You really want this job. So naturally, you cram all your qualifications, skills, and words of flattery into a lengthy cover letter — and get no response. It was the tenth cover letter of the day for the hiring manager. They opened it, sighed at a wall of text, skimmed through, and missed all your best points.
Let’s hit rewind.
This time around, you remind yourself of Mark Twain’s famous one-liner: I apologize for such a long letter — I didn’t have time to write a short one. You write a 90-word cover letter where every single word earns its place on the page. You get the interview invite three days later.
See, writing concise letters (cover letters included) requires effort, not compromise. By focusing on your most impressive details, you ensure the hiring manager sees what truly matters.
So, how do you do it? This guide will show you:
- Short cover letter examples and templates for different industries and styles.
- How to write a good short cover letter and what to include.
- Tips on refining your cover letter and choosing the right formatting.
Looking to write a quick and easy cover letter? Use our AI Cover Letter Builder. Just enter your job title and company name, and our tool will generate a tailored short cover letter in seconds.
When to Write a Short Cover Letter?
Short cover letters are especially helpful when applying for a position with clear, specific requirements. A shorter format lets you jump straight to the qualifications and experiences that match the job, so the hiring manager doesn’t have to sift through unnecessary details.
Concise cover letters can also speed up the hiring process. With so many applications to review, hiring teams appreciate it if you get to the point quickly. Plus, a streamlined letter tends to be more memorable — your strengths and motivations stand out, making it easier for them to see why you’re a top choice.
Learn more about what goes into a memorable cover letter: Cover Letter Tips & Examples
Short Cover Letter Samples for Popular Job Positions
Let’s be honest — not every company even asks for a cover letter, and when they do, many go unread. Why? Cover letters often just repeat what’s already on a resume, or they’re so generic that it’s obvious they’ve been sent out to dozens of other jobs. And hiring managers simply don’t have time to read something that feels like filler.
But a short cover letter could be your loophole. Back in 2009, Harvard published their “best ever cover letter” — all in less than 90 words. That letter went viral because it was direct, memorable, and laser-focused on the job. And that’s the trick: keep it short, relevant, and show why you’re a fit for that specific position.
Below, I’ve included 15 short cover letter samples across different industries, experience levels, and styles to help you write one that’s just as impactful.
Let’s start with short cover letters from various jobs and industries.
IT Short Cover Letter Sample
Your IT short cover letter should prove you have the technical skills to align with the company’s needs. Focus on specific hard skills, tools, and software from the job description, and highlight the most relevant experiences. Use specific examples to show soft skills like communication or problem-solving in action, rather than simply listing them.
Customer Service Short Cover Letter Sample
In customer service, the key is to show you’re well-rounded with both soft and hard skills. Highlight relevant experiences and share a story that shows your people skills, like patience, empathy, and problem-solving. Your short cover letter should reflect the balance you bring to the role — handling both customer’s needs and the company’s goals.
Hospitality Short Cover Letter Sample
Your hospitality cover letter needs to show you can handle a fast-paced environment while keeping customers happy. Focus on customer service experience, adaptability, and a positive attitude. Mention specific situations where you’ve gone above and beyond for guests, showing that you’re not just efficient, but also committed to creating a memorable experience.
Part-Time Short Cover Letter Sample
A part-time cover letter should address why this role works with your schedule, so be honest about your availability. Employers appreciate flexibility, so mention if you can take on varied shifts — it shows you’re adaptable and eager to contribute however you can.
Academic Short Cover Letter Sample
Your academic cover letter introduces you to a hiring committee and connects your research and teaching experience to the job requirements. Highlight your specific research interests and past accomplishments in a way that aligns with the role. Make it clear how your experience, background, and goals make you a strong candidate for the position.
Short Cover Letter Examples for Different Seniority Levels
Now, let’s focus on how to customize your short cover letter based on your experience level.
Internship Short Cover Letter Sample
Since interns may lack a solid work history, you can focus instead on relevant coursework, major projects, or leadership roles in school or volunteer groups. Let the employer know you’re not just looking to tick off those course credits — show you’re enthusiastic about the role and the chance to gain hands-on experience to start your career.
Check out more examples: How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship
College Student Short Cover Letter Sample
A cover letter from a college student or recent grad should show your potential through academic achievements, relevant coursework, and involvement in extracurriculars or volunteer work. Emphasize any skills you’ve gained that transfer to the job, even from unrelated fields, to show you’re eager to take what you’ve learned and apply it to a professional setting.
First Job Short Cover Letter Sample
Everyone has to start from somewhere, so your first job cover letter should reveal your ambition and eagerness to learn, even without any professional experience. Include skills gained from volunteering, extracurriculars, or coursework, and add any measurable achievements. And don’t underestimate the importance of showing a willingness to grow.
Find out more: Crafting a Winning Cover Letter with Zero Experience
Experienced Short Cover Letter Sample
A short cover letter for an experienced candidate should highlight your top achievements, focusing on the specifics that reveal your ability to produce positive results. Include numbers and metrics to create a concrete picture of the value you can bring. And align your skills and experience with the job requirements, showing how you can help meet company targets.
Career Transition Short Cover Letter Sample
Your career transition cover letter should openly address your career change, focusing on transferable skills and past experiences that align with the new role. Express your excitement for the transition, showing your genuine interest in the field and how your unique background brings fresh perspectives and insights.
Your short cover letter can also reflect a specific tone or style to align with the company or position.
Professional Short Cover Letter Sample
A professional short cover letter is about proving your value through clear accomplishments and aligning with the company’s goals. Show that you know what the company values and bring specific, quantifiable achievements to highlight how you can help the organization succeed. Mentioning your unique skills and why you’re drawn to the company shows genuine interest and preparation.
Email Short Cover Letter Sample
Your email cover letter is almost the same as a standard one, with a few key differences. Your subject line is the first thing hiring managers will see, so make sure it clearly references the job title and your name. Follow any application instructions carefully, and if they don’t ask for attachments, keep the cover letter in the email body.
Creative Short Cover Letter Sample
A creative cover letter doesn’t need to be packed with flashy designs or fonts — you should let your creativity shine through relevant examples of innovative projects, side work, or achievements that connect to the role. Adding a touch of personality helps make it unique; just keep the language professional.
Startup Short Cover Letter Sample
Your startup cover letter should show enthusiasm for the company’s mission and values. It’s an opportunity to share your passion for what the company does and connect it to your skills and experience. While startups are often more casual, a professional tone is still your safest bet to make the right impression.
Internal Short Cover Letter Sample
An internal short cover letter should express your excitement for the new position and show your growth and value within the company. You should reference your current role, share achievements that have prepared you for the promotion or transfer, and highlight your commitment to supporting the company’s broader goals.
Need more inspiration? No problem: 180+ Cover Letter Templates for All Jobs
Short Cover Letter Tips
There’s a misconception that a short cover letter equates to being “basic” or “simple”, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Just because it’s shorter doesn’t mean it has to lack depth. Imagine you had to give a five-minute pitch — you’d skip the filler and use those precious minutes to convey the important points that make the most impact.
A short cover letter isn’t about leaving things out; it’s about zeroing in on the most relevant details that connect you to the job and highlight your strengths. In fact, a well-written short letter can do more to hold a hiring manager’s attention than a lengthy one.
Here are some tips to keep it short, focused, and compelling — without any unnecessary padding.
Research and plan
Remember writing essays back in school? Research and planning were everything. Like your old teachers, hiring managers won’t wade through extra fluff or rambling sentences. Preparation keeps things concise and stops you from veering off track.
Any good plan starts with research. Dig into what the company values, their recent projects, or specific goals they’re working toward. Showing you understand their mission or what they care about makes your cover letter more genuine and relevant.
Now, think about what they need from this role. Is there a challenge you can tackle or a goal you can help achieve? Pinpointing what grabs your attention about the company and how you can add value is a solid foundation for writing a memorable yet focused cover letter.
Here’s how to show you’ve done your homework:
I’m inspired by Star Company’s commitment to sustainable products, especially with your recent launch of eco-friendly packaging solutions. With my background in green product development, I’m excited about the chance to contribute to projects that align closely with my values and experience.
Need help with the planning process? Take a look: How to Create Your Own Cover Letter Outline
Tailor your cover letter for the job
Your stint as a puppeteer? Definitely a conversation starter, but probably not going to wow a hiring manager for an office admin role. So, how do you figure out what will? The clues are usually in the job description and the company’s online presence.
The company’s website and social media pages are goldmines for information about its mission, projects, and values. Be honest about what resonates with you (they might probe you in the interview) and include these details in your cover letter. You want to show that you’re genuinely interested in them, not just throwing applications to any old job.
But the real gems are in the job listing. Most descriptions don’t beat around the bush — they tell you exactly what they want. Highlight the skills, experience, and qualifications they’re asking for, and use keywords from it when describing your background. This makes your cover letter feel tailored, boosts relevance, and improves your odds with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
Here’s how to tailor your short cover letter:
I was excited to see your emphasis on client-focused problem-solving and delivering top-quality service. My background in technical support at Groundwork Corporation, where I improved issue resolution times by 20%, aligns well with your team’s goals for customer satisfaction.
Don’t detail your entire professional life
Ever asked a quick question and ended up with someone’s entire life story? How long before you zoned out? Hiring managers are no different — they just want to know how you’ll bring value to their team, not hear every job you’ve ever had.
Use your research and the job description to emphasize the skills and experiences that show you’re ready for this specific position, especially if they didn’t make it onto your resume. This way, you’re adding fresh and relevant details without repeating yourself.
Stick to what matters: your qualifications, how you can add value, and why you’re a fit for their team. It’s about quality, not quantity. And if you don’t have relevant work experience? You can still include the skills you picked up in similar roles and connect them to the job requirements.
Here’s an example of a candidate without direct experience applying to a customer service job:
In my role as a team leader at a local volunteer organization, I coordinated events that required strong communication and problem-solving skills. I managed a diverse group of volunteers, ensuring everyone felt supported and understood. This experience taught me how to handle various personalities and resolve conflicts effectively, which would translate well into a customer service environment.
Focus on your accomplishments
One thing that can easily eat up space in your cover letter is just listing your past job duties. Firstly, you probably already covered those in your resume, so no need to repeat yourself. Plus, a simple list doesn’t show your true potential. Sure, you can say you worked the front desk at a hotel, but did you boost guest experiences or tackle any tricky situations?
Focusing on your accomplishments is the best way to show companies what results you can deliver. Instead of just rattling off skills, share real examples that demonstrate your capabilities. Are you a natural leader? Talk about how you mentored a teammate. Tech-savvy? Mention how you quickly adapted to new software to save time.
Make it specific to the company and mention achievements that match what they need. And to take it a step further, use numbers, percentages, and metrics to make your accomplishments more concrete. Saying you wrote social media posts is fine, but explaining that you crafted 20 posts a week that boosted engagement by 30% is way more impressive.
Here’s how to go beyond simple duties and skills:
While working as a project coordinator, I led a team that completed a major project two weeks ahead of schedule, resulting in a 15% cost savings for the company. This experience honed my ability to manage timelines and motivate team members, skills I’m eager to bring to your organization.
Find out more about framing your achievements: What Should a Cover Letter Include?
Cut out the fluff and jargon
Every word should add value, so cut any words that sound like filler. Generic buzzwords like “I’m a team player” or “results-driven” may be true, but they don’t tell the reader anything concrete. Instead, be direct with specific examples to back up your skills.
Resist the urge to use fancy words just to sound sophisticated. Big words are unnecessary and seem less authentic — hiring managers are human too, and you don’t want to make their job even harder. The goal is to come across as natural and relatable, not stiff or pretentious.
If your cover letter could be sent to five other companies without any changes, it’s time to trim the fluff and get specific. Customize each sentence to fit the job and company, highlighting examples or skills that directly align with the job to give your cover letter a unique touch.
Here’s an example full of buzzwords and a lack of concrete examples:
I am a team player who works well with others and thrives in collaborative environments. I also take pride in being results-driven and always aim to meet or exceed expectations. During my last position, I had various responsibilities, including managing schedules and coordinating events.
Now, here’s an edited version that adds real value:
At my previous job, I coordinated a team project that reduced event planning time through better scheduling and communication. My focus on collaboration helped us meet tight deadlines and improve client satisfaction. I’m eager to bring that same drive and positive results to your team.
Simplify long phrases and sentences
Long sentences are rarely a good idea — unless you’re writing the never-ending T&Cs at the end of a commercial. Hiring managers are reading lots of applications, so give them a breather by breaking up your sentences and paragraphs. Your main points should shine without getting lost in a jumble of long, complicated phrases.
Start by trimming down your sentences by looking for phrases you can simplify. For example, instead of saying, “I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your company’s ongoing success,” just say, “I’m excited to help your team succeed.” It’s concise and still gets your enthusiasm across.
Using contractions can also keep your tone natural while reducing your word count. And watch out for too many adjectives, repeated phrases, and filler words. Terms like “very” or “extremely” often aren’t necessary and can make your statements feel over the top.
Here’s what long, repetitive sentences and filler words can look like:
I am really looking forward to the opportunity to be able to contribute positively to your company’s ongoing success and growth in the industry. I truly believe that my skills and experience would be a great match for your team, and I am extremely motivated to make a difference because I think your values align perfectly with my own set of values.
And here’s how you can edit that down to be more concise:
I’m excited about the chance to continue helping your company thrive in the industry. My skills, experiences, and values align well with your team, and I’m motivated to make a real impact.
Proofread and refine your cover letter
You’ve spent time researching, refining your resume, and perfecting your cover letter — so it’s tempting to just hit send and call it a day. I’m all too familiar with this feeling, but there’s always room for improvement or a mistake that slipped your notice.
Once you’ve got your draft polished up, take a moment to read through it and check for clarity. Make sure your message is straightforward, and each sentence flows nicely into the next. If anything sounds confusing or could be misinterpreted, rephrase it so it’s crystal clear.
Look for any filler or repetitive content. It’s easy to accidentally say the same thing twice in different ways, but in a short cover letter, every word counts. Ensure each sentence has a purpose — and if something doesn’t add value, don’t be afraid to cut it.
Finally, it’s always a good idea to get a second opinion. If you’ve been staring at the same sentences for too long, it’s easy to lose perspective. Having a trusted friend or family member read it can help you see if your message comes across clearly.
How to Write a Short Cover Letter for a Job Application?
A short cover letter might be half the length of a standard one, but you can still keep the structure so it feels familiar and easy to follow for the hiring manager. Here’s a guideline on how to organize your paragraphs and what to include in the different sections of your cover letter.
- Include the right address and greeting: Address your cover letter directly to the hiring manager, using their title and name to show attention to detail and genuine interest. Avoid using “To Whom It May Concern”, “Dear Sir/Madam,” or the title “Mrs” as these feel impersonal and outdated.
- Start with a strong opening paragraph: Kick off with a strong cover letter opening that grabs attention. Mention how you found the job, or express genuine enthusiasm for the company. Use this chance to introduce yourself and your career goals — showing right from the start that you can bring value to the position.
- Emphasize why you’re the right fit: Use the middle paragraph to highlight one or two key qualifications that match the job description. Give concrete examples of your accomplishments, with details that go beyond your resume. Mention how your past successes can translate into future wins, and emphasize how your skills align perfectly with their needs.
- Finish with an impactful closing paragraph: Recap how your skills and background make you a great fit, and show how your goals align with the company’s mission. You can end your cover letter with a note on how your experience can bring real value to their team — leaving them with a clear reason to reach out.
- Add a call to action and professional sign-off: Close with a brief thank-you to the hiring manager for their time. Include a gentle call to action, like expressing your excitement to discuss the role further. It’s a simple, polite way to nudge them toward considering you for an interview. Finish with a professional sign-off, like “Sincerely,” followed by your full name.
Get the complete lowdown: How to Write a Cover Letter
How to Format Your Short Cover Letter?
What’s the purpose of writing a short cover letter? To keep everything concise, direct, and easy to read. But all that goes out the window if the hiring manager has to deal with a wall of text and squint-worthy font.
The best way to break up your text is by dividing it into short paragraphs. You should also use single spacing to keep everything looking neat. For alignment, stick to left-aligned text and use 1-inch margins on all sides.
Stick with fresh and professional fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Helvetica in a size 10–12 point size. Want to add a creative flair? Please, don’t take the Comic Sans or Brush Script route. Instead, opt for Avenir Next or Didot for that personal touch. And stay away from New Times Roman if you want to stay current (Garamond makes for a better alternative).
So, what about length? While a standard cover letter length should hover around a page (250–400 words), your short cover letter should be about half a page to two-thirds of a page. This lets the hiring manager see at a glance that it’s focused and efficient — without needing to sift through too much text.
Learn more about delivering clean cover letter formatting: How to Format a Cover Letter
Summary
Here’s an overview of what to keep in mind when writing a short cover letter:
- Aim for 150–250 words, organized into three short paragraphs (introduction, key points, closing). And remember, quality over quantity — short doesn’t mean skimping on value.
- Start strong by mentioning the job title you’re applying for and why you’re excited about joining the company to show you’ve done your research.
- Focus on 2–3 key skills, experiences, and accomplishments that directly match the job. Avoid listing everything; just choose the highlights to keep the hiring manager’s attention.
- Convey why you’re drawn to the role or the company, such as their products, mission, or company culture. This adds personality and shows you have a genuine interest.
- Avoid repeating your resume. Instead of listing job titles or tasks, emphasize achievements and results with metrics demonstrating your fit and potential for the role.
- While remaining professional, align your tone with the company’s style, especially if they’re known for being more creative or casual.
- Wrap up by thanking the hiring manager for their time and showing interest in the next step by mentioning your excitement to discuss how you can contribute.
- Proofread for clarity and to keep your text error-free. Typos or clunky wording stand out even more in a short cover letter.
- Keep formatting simple with professional fonts, such as Arial and Calibri (10-12 pt), and one-inch margins to keep your cover letter easy to read.
FAQ
What’s the best way to start a cover letter?
The start of your cover letter should immediately grab the hiring manager’s attention. Begin by introducing yourself and mentioning the specific job title you’re applying for. Say what drew you to this role or company, such as their values, recent projects, or your passion for the field. You need to show you’re genuinely interested and not just copy and pasting a generic opener.
For example: “I’m excited to apply for [Job Title] at [Company] because of your commitment to [specific quality or project].” This opener makes you memorable and hints that you’ve done your homework.
What should be in a cover letter?
A good cover letter is concise and tailored to the company and position. Start with a strong introduction that explains why you’re interested in this job. In 2–3 paragraphs, highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and accomplishments that align with the role. You don’t need to list everything — just focus on the most relevant and impressive points.
Close by reinforcing your enthusiasm, and mention that you’re eager to discuss how you can contribute. Finally, thank them for considering your application. Keep it professional, but also let your personality shine through to give your cover letter some originality beyond your resume.
Should a cover letter be one page?
Yes, keep your cover letter to one page — ideally around 250 to 400 words. Hiring managers usually have lots of applications to review, so they’ll appreciate a cover letter that’s clear and easy to digest. A single page keeps you focused on the highlights and avoids unnecessary details.
Plus, sticking to one page shows you can communicate effectively and respect their time. Think of it as a snapshot of your best points rather than a detailed history. If you’re struggling to cut it down, focus on what’s most relevant to this specific job.
Is a short cover letter better?
A shorter cover letter can work great, as long as it has all the relevant information. If you can convey your enthusiasm, key skills, and interest in just a few paragraphs, that’s ideal. But make sure it doesn’t feel rushed or missing key details. Shorter letters are often preferred because they’re quicker to read, but they still need to be thorough enough to give hiring managers a clear picture of your fit for the role.
How should a cover letter look?
Your cover letter should be clean, organized, and easy on the eyes. Stick with a professional font like Arial or Calibri, using a size between 10 and 12 points. Align everything to the left, use single spacing, and keep one-inch margins on all sides. Add a blank line between sections, like your greeting, and paragraphs for readability.
The overall goal is a polished, professional look that complements your resume. Avoid flashy fonts or colors, and aim for a style that reflects the company’s vibe while keeping it professional.
