What Should a Cover Letter Include?
Want your cover letter to actually get noticed? This step-by-step guide breaks down the 7 essential sections hiring managers look for — plus pro tips to outsmart ATS filters and stand out in 2025.
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Cover Letter Basics & FAQs Articles (11)
What Is the Purpose of a Cover Letter?
In a world of one-click job applications and AI resume screeners, your cover letter is the one piece of the puzzle that still speaks in your own voice. Its purpose isn’t to rehash your CV — it’s to make a personal, persuasive case for why you’re the right fit. A well-crafted cover letter bridges the gap between what you’ve done and why it matters to this company, right now. Think of it as your written handshake: confident, intentional, and tailored to leave a lasting impression.
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What to Put in a Cover Letter?
Not sure what to include in your cover letter? This guide breaks down every essential section — from the header to the closing — with clear examples, formatting tips, and strategies to help your letter rise above the pile.
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How Long Should a Cover Letter Be? (Complete 2025 Guide)
Wondering how long your cover letter should be? The ideal cover letter is 250–400 words — one page, concise, and recruiter-friendly. In this guide, we break down the best length for jobs, internships, research proposals, and fresh graduates, with examples, mistakes to avoid, and expert FAQs.
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Cover Letter Font Size: Best Practices for Job Applications
The best font size for a cover letter is 11 or 12 points in a professional font like Calibri, Arial, or Times New Roman. Anything smaller than 10.5 is hard to read, while sizes above 12 look unprofessional. Consistent, clean formatting makes your cover letter easier for recruiters and applicant tracking systems (ATS) to scan.
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Fax Cover Letter Template: How to Write One (With Examples)
A fax cover letter (or fax cover sheet) is a one-page document sent before your main fax that identifies the sender and recipient, explains the purpose of the fax, and ensures it reaches the right person. Use it to add professionalism, protect sensitive information, and avoid delivery mistakes.
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CV vs Cover Letter: What’s the Difference and Which Matters More?
A CV and a cover letter aren’t the same thing. Your CV is a detailed record of your skills, education, and experience, while your cover letter is a personalized pitch that shows employers why you’re the right fit for the role. Put simply: the CV proves you’re qualified, and the cover letter convinces them to interview you.
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Do I Need a Cover Letter?
Yes — in most cases, you do need a cover letter. While not always required, a well-written cover letter can significantly boost your chances of landing an interview. It gives you an opportunity to highlight your personality, explain your interest in the role, and expand on key achievements in a way your resume alone cannot. Even when optional, submitting a tailored cover letter shows initiative and professionalism.
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Which Type of Cover Letter Would the Above Excerpt Come From?
Not sure how to address a cover letter without a name? Skip the outdated “To Whom It May Concern.” Instead, use modern, respectful options like “Dear Hiring Manager,” “Dear [Department] Team,” or “Dear [Job Title] Hiring Team.” These show professionalism and effort—even if you don't know the exact person reviewing your application.
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Is a Cover Letter Necessary? Here’s What You Need to Know in 2025
Is a Cover Letter Necessary in 2025? Absolutely — especially if you want to stand out. While some companies make it optional, a tailored cover letter gives you the chance to show genuine interest, highlight your communication skills, and provide context to your resume. In a competitive job market, candidates who submit cover letters often gain a critical edge over those who don't.
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What is a Short Cover Letter? (Sample and Example)
A short cover letter is a concise version of a traditional cover letter, usually 100–150 words, focused on your most relevant qualifications and enthusiasm for the role. It’s ideal when applying by email, through job boards with word limits, or when a quick, tailored message is more appropriate. Despite its brevity, it should still express value, professionalism, and intent to follow up.
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