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RÉSUMÉ AND APPLICATION QUALITY

How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?

A useful cover letter is usually brief enough to read quickly and specific enough to add something the résumé does not. Follow an employer’s stated length…

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THE SHORT ANSWER

A useful cover letter is usually brief enough to read quickly and specific enough to add something the résumé does not. Follow an employer’s stated length requirement when one exists.

What matters most

A useful cover letter is usually brief enough to read quickly and specific enough to add something the résumé does not. Follow an employer’s stated length requirement when one exists.

A few focused paragraphs can explain a transition better than a page of generic enthusiasm.

A practical approach

Use accurate evidence from your experience and keep the résumé, form, and interview story consistent.

  • State the role and why it fits your direction.
  • Give one concrete example of relevant work.
  • Close with a simple next-step sentence and proofread.

What to watch for

Length alone does not make a letter persuasive; relevance and accurate details matter more.

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Common questions

Where should I start?

State the role and why it fits your direction.

What should I avoid?

Length alone does not make a letter persuasive; relevance and accurate details matter more.

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