Getting your resume right is very important, but it’s just part of your job application. Very often, when responding to job posts, you’ll be asked to send a resume and a cover letter. And here’s where so many people make a big mistake. They spend time working on their resume, but writing the cover letter is an afterthought.

That’s a problem because the cover letter is the first thing that gets read. It’s your chance to get attention. There’s no point in having an outstanding resume if no one ever reads it. So the way you write your cover letter is important. 

Back in the day, cover letters and resumes were sent out as good, old-fashioned snail mail. Nowadays, you’ll be sending them by email or through a chat app. But the principles are still the same.

Cover letters don’t need to be long. It’s better if they are short and to the point. The goal is simply to introduce yourself, clarify the job you want and express interest. 

Sounds simple. So, where do people go wrong with cover letters? Here are the biggest mistakes. They send out letters that are:

1. Not customized for the recipient

2. Dull and boring to read

3. Lacking a clear ‘call to action’

Let’s take a look at each of those problems in turn. 

First of all, you should always customize your cover letter for the recipient. Many people create one boiler-plate cover letter and send that to everyone. The trouble is, the recipient will spot this right away.

You need to take time to customize your letter according to the job you are applying for. Mention the job title, and show why you are well suited to the role. This only takes a minute or two, yet it helps you connect with the employer.

Secondly, make it lively and interesting! You should always be professional, of course, but you can still have personality. Employers want to feel a connection with potential employees. Injecting a little fun into your cover might win you the job.

Lastly, you need to include a call to action means telling readers how to contact you if they want to proceed. Don’t rely on them finding your contact info in your resume. They are too busy for that. Include your name, email address, and phone number on your cover letter. That way, you’ll get many more responses.

Your cover letters may only be a few paragraphs long, but they can make all the difference in the world. So give them the attention they deserve.