The Perfect Length: Less is More
When it comes to cover letters, brevity is a virtue. Hiring managers are busy people, and they don't have time to read a novel. The ideal cover letter is concise, impactful, and respects the reader's time.
The Golden Rule: Under One Page.
Your cover letter should never exceed a single page. For most situations, the sweet spot is between 250 and 400 words. This typically translates to three to four paragraphs, leaving plenty of white space on the page for readability.
The Ideal Structure
A well-structured cover letter of this length allows you to cover all the necessary bases without waffling.
Paragraph 1: The Introduction
- Hook the reader: State the position you're applying for and where you saw it advertised.
- Express enthusiasm: Show genuine interest in the company and the role.
- Thesis statement: Briefly state why you are an excellent candidate.
Paragraph 2: The Body
- Connect your skills to their needs: This is the core of your letter. Pick two or three key requirements from the job description.
- Provide evidence: For each requirement, provide a specific example or accomplishment from your past that demonstrates your ability. Don't just list skills; show them in action.
Paragraph 3: The Closing
- Reiterate your interest: Briefly restate your enthusiasm for the role.
- Call to action: Confidently state your desire for an interview to discuss your qualifications further.
- Thank the reader: Thank them for their time and consideration.
Why This Length Works
A cover letter of 250-400 words is:
- Scannable: A hiring manager can get the gist of your qualifications in 30 seconds.
- Focused: It forces you to be selective and highlight only your most relevant and impressive accomplishments.
- Professional: It shows that you understand professional communication norms and value the hiring manager's time.
Resist the temptation to tell your entire life story. Your resume provides the details; your cover letter provides the compelling, targeted argument for why you should be interviewed.