Top 10 mistakes in cover letters and how to avoid them

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A cover letter is one of the most important tools when looking for a job. And if the resume can still be called a “business card”, then the cover letter is a kind of absentee presentation of a student who is looking for a job. But it often happens that young students, out of ignorance, make a lot of mistakes when writing and designing a cover letter. However, you should not worry, because in our article we will talk about the main mistakes that occur when writing cover letters and give effective tips on how to avoid them.

What mistakes do students most often make when writing cover letters?

1. So, mistake #1 is sending a resume without a cover letter. Employers can only think and guess who this job seeker is and what he is counting on. So, it is quite obvious that a cover letter is simply necessary for every student who is interested in building a future career;
2. Mistake number two is using generic cover letters that aren’t personalized for a specific company or position. Avoid this, because all employers want to see your interest in their company;
3. Not all students manage to demonstrate experience and skills in such a way that they meet all the requirements of the chosen vacancy. Avoid this, analyze and read the job advertisement carefully and try to answer all its key points in your cover letter;
4. Many students write general phrases about their skills, but do not provide specific facts, examples and figures that could support these skills. Try the opposite, demonstrate your skills and experience with real examples. Don’t write general phrases like: “I am very focused and hard-working”, instead, it is better to indicate how these traits will help you gain certain experience in your career;
5. Mindlessly copying other people’s cover letters will definitely not play into your hand. Such a letter should be written only for you to meet all the needs of the employer;
6. In order to convey to the employer your opinion that you are an ideal candidate for the position – the cover letter should have a clear structure, that is, an introduction, the main part and a conclusion;
7. Don’t bring up salary or other benefits in your cover letter. It paints you in a bad light and focuses on your own needs rather than how you can benefit the company;
8. The cover letter should not be too long. Long letters can tire the reader, so usually one page is enough;
9. Your cover letter should end with words of thanks and willingness to provide additional information. Do not neglect this rule and do not leave the letter unfinished;
10. Grammatical and any other errors in the cover letter are as unacceptable as in the resume itself, so before sending it is better to take your time and check it for errors.

By avoiding all the above mistakes, you will certainly attract the attention of a future employer and increase your chances of successfully applying for a job or internship.

Phrases that can ruin a student’s cover letter

Some phrases can simply “kill” a student’s cover letter and cause negative impressions and emotions in the employer. So here are some phrases to avoid:

#1: “I’m looking for any job”. This phrase lacks specificity and motivation. Every employer wants to see that you are interested in their company and job.
#2: “I don’t have any experience in this field.” While honesty is important, this phrase can give the impression that you are definitely not suitable for the position you are applying for. Instead, it is better to emphasize your skills and abilities that can be useful in the company;
#3: “I was the best in my group.” Self-praise and boasting is direct evidence of arrogance, so it is better to give specific examples of your success and certain achievements;
#4: “My main goal is to make money”. This phrase can give the impression that you are only interested in financial aspects and not development, so this phrase is better to avoid in any of its manifestations;
#5: “I’ll do whatever I’m told”. Do not show that you are ready to fulfill any requirements without your own initiative. Instead, show that you can act independently and make important decisions that will lead to the company’s development.

Remember that your cover letter is a unique opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge and interest in the job. By avoiding such phrases, you can make your cover letter more attractive and effective.