​As you might imagine, recruiters sift through thousands of cover letters—some impressively crafted, some lacking in substance, and others uniquely quirky. With advancing technology, it's becoming increasingly evident when a cover letter has been generated by AI. While this isn't necessarily a bad thing, there are specific guidelines you should follow to increase your chances of getting an interview.

The Do's:

1. Customisation is Key:

Tailor each cover letter to the specific job and company you're applying to. Use AI tools to personalise content, highlighting relevant skills and experiences that align with the job requirements.

2. Embrace Natural Language:

Opt for AI platforms that prioritise natural language processing. Your cover letter should resonate with authenticity and professionalism, mirroring your unique voice while adhering to standard business conventions.

3. Focus on Clarity and Conciseness:

Craft a clear and concise narrative that articulates your value proposition succinctly. AI can help streamline complex sentences and eliminate unnecessary jargon, ensuring your message is impactful and easy to digest.

4. Utilise Data Insights:

Harness AI-driven analytics to gain insights into industry trends, company culture, and recruiter preferences. This data-driven approach can inform your content strategy, increasing the effectiveness of your cover letters.

5. Proofread and Edit:

While AI tools excel at generating content, they're not infallible. Always review and edit your cover letter for grammar, punctuation, and coherence. AI can aid in this process by flagging potential errors, but the final polish should come from human judgment.

The Don'ts:

1. Overreliance on Templates:

Avoid using generic templates that dilute your individuality. While AI-generated templates can serve as a foundation, strive to inject originality and authenticity into your cover letters to stand out from the crowd.

2. Neglecting Human Touch:

While AI streamlines the writing process, don't sacrifice the human touch. Infuse your cover letter with personality and enthusiasm, showcasing your genuine interest in the role and company.

3. Ignoring Context and Nuance:

AI operates within defined parameters and may overlook contextual nuances. Be mindful of cultural sensitivities, industry-specific terminology, and company ethos when composing your cover letter to ensure relevance and resonance.

4. Disregarding Feedback:

Don't operate in a vacuum. Seek feedback from trusted mentors, colleagues, or professional networks to refine your cover letter. While AI provides valuable insights, human input remains invaluable in refining content and enhancing impact.

5. Bypassing Customisation:

Resist the temptation to mass-produce generic cover letters using AI. Tailoring your message demonstrates genuine interest and commitment to the role, significantly increasing your chances of securing an interview.

​Remember a cover letter is the opportunity for you to showcase your specific talents relative to the role, so spend the time thinking about your alignment to the role and getting this right.