NewRoleKit

Cover letter guide

Cover letter guide for tech roles: how to write one that gets read

Most cover letters are generic and ignored. A targeted, story-driven cover letter can be the difference between an interview and rejection — especially for career changers.

Do cover letters matter in tech?

It depends on the company. At many startups, a strong cover letter from a non-traditional candidate gets a recruiter to look more carefully at the resume. At large companies with ATS systems, it may never be read.

Write one when:

  • ✓The role is at a company you genuinely want to work for.
  • ✓The job description specifically asks for one.
  • ✓You are making a significant career change that needs explaining.

What a cover letter is (and is not)

It is not

A summary of your resume. Never start with “I am writing to apply for the position of…”

It is

A 3-paragraph story that explains: why you want THIS role at THIS company, what you bring that is uniquely relevant, and why your non-linear path is an advantage, not a liability.

The 3-paragraph structure

Every strong cover letter follows the same shape. Here is what goes in each paragraph.

  1. 1

    The hook — why you, why now, why them

    Start with something specific about the company or role that genuinely excites you. Not 'I am excited to apply' — something real. 'I have used [product] for 2 years and noticed [specific thing]. When I saw you were hiring for [role], I knew I had to apply.'

  2. 2

    Your relevant story

    One specific example of relevant work or project. Use the STAR format. Connect directly to a requirement from the job description. This paragraph should make the reader think 'this person can do this job.'

  3. 3

    The close

    Brief, direct, confident. What you want (a conversation). One sentence about what you are offering. Contact information or next step.

The career changer paragraph (if relevant)

Address the career change directly — do not leave the reader wondering about it.

Template

“After five years in [previous field], I am making a deliberate transition into [target role]. This is not a pivot away from something — it is a move toward [specific reason]. My [X years] experience in [previous field] gave me [specific skills] that directly apply to [aspect of target role].”

What to avoid and what to do

The difference between a letter that gets read and one that gets deleted is usually one of these.

Do not
  • ✕Start with 'I' (weak).
  • ✕Use clichés ('team player', 'passion for').
  • ✕Restate your resume.
  • ✕Exceed one page.
  • ✕Use a generic letter for multiple applications.
Do
  • ✓Use the company's name.
  • ✓Reference specific job requirements.
  • ✓Quantify your impact.
  • ✓Sound like a person, not a template.

Next steps

Build your resume skills

A great cover letter opens the door. Make sure the resume behind it is just as strong.

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