Want your cover letter to stand out? Avoid these 10 common mistakes.
A strong cover letter can boost your interview chances by 17%. But many job seekers make errors that hurt their applications. Here’s what to avoid:
- Ignoring Instructions: Not following the job posting’s guidelines can lead to instant rejection.
- Using Old Formatting: Outdated styles can make you seem unprofessional.
- Lack of Customization: Generic letters fail to impress employers.
- Repeating Resume Content: Use your cover letter to expand on your achievements, not copy your resume.
- Unprofessional Tone: Keep it formal and aligned with the company’s culture.
- Focusing on Personal Needs: Highlight how you can meet the employer's needs, not your own.
- Skipping Proofreading: Typos and mistakes can ruin your first impression.
- Including Irrelevant Information: Stick to details that match the job requirements.
- Poor Layout: A cluttered or messy structure makes your letter hard to read.
- Missing Call-to-Action: Always end with a clear next step for the employer.
Tricky Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid in 2024
1. Ignoring Instructions
Not following the instructions in a job posting is a common mistake that can get your application dismissed quickly. Employers often include specific guidelines - like file format, word count, or naming conventions - to test your attention to detail. Overlooking these requirements can make your application stand out for all the wrong reasons.
Studies show that carefully following application instructions improves your chances of success [1]. A simple way to avoid this mistake? Create a checklist of the job posting's requirements. Double-check that your cover letter and other materials match the guidelines before you hit "submit."
If you're juggling multiple applications, tools like Scale.jobs can be a lifesaver. They help you stay organized and ensure every submission meets the specific requirements of each employer.
Employers value candidates who show professionalism and align their applications with the company’s values and job criteria [4]. Even small slip-ups can signal a lack of attention to detail - something no employer wants in a potential hire.
In today's hiring world, using outdated cover letter formatting can make you seem disconnected from modern professional standards. With recruiters spending just 7.4 seconds scanning a cover letter, getting the format right is crucial.
Here are some formatting tips to keep in mind:
- Choose modern fonts like Arial or Calibri (10-11pt). Avoid older fonts like Times New Roman.
- Set line spacing to 1.15 with clear paragraph breaks. Avoid cramped or overly spaced text.
- Use simple, consistent headers for contact information. Skip decorative or overly styled fonts.
- Stick to 1-inch margins for a clean look. Avoid margins that are too narrow or inconsistent.
Formatting isn't just about looking polished - it can also affect whether your application gets seen at all. Many Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) struggle with complex or outdated formatting, which could lead to your application being automatically rejected. A clean, straightforward layout improves both ATS compatibility and readability for recruiters.
If you're juggling multiple applications, keeping your formatting consistent can feel overwhelming. Tools like Scale.jobs can help by providing professional, ATS-friendly cover letter templates that meet current industry expectations.
By using white space and simple formatting, you create a document that's easy to scan and professional in appearance. This shows employers that you’re detail-oriented, professional, and tech-savvy. On the flip side, sticking with outdated formatting can weaken even the strongest application.
Once your formatting is updated, the next step is to personalize your cover letter for the specific employer.
3. Lack of Customization
Sending out a generic cover letter is a common misstep for job seekers. These letters often rely on vague, template-style language and fail to address the specific needs of the job or reflect the company’s culture. According to Indeed, not tailoring your cover letter can drastically lower your chances of standing out [1].
How to Customize Your Cover Letter
-
Research the Company: Take time to understand the company’s mission, values, and recent achievements. Mention these details in your cover letter to demonstrate genuine interest and show how your skills align.
-
Match the Job Description: Carefully review the job posting and pinpoint the key qualifications. Then, connect these to your own experience:
| Job Requirement |
How to Personalize |
| Technical Skills |
Highlight specific projects or tools used. |
| Soft Skills |
Share examples of relevant accomplishments. |
| Industry Knowledge |
Mention experience with sector challenges. |
- Use Personal Connections: Show employers you understand their needs by tying your skills directly to their goals. Use their own language when possible - if the job posting emphasizes "team leadership", incorporate that phrase into your examples.
Generic phrases like "I’m excited about this role" won’t cut it. Instead, be specific: "The launch of your new eco-friendly product line resonates with my background in sustainable design."
If you’re juggling multiple applications, tools like Scale.jobs can help by generating tailored cover letters that align with a company’s expectations.
Once you’ve customized your cover letter, make sure it complements your resume without simply repeating the same details.
4. Repeating Resume Content
Copying your resume into your cover letter is a common misstep that can hurt your chances of making a strong impression on employers [1].
Here’s how to make your cover letter stand out:
| Resume Content |
How to Expand in Your Cover Letter |
| "Proficient in MS Office" |
Share how you used these tools to achieve specific results. |
| "Led a team of 5" |
Talk about your leadership style and how you handled a challenging situation. |
| "Increased sales by 20%" |
Explain the strategies or creative methods behind this success. |
Turn Bullet Points Into Stories
Instead of writing "Managed client relationships", bring it to life with a story. For instance: "I worked with a difficult client by introducing a proactive communication plan, which not only resolved their concerns but also led to a 40% increase in their annual contract value."
Show How You Align With the Company
Your cover letter is the perfect place to connect your experiences with the company’s mission and values - something your resume can’t fully express.
Illustrate Soft Skills Through Examples
Instead of simply stating "Strong problem-solving abilities", share a specific challenge you faced and how you resolved it effectively.
Pro Tip: Compare your resume and cover letter side by side before submitting your application. They should complement each other, not repeat the same details. If this feels tricky, tools like Scale.jobs can help you create tailored cover letters that enhance your application without duplicating content.
Hiring managers have limited time to review applications [2]. By avoiding redundancy, you can create a cover letter that adds depth and highlights your unique strengths - helping you stand out from the competition.
5. Unprofessional Tone
Your cover letter creates a first impression of your professional image, so it's important to strike the right balance between personality and formality. A casual or overly informal tone can hurt your chances, no matter how qualified you are.
Tips for Setting the Right Tone:
- Use professional greetings like "Dear Hiring Manager" instead of casual ones like "Hey there!"
- Opt for formal expressions such as "I am enthusiastic" rather than casual phrases like "super excited."
- Refer to the company formally as "your organization" instead of casually saying "you guys."
Avoid using excessive contractions, emojis, personal stories, or humor that might come across the wrong way. At the same time, adjust your tone to fit the company culture - keep it formal for industries like banking, but slightly more relaxed for tech startups [1].
For example, instead of saying, "I really want this job", highlight your value with results-focused language: "My experience in developing scalable solutions aligns perfectly with your requirements." This approach communicates professionalism and enthusiasm without sounding desperate [2].
"The target audience plays a significant role in determining the tone. Job seekers should tailor their tone to match the company culture and the specific job they are applying for" [1][2].
While maintaining a professional tone is key, remember to keep your focus on how you can meet the employer's needs, rather than just highlighting your own goals.
6. Focusing on Personal Needs
Your cover letter should highlight how you can meet the employer's needs, not focus on your own goals. While it's natural to want career growth or better opportunities, centering your letter on what you want can hurt your chances of getting an interview.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Avoid self-centered statements that might make hiring managers question your commitment to the company’s goals [2]. For example, instead of saying, "I am looking for a job that will help me grow professionally", shift the focus to what you bring to the table.
Here’s how to reframe self-focused statements into employer-focused ones:
| Self-Focused Statement |
Employer-Focused Alternative |
| "I need experience in artificial intelligence" |
"My machine learning expertise can help advance your AI initiatives" |
Creating Value-Focused Content:
If you're changing careers, focus on how your skills match the company’s needs rather than just explaining why you’re making the switch [1].
"Focusing on the employer's needs demonstrates that the job seeker has taken the time to understand the company's objectives and how they can contribute to them. This can make the candidate more appealing to the hiring manager and increase their chances of being selected for an interview" [2][6].
Best Practices:
- Research the company’s challenges and objectives.
- Use "your company" more often than "I" in your wording.
- Share specific examples of achievements that directly relate to the employer's needs [1][2].
7. Skipping Proofreading
Proofreading is a step many job seekers neglect, but it can make or break your chances of landing an interview. Even one typo or grammar mistake can leave a poor first impression that's hard to fix.
Why Proofreading Matters
Proofreading shows you're detail-oriented and professional. Skipping it can suggest:
- Lack of focus on details
- Carelessness in communication
- Weak writing skills
"Typos and errors create a sloppy first impression." [5]
Common Mistakes to Watch For
| Error Type |
What It Signals |
How to Avoid It |
| Misspelling the Company Name |
Carelessness or lack of effort |
Double-check against the company website |
| Errors in the Hiring Manager's Name |
Disrespect or lack of preparation |
Confirm spelling in the job posting |
| Grammar Mistakes |
Poor communication skills |
Use grammar-check tools |
| Inconsistent Formatting |
Unprofessionalism |
Review the layout carefully |
How to Proofread Effectively
Here are some simple ways to catch mistakes:
- Step Away First: Take a break for at least an hour before reviewing your cover letter [1].
- Read Aloud: Go through your letter multiple times, including reading it out loud to catch awkward phrasing or errors [2].
- Get a Second Opinion: Ask a trusted friend, colleague, or mentor to look it over [1].
Helpful Tools and Resources
Grammar-checking tools can quickly catch errors, but don’t rely on just one. Use a mix of resources to ensure your cover letter is polished.
"Proofreading ensures clarity, coherence, and effective communication of your qualifications." [1][2]
After proofreading, double-check that your cover letter aligns with the job requirements and avoids unnecessary details.
Filling your cover letter with unnecessary details can weaken its impact and distract hiring managers from your qualifications. A well-focused cover letter highlights your professional judgment and communication skills.
Examples of Irrelevant Information and What to Include Instead
| Type of Information |
Why to Avoid |
What to Include Instead |
| Personal Details |
Hobbies or family status are not job-relevant |
Skills and experiences that match job requirements |
| Salary History |
Can weaken your negotiating position |
Achievements and how you bring value |
| Unrelated Work History |
Doesn't highlight role-specific capabilities |
Relevant accomplishments and transferable skills |
How to Stay Focused
Before adding anything to your cover letter, ask yourself:
- Does this directly show how I meet the job’s requirements?
- Does this help the employer see my value to their organization?
"Including a brief story or example can help demonstrate your skills and achievements in a more engaging way, making it easier to avoid irrelevant information and keep the focus on how you meet the employer's needs" [2][6]
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Long explanations of career gaps or job changes
- Listing generic skills without examples
- Highlighting unrelated achievements that don’t align with the role
"Customization is key to avoiding irrelevant information. By tailoring your cover letter to each job application, you can ensure that you only include information that is directly relevant to the position and the employer's needs" [1][2]
A concise and relevant cover letter shows your ability to prioritize and communicate effectively - qualities every employer looks for. Keeping your content focused ensures hiring managers stay engaged with your qualifications. Next, we’ll cover how poor layout can undermine your efforts.
9. Poor Layout
A disorganized cover letter layout can hurt your chances of getting an interview, even if you're highly qualified. Recruiters, on average, spend just 6-7 seconds skimming a cover letter before deciding whether to dive deeper.
Key Layout Essentials
| Element |
Purpose |
Best Practice |
| Headers |
Organization |
Use clear section breaks with descriptive titles |
| White Space |
Visual Flow |
Add strategic spacing between sections |
| Paragraph Structure |
Engagement |
Keep paragraphs to 3-4 lines max |
| Overall Length |
Focus |
Limit to one page |
Common Layout Mistakes to Avoid
- Cluttered Presentation: Use enough white space and clear section breaks to make it easy to read.
- Inconsistent Formatting: Keep the style uniform throughout the document.
- Poor Section Organization: Add clear headers to guide readers through your qualifications.
"A clean and organized layout helps create a clear and readable document. Adequate white space between paragraphs and sections allows the hiring manager to easily scan the content and understand the candidate's qualifications" [2][3]
Essential Structure
A well-organized cover letter should include the following elements:
- Contact Information Block
- Date and Company Address
- Greeting/Salutation
- Opening Paragraph
- Body Paragraphs (2-3)
- Closing Paragraph
- Professional Sign-off
"Using bold headings to separate sections, such as 'Summary of Qualifications' or 'Professional Experience,' helps to guide the reader through the document and highlight key information" [2][3]
If formatting feels overwhelming, using professional cover letter templates can simplify the process. These templates provide proper spacing and structure while allowing you to customize the content to fit your needs.
Once the layout is polished, focus on crafting a strong call-to-action to leave a lasting impression.
10. Missing Call-to-Action
Did you know that cover letters without a clear call-to-action (CTA) are 35% less likely to lead to interviews? A strong conclusion should encourage the hiring manager to take the next step.
Key Elements of an Effective CTA
| Component |
Purpose |
Example |
| Action Request |
Specify the next step |
Ask for a chance to discuss the role |
| Timeline |
Create urgency |
Mention availability or timeframe |
| Contact Info |
Simplify follow-up |
Provide email and phone number |
| Enthusiasm |
Show genuine interest |
Highlight excitement about the role |
| Tone |
Fit the company culture |
Match the company's level of formality |
Common CTA Mistakes to Avoid
- Using vague or passive closings like, "I hope to hear from you." Opt for confident, specific language tied to the role or company.
- Skipping contact details: Always include your preferred contact method and availability.
How to Write an Impactful CTA
The best CTAs strike a balance between confidence and professionalism. Here's an example:
"I am particularly excited about the opportunity to contribute to [company project/initiative] and would welcome the chance to discuss my qualifications further. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can be reached at [contact information]." [4]
Tips for a Strong CTA
- Keep it short, professional, and tailored to the job.
- Refer to specific qualifications or achievements mentioned earlier.
- Clearly state your availability and contact details.
Hiring managers report that well-crafted CTAs boost response rates by 27%. If writing a cover letter feels daunting, tools like Scale.jobs' Cover Letter Generator can help you create personalized, effective CTAs for your applications.
Your CTA is your final chance to leave an impression. A well-written closing ties everything together and sets the stage for the next step in the hiring process.
Wrapping It Up
Steering clear of typical cover letter mistakes can turn this document into a powerful ticket to landing interviews. In fact, research shows that avoiding these errors can increase your chances of getting an interview by 45% [1].
With the rise of remote work, cover letters have taken on a new level of importance. They’re now a key way to highlight your qualifications and professionalism [4]. To stand out, your cover letter should check a few crucial boxes: tailor it to the job, ensure it works with ATS systems, keep the tone professional, and make sure it’s free of errors.
If writing a cover letter feels like a daunting task - especially during a career change or when you're pressed for time - services like Scale.jobs can simplify the process. This lets you focus your energy on networking and acing interviews.
A well-crafted cover letter works as your personal advocate, showcasing your skills and enthusiasm for the role. By avoiding common mistakes and fine-tuning your approach, you can create a cover letter that grabs attention and sets you apart.
FAQs
Here are answers to some common questions about avoiding mistakes in cover letters.
What is one of the most common mistakes to avoid in a cover letter?
One common mistake is simply repeating your resume word for word. Instead, use the cover letter to expand on key accomplishments with specific examples that align with the job you're applying for. Focus on telling a story, use fresh language, and highlight achievements that show how you can contribute to the company.
Which should be avoided in a cover letter?
To keep your cover letter professional and impactful, steer clear of these pitfalls:
| Common Mistakes |
Why to Avoid |
Better Alternative |
| Outdated formatting |
Makes you appear unprepared |
Use modern, ATS-friendly designs |
| Explaining job-seeking reasons |
Shifts focus from the employer’s needs |
Highlight the value you bring |
| Generic content |
Suggests lack of effort or interest |
Personalize each cover letter |
| Skipping research |
Shows poor preparation |
Research the company and role thoroughly |
| Listing irrelevant experience |
Wastes the reader’s time |
Focus on transferable, relevant skills |
"Research helps you understand the company's specific needs and how you can meet them. Always research the company and position before writing your cover letter to ensure it is tailored and relevant" [1][2].
Tools like Scale.jobs' Cover Letter Generator can help you craft a tailored and polished application. By sidestepping these common errors, you’ll create a cover letter that stands out and effectively communicates your strengths.
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