Cover Letter Writing: The Ultimate How To Guide to Writing an Impressive Cover Letter and the Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid

A great cover letter can push your CV to the top of the shortlist. A poor one can sink your application before anyone gets to your experience. With employers reading dozens of applications, your cover letter needs to be sharp, tailored and worth their time.

This guide explains how to write a strong, memorable cover letter and the five biggest pitfalls to avoid.

Top 5 Cover Letter Mistakes

Mistake 1: Treating It as a Summary of Your CV

Your cover letter is not a recap of your CV. It is a teaser, not a transcript. Use it to showcase enthusiasm, confidence and the key reasons you’re worth a deeper look.

• Highlight your strongest value points.
• Show personality and motivation.
• Give the reader a reason to open your CV.

Mistake 2: Not Doing Enough Research

Candidates who write generic lines like “I want to work for a leading company” are instantly forgettable. Show genuine interest in the organisation by referencing something specific:

• A recent product launch or expansion
• A new initiative, award or achievement
• Their culture, mission or community focus

Specificity shows effort, curiosity and cultural alignment.

Mistake 3: Not Getting to the Point

Recruiters often spend less than a minute skimming each application. They won’t read long paragraphs or a two-page letter.

• Keep it to one page.
• Use clear headings, bullet points and white space.
• Avoid outdated formalities and unnecessary filler.

Make it easy to scan. If it looks clean and structured, they’re far more likely to read it properly.

Mistake 4: Sending a Generic, Copy-Paste Letter

If you change only the job title, it’s not tailored. Hiring managers know when they’re reading something generic.

• Rewrite sections for every job.
• Customise your examples and criteria responses.
• Address the letter to a named person when possible.

Quality always beats quantity when applying for roles.

Mistake 5: Spelling and Grammar Errors

Typos signal carelessness, poor communication and a lack of attention to detail. It is one of the fastest ways to end up rejected.

• Proofread multiple times.
• Use tools like Grammarly.
• Ask someone with strong literacy skills to review it.

Check your language settings too—use UK or AU English spelling if you’re applying locally.

The Key Components of an Effective Cover Letter

1. Introductory Paragraph

Introduce yourself, mention the role and include a strong Personal Value Proposition. This sets the tone for the rest of the letter.

2. Address the Selection Criteria

Highlight your experience against the top four or five requirements. Keep it concise—two to three sentences per point is ideal.

3. Address Any Weaknesses

Recruiters eliminate risk first. If you have gaps, limited industry experience or a career change, briefly address it upfront. Leaving it unexplained increases your chances of being filtered out.

4. Show Your Motivation

Explain why the organisation interests you and how you can help them succeed. Focus on value, not flattery.

5. Availability and Closing Statement

State your start date, relocation plans (if relevant), and end with a confident, appreciative close.

How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?

One page. Always. If selection criteria are requested, those can be two to three pages. If there is a specific word or page limit, never exceed it.

When You Should (and Shouldn’t) Send a Cover Letter

Recruitment Agencies — No

Unless they specifically request one, agencies rarely need a cover letter. They focus on your CV and will ask for additional documents later.

Direct Employers — Yes

If the employer is advertising directly, you’re expected to provide a tailored, thoughtful cover letter addressing the criteria in the job ad.

Public Sector — Sometimes

Many government roles require selection criteria instead of traditional cover letters. Follow the instructions carefully.

How Much Should You Brag?

Confidence matters, but balance is key. If you want guidance on striking the right tone, read our article “Selling Yourself & The Art Of Bragging”.

Final Thoughts

A strong cover letter shows effort, personality and professionalism. A weak one can undo an otherwise excellent CV. Invest the time, tailor your message and let your strengths shine through.