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What are the common cover sheet errors?

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Posted by Your Guide on October 12, 2005 5:29 PM

Even if you are a good writer, it is easy to write a bad cover sheet. An employer who receives scores of applications for an opening will simply discard those applications that are accompanied by poor cover sheets and resumes. It is important, then, to avoid these common cover sheet errors:


  • Restating your resume: Don’t make your cover sheet superfluous by giving identical information to your resume: “From 1994-1997, I worked as a sales associate with John Doe & Associates. Following that, I spent two years working at the accounting firm of Smith & Smith.” Instead, give commentary on your work experience and education and apply it to the job for which you’re applying.
  • Sloppiness: It seems like common sense, but many job applicants ignore spelling, grammar, and format. Mistakes in these areas not only distract the reader, they imply a lack of attention to detail on your part. Edit your cover sheet carefully and consider asking someone else to search it for mistakes.
  • Arrogant or ashamed: These are the two extremes of the confidence spectrum. Be confident in your ability to succeed in the job; if you don’t portray that the company needs you, it won’t think it does. On the other hand, be respectful of a company’s decision, and don’t write as if you are the only logical choice or as if you are perfect.
  • Too bland and too long: This is the danger of writing a one-size-fits-all-cover sheet because you never tailor it to a specific job. The goal of a cover sheet is to make you stand out from other applicants, so write things that will grab the reader’s attention. Also, don’t take too long to get to the point—employers don’t have all day to sift through cover letters, so a long cover sheet is often an unread cover sheet.

Most of these cover letter errors can be corrected by simply taking the time to read over a draft letter with an objective eye. If you were the employer, would this cover sheet stand out and make you want to read the resume? What does it reflect about the writer?



Next Page: How can I tailor a cover sheet to a specific job opening?

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