A Bad Cover Letter

1. Address the letter to a specific person rather than to a title.
2. Use a stronger, more dynamic opening that grabs the reader’s attention.
3. Avoid repeating information that already appears in your resume. Do not list work experience without specifically addressing how it relates to the position for which you are applying.
4. Avoid using too many “I”s. The cover letter should be more about what the reader needs.
5. Never say anything negative in a cover letter; it flags you as a potentially difficult employee.
6. Do not mention any inside contacts unless they can help you get the job. Be more specific about what you like about the company to which you are applying.
7. Do not make salary demands or give salary expectations unless specifically requested to provide them. A cover letter is generally not the proper place to address salary concerns.
8. Promise to make a follow-up call yourself.
9. Avoid boring closing statements.