What Is the Ideal Cover Letter Length?

If you’re planning to include a cover letter in your job application, you’ve already made a smart decision. Despite the myths, cover letters are still a vital part of the hiring process.

A strong cover letter:

• Differentiates you from candidates with similar CVs

• Shows your genuine interest in the role and company

• Provides context that your CV alone cannot

• Gives you a chance to connect with the hiring manager on a more personal level

But how long should a cover letter actually be? And what should you include?

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How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?

The ideal cover letter length is one page, broken into four to five short paragraphs.

That’s enough space to introduce yourself, highlight your most relevant achievements, and explain why you’re a strong fit—without overwhelming a busy recruiter.

Anything longer risks being skimmed or skipped altogether. Remember, your CV and cover letter are not full biographies. They’re highlight reels.

What to Include in a Cover Letter

When writing your cover letter, think like a recruiter. They’re scanning for answers to key questions:

1. What is this candidate’s background?

2. How does their experience align with the role?

3. What value could they bring to the company?

4. Why should I invite them to interview over other applicants?

To answer those questions, your cover letter should:

• Reference your relevant work experience without repeating your CV word-for-word

• Highlight two or three skills or achievements most relevant to the target role

• Show you’ve researched the company and understand their needs

• Tie your past results directly to what you could achieve for them

Avoid vague statements like “I’m a strong team player with excellent communication skills.” Instead, give proof—metrics, outcomes, and specific examples that build credibility.

How to Structure a Cover Letter

Your cover letter should be easy to skim, professional in format, and visually consistent with your CV. To achieve this:

• Use your CV header (name, contact details) at the top of your letter for a cohesive look.

• Keep paragraphs short—no more than three or four sentences each.

• Consider bullet points to highlight measurable achievements or career highlights.

Simple Cover Letter Template

1️⃣ Introduction
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am writing to apply for the [Position Name] role at [Company Name]. I believe I would be a strong fit for this role based on my experience in [Skill A], [Skill B], and [Skill C].

2️⃣ Experience Paragraph(s)
Open each paragraph by linking one skill or area of experience to the requirements of the job. Provide a concrete example of how you applied that skill in the past and the results you achieved.

For example:
At [Previous Company], I [achievement/action], which resulted in [specific outcome]. This experience has prepared me to [deliver X result] for [Target Company].

3️⃣ Why This Role/Company
Explain why you’re genuinely interested in this company. Reference their culture, mission, industry impact, or a specific initiative that resonates with you.

4️⃣ Conclusion
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience can contribute to [Company Name]. Please feel free to contact me with any questions.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

In Summary

The best cover letters are:

• One page long (4–5 paragraphs)

• Focused on the most relevant skills and achievements

• Tailored to the role and company

• Structured for easy skimming

By keeping your cover letter concise, professional, and evidence-based, you’ll increase your chances of catching a recruiter’s attention and securing that all-important interview.

To find out more, visit our website www.cvpilots.co.uk If you have any further questions, you can either book a consultation call with one of our team, or get in touch via email on team@cvpilots.co.uk