Show Genuine Interest

Demonstrates you’ve researched the company and are specifically interested in this role—not just mass-applying everywhere.

Tell Your Story

Explains career transitions, employment gaps, or unique circumstances that your resume alone can’t convey.

Highlight Key Qualifications

Draws attention to specific achievements or skills that make you perfect for this particular position.

Show Personality

Reveals your communication style, enthusiasm, and cultural fit—things a resume can’t show.

December 24, 2026

Dear Mr. Chen,

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Marketing Manager position at Acme Corporation, as advertised on LinkedIn. With five years of experience driving digital marketing campaigns that have generated over $2M in revenue, I am excited about the opportunity to bring my expertise to your innovative team.

In my current role at XYZ Company, I led a team of six marketers to increase brand awareness by 150% and improve conversion rates by 40% through data-driven strategies. I developed and executed a content marketing program that generated 10,000 qualified leads monthly. Your commitment to customer-centric innovation aligns perfectly with my approach to marketing.

I am particularly drawn to Acme’s mission to revolutionize the industry through sustainable practices. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my experience in growth marketing and team leadership can contribute to your continued success. Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely,

Sarah Johnson

• Your contact information
• Date
• Employer’s details
• Professional greeting

• Position you’re applying for
• Where you found the job
• Hook that grabs attention
• Key qualification teaser

• Specific achievements
• Relevant experience
• Skills match to job
• Quantified results

• Enthusiasm for role
• Call to action
• Thank you
• Professional sign-off

“I am writing to apply for the Marketing Manager position I saw on your website.”

“After leading a campaign that generated $1.2M in revenue for my current employer, I’m ready to bring that same impact to Acme’s marketing team.”

✅ Always Write One When:

• The job posting requests it
• Applying to your dream company
• You have a referral
• Making a career change
• You have employment gaps
• Applying for senior roles
• The company is small or mid-sized

⚠️ Optional When:

• Applying through LinkedIn Easy Apply
• The posting says “optional”
• Mass applications to similar roles
• Recruiters reach out to you first
• Applying to entry-level high-volume positions

Tip: When in doubt, write one. It can only help.

❌ Generic Templates

Sending the same letter to every company. Recruiters can tell—and they’ll pass.

❌ Repeating Your Resume

The cover letter should add context, not copy your resume bullet points.

❌ Focusing on Yourself

Talk about what you can do FOR THEM, not just what you want from the job.

❌ Typos and Errors

One mistake can disqualify you. Proofread multiple times and use spell-check.

❌ Wrong Company Name

The most embarrassing mistake. Triple-check you’ve updated the company name.

❌ Being Too Humble

“I think I might be a good fit” is weak. Be confident: “I will bring value because…”