can a cover letter be 2 pages

Can a Cover Letter Be Longer Than a Page? [3 Examples]

Imagine you're applying for your dream job, and the application requests a cover letter. You have a wealth of experience and skills to share, but you've heard that cover letters should only be one page. Should you stick to this rule, or can a cover letter be longer than one page? Understanding when and how to write a longer cover letter can help job seekers make a stronger impression on potential employers.

In this article, we will explore the debate surrounding cover letter length, the importance of considering industry norms and specific job requirements, and the consequences of an overly long or poorly written cover letter. We will also delve into tips, tricks, and best practices for writing a compelling longer cover letter that will help you stand out in a competitive job market. Let's begin!

Why One Page is the Standard

One-page cover letters are preferred because they are concise, focused, and respect the hiring manager's time. Research indicates that hiring managers have limited time and attention spans, making it crucial for candidates to get to the point quickly and effectively. According to a Forbes article , clear and concise communication is essential for success in any professional environment.

By keeping a cover letter to one page, candidates can ensure that their key points stand out and that they demonstrate respect for the reader's time. A longer cover letter runs the risk of losing the reader's interest and diluting the impact of the candidate's most important qualifications.

When a Longer Cover Letter may be Acceptable

There are certain situations where a longer cover letter might be warranted, depending on the job requirements and the candidate's qualifications. Some possible scenarios include:

Highly specialized or technical roles : Candidates applying for positions that require specific expertise may need more space to explain their qualifications and experiences.
Extensive relevant experience : If a candidate has a long and impressive history of relevant accomplishments, they may need more than one page to adequately showcase their achievements.
Multiple accomplishments to showcase : Similar to those with extensive experience, candidates with numerous accomplishments that are directly related to the job may require additional space to demonstrate their value.
Addressing specific job requirements in detail : If the job description asks for detailed explanations of certain qualifications or experiences, a longer cover letter may be necessary to address these requirements thoroughly.
Tailoring the cover letter to the employer's preferences : In some cases, the employer may request a more comprehensive cover letter, making it appropriate to exceed the one-page standard.

How to Decide if a Longer Cover Letter is Warranted

Before deciding to write a longer cover letter, job seekers should carefully assess their qualifications and the job requirements. This process may include:

Analyzing the job description : Determine which qualifications and experiences are most important to the employer and consider how your background aligns with these requirements.
Identifying key qualifications and accomplishments : Make a list of your most significant achievements and qualifications that are relevant to the job, and decide which ones are essential to include in your cover letter.
Weighing the relevance of each point : Consider how important each qualification or accomplishment is to the job at hand, and whether it is worth extending your cover letter to include it.
Considering the employer's preferences : If the employer has provided specific instructions or preferences regarding cover letter length, be sure to take these into account when deciding whether to go beyond one page.
Balancing the need for detail with the risk of losing the reader's interest : Ultimately, you will need to weigh the benefits of providing additional detail against the potential drawbacks of a longer cover letter, such as losing the reader's interest or appearing unfocused.

Real-Life Examples of Successful Longer Cover Letters

Some job seekers have successfully used longer cover letters to stand out and secure interviews, but their success often depends on the quality of the content. Here are three real-life examples:

Example 1: A candidate for a highly specialized role : This candidate was applying for a position that required in-depth knowledge of a specific technology. In their two-page cover letter, they provided a detailed explanation of their experience with this technology, including the projects they had worked on and the results they achieved. This level of detail demonstrated their expertise and helped them stand out from other applicants.

"In my previous role as a Senior Software Engineer at XYZ Company, I led the development of a cutting-edge machine learning algorithm that improved the efficiency of our data processing pipeline by 35%. This project required a deep understanding of the underlying technology, as well as the ability to coordinate with cross-functional teams and manage tight deadlines. My success in this project showcases my ability to excel in the specialized role for which I am applying, and I am confident that my unique skill set will make me a valuable asset to your organization."

Example 2: A candidate with extensive experience and accomplishments : This candidate had a long and impressive career in their industry, with many relevant accomplishments that made them a strong fit for the position. In their two-page cover letter, they highlighted their most significant achievements, along with the skills and expertise they had developed over the years.

"Over the past 15 years, I have held various leadership roles within the marketing industry, consistently driving growth and innovation for the organizations I have served. I spearheaded a successful rebranding campaign for a major consumer goods company, which resulted in a 20% increase in sales and a 15% increase in brand recognition. Additionally, I played a pivotal role in the development and execution of a multi-channel marketing strategy that led to a 25% increase in customer engagement for a leading eCommerce retailer. These accomplishments, along with my extensive experience in the field, make me a strong candidate for the Director of Marketing position at your organization."

Example 3: A candidate who addressed specific job requirements in detail : The job description for this position required candidates to explain in detail how they met certain qualifications. The candidate used their two-page cover letter to address these requirements, providing specific examples and explanations to demonstrate their fit for the role.

"As requested in the job description, I would like to provide detailed information on my experience with project management and team leadership. In my most recent role as a Project Manager at ABC Company, I successfully managed a team of 12 professionals to complete a complex software development project on time and within budget. I was responsible for overseeing all aspects of the project, including setting timelines, allocating resources, and ensuring effective communication among team members. Throughout the project, I consistently demonstrated my ability to manage competing priorities and deliver results under pressure. I am confident that my track record of success in this area makes me a strong candidate for the position at your organization."

The importance of high-quality content in longer cover letters cannot be overstated. In each of these examples, the candidates provided relevant, detailed information that showcased their qualifications and made them stand out from other applicants. When considering whether to write a longer cover letter, remember that the success of these examples was largely due to the quality and relevance of their content.

Following Instructions in the Job Description

It's crucial for job seekers to follow any instructions related to cover letter length provided in the job description. Adhering to employer preferences demonstrates attention to detail and a willingness to customize your application for each position. According to a ResumeEdge article , some companies use Applicant Tracking Software to exclude unsuitable cover letters and resumes before they reach hiring managers and recruiters.

Ignoring the employer's instructions can have negative consequences, such as being disqualified from the selection process or giving the impression that you're not a good fit for the company culture. By customizing your cover letter for each application and following any specific instructions provided, you show the employer that you're a serious candidate who is willing to go the extra mile to meet their expectations.

While the one-page cover letter is the standard, there are situations where a longer cover letter might be acceptable, provided that it is well-written and relevant to the job requirements. When deciding whether to write a longer cover letter, carefully assess the job requirements and your qualifications, and consider the importance of high-quality content in making your case.

In all cases, it's essential to follow any instructions provided in the job description regarding cover letter length to demonstrate your attention to detail and commitment to meeting the employer's expectations. By creating a tailored and effective cover letter that addresses the specific needs of the position, you increase your chances of standing out from the competition and securing that coveted interview.

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Can a Cover Letter Be Two Pages?

Learn recruiter-backed tips on the perfect cover letter length. Learn when to keep it brief and when more detail is beneficial for your career growth.

10 months ago • 3 min read

We’ve all been there. Staring at the screen. Wondering whether our cover letter is too long. Or too short. Or just right. Crafting the perfect cover letter is a balancing act between thoroughness and brevity. We want to impress potential employers without overwhelming them. But how much information is too much? It’s a question that’s especially important in the competitive, fast-paced job market of 2024, where every word counts.

Here’s the short answer: A cover letter should generally be no longer than one page. Aim for a cover letter that fills up at least half a page. This length gives you enough space to articulate your value proposition without overwhelming the reader.

Let’s face it: Employers and managers are swamped. They don’t have time to mine through mountains of applications and meticulously review each one. Your cover letter is your first (and perhaps only) chance to grab their attention. So, a crisp, clear, and compelling cover letter can make all the difference.

Of course, like every rule, there are exceptions.

In this article, we’ll share some guidance that’ll help you choose the right length of your cover letter. By the end, you’ll know when a one-page cover letter is sufficient and when a longer letter is more appropriate.

Key advice from a recruiter to keep in mind when deciding how long your cover letter should be

Why the one-page maximum?

The one-page maximum isn’t just a random guideline; it’s about being direct and focused, ensuring your most important qualifications shine without getting buried within pages of text. The idea is simple: Your cover letter should be a teaser, a compelling snapshot of your professional story.

Think of it as your elevator pitch in written form. For instance, if you’re applying for a marketing position, start strong. Open with a statement about a particularly successful campaign you spearheaded. Highlight your role and the outcomes succinctly. This approach shows your capability without veering into verbosity.

Recruiters and hiring managers often view shorter cover letters favorably. They see conciseness as a sign of effective and efficient communication skills—a critical asset in any professional setting.

Focuses on specifics

A brief cover letter forces you to focus on the most relevant aspects of your experience. If your cover letter is longer than 1 page, you likely aren’t tailoring your message to the job’s specific requirements. If you’re eyeing a graphic design role, mention projects that align closely with the skills the employer is seeking. This alignment shows that you’re qualified and attentive to the job’s nuances.

Not diluting key messages

A succinct cover letter ensures that your key points are noticed immediately. When a cover letter extends beyond one page, it risks burying the most crucial information under a pile of irrelevant details. It’s better to share a concise, impactful story about a key professional achievement rather than listing every project or role you’ve been involved in.

Keeping the reader’s attention

The longer your cover letter, the higher the risk of losing the reader’s interest, particularly if it includes irrelevant details. Stay on point by ensuring your anecdotes and examples directly relate to the job requirements. For example, omit personal hobbies or unrelated work experiences that don’t contribute to your specific role candidacy.

A concise cover letter conveys your qualifications and demonstrates your respect for the reader’s time and ability to prioritize and organize information effectively. A well-structured, brief cover letter often leaves a stronger, more positive impression than a lengthy, rambling one.

When it’s ok to use a longer cover letter

In certain circumstances, a two-page cover letter might not only be acceptable but also advantageous.

Senior-level positions

A longer cover letter may be appropriate for roles requiring extensive experience, such as C-level positions. This extra space allows you to detail significant strategic initiatives and leadership experiences. For instance, a candidate with over 15 years of experience might use the additional page to elaborate on the major projects and innovations they led.

Career changes

Transitioning between industries or roles can be complex. You can use extra space in your cover letter to effectively articulate transferable skills and experiences. For example, a professional switching from teaching to corporate training might need extra space to explain how their educational expertise is applicable and valuable in a corporate context.

Complex projects or achievements

Detailed descriptions of specific, relevant projects or significant achievements can justify a longer cover letter. A research scientist, for instance, might expand on their role in a major publication or a groundbreaking project, which requires more than a single page.

Creative fields

In creative fields, a two-page cover letter can offer you the space to showcase your storytelling skills or writing ability. A candidate for a content writing position might use this space to craft a compelling narrative about their writing journey and experiences.

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Can a Cover Letter Be Two Pages?

POSTED ON July 28, 2024
by Marcjean Yutuc

A cover letter gives you an opportunity to highlight your career development journey. It’s your ad campaign, marketing your skills and experiences to your potential employers. Most recruiters want to see how you can impact their company through your letter.

Choosing the ideal page count can make or break your application process. Some companies may appreciate thorough information, while others might not have the time.

Corporate job openings attract around 250 applicants . Therefore, your cover letter should include details directly related to the role to boost your hiring chances.

But is it necessary to submit a two-page cover letter? It depends on your background experience concerning the role and company requirements. Go over these points below to see your ideal cover letter length.

Can a Cover Letter be Two Pages?

Most corporate jobs require a one-page cover letter. A survey says 83% of recruiters agree that an effective cover letter can increase your hiring chances even if your resume isn’t good enough. However, some say it’s optional, but it’s better to be ready.

Ensure readability. Your cover letter shouldn’t bore your employers, so avoid filler words. Write simple words instead of using technical industry terms.

A padded letter won’t impress any employer because some details are unnecessary. There are programs like Hemingway and Grammarly to check clarity.

Boost your job applications with Notion , a versatile productivity tool that integrates note-taking, task management, and project planning. Effortlessly create standout resumes and cover letters, highlighting your skills with clarity and precision.

What is the Ideal Cover Letter Length?

The ideal cover letter length mustn’t exceed 250 words , so keep it candidly clear. Only include the reasons how you can add value to the company. You don’t need to rewrite your entire resume.

Writing an outstanding cover letter is a balancing act. Writing Tips Institute can agree that it shouldn’t be too little and that it doesn’t have enough information. Nor it shouldn’t be too stuffed with a lot of data.

When to Submit a Two-Page Cover Letter

Recruiters sift through hundreds of applications per job listing. They may not have enough time to read your lengthy application. Still, some instances may require you to submit a two-page cover letter.

Legal and government responsibilities have enormous selection criteria. They have strict guidelines before accepting the right candidate. So submitting a two-page cover letter detailing your credibility is appropriate in these sectors.

You can submit a two-page cover letter if you fit the following criteria:

Company requirements. You can use a two-page document if your employer requires you to include testimonials from former bosses. They want to conduct a background check to see if your application letter reflects their feedback.
Numerous skills and advancements. Senior applicants with diverse background experiences typically submit a two-page cover letter. They want to emphasize how their capabilities can help the company succeed.
Detailed job description. When a job instructs you to address several requirements, use a two-page cover letter to explain effectively. Call the HR department and ask for key elements on how to outline your letter . These factors may include formatting spaces, fonts, footers, and headings.

When to Submit a One-Page Cover Letter

Some employers have strict directions for a cover letter. They may ask for a word limit, a reflection on a given topic, or answer a question. You don’t have to hit the exact word count but focus on the content.

Present a one-page cover letter if you meet the measures below:

Industry standards. The standard page length of cover letters can fit on a single page. If white spaces worry you, embrace them. Most hiring managers will find it easier to read through your letter over a wall of worthless text.
Limited job description. Delivering relevant skills that match the job description on one page can save your employer’s time. Include impactful stories using the STAR method , which stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. This strategy gives a clear example of your skill’s effectiveness.
Ability to express achievements on one page. Some applicants can explain their achievements and how they can enhance the company on a single page. Their paragraphs include strong, simple descriptions to prove their qualifications.

How to Write a One-Page Cover Letter

Your cover letter outlines the position you’re applying for and information highlighting why you fit the job. The first part should include the date and contact person’s name, title, company, and address. Choose professional terms to address your contact person in the salutation section—for example, Dear, Mr., or Ms.

Unless you don’t have the contact name, you can simply address the letter as “ Dear, Hiring Manager, or Prospective Employer.” Avoid overly formal words like “To whom it may concern” because they’re outdated.

But remember to always research the company before applying for a job. It shows the commitment and willingness to go the extra mile to gather exact information about your recruiter.

Start your cover letter with an attention-grabbing first paragraph. Then, add strong selling points that stand out from the rest of the applicants. Be explicit and straightforward with your intention from the get-go.

The second paragraph gives a summary of your critical and persuasive skills. Try not to restate your resume. Instead, add professional drama around a central idea. State at least 2-3 key accomplishments that tie back to the role that shaped your career.

Finally, the closing statement. To write an unforgettable cover letter , draw the reader to a call-to-action, summarizing why they should consider you for the role.

Avoid submitting a cover letter without giving it your full attention. You might miss out on bits of unnoticeable errors, so make sure to proofread.

1. Keep your opening brief and concise

Typically, a cover letter should encompass half a page to a full page length. Express your strengths in 3-4 sections that are readable in less than 20 seconds. So be specific. Write your crucial motivation that foreshadows what you’ll do for the company.

2. Do not write a summary of your resume

HR managers spend roughly 30 seconds to a minute reviewing resumes. So make sure to write a banging cover letter that mirrors your resume. Keep fonts in all documents consistent and cohesive to show professionalism.

Apply appropriate text formatting with readable text styles. The best cover letter should have a 12pt font size and use font types like Calibri, Garamond, and Times New Roman.

3. Identify and cut the fluff

Your cover letter shouldn’t have irrelevant fillers that don’t talk about how you can help the company. State precise, impactful information about your skills and professional history. Steer clear from corporate jargon. Use simple, understandable words in place of technical expressions.

4. Avoid using too many adjectives and adverbs

Another way to shorten your cover letter is to minimize your adverbs and adjectives. Though they add color to your letter, using too many is not the best way to persuade your employer. Instead, make an effort to write distinct descriptions without getting out of topic in place of broad terms.

Here’s an example:

I am an excellent and dedicated employee with a long, impressive work history in this industry.
I have certifications in SEO content marketing and six years of experience in social media management.

Which of these sentences are likely to convince a recruiter? They both are informative, but the first sentence is too vague, while the second one uses concrete examples.

5. Give two examples to explain your point

You want to market your best traits and abilities that are helpful. So embody confidence. Don’t undersell yourself with words like “I’m probably not the best candidate, but if you give me a chance, I can prove myself to you.”

They don’t know that you don’t have extensive experience in certain skills. But what you can do is emphasize your strengths. Site at least 2 case scenarios wherein you came up with the best possible outcome to an issue.

6. Do not share your entire life story

The cover letter isn’t about the benefits the company can offer you. It’s about what you can put to the table that they can leverage.

Employers don’t want to read about your epiphanies and irrelevant background details. Generally, the first thing they want to see is applicable working experiences. They want to know that you’re capable of working professionally and can handle constructive criticism.

Example of a One-Page Cover Letter: Web Developer

June 28, 2022

Mr. Andrew Cole xxx Company Address Company City, State xxxx +111-111-1111 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Cole,

I’m writing this letter to express my interest in the Web Developer position. I’m a progress-focused Web Developer with 9 years of working experience at [Former Company]. While working for the company, I enhanced their web security applications. I also designed an adaptive and user-friendly website capable of mobile and desktop use. Additionally, I trained over 30 staff members regarding internal web functions.

Throughout my time with [Former Company], I minimized hacker attacks from 3.2% down to 0.03% and redesigned the company website. As a result, I increased visitor clicks by 44% and consumer purchases by 23%.

I wish to work for [Company Name] as I would like to extend my experiences and ideas to help your company reach and surpass its objectives. With a good track record of initiative and dependability, I boosted [Former Company]’s sales and revenue to 39%. What would 39% do for your sales goals? I would train dozens of employees concerning web functions to streamline the process if hired.

I’m looking forward to discussing my qualifications in detail with you soon. Feel free to contact me at +222-222-2222 or email me at [email protected].

Example of a One-Page Cover Letter: Marketing Manager

Ms. Liz Claire xxx Company Address Company City, State xxxx +111-111-1111 [email protected]

Dear Ms. Claire,

I’m pleased that [Company Name] has a Marketing Manager job vacancy. I always see your clever ad campaigns and would love to bring my enthusiasm to the team. After working in marketing and advertising for 6 years, I’ve enhanced my marketing strategies and methodical communication approach.

Being goal-driven and results-oriented, I’ve launched 1,000+ successful online ad campaigns

during my professional career at [Former Company]. With my extensive field-specific skills, I would make a substantial asset to your company.

Here’s an overview of my responsibilities and top accomplishments:

Wrote and optimized 58 blogs for [Former Company] and ranked 42 articles on the first page of the search engine.
Launch campaigns that led to an increase in organic engagement and lead generation by more than 110%.
Planned, monitored, and coordinated the company’s overall marketing and public relations activities.
Prepared and managed the annual budget for marketing.

Because of my background in sales and marketing, I honed my knowledge in marketing analysis, conducting surveys, and implementing techniques that drive the best outcome. I’m sure that my extensive experience would be valuable for [Company Name].

I’m excited to deliver the same, if not better, marketing results at your esteemed firm. I’m looking forward to meeting you at your most convenient time. You may contact me at +111-111-1111 or email me at [email protected].

Kind Regards,

Danica Fitzpatrick

Example of a One-Page Cover Letter: Accountant

Accounting Hiring Manager xxx Company Address Company City, State xxxx +111-111-1111

Dear Accounting Hiring Manager,

I’m writing to show interest in the Accounting Specialist position at [Company Name]. I recently graduated in accountancy at [Name of School], where I completed a BBA in accounting with competency in business administration.

After graduation, I immediately started an internship at a local accounting firm focusing on small business accounting at [Former Company]. Over the past three years of my internship experience, I honed my skills with accounting software. In addition, I became proficient in tax planning, financial statement preparation, and credit control.

Because of my academic and professional development, I’ve consistently performed at an outstanding level. I intend to bring the same drive and commitment to bringing excellent results to your firm.

Kindly contact me to discuss my qualifications so I can personally explain how I hope to contribute to your business. You may contact me at +000-000-0000 or email me at [email protected]. I look forward to hearing from you.

Johnn Clements

What Experts Say About Two-Page Cover Letters

“A two-page cover letter is perfectly acceptable in certain cases, such as when an applicant has a lot of experience to discuss or is applying for a senior-level position. In other cases, it might be best to stick to a single page. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what will make the strongest impression on the reader and convince them to give the applicant a chance. If in doubt, err on the side of brevity.

Lengthy cover letters may end up being skimmed or even ignored, so it’s important to make sure that every word counts. If an applicant can succinctly and effectively communicate everything they need to on one page, there’s no need to take up extra space. Conversely, if a two-page letter will allow for a more complete and convincing argument, then it may be worth the extra effort.”

Linda Shaffer Chief People Officer, Checkr

“It’s fine to have a two-page cover letter if you feel it is necessary, but you must understand that you only have so much time in front of an employer before they quickly make a decision, and possibly move on. Many employers treat cover letters/resumes like scrolling through social media channels. They will take a quick look, decide if there’s a possible fit, and make a decision based on the next steps.”

Joana Zambas Career Expert, Career Addict

“As a former recruiter (20 years in the staffing industry), I do not think there are any circumstances that reasonably warrant a two-page cover letter. In most cases, cover letters are barely, quickly skimmed by the recruiter, if that. Recruiting is an extremely fast-paced environment. Recruiters and hiring managers are screening hundreds of candidates weekly, and they simply don’t have time realistically to read 2-page cover letters. In my experience, most cover letters barely get read at all. I strongly recommend keeping your cover letter to one page, preferably just 2-3 concise paragraphs.”

Andrea Clement Owner, Career Collateral and Clemco LLC

“An applicant should always avoid writing a two-page cover letter for the majority of companies. Instead, write a one-page cover letter (between 250–400 words) and try directly targeting your cover letter to the company by mentioning the exact criteria they mention in their job posting. Being intentional about your previous work experience, skills, and other qualifications you include in your cover letter tells employers you’ve paid attention to their job requirements and provided a clear purpose for why you want them to read it.”

Eva Chan Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and Career Coach, Resume Genius

Recommended Courses

1. cover letter mastery to get the job you want.

Woman sitting on couch with laptop wondering if a cover letter can be two pages

“Cover Letter Mastery To Get The Job You Want” is a detailed course on crafting effective cover letters, taught by a seasoned business communication professor. It covers everything from deconstructing job ads to writing compelling conclusions.

What makes this course unique is its practical approach, addressing common mistakes and offering detailed lessons on engaging with job requirements and including impactful success stories. The step-by-step process ensures your cover letter stands out.

I found the focus on real-world examples particularly helpful. The breakdown of actual job cover letters provided clear insights into what employers look for and how to avoid common pitfalls.

Who is this course for?

This course is perfect for job applicants, writers, and anyone looking to enhance their cover letter skills. If you’re struggling to get interviews or want to improve your application, this course is a valuable resource.

2. How To Write The Perfect Cover Letter

Smiling man with a cup of coffee after writing a two page cover letter

“How To Write The Perfect Cover Letter” is an essential course designed to help job seekers write standout cover letters. It focuses on the basics and guidelines needed to make your job application compelling and increase your chances of getting interviews.

What sets this course apart is its focus on practical guidelines that cater to both fresh graduates and experienced professionals. It addresses common mistakes and emphasizes the importance of a well-crafted cover letter in the job application process.

I found the course extremely useful because it breaks down the components of a perfect cover letter in a clear and concise manner. The emphasis on real-world application and the step-by-step instructions made it easy to follow and implement.

This course is perfect for job applicants, job seekers, fresh graduates, and anyone looking to improve their chances of getting noticed by recruiters. If you want to make a strong first impression and boost your job prospects, this course is a valuable resource.

2. Create A Winning Resume, CV And Cover Letter

Image showing resume writing process with focus on cover letter length

“Create A Winning Resume, CV, And Cover Letter” is an insightful course designed to help job seekers craft exceptional job application documents. Led by a seasoned HR Specialist and founder of TopResumess, the course offers proven strategies and top-tier templates tailored to various industries and roles.

What sets this course apart is the access to Top 1% templates and hundreds of examples, combined with step-by-step guidance and practical exercises. The course uniquely leverages real-life examples and practical exercises to empower learners to create standout applications.

I found the course particularly valuable due to its comprehensive approach. The focus on both the visual appeal and content quality of resumes and CVs, along with the bonus lesson on utilizing AI technology, made it exceptionally practical and relevant.

This course is ideal for job seekers, professionals looking to enhance their application materials, and anyone aiming to secure their dream job. If you want to elevate your job search and create compelling applications that impress employers, this course is a must-enroll.

Key Takeaways

To recap, writing a cover letter can be overwhelming, especially for novice professionals. However, learning how to write a cover letter is essential for career development .

Certain companies do accept a two-page cover letter depending on the position. Make sure to research the company before submitting. You want to include the correct details like company culture, names of HR managers, and key players of the organization.

Subscribe to Skill Success All Access Pass and gain access to a comprehensive library of courses designed to elevate your career. Master cover letter writing, ace interviews, enhance your networking skills, and build a strong professional brand.

Good luck with your new venture!

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in November 2023. It has been updated for freshness and accuracy.

Marcjean Yutuc

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How Long Should A Cover Letter Be? Can It Be Two Pages?

By Christina Colclough

Last updated: April 25, 2024

Attaching a cover letter to your resume is the quickest way to draw the hiring manager’s attention. However, there has been a dispute over how long it should be. Some suggest keeping it short and simple, with only 3-4 sentences. Others pack their letters with as much detail as possible, which can stretch for pages.

Where should yours fit into that spectrum? Let me share some of my tips regarding the ideal cover letter length, drawn from my own experiences as both a job seeker and a hiring manager.

We all know hiring managers and recruiters are busy people; your long letter might be skimmed or not read entirely, and the most important information will get buried in unnecessary details. The team not only misses out on all your key qualifications but also has a bad impression with the clear lack of focus in your writing style.

Good news: there are still some exceptions. In some technical fields, your experience or qualifications might be complex and require more explanation.

Hence, a slightly longer letter (up to 1.5 pages) could be justified if it provides crucial details relevant to the position. Ensure the extra content adds significant value, and be careful not to go longer than 2 pages; that would be excessive.

How To Keep Your Effective Cover Letter In One Page

1. be concise with your cover letter introduction.

You should aim for 2 to 4 sentences with your opening. Start with a short yet powerful statement demonstrating your interest in the position; you can mention how you came across the opportunity or what excites you about the company.

Next, briefly mention a specific aspect of the job posting or the company that resonates with your relevant skills and experience level. If relevant, consider including a quantifiable achievement from your previous role that can back up this value proposition.

And that’s it. Now, conclude your opening and transition smoothly into the body of your letter. Do not let the introduction overstay its welcome.

2. Cut Out What Your Resume Has Already Covered

A perfect cover letter and an amazing-looking resume are two parts of a powerful package, but they serve different purposes. The resume is a detailed list of your skills and experience level. Your cover letter, however, should focus on how those skills and experience benefit the potential employer .

Hence, do not just restate all your skills from your resume . The cover letter should connect the dots between your relevant experience (mentioned in your resume) and the specific job requirements you’re applying for. If there’s a stellar achievement mentioned in the resume that could be elaborated further with more details, do so in your cover letter.

3. Cut Out The Fluff

A well-organized, concise cover letter should showcase your communication skills. Fluff only dilutes the impact of your message with unnecessary words or phrases and barely adds any value to your proposition.

Here are three simple yet powerful tips I have used for my own cover letters in earlier days:

Never use unsubstantiated claims like “I’m a highly motivated individual with excellent skills.”
Replace phrases like “in order to” or “due to the fact that” with simpler alternatives like “to” or “because.”
Stay away from generic descriptive sentences of your skills. Instead, use specific examples to showcase them in action.

Let’s take a look at some cover letter examples:

Fluff: “I am a highly motivated individual with excellent communication and interpersonal skills during everyday tasks.”

Clearer: “My proven communication skills enabled me to…” (Demonstrates skill with an example)

Fluff: “In my previous role, I was responsible for managing social media campaigns and successfully increased brand awareness.”

Clearer: “ I spearheaded social media campaigns that increased brand awareness by 20%.” (Focuses on achievement with a quantifiable result)

3. No More Than One Adjective Or Adverb For Each Sentence

Adjectives and adverbs might add some nuance to your letter writing, but overuse makes your entire cover letter feel bloated and difficult to read. My advice is to rely less on them and gravitate more towards verbs and nouns:

Use action verbs that showcase your skills and achievements in action. These verbs can convey meaning effectively on their own without additional adverbs.
Choose specific nouns that paint the whole picture and eliminate the need for descriptive adjectives.
Write in an active voice for clear and concise sentences. (e.g., “I increased sales by 15%” is stronger than “Sales were increased by 15%” ).

Some stellar cover letter templates:

Original: “I am a highly motivated and results-oriented individual with a strong work ethic.” (2 adverbs, 2 adjectives)

Revised: “I consistently achieve results through my dedication and strong work ethic.” (1 adverb, 1 adjective)

Original: “I successfully managed a team of ten very talented and creative designers in a fast-paced environment.” (3 adverbs, 2 adjectives)

Revised: “I led a ten-person design team and delivered creative projects on time despite the time pressure.” (1 adverb, 1 adjective)

4. Be Selective; No More Than Two Examples

Hiring managers prefer in-depth details about 1-2 impactful achievements than a long list of generic examples that lack depth.

You should carefully read the job description and identify the key skills and experiences they are looking for. Then, from your list of accomplishments on the resume, choose the ones that best demonstrate the skills highlighted in that description.

Two golden strategies to keep in mind:

Choose examples from more recent positions that are most relevant to the job you’re applying for, as they showcase your current skills and knowledge.
Consider examples that demonstrate the scope and complexity of your work. The manager would be impressed with how you handled challenging tasks and contributed to the company’s vision.

Extra Tips For A Well-Written Cover Letter

Aligning your tone builds a bridge between you and the company culture and makes you seem like a great fit.

From my experience, a company website is your goldmine. The “About Us” section typically outlines the company’s mission, values, and what it stands for. It would help if you also looked for employee testimonials or “Company Culture” pages to get a closer look at the team dynamics .

Social media is another option, especially popular platforms like Instagram or LinkedIn.

Most importantly, observe the writing style of the posts:

Suppose the company culture leans formal; mirror that in your own writing. Use complete sentences with proper grammar and avoid slang or informal language.
For a more casual company culture, you can inject a bit more personality into your letter without losing professionalism. However, overly casual language is still out of the question.

Do You Need A Cover Letter If The Job Description Says It’s Not Required?

In most cases, submitting a cover letter is still a good idea, even if the job description says it’s not required.

A compelling cover letter can set you apart from the rest of the candidate pool (especially if many choose not to submit one), allowing you to showcase your communication skills and genuine interest in the job.

Plus, as I said earlier, the paper cover letter acts like a bridge that connects the dots between your basic qualifications (mentioned in the resume) and the company’s needs.

You might also like: 7 Powerful Ways To Close A Cover Letter How To Start A Cover Letter Greeting? Who To Address Cover Letter To To Whom It May Concern Alternatives

Keep your professional cover letter to one page, maybe stretching to one and a half at most (the letter word count: 250 to over 400). Going over two pages might hurt your chances rather than increase them! Write to me if you need more advice on the contents of the cover letter.

Christina J. Colclough

Dr Christina J. Colclough is an expert on The Future World of Work and the politics of digital technology advocating globally for the importance of the workers’ voice. She has extensive regional and global labour movement experience, is a sought-after keynote speaker, coach, and strategist advising progressive governments and worker organisations.