A cover letter is not a repeat of your resume — it is a chance to say what the resume cannot: why this company specifically, and why you. Many people write a generic letter and send it everywhere, with the result that it leaves no impression. An effective letter is short and tailored, opening with a line that shows you know the company, then connecting your skills to its stated need.
Paragraph one: why this company and this role specifically. Two: your strongest achievement tied to the job. Three: how you can solve a problem or reach a goal the company cares about. Four: a clear call to connect. Keep it to one page.
Avoid 'I am writing to apply for...' as your opener. Start with something that grabs attention and links you to the company: 'I followed your announcement about expanding into the Gulf market, and I believe my experience in...' This shows genuine interest.
Read the posting and identify its top three needs, then write a paragraph connecting your experience to each. This tailoring makes the letter persuasive and shows you read the posting carefully, rather than sending a ready-made version.
A letter that is too long, copying the resume verbatim, spelling errors, addressing 'Dear Sirs' instead of the recruiter's name if you know it, and forgetting to attach the resume. Proofread at least twice before sending.
Not always, but very useful when requested or when you want to stand out. Some systems ignore it, but a human recruiter values it.
One page maximum, three to four paragraphs.
No. The letter adds new value and connects your skills to the company — it does not repeat the resume.
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