Did you know that ignoring your cover letter could cost you the job! You spend hours perfecting your application, certain it will impress—only to face instant rejection. Frustrating, isn’t it?
📊 Research indicates that 77% of recruiters disregard cover letters that feel generic or lack personalisation (Source: LinkedIn). Worse still, many candidates make common mistakes that result in their applications being dismissed before even reaching a hiring manager.
First, a cover letter isn’t just a formality—it’s your chance to make a strong first impression. However, many applicants ruin their chances by using generic templates, making grammatical errors, or failing to tailor their content. The result? A missed opportunity before the real competition even begins.
💡 What if I told you these mistakes are easily avoidable?
Second, with the right approach, your cover letter can stand out rather than be relegated to the rejection pile. This guide highlights the biggest cover letter mistakes—and, more importantly, how to avoid them.
1. Submitting a Generic Cover Letter
📌 Keyword focus: Tailored cover letter, job-specific application, recruiter-approved letter
Recruiters can spot a copy-and-paste job instantly. They read hundreds of applications, and a generic cover letter signals, “I didn’t put in the effort.”
How to Fix It:
✅ Use a customised template tailored to each role.
✅ Demonstrate that you have read the job description and understand the company’s needs.
2. Ignoring ATS Keywords on Your Cover Letter
📌 Keyword focus: ATS-friendly cover letter, keyword optimisation for job applications
🚀 Fact: 75% of resumes and cover letters are never seen by a human because they fail ATS (Applicant Tracking System) scans (Source: Jobscan). If your cover letter lacks relevant keywords, it may never even reach a recruiter.
How to Fix It:
✅ Extract key terms from the job description and incorporate them naturally.
✅ Think of it as the key to unlocking the next stage.
3. Addressing It to the Wrong Person on Your Cover Letter
📌 Keyword focus: Best cover letter practices, recruiter-approved salutations
Nothing screams “I didn’t research” more than addressing a cover letter with “To Whom It May Concern.”
How to Fix It:
✅ Search for the hiring manager’s name on LinkedIn or the company website.
✅ If unsuccessful, call the company and ask.
4. Repeating Your CV Instead of Adding Value
📌 Keyword focus: Cover letter vs CV, job-winning application tips
💡 Think about it: If your cover letter is just a rewritten version of your CV, why would recruiters bother reading both?
How to Fix It:
✅ Highlight a key achievement and explain why it matters for the role.
✅ Show impact, not just a list of job titles.
5. Making Your Cover Letter Too Long or Too Short
📌 Keyword focus: Ideal cover letter length, best format
📊 Recruiters spend an average of six seconds scanning a cover letter (Source: Glassdoor). Too long? They won’t read it. Too short? It appears rushed.
How to Fix It:
✅ Keep it between 250-400 words with 3-4 concise paragraphs. ✅ Enough to make an impact without testing their patience.
6. Failing to Show Enthusiasm for the Role
📌 Keyword focus: How to write a compelling cover letter, employer-approved applications
A dull cover letter won’t hold attention. Employers want a candidate who is not only qualified but also genuinely excited about the role.
How to Fix It:
✅ Use enthusiastic yet professional language.
✅ Avoid exaggeration—saying “I’ve dreamed of this job since childhood” might be overkill.
7. Using Overused Phrases
📌 Keyword focus: Strong opening lines, recruiter-recommended cover letter phrases
Starting with “I am writing to apply for…” is predictable and uninspiring.
How to Fix It:
✅ Start with a compelling hook:
✔ “With five years’ experience in project management, I have led high-impact teams to success.”
❌ “I am a dedicated and hardworking individual looking for an opportunity…”
8. Grammar Errors and Poor Formatting
📌 Keyword focus: Professional cover letter formatting, proofreading techniques
📊 70% of recruiters reject applications with spelling mistakes (Source: Forbes). Don’t let a typo cost you the job!
How to Fix It:
✅ Use proofreading tools like Grammarly or Hemingway Editor.
✅ Read it aloud to catch errors.
How to Write a Cover Letter That Stands Out
📌 Imagine two cover letters. One is generic and uninspiring. The other is tailored, engaging, and speaks directly to the company’s needs. Which one secures the interview?
Recruiters seek compelling applications that highlight why a candidate is a perfect fit. Here’s how to craft one that grabs attention:
1. Start with a Strong Opening
❌ Boring: “I am writing to apply for the role of…” ✔ Engaging: “As a digital marketing specialist who increased engagement by 200%, I was thrilled to see your opening for a growth strategist.”
A powerful introduction immediately demonstrates value.
2. Personalise It for the Role
Hiring managers can spot a generic cover letter instantly. Instead, research the company and tailor your message. ✔ “Your company’s recent expansion into AI-driven analytics caught my attention—I’m eager to contribute to such a forward-thinking team.”
3. Showcase Impact, Not Just Duties
❌ “Managed a team of sales associates.” ✔ “Led a sales team that increased revenue by 30% in six months.”
Use specific achievements to highlight your contributions.
4. End with Confidence
❌ Weak closing: “I look forward to hearing from you.” ✔ Strong closing: “I’d love the opportunity to discuss how my expertise can help [Company Name] achieve its goals. When would be a good time to connect?”
Conclusion: Your Cover Letter Is Your CV’s Best Advocate
📢 “Your CV gets you through the door, but your cover letter convinces them to let you in.” – Unknown
Key Takeaways:
✔ Tailor your letter for each role. ✔ Use the right keywords to pass ATS filters. ✔ Keep it concise yet compelling. ✔ Show measurable impact. ✔ End with confidence.
🔍 Need a professionally written cover letter that gets results? Roseflower Editorial is your best choice! We’ve helped clients secure jobs in Nigeria and abroad, including students studying at University of Hertfordshire, West England University (UK), and Saskatchewan, Canada.
📩 Let’s get you hired! 🌍 Visit: www.roseflowereditorial.com
📞 Call/WhatsApp: 07062924711
📧 Email: info@roseflowereditorial.com
😆 And remember—your cover letter should impress the recruiter, not make them feel like they’re stuck in an endless Zoom call.
📧 Email: info@roseflowereditorial.com
📱 WhatsApp: 07062924711
🌍 Visit: www.roseflowereditorial.com
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11 Responses
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