How Long Should a Cover Letter Be? (2026 Answer With Examples)
Too short and you look like you didn't try. Too long and no one reads it. Here's the exact length that works — and what to put in each paragraph.
The short answer
- →Ideal length: 250–350 words
- →Maximum: 400 words / one page
- →Paragraphs: 3–4, never more
- →Never: 2 pages under any circumstances
Why shorter is better
Recruiters read dozens of cover letters a day. A long cover letter signals that you don't respect their time — and that you can't edit your own writing. A tight, well-structured 300-word letter that gets to the point immediately is far more impressive than a rambling page and a half.
If you find yourself going over 400 words, you're either repeating your CV (don't) or including information that isn't relevant (cut it).
The 4-paragraph structure that works
Paragraph 1 — The hook (2–3 sentences)
Why you're writing and why this specific role interests you. Name the company and the role. Show you've done research — one specific thing about the company that genuinely attracted you. Do NOT start with "I am writing to apply for..."
Paragraph 2 — Your strongest relevant experience (4–5 sentences)
One or two specific achievements that directly match what the role needs. Lead with a number or result. This is your best evidence — not a summary of your whole career.
Paragraph 3 — Why you specifically / why them (3–4 sentences)
What about your background, skills, or approach makes you the right fit for this company in particular. Reference the job description. This paragraph differentiates you from candidates with similar experience.
Paragraph 4 — Close (2 sentences)
Express enthusiasm and prompt next steps. "I would welcome the opportunity to discuss this further" is fine. Keep it confident and brief.
Opening lines that actually work
The first sentence is the hardest — and the most important. Here are openings that work:
"After three years building growth campaigns at [Company], I've become obsessed with what makes B2B content actually convert — which is exactly why [Company] caught my attention."
"When I saw that [Company] is expanding into enterprise sales, I knew this Account Executive role was worth applying for immediately."
"I've followed [Company]'s approach to sustainable packaging for two years, so seeing a supply chain role open was a straightforward decision to apply."
When no cover letter is better than a bad one
If the application says cover letter is optional and you're going to write a generic one — skip it. A formulaic cover letter that could apply to any company adds nothing and can actually hurt your application. Only submit a cover letter if it's genuinely tailored to this role at this company.
For the most common cover letter mistakes to avoid, read our guide: 5 Cover Letter Mistakes That Are Costing You Interviews.