Power Verb List

Instead of "Responsible for" consider...

• Led – "Led a team of five..."

• Created – "Created a new filing system..."

• Implemented – "Implemented a customer service ticketing tool..."

• Streamlined – "Streamlined onboarding processes..."

• Facilitated – "Facilitated team training workshops..."

• Improved – "Improved data accuracy by 35%..."

• Collaborated – "Collaborated across departments..."

• Managed – "Managed calendars, budgets, and travel logistics..."

• Increased – "Increased social media engagement by 50%..."

• Resolved – "Resolved 95% of support tickets within 24 hours..."

• Orchestrated – "Orchestrated a multi-department project launch, ensuring all deliverables were completed ahead of schedule."

• Drafted – "Drafted internal policies and training materials to support..."

• Secured – "Secured vendor partnerships that reduced annual costs by 18%."

• Compiled – "Compiled monthly executive reports using data from 5+ departments for leadership review.

Do

• Address the hiring manager by name if possible

• Tailor the letter to each job

• Use numbers or outcomes

• Mention why you like the company

• Keep it to 3–4 short paragraphs

• Use a professional tone

Don't

• Use “To Whom It May Concern” unless you have no choice

• Copy/paste the same letter to every company

• Say things like “I’m a hard worker” without proof

• Only talk about yourself

• Write a full page or dense block of text

• Be overly casual or robotic

Plug-in Paragraph for Career Changers

While my background is in [Previous Field], I’ve developed transferable skills such as [Relevant Skill #1] and [Skill #2], which directly apply to this role. I’ve also completed [Course, Certification, or Project] to strengthen my qualifications in [New Industry]. I’m excited to bring a fresh perspective and strong work ethic to [Company Name] as I pivot into this new opportunity.

Cover Letter Tips

(Template Below)

Do's and Don'ts