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How to Create a Cover Letter That Doesn’t Sound Generic

How to Create a Cover Letter That Doesn’t Sound Generic
How to Create a Cover Letter That Doesn’t Sound Generic

Your Cover Letter Is a Pitch Not a Formality

Think of your cover letter like a founder pitch or a movie trailer a high-stakes, first impression where you’re trying to convince someone to invest in you.

You’re not just listing what you’ve done. You’re making the case for why you exist, why this role matters to you, and why you’re the right fit.

Your CV shows the credits.

Your cover letter shows the story.

And just like any pitch or trailer, if it looks like every other one out there? The hiring manager scrolls past.

So, let’s write one they can’t ignore.

Why Most Cover Letters Fail

Because they all sound the same:

  • “I’m writing to express my interest in the role of…”
  • “With my background in… I believe I would be a great fit…”
  • “Thank you for considering my application.”

These are fine. But they’re forgettable.

And when there are hundreds of applications, forgettable doesn’t get you shortlisted.

Here’s an example:

  • Weak: “I am applying for the role of Marketing Assistant because I saw it on your website.”
  • Strong: “As someone who grew a student-run Instagram account to 20K followers in six months, I was excited to see your focus on community-led growth.”

What Makes a Cover Letter Work in 2025

Today’s job market is competitive. With online access and global exposure, a single job post can attract applications from across the world. The only barrier left is visa logistics and if someone can overcome that, they’re in the race.

So, how do you stand out?

You connect the dots between who you are, what the company needs, and where you both can go together.

A strong cover letter answers:

  1. Why this company?
  2. Why this role?
  3. Why you?

Also, keep your cover letter to around 250–300 words — no more than half a page.

Simple Structure: 4 Steps to Follow

You don’t need flowery language. You need clarity.

Here’s a proven 4-paragraph format:

1. Hook with Humanity

Start with something real.

  • “I first heard about your company during a university webinar on sustainability…”
  • “What drew me to this role wasn’t just the title, but the way you described your team culture on LinkedIn…”

2. Bridge Your Skills to the Role

Show how what you’ve done matches what they need.

  • Highlight a project, internship, or skill
  • Don’t list everything. Just what matters for this job

3. Why Them

Show that you’re not applying blindly.

  • Mention a recent product launch, initiative, or value that caught your eye
  • Show alignment

4. Close With Confidence

Be polite but assertive.

  • “I’d welcome the chance to discuss how I can support your team’s goals.”
  • “Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to connect.”

For Freshers: What If I Don’t Have Experience?

Recruiters understand that not every applicant will have job experience.

What they look for instead:

  • Clarity of thought
  • Communication skills
  • Attitude and interest
  • Alignment with the role

Even for technical or sales jobs, how you answer matters as much as what you know.

So, highlight:

  • Projects you’ve worked on
  • Events you’ve organised
  • Coursework that reflects real effort
  • A mindset of learning and growth

For Experienced Applicants: Justify Your Resume

If you have experience, the cover letter is where you provide depth.

  • Don’t just say you “led a team” — explain what you achieved
  • Don’t just list a skill — show how it was applied

Recruiters will read your letter to see if you can explain what’s in your resume. If you can’t, it signals a lack of involvement or clarity.

Erudmite Can Help You Craft It Right

At Erudmite, we understand how important first impressions are.

That’s why we support students and professionals with:

  • Personalised education counselling
  • Application support including SOPs and cover letters
  • UK university admissions and visa guidance
  • Communication skills training through Parlo

Whether you’re applying to study in the UK, entering your first job, or shifting careers we help you tell your story with impact.

FAQs

Q: Are cover letters still relevant?
A: Yes. Especially for roles requiring communication, leadership, or client interaction.

Q: What if the portal says ‘optional’?
A: Still submit it. It shows effort.

Q: Can Erudmite help me write one?
A: Absolutely. We guide students globally especially those looking to study in the UK from UAE, India, or elsewhere.

Q: Should I personalise each letter?
A: 100%. A generic letter is as good as no letter.

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