Writing a cover letter you can reuse 50 times

A cover letter is not a formality. It is your chance to answer the only question the recruiter is asking: "why this person, for this role?"

The four-paragraph template

1. Why this role. One specific line, the product, the mission, the problem. Not "I am excited to apply".
2. Why you. Your single strongest, most relevant achievement, with a number if you have one.
3. Why them, honestly. What you want to learn or build there. Specific beats flattering.
4. A clean close. "I'd welcome the chance to talk" is enough.

Keep it short

Under 200 words. A recruiter skimming fifty of these will read the first two lines. Front-load the specific part.

Make it reusable, not generic

Write a master version where paragraphs two and three are modular. For each role, swap the specifics in paragraph one and reorder the modules. Five minutes per application; see how to read the listing to pick the right angle.

What not to do

Do not repeat your CV, do not apologise for anything, and do not use a template that says "Dear Hiring Manager" if you can find a name. Pair it with a focused CV and you are ahead of most applicants.