Is It OK to Use a General Cover Letter?

While it might be tempting to use a general cover letter for multiple job applications, doing so can hurt your chances of standing out to potential employers. Generic cover letters often appear impersonal and fail to demonstrate a genuine interest in the specific role or company. Writing a cover letter tailored for each application shows you understand the company’s goals and are eager to contribute.

To create a more compelling cover letter, research the company and the specific job opening. Address the hiring manager by name, if possible, and highlight relevant experience and skills that align with what the employer is seeking. A targeted cover letter that addresses job requirements and company values makes a stronger impact. This extra effort can set you apart from other applicants and increase your chances of landing the job.

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Our editorial team has reviewed this article for compliance with Livecareer’s editorial guidelines. It’s to ensure that our expert advice and recommendations are consistent across all our career guides and align with current CV and cover letter writing standards and trends. We’re trusted by over 10 million job seekers, supporting them on their way to finding their dream job. Each article is preceded by research and scrutiny to ensure our content responds to current market trends and demand.