How to Write a Cover Letter That Sounds Like YOU (and Gets Noticed)

Summary

Elainy Mata describes her discomfort with cover letters and shares how advice from Harvard Business Review editor Amy Gallo helped her write one that felt more personal and relevant.

The central message is that a cover letter should not simply repeat a résumé or rely on generic formal language. It should explain why you are interested in a particular job, what you can contribute, and how your experience connects to the employer’s needs.

Key Advice and Process

• Keep it to one page. Focus on the most essential points rather than shrinking the font or manipulating the margins.
• Research the employer.
  • Read the company’s website, “About” section, and mission statement to understand its goals, values, and tone.
  • Check its LinkedIn and other social media to see what it is discussing and sharing.
• Address a person when possible. Look for the hiring manager or the person who posted or shared the job. If needed, ask who the hiring manager is so you can use their name instead of a generic greeting.
• Open with a specific, engaging point. Avoid an introduction that only says who you are and which job you want. Aim for a concise opening that conveys enthusiasm and connects your relevant skills to the role.
• Explain the value you would bring. Consider why the company is hiring and what problem it needs to solve. Show how you could help.
• Highlight adaptability and quick learning. These can be useful strengths to emphasize, especially if your work history is limited.
• Connect past experience to future contributions. Your résumé covers much of your past; the cover letter should explain how you will apply that experience in the role you are seeking. This can help newer graduates discuss their potential, even when a posting asks for more experience than they have.
• Show enthusiasm without sounding desperate. Communicate genuine interest and energy without overdoing it.
• Let your personality come through. Use a natural voice rather than stiff wording, and avoid simply restating your résumé.
• Get a second opinion. Ask someone who knows you and will be candid to check the letter for errors, clarity, and whether it sounds like you.
• Use a template, but customize it. Write and review a strong initial letter, then research each employer and adjust the letter for each application rather than starting from scratch.

Mata applies this advice to a cover letter for a job at HBR. Gallo’s feedback emphasizes a strong opening, brevity, relevance, and personality. After revisions, Mata says the letter includes the key components without excessive flattery.

Speakers and Sources

• Elainy Mata — Presenter and applicant who demonstrates the process.
• Amy Gallo — Harvard Business Review editor and cover-letter expert interviewed in the video.