The New Rules for Cover Letters in 2023

You apply on job boards and there’s a field to input a cover letter. But it’s optional. So, do you create a letter that will impress, or do you take the chance it won’t be looked at, and skip sending one?

One thing is certain: Many companies have dropped their cover letter requirement in recent years. But for the companies that still want to see one, what are the new rules for 2023? 

The new cover letter is shorter, and should also be sweeter, meaning it has to show more personality. One page containing a few short paragraphs that will condense all the most essential information, using words that ‘pack a punch.’ This is exactly how serious job seekers need to be thinking.

Here’s how to craft the perfect cover letter for 2023:

Brevity is King

Somewhere between 200-400 words is the sweet spot for cover letters, which is about half a page and 3-4 paragraphs. The main things to incorporate include: the motivation behind your application, your career objectives, and a spotlight on your career achievements. The most important thing? Say why you want to work for the company. Focus on what attracted you to the job, and why you would be a good fit. 

To Send or not to Send

If the job doesn’t require a cover letter, do you still need to send one? Yes, because most hiring managers still expect to see a cover letter. If this requirement is listed as “optional,” they want to see who will go the extra mile. So, the effort you put into writing a cover letter does not go unnoticed.

Also, if your resume isn’t exactly where you want it to be, a cover letter could be your redeeming feature, especially if it’s clever and well written. A great cover letter can actually pique interest and open the door to an interview.

No Repetition, Please

Always limit repetition in your resume and cover letter. In other words, don’t put the same exact list of achievements on your resume and then rehash an almost identical version in your cover letter. You want your skills and achievements to complement each other, not repeat them.

Instead, use your cover letter to highlight the skills you used or gained from each of the positions listed on your resume. This is where you can sell yourself by putting the focus on how your skills are a great fit for the position at hand.

Triple Check the Grammar

Lastly, before sending out any application, triple check to make sure there are no errors. A cover letter needs to be grammatically flawless, as it’s the only first impression you’ll ever get to make. And, if you’re going on an application blitz, make sure you have the right company name listed on your correspondence. 

The Virtual Resource Room at Calgary Career Hub is the best place to learn everything about job search. An entire category is devoted to Cover Letters. Click this link and get your password: Virtual Resource Centre