Cover letter: what to write instead of repeating your resume

A cover letter explains why you fit this particular role. It does not repeat every job on your resume or guarantee selection. Read the posting, choose two genuine pieces of evidence and write in the requested language.

Opening: role and reason

Name the role and employer when confirmed, then connect your interest to the work in one sentence. Use the recruiter’s name when available and avoid praise that could be sent unchanged to any company.

Body: two pieces of evidence

For each key requirement, choose an example: context, your action and result. For instance, “In a university project I organized 300 records and built a weekly dashboard”—but only if that really happened. Do not add a number or tool you cannot substantiate.

Closing and review

Close with a clear invitation to discuss the role and a brief thank-you. Check the employer, title, language and attachments, and remove sentences that fit any job unchanged. If no letter is requested, follow the application instructions rather than assuming it is required.

Frequently asked questions

Should the letter repeat my resume?

No. Select a few examples that explain your fit instead of repeating the entire experience list.

Do you offer a ready-made PDF letter?

This page explains the writing process. The linked service helps draft text from your information; this page does not promise a downloadable template.

Draft a tailored cover letter

Career guidance source: Harvard career services: resumes and cover letters

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