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How to write a cover letter that actually gets read

Half of recruiters don't read cover letters. The other half use them to decide between evenly matched candidates. Since you don't know which one you'll get, the right strategy is to write a short, specific letter that can't work against you — and that could be the tiebreaker in your favor.

The structure that works

An effective cover letter is between 250 and 400 words and has four moves:

  • Hook (2-3 lines): why this company and this role, with something concrete that shows you know where you're applying
  • Evidence (1-2 paragraphs): your two or three most relevant achievements FOR THIS JOB, with numbers, connected to what the role requires
  • Honest fit (optional, 2-3 lines): if you're missing something obvious the posting asks for, reframe it positively without lying
  • Close with action: availability for an interview, without servile clichés

The mistakes that send it to the trash

The generic letter is mistake number one: if your letter would work the same for any company, it works for none. Behind it come excessive length (nobody reads a full page), repeating the resume in paragraph form (the letter adds context and motivation, it doesn't duplicate data), and empty phrases: “I'm a dynamic and proactive person” has never landed an interview in the history of humankind.

Generate the base in a minute

Keyverta writes a cover letter tailored to each job from your real resume: it uses your verifiable achievements, connects them to the role's requirements, and leaves blanks for the personal details only you know. You review it, give it your voice, and download it as a PDF. A solid base in a minute; the human touch is yours.

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