A cover letter serves as a formal introduction to a potential employer, supplementing your resume by showcasing your skills and genuine interest in a position. It is a prospective employer’s first impression of you, making its content and structure an important component of your job application. Understanding how to present yourself effectively within this document is a common challenge for job seekers.
The Ideal Cover Letter Length
The industry standard for a cover letter is to keep it under one full page. This length constraint translates to a word count between 250 and 400 words. This range allows enough space to introduce yourself, highlight key qualifications, and express interest without overwhelming the reader. A recent analysis of over half a million cover letters found the median word count to be 224, suggesting that many successful applicants lean towards the shorter end of this spectrum.
For applicants sending their cover letter in the body of an email, the length should be closer to half a page. If you are attaching the document, you can use the full page, but it should not exceed this limit unless the job posting specifically requests a longer format. The goal is to be concise while still providing compelling reasons for the hiring manager to consider you for the role.
Why Cover Letter Length Matters
The length of your cover letter communicates a message to the hiring manager beyond the words on the page. Recruiters and hiring managers have limited time to review each application, so a concise document demonstrates respect for their schedule. It shows that you can identify the most impactful information and present it clearly and professionally. This ability to be direct and focused is a valued skill in any workplace.
A cover letter that is too long may suggest that you are unfocused or cannot distinguish between relevant and irrelevant details. Conversely, a letter that is too brief might be interpreted as a lack of interest or effort. Striking the right balance is about making a strong first impression.
Structuring Your Cover Letter for Proper Length
Crafting a cover letter that adheres to the ideal length starts with a clear structure. A common and effective model uses three main parts: an introduction, a body, and a conclusion.
Your opening paragraph is your first opportunity to engage the reader. It should state the specific position you are applying for and where you saw the opening. This is also the place to briefly express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. If a current employee referred you, mention their name in this initial paragraph to immediately establish a connection.
The body of the letter, which can be one or two paragraphs, is where you make your case. Instead of summarizing your entire resume, select two or three of your most significant qualifications that directly align with the requirements listed in the job description. Explain how your skills and experiences make you a strong candidate for the position. This is your chance to connect your background to the company’s needs, demonstrating that you have done your research.
The closing paragraph should reiterate your interest in the position and thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration. End with a clear call to action, such as stating your desire to discuss your qualifications further in an interview.
Tips for Editing Your Cover Letter to Be Concise
Once you have a draft, the editing process is where you can significantly refine its length and impact. A primary step is to eliminate filler words and phrases that add length but no value. Sentences that start with “I believe” or “I feel” can often be rewritten to be more direct and assertive.
Using strong, active verbs can also make your sentences more concise and dynamic. Instead of saying, “I was responsible for managing a team,” write “I managed a team.” This change reduces wordiness and presents you as proactive. Avoid simply repeating accomplishments from your resume; the cover letter should add context and personality, not just list the same facts.
Reading your cover letter out loud is an effective way to identify awkward or overly long sentences. If a sentence is difficult to say in one breath, it is likely too complex and should be shortened or broken up. This practice helps you catch errors and ensures the final document flows smoothly.