether you’re just getting started or need a final review, we’re here to help you create a cover letter that stands out.