how to write a cover letter biology

Professional Biology Cover Letter Examples for 2024

Your biology cover letter needs to immediately grab the attention of the hiring manager. Highlight your most relevant research experiences or projects prominently. In your second paragraph, succinctly outline your key contributions to the field of biology. Ensure to quantify your successes with data or publication citations when possible.

Cover Letter Guide

Biology Cover Letter Sample

Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter Salutation

Cover Letter Introduction

Cover Letter Body

Cover Letter Closing

No Experience Biology Cover Letter

Key Takeaways

Embarking on your biology career journey, you've hit a common snag: writing a cover letter that stands out. It's not just a repeat of your resume; it's your chance to showcase a shining moment that you're incredibly proud of. This letter needs to be polished and professional, steering clear of overused phrases. Remember, brevity is key – keep it to one page that holds nothing back but the clichés. Let's dive in and get that cover letter to reflect the best of your achievements.

• Personalize your biology cover letter and get inspired by other professionals to tell a compelling story;
• Format and design your biology cover letter to make an excellent first impression;
• Introduce your best achievement in your biology cover letter to recruiters;
• How to make sure recruiters get in touch with you, using your biology cover letter greeting and closing paragraphs.

What is more, did you know that Enhancv's AI can write your cover letter for you? Just upload your biology resume and get ready to forward your job application in a flash.

If the biology isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:

• Biology resume guide and example
• Clinical Research Assistant cover letter example
• Research Assistant cover letter example
• Undergraduate Research Assistant cover letter example
• Graduate Research Assistant cover letter example
• Lab Manager cover letter example
• Chemist cover letter example
• Researcher cover letter example
• Research Director cover letter example
• Analytical Chemist cover letter example
• Lab Technician cover letter example

Biology cover letter example

Emily Johnson

Pasadena, TX

+1-(234)-555-1234

[email protected]

• Highlighting relevant accomplishments such as the redesign of the biology curriculum and its positive outcomes (e.g., 15% increase in student engagement) effectively demonstrates the candidate’s impact on education and innovation.
• Presenting evidence of mentorship and successful publication of research underscores the candidate’s expertise and ability to guide and participate in high-level scientific inquiry, an essential skill for a Biologist position.
• Expressing a commitment to fostering a collaborative environment aligns with the teamwork often necessary in scientific research roles and indicates an awareness of the importance of team dynamics in driving discovery.

The format of your biology cover letter: structure, fonts, margins, and more

Your biology cover letter should include a header (with your name, position, and date); a greeting and introductory paragraph; a body and closing paragraphs; and an optional signature.

Remember that you're writing your biology cover letter for recruiters - as the Applicant Tracker System won't scan this content.

Here are a few more tips and tricks to keep in mind when formatting your biology cover letter:

• Use the same font in your biology cover letter and resume . We recommend modern fonts, e.g. Lato and Rubik, to help you stand out, instead of the stereotypical Arial and Times New Roman.
• Each paragraph should have single spacing, which is already set up for you in our cover letter templates .
• Our cover letter builder follows industry standards for your biology cover letter formatting - with a one-inch margin, surrounding your content.
• Always export your biology cover letter in PDF to ensure the image or text quality stays the same and your writing isn't moved about.

The top sections on a biology cover letter

• Header with Contact Information: This includes your name, address, phone number, email, and the date, ensuring the recruiter can easily contact you and knows when you’ve submitted your application.
• Greeting: Personalize the cover letter by addressing the hiring manager by name, demonstrating that you’ve researched the company and are serious about your application.
• Introduction: State the specific biology position you are applying for and highlight your most relevant qualification or experience to grab the recruiter’s attention immediately.
• Body Paragraphs: Detail your previous research experiences, laboratory skills, and academic background in biology, showing how these qualifications align with the job description and the company’s needs.
• Conclusion and Call-to-Action: Close by summarizing your value proposition, expressing your enthusiasm for the role, and indicating your desire for a personal interview, leaving the recruiter with a clear next step.

Key qualities recruiters search for in a candidate’s cover letter

• Research experience in relevant fields: Demonstrates the necessary technical skills and understanding of scientific methods for conducting experiments and data analysis.
• Publication record: Shows the ability to communicate scientific findings effectively and contributes to the body of knowledge in the field.
• Laboratory skills and techniques specific to the sub-discipline: Highlights proficiency with tools and methodologies unique to that area of biology (e.g., genetic sequencing, microscopy, or environmental sampling).
• Interdisciplinary collaboration: Indicates the ability to work with professionals from various fields, which is often essential for complex biological research projects.
• Understanding of statistical methods and data analysis software: Essential for interpreting results and ensuring that conclusions are supported by the data.
• Knowledge of bioethics and regulatory compliance: Ensures that the candidate is aware of ethical considerations and compliance with guidelines that govern biological research.

How to personalize your biology cover letter greeting

Before you start writing your biology cover letter, take the time to find out who is recruiting for the role.

Search for the recruiter's name on LinkedIn or the corporate website to address them personally in your biology cover letter salutation .

What if you can't find out who's recruiting for the role?

Always aim to avoid the very impersonal "Dear Sir/Madam" - instead, opt out for "Dear HR Team" or "Dear Hiring Manager" to make a better first impression.

List of salutations you can use

• Dear Hiring Manager,
• Dear Dr. [Last Name],
• Dear Professor [Last Name],
• Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name],
• Dear Search Committee,
• Dear [Department] Selection Committee,

Your biology cover letter introduction and the value you bring

Moving on from the "Dear Recruiter" to your professional introduction .

Use those first two sentences of your biology cover letter to present the biggest asset you'd bring to the organization.

Don't go into too much detail about your achievement or the skill set, but instead - go straight for the win.

That is - what is your value as a professional?

Would you be able to build stronger, professional relationships in any type of communication? Or, potentially, integrate seamlessly into the team?

Storytelling in the middle (or body) of your biology cover letter

You've got your whole resume sorted, detailing your achievements and skills. What else can you write in your biology cover letter ?

For starters, take the time to re-assess the job requirements and re-discover the most crucial skills and requirements (or keywords).

After making a list of these important keywords, look back on your experience to select just one of your past accomplishments.

Choose the achievement that is the most noteworthy, relevant to the role, and matches the required skills.

Use the next between three and six paragraphs to narrate how:

• you've grown your skill set, thanks to your achievement;
• you'd use the know-how you've gained in your new role;
• your accomplishment could help your potential employers grow.

Remember that recruiters don't need a retelling of your whole resume, but want to find out what makes you, you.

Final words: writing your biology cover letter closing paragraph

The final paragraph of your biology cover letter allows you that one final chance to make a great first impression .

Instead of going straight to the "sincerely yours" ending, you can back up your skills with a promise of:

• how you see yourself growing into the role;
• the unique skills you'd bring to the organization.

Whatever you choose, always be specific (and remember to uphold your promise, once you land the role).

If this option doesn't seem that appealing to you, close off your biology cover letter with a follow-up request.

You could even provide your availability for interviews so that the recruiters would be able to easily arrange your first meeting.

Biology cover letter advice for candidates with no experience

If you're worried about writing your Biology cover letter and have no professional experience , we sure have some advice for you.

Turn recruiters' attention to your transferable or relevant skills gained thanks to your life and work experience.

Instead of writing about past jobs, focus on one achievement (whether from your volunteering experience, education, etc.) and the skills it has helped you build.

Alternatively, you could focus your Biology cover letter on your career objectives and goals. Always remember to make those relevant to the job you're applying for by detailing how you see yourself growing as part of the company.

Recruiters would be way more impressed with candidates who fit the job profile and can bring about plenty of skills and vision to the table.

Key takeaways

Within this Enhancv guide, we've provided you with plenty of advice and inspiration on writing your biology cover letter:

• Always make sure your biology cover letter is tailored to the role you're applying for to make a good impression on recruiters;
• In your biology cover letter include a header (with your name, the role you're applying for, date, and contact details) and an introduction of up to two sentences that highlight your key accomplishment or why you'd fit the role;
• Focus your biology cover letter body on one sole achievement through your career and all the valuable lessons, skills, and know-how you've learned (that are relevant to the role);
• Ensure your biology cover letter closing statement isn't generic and includes either a call to action or a promise;
• If you lack professional experience, shift recruiters' focus to a relevant achievement (thanks to your academic or versatile experience) or toward your dreams and goals for professional growth.

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• Content tailored to the job posting you're applying for
• ChatGPT model specifically trained by Enhancv
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Biology Teacher Cover Letter Example

Writing a cover letter for a job as a biology teacher can be a difficult task. With the right guidance, however, you can create a concise and informative letter that will help you stand out from the competition. This guide will walk you through the process of creating a compelling cover letter that will make a positive impression on potential employers. We have also included a sample cover letter to help you get started. By following these tips and the example, you will have all the information you need to create a successful cover letter.

Download the Cover Letter Sample in Word Document – Click Below

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Biology Teacher Cover Letter Sample

Dear [Hiring Manager],

I am writing to express my interest in the Biology Teacher position at [School]. As an experienced educator, certified in biology and passionate about inspiring and educating young minds, I am confident that I am the ideal candidate for this role.

During my [number of years] in education, I have worked with a variety of students and teaching styles. At my current position, I have gained a great deal of expertise in developing and implementing curriculum that is engaging and challenging for students. I am also skilled in utilizing technology in the classroom to ensure that students are staying on track and engaged in the coursework.

I am confident that I will be a valuable addition to your faculty. As a biology teacher, I am experienced in teaching all core concepts and topics in the subject, such as genetics, cell biology, ecology, and evolution. My students consistently achieve high scores on state exams and I have implemented a variety of strategies to ensure that all students excel in the course. I am also passionate about fostering student engagement and enthusiasm for the subject.

In addition to my teaching experience, I have also attended several professional development seminars for the purpose of staying up- to- date on the latest teaching strategies and best practices. I am also a member of the [Organization], which keeps me informed of the latest trends in biology education.

It would be an honor to bring my experience and enthusiasm to your faculty. I am confident that I can make a positive contribution to the school and its students. I look forward to discussing my qualifications and experience further in an interview.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

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What should a Biology Teacher cover letter include?

A Biology Teacher cover letter should include the following:

• A concise overview of your qualifications, including your teaching experience and any awards or recognition that you have received for your work in the field of Biology.
• A brief explanation of why you are the ideal candidate for the position, highlighting your enthusiasm for teaching and your knowledge of the subject.
• A summary of your teaching style and techniques, emphasizing how you will use them to engage and motivate students to not only learn the material but also to pursue further study in the subject.
• Examples of how you have successfully integrated innovative teaching methods into your lessons and how those methods have helped improve student outcomes.
• A list of any educational activities or initiatives that you have taken part in, such as attending educational conferences or participating in research projects.
• An offer to discuss any questions the hiring team may have about your qualifications and experience.
• A professional closing, wishing the school the best of luck in its search for the most suitable candidate.

Biology Teacher Cover Letter Writing Tips

Writing a cover letter for a biology teacher position is an important step in the job search process. Your cover letter should be tailored to the specific position and highlight your qualifications as they relate to the job requirements. The following tips can help you craft a compelling and professional biology teacher cover letter that will get the attention of hiring managers.

• Research the hiring school: Before you begin writing your cover letter, take the time to research the school and its mission. Show that you understand the school’s needs and explain why you are the best fit for the position.
• Highlight relevant qualifications: Your cover letter should focus on the qualifications that make you an ideal candidate for the position. Explain how your experience, skills, and knowledge make you the perfect candidate for the job.
• Show enthusiasm: Showing enthusiasm for the position is essential. Use your cover letter to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role and explain why you are passionate about teaching biology.
• Proofread: Once you finish writing your cover letter, take the time to proofread it for any spelling or grammar errors. Make sure to have a friend or family member review your cover letter as well to ensure it is error- free.

By following these tips, you can create an effective biology teacher cover letter that will help you stand out from the competition. Good luck with your job search!

Common mistakes to avoid when writing Biology Teacher Cover letter

Writing a cover letter for the position of a Biology Teacher can be challenging and even intimidating if you don’t know where to start. To make sure your cover letter stands out, here are some common mistakes that should be avoided when writing a Biology Teacher cover letter:

• Not Tailoring Your Letter: Your cover letter is the first impression that a potential employer will have of you, so it’s important to make sure it is tailored to the position you are applying for. Make sure to highlight any relevant qualifications and experiences that make you the ideal candidate for the job.
• Not Including Contact Information: Make sure to include all of your contact information, such as your full name, address, and contact number. This will make sure that the employer can easily reach out to you if they want to set up an interview or ask additional questions.
• Not Explaining Your Skills: Your cover letter should not just be a list of qualifications, but should also highlight the skills and experience that make you the ideal person for the job. Explain why your skills are perfect for the position, and why you would fit in well with the team.
• Not Making it Professional: Your cover letter should be professional and free from mistakes. Make sure to proofread it multiple times and have someone else look over it as well. Your cover letter should be free of typos, grammar mistakes, and other errors.
• Not Following Instructions: Be sure to read through the job posting thoroughly and follow all instructions provided. Failing to do so can make it seem like you are not taking the job seriously and may lead to your application being rejected.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can make sure that your Biology Teacher cover letter stands out and puts you in the best possible position to land the job.

Key takeaways

When applying for a job as a biology teacher, it is essential to demonstrate an understanding of the subject matter and the ability to effectively teach it. An impressive cover letter should highlight your experience and qualifications while also highlighting your enthusiasm and interest in the role. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind when writing a Biology Teacher cover letter:

• Highlight your teaching experience and qualifications. Make sure to demonstrate your knowledge of the subject and the ability to teach it effectively.
• Demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role. Show that you are excited to teach and that you are passionate about the subject matter.
• Provide examples of how you have successfully taught in the past. This will help to illustrate your experience and qualifications.
• Focus on your skills and accomplishments. Showcase any awards or recognition that you have earned and emphasize any relevant experiences that make you stand out from other candidates.
• Showcase your communication skills. Demonstrate that you can effectively communicate with both students and parents.
• Convey a positive attitude. Show that you are passionate about teaching and eager to work hard.
• Proofread your cover letter. Make sure that your cover letter is free of any mistakes or typos.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. how do i write a cover letter for an biology teacher job with no experience.

As a biology teacher with no experience, you can still create an effective cover letter that highlights your enthusiasm for teaching, as well as your ability to learn and adapt quickly. Begin by introducing yourself and expressing your interest in the position. Be sure to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the job, even if you lack direct experience.

Highlight any other teaching roles you may have held, such as tutoring or teaching assistantships, which can demonstrate your commitment to the field and your ability to handle classroom management. Describe any relevant academic and research experience you have that is related to the position. Focus on emphasizing any transferable skills you have, such as communication, collaboration, and critical thinking, as well as your eagerness to learn.

Finally, note any special talents or abilities that you possess that would make you stand out as an ideal candidate, such as technological proficiency, fluency in multiple languages, or knowledge of special teaching methods.

2. How do I write a cover letter for an Biology Teacher job experience?

When writing a cover letter for an experienced biology teacher, be sure to emphasize the ways in which your experience directly aligns with the position in question. Start off by introducing yourself and explaining your qualifications and experience, including any relevant research and academic achievements.

Describe any teaching awards or recognitions you may have received in the past, as well as any special projects you completed such as creating curriculums or designing lesson plans.

Be sure to emphasize the ways in which your teaching methods have been successful in the past, as well as any special skills or techniques you bring to the classroom. Explain why you’re passionate about teaching biology, as well as any additional qualifications that make you the ideal candidate.

Finally, note any additional qualifications you possess, such as fluency in multiple languages or technological proficiency, which can make you stand out among other applicants.

3. How can I highlight my accomplishments in Biology Teacher cover letter?

Highlighting your accomplishments in your biology teacher cover letter can be a great way to demonstrate the ways in which your experience and qualifications make you the ideal candidate for the job. Start by introducing yourself and explain why you’re the perfect fit for the position.

Be sure to include any awards or recognitions you’ve received in the past, as well as any special projects you’ve completed, such as creating curriculums or lesson plans.

Outline any educational and research achievements you’ve made that are relevant to the position, as well as any special skills or techniques you possess that would benefit the classroom. Explain why you’re passionate about teaching biology, and be sure to emphasize any additional qualifications you possess, such as fluency in multiple languages or technological proficiency.

In addition to this, be sure to check out our cover letter templates , cover letter formats ,  cover letter examples ,  job description , and  career advice  pages for more helpful tips and advice.

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Biology Teacher Cover Letter Examples & Writing Tips

Use these Biology Teacher cover letter examples and writing tips to help you write a powerful cover letter that will separate you from the competition.

Table Of Contents

• Biology Teacher Example 1
• Biology Teacher Example 2
• Biology Teacher Example 3
• Cover Letter Writing Tips

Biology teachers are responsible for teaching students about the principles of biology. They must be able to convey complex information in a way that students can understand.

In order to get hired as a biology teacher, you need to write a cover letter that showcases your teaching skills and experience.

Check out the examples and tips below to learn how to write a cover letter that will help you get the job.

Biology Teacher Cover Letter Example 1

I am excited to be applying for the Biology Teacher position at your school. I have a degree in Biology from a top university and more than five years of experience teaching high school Biology. I firmly believe that all students can learn and that Biology is an important subject for all students to understand. I am passionate about teaching and I am excited to share my knowledge with your students.

I have a proven track record of success in the classroom. My students have consistently achieved high marks on standardized tests and I have been recognized as a top teacher by the school district. I am also an experienced curriculum developer and I have written and implemented a successful Biology curriculum.

In addition to my teaching skills, I am also a strong team player. I have been a member of the Science Department team for the past four years and I have been highly involved in the school’s Science Department. I have helped to lead and organize department-wide events, fundraisers, and professional development workshops.

I am confident that I have the skills and experience to be an excellent Biology Teacher at your school. I look forward to meeting with you to discuss this opportunity further. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Biology Teacher Cover Letter Example 2

I am writing to apply for the Biology Teacher position that was recently advertised on the XYZ website. I am confident that I have the skills and qualifications that you are looking for, and I am eager to put my experience to work in this role.

As an experienced biology teacher, I have a deep understanding of the subject matter and the ability to engage students in learning. I utilize a variety of teaching methods, including visual aids, hands-on activities, and technology, to keep students interested and engaged. I am also well-versed in the Common Core State Standards and am able to adapt my teaching to meet the needs of all students.

In addition to my teaching experience, I have a degree in biology from the University of ABC. I have also completed coursework in teaching methods and curriculum development, which has given me the skills necessary to develop lessons that are both effective and engaging.

I am confident that I have the skills and qualifications necessary to be successful in this role. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications with you in further detail. Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Biology Teacher Cover Letter Example 3

I am writing to express my interest in the Biology Teacher position at your school. I have been a teacher for the past five years, and I have taught both high school and middle school students. I believe that I would be an excellent addition to your faculty because of my experience as well as my enthusiasm for teaching.

I have been a biology teacher for the past three years. My first year was spent teaching basic biology concepts to freshmen. The following two years were spent teaching advanced biology concepts to juniors and seniors. I have also taught a variety of other science courses, including chemistry, physics and environmental science.

I believe that one of my greatest strengths is my ability to connect with students on a personal level. I enjoy helping students understand difficult concepts by relating them to real-world examples. I also enjoy working with students who are struggling in class. I feel that it is important to help all students succeed, not just the ones who are naturally gifted in science.

I am confident that I would be an excellent addition to your faculty. I am passionate about teaching and love working with students of all ages. I am also very comfortable with the curriculum that you currently use, so there would be no need for me to learn new materials or methods. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Biology Teacher Cover Letter Writing Tips

1. show your teaching experience.

When applying for a biology teaching position, it’s important to highlight your teaching experience. This can be done by describing specific classes that you’ve taught in the past, as well as the level of education you’ve taught (elementary, high school, college). If you don’t have any teaching experience, you can still mention how you’ve helped students learn in other positions you’ve held in the past.

2. Demonstrate your knowledge of biology

In your cover letter, it’s important to demonstrate that you have a strong understanding of biology. You can do this by providing examples of how you’ve used your knowledge of biology to help students in the past. For example, you might talk about a time when you had to explain a complex concept in a way that was easy for students to understand, or how you created a fun and interactive learning activity that got students excited about biology.

3. Show your passion for teaching

One of the best ways to show hiring managers that you’re passionate about teaching is by using phrases like “I love teaching” and “I’m excited to start teaching.” It’s also important to describe why you want to become a teacher. Some good reasons include wanting to help students learn and grow, making a difference in students’ lives, and having a career that’s both challenging and rewarding.

4. Proofread your cover letter

Proofreading your cover letter is one of the most important steps in ensuring that your application is free of errors. Make sure to spell-check and double-check that all the information is correct, including your contact information, the job you’re applying for, and the date.

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How to Write a Cover Letter

S omebody hiring you for a job will skim your resume, or may use an applicant tracking system to review it, but they will read your cover letter if considering you for a position .

Resumes are a vital tool for landing a job, and no job seeker should rush writing it, but the cover letter is worth lavishing time and attention on, too.

So if you’re looking for tips on how to write a cover letter, open up a document, and let’s get writing.

What Is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a letter that you’ll submit to an employer along with your resume and anything else, like a portfolio of your work, when you apply for a job. The cover letter makes a case for why you’re the person the company should hire.

If your resume is analogous to your brain – offering the facts and the logical reason why you should be hired – the cover letter is your heart – possibly striking an emotional chord with the employer and at least getting to the heart of the matter of why you, and no one else, is right for the job.

The resume should convince the employer that you have the background for the job; the cover letter should make it clear that you’re going to be an amazing employee and a pleasure to work with. After all, if all goes well, these people may be hanging out with you on their lunch break or working closely with you when you’re dealing with stressed out or difficult clients. That's arguably almost as important as you actually being capable of doing the work you're being hired for. And because of that, an employer would like to have a sense of your personality and who you are. A well-crafted cover letter can do that.

Choosing a Header

So how should you start the cover letter? Most resume experts will tell you to try and find the hiring manager's name, if at all possible. Assuming you have it, then you'd go with "Dear Mr. Smith" or "Dear Ms. Smith." You might want to address the person by their first name, according to Jennifer Fishberg, founder of Career Karma Resume Development & Career Services, which is based out of Highland Park, New Jersey.

That is, if you’ve already had contact with the person, or there has been a referral, going with a first name might be fine, Fishberg says.

“But if you’re unsure, err on the side of the formal,” Fishberg says.

And what if you’re applying blindly and have no idea who is going to read the cover letter? Perhaps the classic and tried-and-true “To Whom It May Concern”?

That would be a hard no, according to Fishberg.

“’To Whom It May Concern’ is a non-starter,” she says. “It just screams that this is one of a hundred mass-produced letters you've sent out and couldn't be bothered. Part of the job of the cover letter is to humanize you to the reader, so an impersonal greeting doesn't help your cause there,” Fishberg says.

So what should you go with? “If you really can't find a name, then ‘Dear Hiring Team’ can work,” Fishberg says.

The Opening

So once you’ve addressed whom you’re writing to, as you can imagine, you’d better seem pretty compelling quickly. You’re competing with a lot of job applicants.

“A strong cover letter grabs the reader's attention from the first line,” Fishberg says.

Easy to say, not always easy to pull off. But Fishberg suggests that you might want to highlight what you know of your employer’s “pain points” and your ability to offer solutions. Your employer has some sort of problem or wouldn’t need to hire somebody. The employer hopes that by hiring you, you will solve those problems.

“Start with an attention-grabbing sentence,” says Deb Harrison, a former high school English teacher and now growth and change consultant who has worked with companies in recruiting and with individuals searching for jobs. She is based out of Montgomery, New York.

Harrison says that attention-grabbing sentence might involve a relevant quote, statistic or anecdote. But don’t go overboard with your quotes, statistics or anecdote. “Make it clear in the first paragraph why you are applying for the specific job,” Harrison says.

Writing the Body

OK, you feel good about how you’ve addressed whoever is reading your letter. You’ve got the reader hooked. Now here’s where things can either soar or start to fall apart.

There’s so much to think about, including:

Length. Most job sites will encourage you to write a cover letter that’s half a page to a page long. Harrison says that “recruiters have a lot to look through, so too much information may not even get read, but it should provide enough to stand out to the recruiter.”

Tone. “Type like you are speaking in an interview ,” says Pete Milne, managing director of Robert Walters North America, a professional recruiting firm. “It is so easy to be overly formal in written form.”

That may sound like the opposite of what you want since formal would seem to equate being professional, but no, Milne asserts. Being overly formal can really backfire.

“The tendency to use bigger words or complex language is tempting in order to show your intelligence levels. However, long sentences, difficult to read paragraphs and convoluted language are all signs of poor communication,” he says. “No one should have to dissect what you are trying to say. Make it obvious and super easy to read.”

Milne adds: “Also, imagine the shock when you turn up to an interview and sound nothing like your highly formal, legal-sounding cover letter. Stay true to yourself and be confident with your real tone of voice and personality.”

Details. As in, they matter, but don't go overboard here either. “Stick to the important stuff – a cover letter isn’t a biography,” Milne says. “As much as I encourage professionals to spend a good amount of time on a cover letter, there also needs to be an understanding that this will likely be scanned over by your prospective employer – hence the need to keep the language simple. See a cover letter as your highlights reel."

And only, Milne adds, including the highlights that are relevant to landing the job.

But if you feel like your cover letter needs a little something else, even if it has nothing to do with the job, you can probably get away with it, within reason, according to Milne.

“There is no harm in including that you are an avid surfer, but don’t go on about it unless you like to compete on a professional level, and tie in how getting to the finish line is a core makeup of your personality," Milne says. "All roads lead back to whether you will be good at this particular job or not.”

You may start to feel like this cover letter is as hard to write as a novel or television script, but you don’t have to close with a powerful ending for the ages or a cliffhanger, fortunately. Harrison advises that in your final paragraph and sentences you encourage the reader to take action – that is, reply to you (and be sure to provide your contact information). She also suggests you reiterate your enthusiasm for the position and thank the reader for considering your application.

Kyle Elliott, a career coach who lives in Santa Barbara, California, had a suggestion for the ending, if you have room and think it needs more punch.

"Because social proof is powerful, a creative and powerful way to end your cover letter is with a testimonial from a supervisor, colleague or client. You don't need to ask for an entire letter of recommendation here either. You can repurpose a testimonial from your LinkedIn profile or take a snippet from a performance review you received at work," he says.

And there you go. You’re done. Almost.

Review Your Cover Letter

That was just a first draft. You need to look over your cover letter again, especially if you really want this job . There are a lot of pitfalls that you want to make sure you didn’t stumble into while writing your letter.

For instance, you shouldn't only worry about typos or misspelling names, but getting basic facts incorrect.

“Frustratingly, the No. 1 thing that professionals can often get wrong in a cover letter is the company name or role that they are applying for,” Milne says.

Think about how that looks to a recruiter or potential employer, misnaming the company or even the type of job you’re applying for.

“Often the reason this happens is because job hunters typically use the same cover letter for multiple applications – barring a few tweaks,” Milne says.

"A copy and paste job when it comes to cover letters is lazy and can be borderline offensive or off-putting to recruiters or organizations depending on how obvious it is that you are firing off the same cover letter to multiple organizations," Milne says.

Repetition can also be a problem. In other words, are you repeating everything in the cover letter that you put in the resume? Not a great idea, according to Elliott.

“You want to avoid the common mistake of summarizing your resume when writing your cover letter. Instead, use your cover letter as an opportunity to express your interest in the company and role, as well as what sets you apart from other candidates,” Elliott says.

Sure, you knew that already – but it’s still easy to fall into the repetitive trap.

“Specificity is your friend when writing your cover letter. Give specific examples as to why you're drawn to this company compared to its competitors,” Elliott says. “Additionally, explain what distinguishes you from other applicants. If you offer a specific type of experience, knowledge or skill, be sure to call this out in your cover letter.”

Final Tips on Writing a Cover Letter

Finally, the important thing is to take writing a cover letter seriously.

"Cover letters often get a bad rap these days, both from job seekers and from the hiring side," Fishberg says. "Treating the cover letter as an obligatory nuisance is a missed opportunity to differentiate yourself from other applicants."

And if you can differentiate yourself, you'll have really pulled something off. You may even get hired .

"The perfect cover letter is the one that shows you've done your homework and understand this particular job and this company's needs. It's not one-size-fits-all," Fishberg says.

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