A short cover letter: keep it brief and still convince
A recruiter would rather read a short letter that hits the mark than a long one that searches. Here's how to write a short cover letter in four paragraphs, with an example.
Many cover letters are too long. They repeat the CV and get lost in generalities. A short letter forces you to choose: what do you want the reader to remember? Below are six points for a cover letter of about half a page, with an example you can adapt.
1. Short is not the same as vague
Short means fewer words, not less content. Every sentence has to do work. Your letter tells why you want this role and what you bring, your CV tells what you've done. So don't repeat what's already in your CV.
2. Four paragraphs are enough
An opening with why you're applying, a paragraph with your strongest point and the proof for it, a paragraph on why this company, and a closing that asks for a conversation. Two to three sentences per paragraph. You rarely need more.
3. Start with a sentence that holds the reader
Avoid 'I hereby apply for the position of'. The reader knows you're applying. Start with your reason or with a result, such as 'As a project manager at a construction company I want to work on sustainable housing, and that's what I've been working on for the past four years.'
4. Choose one strong point instead of three weak ones
A short letter has no room for a list of all your qualities. Choose the one point that best matches the vacancy, and back it up with one concrete example. That sticks better than a row of traits.
5. Cut what the reader already knows
Phrases like 'as you can read in my CV' and 'I am an enthusiastic and driven team player' can go. They take up space without telling anything. Go through your letter sentence by sentence and ask for each one: would the reader miss something if this weren't here?
6. Example of a short cover letter
Dear [name], As [role] at [company] I want to [concrete goal]. That fits what I did over the past [number] years: at [previous company] I shortened [process] by [what you did]. What appeals to me about [company] is [specific reason]. I'd be glad to tell you more in an interview about how I approach this. Kind regards, [First name Last name]
Every sentence has to earn its place
A short letter is harder to write than a long one, but it does get read. Want help writing? With every €2 download of your CV you get our cover letter generator for free, no account or subscription. You can read more about the last sentence of your letter in our article 'How to end a cover letter: 8 strong closing lines'.
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