A Simple Cover Letter Framework That Wins Interviews

Step 1: Research With Purpose

Capture a handful of insights before you write a single sentence. These prompts keep your letter grounded in the employer's world:

• What business problem is the team solving right now?
• Which of your achievements proves you have solved this problem before?
• How does your motivation align with their culture or mission?
• What next step do you want them to take after reading?

Record your findings alongside the resume checklistso every application stays aligned.

Step 2: Write Using the 3-2-1 Structure

Keep paragraphs tight and purposeful. Aim for three core sections:

1. Introduction. Name the role, share a positioning statement, and reference a current project or strategy.
2. Value pillars. Two short paragraphs that highlight achievements aligned to the job description. Lead with outcomes, then provide context.
3. Close. Reinforce motivation, reference availability, and invite next steps.

Use conversational yet professional language — you are writing to a person, not an ATS.

Step 3: Tailor in Minutes

With the structure in place, you only need to swap a few elements for each application:

• Update the opening with the correct role title and team name.
• Replace achievements with ones that mirror the job priorities.
• Mirror key phrases from the advertisement or values statement.
• Double-check contact details and remove placeholder text.

Maintain a swipe file of achievements pulled from your resume playbook to speed this up.

Step 4: Proof and Package

Finish with a quality check:

• Read aloud to spot clunky phrasing.
• Confirm names, dates, and company details.
• Export as PDF, then open the file to ensure formatting holds.
• Pair with your tailored resume and prepare a follow-up emailto send within 24 hours of applying.

With practice, the entire process becomes second nature — and your letters will always sound intentional and professional.