A complete, modern guide to writing cover letters that actually get read — with structure, examples, and advice on when to skip one entirely.
Cover letters are simultaneously overrated and underused. Many candidates either skip them entirely when they could make a difference, or write generic letters that actively hurt their application. The truth is that a genuinely good cover letter — specific to this company, this role, and this moment — can be a significant differentiator. A generic one is worse than nothing.
Write a cover letter when: the application specifically requests one; when you have a specific and genuine connection to the company or role; when you are making a career change and your resume alone does not tell the right story; or when you are applying directly to a founder, hiring manager, or someone you have met. In these situations, a well-written cover letter gives you a meaningful advantage over candidates who did not bother.
Do not open with: 'I am writing to apply for the position of X as advertised on Y.' This formula tells the recruiter nothing and is the most common cover letter opening in existence. Instead, open with something that demonstrates genuine interest and research. 'I have been following your shift towards embedded finance since your 2024 Series C, and the head of partnerships role is exactly the intersection of financial infrastructure and ecosystem building that I have been building toward.' That opening demonstrates research, genuine interest, and relevant positioning in one sentence.
A cover letter should be half a page to one full page. Three to four short paragraphs is the ideal structure. Use the same font and visual style as your resume to create a cohesive application package. Address it to the specific hiring manager by name wherever possible — checking LinkedIn for the recruiter or hiring manager's name takes two minutes and personalises the letter significantly. Never write 'To Whom It May Concern' if you can avoid it.