Although more and more employers are adopting faster recruitment processes, a strong cover letter remains an important tool for standing out from other candidates. This is especially true if you are changing industries, have limited experience, or want to provide additional context to your CV.

However, be careful: recruiters can spot generic cover letters, clichés and impersonal content more quickly than ever before.

Want to increase your chances of landing a job interview? Then make sure to avoid these six common cover letter mistakes.

1. Your cover letter is too long

Recruiters often spend only a few minutes on the initial screening of an application. As a result, a two or three-page cover letter is rarely read in full.

Keep your cover letter concise and relevant. One page is more than enough.

Focus on three questions:

• Why does this role appeal to you?
• Why do you want to work for this company?
• What experience, skills or qualities make you the right candidate?

A short and focused cover letter is often more effective than a lengthy description of your career history.

2. Your letter sounds too formal or impersonal

Many candidates try to sound professional by using overly formal language. As a result, their cover letter can come across as distant or even robotic.

Recruiters are not looking for a perfect text; they are looking for an authentic candidate.

Write professionally, but keep it human. Avoid overly complicated phrases such as:

• “I wish to submit my application for the above-mentioned vacancy.”
• “Please find enclosed my motivation for this position.”
• “With regard to your vacancy...”

Choose a natural writing style that reflects who you are.

3. You use a generic template or AI without personal input

AI tools can help you write a cover letter, but recruiters are increasingly able to spot generic content that says little about the candidate.

A cover letter that remains the same for every company lacks credibility.

Show that you have researched the employer. For example, refer to:

• the company culture;
• recent projects or developments;
• the organisation’s mission and values;
• specific aspects of the role that appeal to you.

Feel free to use AI as a tool, but make sure your personality and motivation clearly shine through.

4. You focus on what you lack instead of what you bring

Many candidates hesitate to apply because they do not meet every requirement listed in the job description. As a result, they spend their cover letter explaining what they cannot do.

That is a missed opportunity.

Employers rarely look for a perfect candidate. They are looking for someone with potential who can grow into the role.

Instead, highlight:

• relevant experience;
• transferable skills;
• training and certifications;
• willingness to learn and develop.

Confidence is important, as long as you remain honest and realistic.

5. You rely on clichés

Sentences such as:

• “I am a real team player.”
• “I am flexible and can handle stress well.”
• “I enjoy challenges.”

are still commonly used, but they do little to make you stand out.

Support your strengths with concrete examples.

Rather than saying you are highly organised, explain how you successfully managed a project, event or complex schedule. Specific examples make your application more credible and persuasive.

6. You forget to check the details

Even a strong cover letter can end up being rejected because of careless mistakes.

Always check:

• spelling and grammar;
• the company name;
• the contact person's name;
• the job title and vacancy details;
• any links to your LinkedIn profile.

If possible, ask someone else to review your letter. A fresh pair of eyes can often spot mistakes you missed.

Bonus: Don’t underestimate your LinkedIn profile

Today, recruiters often review more than just your CV and cover letter. They also look at your online presence.

An up-to-date LinkedIn profile can strengthen your application.

Make sure your profile reflects the experience, skills and ambitions mentioned in your application. Consistency builds trust.

A strong cover letter remains a valuable asset

Despite the rise of AI and faster recruitment processes, a personalised cover letter remains a powerful way to stand out. Keep it concise, authentic and relevant, show that you understand the company and support your strengths with concrete examples.

Doing so will increase your chances of getting noticed and securing an interview.

Ready for your next career move?

A strong cover letter can bring you closer to your dream job, but finding the right opportunity is just as important. Explore our current vacancies and take the next step in your career today.