10 cover letter mistakes that get you rejected instantly

A cover letter can make or break your application. Recruiters process dozens of applications daily — a single red flag is enough to move your CV to the discard pile. Here are the mistakes that do the most damage.

The mistakes — and how to fix them

1. Starting with "I am writing to apply for…"

This is the most overused opening line in the history of job applications. The recruiter already knows why you're writing. Open with something that immediately signals value.

2. Sending a generic, copy-pasted letter

Recruiters can spot a template letter instantly. If your cover letter could apply to any company in any industry, it's not doing its job. Personalisation is the single biggest differentiator.

3. Repeating your CV word for word

Your cover letter should complement your CV, not duplicate it. If you're just listing the same bullet points in paragraph form, one of the two documents is redundant.

4. Making it all about what you want

"I'm looking for a role where I can grow and develop" tells the employer nothing about what you offer them. Flip the focus: what problem do you solve for them?

5. Writing more than one page

Three to four paragraphs is the ideal length. Anything beyond one page signals poor editing skills and disrespects the reader's time.

6. Spelling and grammar errors

A single typo can disqualify an otherwise strong application. Proofread twice, then ask someone else to read it. Don't rely solely on spellcheck.

7. Using the wrong name or company

Addressing your letter to the wrong person or mentioning a competitor's name is an instant rejection. This happens more often than you'd think when candidates are mass-applying.

8. Listing responsibilities instead of achievements

"I was responsible for managing social media accounts" is weak. "I grew our Instagram following from 2,000 to 18,000 in 12 months" is compelling. Numbers and outcomes beat job descriptions every time.

9. Ending without a call to action

Don't just trail off. Close by expressing availability for an interview and thanking the reader for their time. It's a small touch but it shows confidence and professionalism.

10. Not tailoring the letter to the job description

Read the job description carefully and mirror the language and requirements back in your letter. This is how you pass ATS screening and resonate with the hiring manager.