How to Write a Cover Letter That Actually Gets Read | Indeed, by Indeed on YouTube. 3 min 32 s.
- Video length
- 3 min 32 s
- Time to do it
- 30 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Read the job posting and note the three skills or tasks it mentions most. You will reuse that exact wording in your letter.
Set up a simple three-part formula: an opening that names the role, a middle paragraph with proof, and a close that asks for an interview.
Open with the job title and company name, then one line on why you want this role. Use the hiring manager's name if you can find it.
In the middle, give one or two real examples from school, part-time work or volunteering that prove the skills in the ad. Add numbers where you can.
Close by restating your interest and asking for an interview. Thank them for their time and keep it to one short paragraph.
Run a checklist before you send: correct company name, correct role title, no typos, one page, and a file name that includes your name.
Check for common mistakes: generic templates, copying your resume word for word, long blocks of text and talking only about what you want.
If you use AI to draft, rewrite every line in your own voice and check all names, dates and facts yourself.
Tailor a full letter when the role involves writing or you have a referral or career change. A short note is fine for other jobs.
Tips and common mistakes
Keep it to one page, around 250 to 350 words, so a recruiter can read it in under a minute.
Save and send it as a PDF unless the application asks for another format.
Never send the same letter twice; swap in the company name, role and one relevant example each time.
Read the letter aloud before sending to catch awkward sentences and missing words.
Questions
Do I still need a cover letter?
For many roles it is optional, but it helps when the job involves writing, when you are changing careers or when you have a referral. A short tailored letter beats a long generic one.
How long should a cover letter be?
One page, roughly 250 to 350 words, in three or four short paragraphs.
Can I use AI to write it?
Yes as a starting draft, but rewrite it in your own words and check every name, date and fact before you send it.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
