How to Write a Cover Letter (With Real Examples)

Writing a cover letter in 2025 feels different — because it is. Between AI-generated resumes, lightning-fast applications, and shifting employer expectations, the rules of what makes a great cover letter have evolved. But here’s the good news: you don’t need to overthink it — you just need to rethink it. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how to write a cover letter that works in today’s job market, what’s changed since the old templates you’ve probably used before, and how to stand out with clarity, relevance, and a real human voice, along with real examples to show you what it looks like in action.

Why Cover Letters Still Matter in 2025

Are cover letters dead? Here’s what’s changed (and what hasn’t)

Every year, the job market shifts, and in 2025, it's tempting to believe the cover letter has finally met its end. With one-click applications, optimized resumes, and AI-powered job boards, many job applicants wonder: Do I really still need a cover letter?

The short answer: yes. But not the same one you’ve been recycling since 2018.

While it’s true that some hiring teams won’t read your cover letter word-for-word, a well-written one still sets you apart, especially in a pile of templated submissions or AI-generated fluff. In fact, as applicant tracking systems (ATS) and recruiter expectations evolve, a personalized, purposeful cover letter is now more of a differentiator than ever. Think of it as your chance to break the algorithm and connect as a human.

The purpose of cover letter writing hasn’t changed: it’s still about showing why you’re a good fit beyond the bullet points on your resume. But what has changed is how you write one and the expectations around tone, relevance, and personalization. A strong cover letter should feel like a compelling snapshot, not a formality.

Bottom line? Cover letters aren’t dead. But the lazy, one-size-fits-all version is.

What recruiters and hiring managers actually look for

Let’s clear something up: hiring managers don’t expect you to write a novel. They’re scanning for signals. Signals that say: you’ve read the job posting, you get the company, and you know how your skills translate into value.

In a world where hundreds of job applications can hit a recruiter’s inbox within days, your cover letter can still tip the scale—if it speaks directly to what the employer needs. That means focusing less on your entire career story and more on the specific qualifications and context that matter for this particular job.

Recruiters and potential employers aren’t just hunting for experience. They’re looking for clarity, relevance, and self-awareness. They want to see that you understand the position, that your skills align with what they’re hiring for, and that you can communicate it confidently.

It’s not about being impressive. It’s about being clear. A great cover letter answers a silent question: Why you, and why here?

How AI tools changed the game (and what makes yours stand out)

AI tools have completely shifted the way we write, and that includes cover letters. These days, it’s easier than ever to generate a generic letter in seconds. But here’s the problem: so is everyone else.

That’s why the real competitive edge isn’t whether you use AI to write a cover letter—it’s how you use it. The strongest applicants use tools like an AI cover letter builder to get started quickly, but then fine-tune their draft to feel real, relevant, and specific. They edit for tone. They personalize the examples. They make sure it sounds like them, not ChatGPT.

In a job market where employers are flooded with AI-generated content, standing out means bringing back the human layer. Show that you understand the role. Reference something unique about the company. And most importantly, highlight the specific skills you’d bring to the table.

The tech is helpful, but it’s your insight and voice that turn a generic AI cover letter into a compelling one. This isn’t about sounding fancy. It’s about sounding like someone they'd actually want on their team.

What a Good Cover Letter Actually Looks Like

It’s not a repeat of your resume — it’s your pitch

Here’s the first thing to understand: your cover letter is not a summary of your resume. If all you’re doing is rehashing your job history, you’re missing the point. A compelling cover letter goes beyond bullet points. It frames your relevant experience in a way that speaks directly to the role and shows why you’re a good fit.

Think of it like a pitch. Your resume shows what you’ve done. Your cover letter explains why it matters here. This is your space to make connections that might not be obvious on paper. What excites you about the company? What about this job aligns with your skills or values? Why now?

A good cover letter doesn’t list everything you’ve accomplished—it curates. It focuses on the parts of your background that match the opportunity and weaves them into a short, focused narrative. That’s the difference between another forgettable file and a real, human introduction.

Think future-facing, not past-repeating

One of the biggest mistakes job seekers make in 2025? Writing a cover letter like it’s a memoir. Employers aren’t just evaluating your past—they’re hiring for the future. So shift the focus forward.

Cover letter writing should be about where you’re headed, not just where you’ve been. You’re not trying to prove you’ve checked every box; you’re showing how your skills and perspective can grow with the role. This is especially important if you're switching industries or making a career pivot.

For example, instead of listing every job title you’ve held, explain how your experience in one area makes you uniquely equipped to solve problems in another. Show that you’ve done the research, you understand the position, and you’re ready to bring fresh energy to the role.

That’s the kind of cover letter format 2025 demands: future-forward, strategically selective, and outcome-oriented.

Show, don’t tell: the traits employers are scanning for

Hiring managers aren’t just reading for grammar—they’re scanning for value. What specific skills do you bring? What kind of thinker are you? Can you communicate clearly, solve problems, and make decisions?

Don’t just say you’re a great communicator or a self-starter. Show it. Share a quick example. Mention a key achievement. The goal is to bring your traits to life in a way that makes the employer pause and think, “We need someone like this.”

For example, instead of saying, “I’m a problem-solver,” write, “In my last role, I built a new intake system that reduced client onboarding time by 40% without needing extra budget.” That’s specific, memorable, and measurable.

Whether you're writing for a creative job, a technical position, or something in between, employers are looking for people who understand the role and can add value. A great cover letter makes those strengths obvious without needing to shout.

How to Write a Cover Letter in 2025

If you’ve ever stared at a blank doc wondering how to write a cover letter without sounding robotic or redundant, you’re not alone. The good news? Writing an effective cover letter doesn’t mean following a stiff template—it’s about structure with a little strategy. Let’s break it down, step by step.

Start with a clean, modern header

Your cover letter should open with a clear, professional header just like a formal business letter. This means including your name, email, phone number, and LinkedIn URL (if relevant), followed by the date, and then the company’s name and address.

Keep it minimal and modern. No need for outdated formatting or logos. You’re not writing a novel—you’re giving the hiring manager what they need to reach out. A well-formatted header immediately sets the tone that you know how to present yourself professionally.

Use a human greeting (no more “To Whom It May Concern”)

We’re past the era of the generic greeting. If you want your cover letter to feel personal and intentional, skip “To Whom It May Concern.” Whenever possible, address your letter to a specific person, ideally the hiring manager’s name. This tiny detail shows effort and adds warmth.

Not sure who that is? A little online sleuthing (LinkedIn, company websites, or even emailing to ask) can go a long way. If you truly can’t find a name, “Dear Hiring Manager” is still the better default.

Nail your opening line — skip the fluff

Let’s be honest: “I’m writing to express my interest in the [job title] position at [company]” won’t cut it anymore. Your opening paragraph should make someone want to keep reading. Start strong by referencing the job posting, expressing genuine excitement about the position, or highlighting something unique about the company that drew you in.

Think of it like the subject line of an email—it should be direct, confident, and say more than just “I saw your job ad.” Use sharp words that convey energy and interest, not filler.

Show them how you solve problems, not just what you’ve done

Hiring managers aren’t just interested in your past—they want to know how you’ll solve their problems. This is where your relevant experience and specific skills need to shine. Don’t just list what you’ve done. Show how it applies to this organization and this position.

Think: “Here’s a challenge your team is facing, and here’s how I’ve handled something similar or how I’d tackle it now.” This shifts your letter from recap to value-add, which is what great cover letter writing is all about.

Align your tone with the company — not too stiff, not too casual

A big mistake job seekers make is sounding either too formal or way too laid back. Your goal is to relate to the company, not to impress with big words or charm with slang. Read the job description, check the brand voice online, and match your tone accordingly.

For example, a tech startup might appreciate a touch of wit or a quick personal story that reflects your personality. A more traditional employer might prefer polished and straightforward. Either way, speak like a human who understands their world.

Close with clarity and confidence, not desperation

Your closing paragraph should summarize why you’re a strong candidate and what excites you about the role, not sound like you’re begging for the job. Reiterate your interest, thank them for their time, and express your confidence in being a good fit.

Keep it short, clear, and optimistic. One strong sentence can do more than a rambling conclusion. A great cover letter is about direction, not desperation.

And yes, one page is still the gold standard. Quality over quantity wins every time.

Common Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid in 2025

Even with all the tools out there, plenty of job seekers still fall into the same cover letter traps, especially in a world where templates and shortcuts are everywhere. If you want your letter to stand out for the right reasons, here are the biggest mistakes to steer clear of in 2025.

Using one letter for every job (don’t do it)

Sending the same letter to every employer? That’s the fastest way to end up in the “no” pile. Recruiters can immediately tell when you’re recycling a cover letter, especially if it doesn’t match the job posting, position title, or industry tone.

Every specific position deserves its own spin. Yes, you can repurpose some structure and phrasing. But don’t just swap in a new company name and hit send. Tailor your message to that team, that role, that moment. Mention something unique about the role or how it fits with your experience beyond what’s already on your resume.

If you're going to write a cover letter that lands interviews, personalization isn’t optional—it’s expected. You can use Huntr’s AI cover letter generator to help speed up the process of writing tailored cover letters for jobs quickly.

Apologizing for your experience (or overcompensating)

Here’s a subtle mistake too many people make: underselling or overexplaining their background. Maybe you’re switching careers. Maybe you’re missing one of the listed requirements. That’s okay. But don’t apologize for what you lack—focus on what you bring.

Your qualifications, skills, and relevant experience matter more than your gaps. Show how you’ve adapted, learned fast, or transferred strengths across industries. A confident, forward-looking tone beats a defensive or exaggerated one every time.

Avoid phrases like “Even though I don’t have…” or “While I may not be the most qualified…” That’s not being honest—that’s shrinking your value. Let your cover letter include speaking from your potential, not your insecurities.

Real Cover Letter Examples That Worked (and Why)

Writing a cover letter doesn’t mean reinventing the wheel—it means getting personal, purposeful, and precise. Below are three real-world-style cover letter examples that reflect what today’s hiring managers want to see. Each sample cover letter includes quick insights into why it works and what job seekers can learn from it.

Example 1: Entry-level applicant with no experience

Context: A recent graduate applying for a marketing coordinator role at a mid-size startup.

Excerpt:

Dear Hiring Manager,

I’m excited to apply for the Marketing Coordinator position at Sprout Lane. Though I’m just starting out in my career, I bring hands-on experience from leading campus-wide campaigns at my university, where I helped increase student event participation by 35% using social media and storytelling strategies.

I’m eager to bring that same creative energy and attention to data-driven decision-making to your team. What drew me to Sprout Lane was your recent launch of the Gen Z branding series—I’d love to contribute to that kind of fresh, strategic work.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Why it works:This job applicant doesn’t over-apologize for a lack of traditional experience. Instead, they highlight specific skills and results that translate into real value. They reference the company’s work by name, which shows interest, initiative, and effort—qualities every employer looks for. The tone is professional, upbeat, and personal, which makes this a strong cover letter example for early-career candidates.

Example 2: Career changer applying for a tech role

Context: A former teacher transitioning into UX design.

Excerpt:

Dear Hiring Manager,

After eight years as a high school English teacher, I’m shifting careers to UX design, an area where my passion for communication, storytelling, and user-first thinking naturally aligns.

I recently completed a UX bootcamp where I led a project to redesign a nonprofit’s donation flow, resulting in a 22% increase in conversions. I also bring experience conducting user research and collaborating with diverse teams—skills I honed both in the classroom and during my recent capstone.

I’d love to bring my background in education and emerging UX skills to a mission-driven tech company like yours.

Why it works:This sample cover letter tells a story of growth and connects the dots between past experience and future potential. It doesn’t shy away from a career pivot—it frames it as an asset. By focusing on transferable skills and providing specific details (like measurable results), it stands out in a stack of more traditional applications.

Example 3: Experienced professional targeting a leadership role

Context: A senior operations manager applying for a Director of Operations role.

Excerpt:

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

With over 10 years of leading cross-functional teams in supply chain and operations, I’ve learned that scaling systems is as much about people as it is about processes. At Westbridge, I oversaw a 3-year logistics transformation that reduced delivery times by 40% and improved NPS scores across two regions.

I’m now looking to bring that experience and my passion for operational excellence to an organization focused on sustainable growth. Your commitment to ethical sourcing and tech-forward logistics is what drew me to this position, and I’d welcome the opportunity to help drive that mission forward.

Why it works:This example balances data, leadership, and values. The applicant doesn't just list achievements—they contextualize them and align them with the company’s goals. The tone is confident but not boastful, making it a strong cover letter example for senior-level professionals who want to move into a strategic leadership role.

These examples prove that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. A great cover letter is simply one that speaks clearly, genuinely, and specifically to the role you want and the value you bring to it. Whether you’re brand new to the job market or looking to level up, your job application deserves more than a copy-paste. Tell your story, and make it count.

Quick Tips to Tailor Your Cover Letter Faster

Writing a cover letter from scratch for every job can feel like a full-time job in itself. But these days, job seekers have more tools and smarter strategies than ever before. If you want to write a cover letter that feels personalized without spending hours, here are three ways to move faster without sounding generic.

Use AI as a starting point, then make it sound like you

AI tools can help speed up the first draft of your cover letter, especially when you’re applying to multiple roles. But here’s the catch: an AI cover letter that reads like it was written by, well, AI, isn’t going to help you stand out. Use it to structure your thoughts or generate a rough outline, but never hit send without adding your voice.

Think of the AI output as a first draft writing sample, not the final product. Add personal phrasing, tailor the tone to match the company culture, and make sure it actually reflects your skills and relevant experience. The goal is to write a cover letter that sounds like a real human wrote it because a real human (you) did.

Mirror the job description without copying it

Tailoring doesn’t mean rewriting your letter from the ground up. A smart shortcut is to study the job description for key language, especially around responsibilities, tools, or culture. If it says “cross-functional collaboration,” and you’ve worked on multi-team projects, say that. If they want someone “comfortable with ambiguity,” and you’ve worked in a startup, mention it.

The trick is to highlight specific skills and experience that show you’re ready for this position without parroting the employer’s own words. Use their language as a guide, but make it yours. This helps your letter pass ATS filters and resonate more with the actual employer. Huntr’s AI cover letter generator can pull insights from the job description to help you mirror the copy without making it a word-for-word copy.

Add one sentence that proves you did your homework

This is the fastest, most effective personalization trick: add one line that shows you researched the company or organization. Mention a product launch, a recent article, or a value from their mission statement that resonated with you. Did they just win an award? Release a new campaign? Talk about it.

You don’t need a whole paragraph—just one sentence that proves you took the time to understand them. And if you happen to know the specific person reading your application, address them by name and tie your experience back to something they’ve written or led. It shows you’re intentional, not just sending another cookie-cutter cover letter. That’s how you get remembered.

Tailoring doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With smart shortcuts, a bit of tech, and a dash of intention, you can write a cover letter that’s fast, personal, and actually gets results.

Conclusion

Cover letters aren’t dead, but boring ones are. It’s not about writing the longest or fanciest letter. It’s about making your application feel personal, relevant, and clear in a sea of generic cover letters. If you can show that you understand the company, connect your skills to their needs, and sound like a real human being, you’re already ahead of most applicants. If you need help making the process easier, consider signing up for Huntr today to help you craft, track, and tailor smarter cover letters all in one place.