Write a Cover Letter That Wins More Interviews
Learn how to craft compelling cover letters that captivate recruiters, showcase your skills, and increase your interview chances.
In today’s ever-evolving job market, it’s easy to wonder if cover letters are still relevant. Are they just another outdated formality, or can they actually help you land an interview? According to industry experts and research gathered by Thomas Powner, a career strategist and guest on the Career Confidant podcast, cover letters are far from obsolete. In fact, they remain a crucial part of your job application toolkit when done right.
This guide unpacks insights from the discussion and provides actionable tips for crafting a standout cover letter that not only conveys your qualifications but also builds a meaningful connection with potential employers.
Why Cover Letters Still Matter
Contrary to popular belief, cover letters are not "dead." Thomas Powner’s survey of 242 recruiters, talent acquisition professionals, and HR managers from Fortune 500 companies revealed that:
- 63% of hiring managers read cover letters.
- 62% said a cover letter influences their decision to schedule a phone interview.
- 82% would disqualify an applicant for failing to include a cover letter when requested.
A strong cover letter doesn’t just complement your resume; it tells your story, showcases your personality, and demonstrates a genuine connection to the company. It’s your opportunity to stand out in a sea of applicants.
What Makes a Cover Letter Fail?
Many candidates fall into common pitfalls when writing their cover letters. Based on insights shared in the podcast, here are some of the top reasons cover letters don’t make the cut:
- Repetitive Content: Simply restating your resume in a narrative format does little to add value.
- Lack of Personalization: Generic templates or cookie-cutter content fail to establish a connection with the company.
- Poor Writing: Typos, grammatical errors, and unclear communication are deal-breakers.
- No Connection to the Company: Employers want to see that you’ve done your homework and understand their mission, values, and goals.
- Bland Tone: A robotic, overly formal tone lacks the personality and authenticity hiring managers are looking for.
Crafting a Winning Cover Letter
1. Start with a Strong Hook
The opening paragraph of your cover letter should immediately grab the reader’s attention. Highlight why you’re excited about the company and position, and demonstrate that you’ve done your research.
For example, if applying to Trader Joe’s, you might write:
"Life is an adventure, smiles are contagious, and great food is like oxygen. I thrive in environments where I can bring joy and energy to my team and customers alike, making me a perfect match for the culture at Trader Joe's."
This engaging introduction shows personality while aligning with the company’s brand.
2. Tailor Your Letter to the Job and Company
A tailored cover letter is essential. Review the job description, the company’s mission, and recent accomplishments. Use this information to connect your skills and experiences with their specific needs.
For instance, a sales professional might write:
"I noticed that your team has faced challenges with declining sales over the past three quarters. With my track record of increasing regional revenue by 20% in under a year, I’d love the opportunity to contribute to reversing this trend and driving growth for your organization."
This shows you’ve done your research and are ready to offer solutions.
3. Highlight Key Qualifications
Focus on three or four key qualifications from the job posting that you excel in. Use specific examples or stories from your experience to make your case.
Instead of saying, "I’m a great leader", demonstrate it with a concise narrative:
"In a previous role, I led a team of 12 to implement a new CRM system, increasing efficiency by 25%. I believe this experience aligns with your need for strong project management skills."
4. Show Personality Without Going Overboard
While professional, your cover letter should reflect your personality. Avoid overly formal or dry language. Instead, aim for a conversational tone that feels authentic and approachable.
For example:
"I welcome the opportunity to bring my passion for sustainable practices and innovative thinking to your company as we work toward a greener future together."
However, match your tone to the company culture. A casual brand like Trader Joe’s allows for more playfulness, while a corporate bank might require a more formal approach.
5. Close with Confidence
End your letter by restating your enthusiasm for the role and expressing your eagerness to contribute to the company’s success. Always include a clear call to action.
For example:
"I would be thrilled to join your team and bring my expertise in operational management to help achieve your company’s goals. I look forward to discussing how I can contribute to your success."
Addressing Salary Requirements
Some job postings require candidates to include salary expectations or history. This can be tricky, but here are four ways to handle it:
-
Be Direct:
"My current base salary is $88,000, and I am confident we can agree on compensation that reflects my skills and experience." -
Share an Expected Range:
"Based on my research, I would expect compensation in the range of $75,000 to $85,000 for this role." -
Highlight Flexibility:
"While compensation is important, my primary goal is contributing to a team where I can make a meaningful impact. I am confident we can agree on a mutually beneficial salary." -
Total Compensation Approach:
If your past base salary is lower than the job’s range, share your total compensation (including benefits):
"My total compensation in my most recent role was $70,000, including performance bonuses and benefits."
Key Takeaways
- Cover Letters Aren’t Dead: 63% of hiring managers still read cover letters, and they can influence interview decisions.
- Personalization is Key: Tailor your letter to the company’s culture, mission, and job description.
- Add Value: Use the cover letter to expand on your resume, share relevant stories, and connect with the company.
- Avoid Common Mistakes: Don’t repeat your resume, use generic templates, or neglect company research.
- Address Salary Wisely: Provide salary information only if requested, and be strategic in how you share it.
- Show Personality: Use a conversational tone to let your personality shine while maintaining professionalism.
- Stay Concise: Keep your cover letter to one page with short paragraphs for easy readability.
Final Thoughts
A well-crafted cover letter is more than just a formality - it’s a powerful tool to differentiate yourself from other candidates. By connecting authentically with the company, showcasing your qualifications through stories, and addressing key points like salary requirements thoughtfully, you can significantly increase your chances of landing an interview.
Take the time to write a cover letter that reflects not only your skills but also your personality and passion for the role. It’s your ticket to making a strong first impression and capturing the attention of hiring managers.
Source: "How to Write a Cover Letter that Gets You More Interviews" - Career Thought Leaders, YouTube, Oct 28, 2025 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BdDkGkibsDs
