Ten Cover Letter Don'ts
By Kim Isaacs,
Your cover letter is the first thing employers see when they open your materials. Avoid these
10 mistakes, and make your first impression a good and lasting one.
Mistake #1: Don't Overuse "I"
Your cover letter is not your autobiography. The focus should be on how you meet an
employer's needs, not on your life story. Avoid the perception of being self-centered by
minimizing your use of the word "I," especially at the beginning of your sentences.
Mistake #2: Don't Use a Weak Opening
Job seekers frequently struggle with how to begin a cover letter. This often results in a feeble
introduction lacking punch and failing to grab the reader's interest. Consider this example:
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Weak: Please consider me for your sales representative opening.
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Better: Your need for a top- performing sales representative is an excellent match to
my three-year history as a #1-ranked, multimillion- dollar producer.
Mistake #3: Don't Omit Your Top Selling Points
A cover letter is a sales letter that sells you as a candidate. Just like the resume, it should be
compelling and give the main reasons why you should be called for an interview. Winning
cover letter strategies include emphasizing your top accomplishments or creating subheadings
culled from the job posting. For example:
Your Ad Specifies: Communication skills
I Offer: Five years of public speaking experience and an extensive background in
executive-level report.
Your Ad Specifies: The need for a strong computer background.
I Offer: Proficiency in all MS Office applications with additional expertise in Web site
development and design.
Mistake #4: Don't Make It Too Long
If your cover letter exceeds one page, you may be putting readers to sleep. Keep it concise
but compelling, and be respectful of readers' time.
Mistake #5: Don't Repeat Your Resume Word for Word
Your cover letter shouldn't regurgitate what's on your resume. Reword your cover letter
statements to avoid dulling your resume's impact. Consider using the letter to tell a brief story,
such as "My Toughest Sale" or "My Biggest Technical Challenge."
Mistake #6: Don't Be Vague
If you're replying to an advertised opening, reference the specific job title in your cover letter.
The person reading your letter may be reviewing hundreds of letters for dozens of different
jobs. Make sure all the content in your letter supports how you will meet the employer's
specific needs.
Mistake #7: Don't Forget to Customize
If you're applying to a number of similar positions, chances are you're tweaking one letter and
using it for multiple openings. That's fine, as long as you are customizing each one.
Don't forget to update the company, job and contact information -- if Mr. Jones is addressed
as Mrs. Smith, he won't be impressed.
Mistake #8: Don't End on a Passive Note
When possible, put your future in your own hands with a promise to follow up. Instead of
asking readers to call you, try a statement like this: I will follow up with you in a few days to
answer any preliminary questions you may have. In the meantime, you may reach me at (555)
555-5555.
Mistake #9: Don't Be Rude
Your cover letter should thank the reader for his time and consideration.
Mistake #10: Don't Forget to Sign the Letter
It is proper business etiquette (and shows attention to detail) to sign your letter. However, if
you are sending your cover letter and resume via email or the Web, a signature isn't necessary.
