10 Common Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake #1: Being Too Generic

Fix: Reference one specific product, blog post, or roadmap item and connect your experience to it.

Mistake #2: No Numbers

Fix: Add at least two metrics (conversion, latency, MTTR, NRR, churn, adoption).

Mistake #3: Repeating Your Resume

Fix: Tell one or two stories that your resume can’t fully explain.

Mistake #4: Buzzword Stuffing

Fix: Use keywords from the JD naturally, anchored in real outcomes.

Mistake #5: Overlength

Fix: 250–400 words. Ruthlessly cut anything not tied to the JD.

Mistake #6: Weak Close

Fix: Ask for the next step—“I’d welcome a short call to discuss how I can help {{Company}} reach {{goal}}.”

Mistake #7: Typos and Formatting Issues

Fix: Read out loud; use Grammarly; export to PDF.

Mistake #8: No Links

Fix: Include one portfolio link or anchor project link.

Mistake #9: Wrong Tone

Fix: Professional, energetic, specific—avoid slang or overselling.

Mistake #10: Ignoring the ICP

Fix: Mention the actual users/ICP and how your work helped similar users before.

Final Pre-Submit Checklist

• 1 reference to their product/roadmap.
• 2 metrics aligned to the JD.
• 1 link to portfolio or project with README.