Let’s be honest: writing a cover letter isn’t anyone’s favorite task. Whether you’re a student applying for an internship or a recent grad launching your career, it can feel like a chore and sometimes, even pointless.
So why do we still write them?
Because when done well, a cover letter can be your competitive edge. It gives you the chance to tell your story, highlight what makes you a great fit, and stand out especially if your resume alone doesn’t capture the full picture.
The Problem? Most Cover Letters Aren’t Helping
Too often, cover letters are rushed, overly generic, or reused with minimal changes. Many job seekers rely on a single version that they change slightly for each application. While that might seem efficient, it’s rarely effective.
The Good News: You Don’t Need to Start from Scratch Every Time
You just need to show that you’ve read the job description, understand what the employer is looking for, and are speaking directly to their needs. Here are five simple tips to help you write a cover letter that actually works:
- Mention the Job Title Right Away
Instead of a vague opening like “I’m excited to apply for this opportunity,” be specific: “I’m excited to apply for the Marketing Intern position at XYZ Company.” This small change shows you’ve tailored your letter for this role. - Use Their Language
Scan the job description for keywords under skills, responsibilities, and values then use them in your letter. If they emphasize “project management,” don’t say “I’ve led many initiatives.” Say “I’ve managed multiple projects from start to finish.” - Connect Key Requirements to Your Experience
Pick one or two top qualifications from the job posting and show how you meet them with a clear, specific example. Make it easy for the employer to picture you in the role. - Focus on What You Can Do for Them
What stands out is what skills you can offer to help them improve. Instead of “I’m looking for a role where I can grow,” try: “With my background in data analysis, I’m confident I can contribute to your team’s goal of improving customer insights.” - Close with Purpose
Don’t just say “Thanks for your time.” Reinforce your fit and enthusiasm. Try: “I’d welcome the opportunity to bring my event planning experience to your team and contribute to your upcoming community initiatives.”
Bonus: Let AI Help, But Don’t Let It Do All the Work
Customizing your cover letter takes time, but AI tools like Hiration can help you get started. Log in to Hiration to generate a first draft of a cover letter and see how it compares to the position for which you’re applying.
⚠️ Important: Always review and personalize the draft to reflect your voice and experience. Even the best AI needs a human touch.
You’ve got this, just remember the PennWest Career Center is here to help.
