How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?

In a confusing and competitive world of job search, among other things, many wonder how long should a cover letter be.

If you are unemployed and you’re sending applications left and right, then for sure this question came to your mind as well. Well, that’s a great question because we all know cover letters are important. And you certainly need to write one! So, our next step is figuring out how long should a cover letter be.

In this article, we’ll talk about what does your cover letter need to have and how long it should be, so, keep on reading!

Covering the basics

Just so we’re all on the same page, it’s important to note the following: there are no clear rules when it comes to writing a cover letter. If there were, we’d have perfect templates that work every time, and we don’t have that. Not because we can’t make something up, but because each person’s situation is different. Therefore, you need to move away from the templated mindset and look into your own situation.

The basic purpose of a cover letter is:

1. to express your motivation for the role
2. to explain what you can do to help the company /what is it that you bring to the table
3. why are you looking for a job in the first place.

Hence, you should write your cover letter with these three things in mind.

It might seem a bit weird at first, but trust me, if you want to have a formula for successful cover letter writing – this is it! Everyone wants to know why you’re applying for the role and why should they hire you over someone else. So, you better explain it. Also, people like to know why you’re looking for a new job. That’s only natural and you will definitely be asked about it!

Sections in your cover letter & their length

To get your message across, you need to organize your thoughts in sections. Your cover letter needs to be understandable to others, not just you. Follow the same logic you applied when you were writing your CV. Yes, you’re presenting yourself, but in a way other people understand it.

Addressing the reader

Firstly, you want to address your reader. This is just a common courtesy. If you don’t know the name of the person who will be reading your job application, go with the classic “To Whom It May Concern.” Yes, it is quite old-fashioned, but it’s still used so go ahead and use it as well.

How long should it be: between 2 and 5 words

Opening paragraph

Next, in your opening paragraph, try to explain in two or three sentences why you fit the role. Always refer to the job ad itself and try to connect your background and personality to it. Keep it brief and to the point, you don’t want the reader to stop reading because you’re using complex sentences at the very beginning.
For example, if the job ad says they want a candidate who’s “self-motivated, cooperative, and excellent at handling pressure”, you write those phrases in your opening paragraph. Of course, always say the truth and don’t put yourself in uncomfortable situations by stating something that’s not true about you.

How long should the opening paragraph be: try not to go over 60 words in this section. This is sufficient for three sentences. Plenty for you to hook the reader and make them want to find out more!

First paragraph

The following paragraph should follow the structure of your CV. If the basis of your application is education, then make sure to focus on education in your cover letter as well. Similarly, if you focused your CV on work experience, that has to be reflected in your cover letter, too.

How long should the first paragraph be: try not to go over 80 words in this section. The number of words is sufficient for four sentences. In those sentences you should be able to reflect whatever you’ve written in your CV

Second paragraph

In your next paragraph, write about your personality and how it helped your performance. After all, it is always a good idea to add some of the “soft skills” or personality traits. That way, you will have a healthy combination of professional and personal.

How long should the second paragraph be: try not to go over 60 words in this section. In all honesty, you are connecting your traits with the job ad and you shouldn’t over do it.

Third paragraph

This paragraph should be used to explain why you’re interested in the role. Everyone wants to know what’s your motivation. Why do you want to leave your current job? Why are you switching careers? How come you want to start working again?

It can be that you need a challenge, that you want to try something new, or maybe you want to move back home and that’s why you’re applying for that particular position

How long should the third paragraph be: 60 words should be plenty here, it’s just a brief explanation. Generally, this is discussed at length during the interview process.

Final paragraph

The fourth paragraph should be your closing one. In it, share your excitement for the role and list your strongest points. Here is where you really emphasize why they should hire you. Of course, this is also based on the job ad so make sure you read it carefully and use the phrases in your cover letter!

How long should the final paragraph be: up to 60 words is fine. Make sure to show your gratitude and appreciation for their time.

Sign-off

Lastly, don’t forget to sign off your cover letter with an appropriate phrase. There are many you can use, for example “Yours sincerely” or “Regards.”

Also, make sure you signed the letter.

How long should it be: between 2 and 5 words

So, How Long Should a Cover Letter Be? Approximately 330 words.

After all, this will depend on your situation and type of the job application. Perhaps you need to write at least 500 words. Or maybe you only have space for 200. Whatever the case might be, follow the proposed structure and you should be fine. 🙂

Overwhelmed?

Not to mention that for some, this will be an easy task and for others it’ll be a nightmare. If you’re in the second group, check other blog posts on Linking Lines page.

We also came up with a step-by-step CV and cover letter writing guide that can be ordered here. Follow the steps outlined in the book and see more reactions to your job applications.

However, if you feel like this is too much for you, and you’d rather have a professional write your cover letter, feel free to get in touch using the form below. We’ll take care of it for you. Let’s transform your job search together.