How to use ChatGPT to write a cover letter (and why you should)

Crafting a comprehensive and compelling resume is challenging enough, but job applications often require an additional component—a cover letter. This letter serves as an opportunity to express your specific interest in the company and the role you are applying for.

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If done effectively, a cover letter has the potential to make you stand out among other applicants by showcasing your genuine interest in the role and highlighting the experiences that make you a perfect fit.

However, synthesizing these ideas into a one-page letter can be a time-consuming and challenging task—that's where ChatGPT comes in to help.

How to use ChatGPT to assist in crafting your cover letter

Whether you're feeling stuck while writing your cover letter or don't even know where to begin, ChatGPT can help you create the cover letter of your dreams. With just a few prompts and your guidance, ChatGPT can generate a polished cover letter within seconds.

1. Sign into ChatGPT

Visit ChatGPT's website and sign in using your account. If you don't have an account, you can easily create one or sign in using your existing Google or Microsoft account.

2. Ask ChatGPT to write your cover letter

All you need to do is ask ChatGPT to write a cover letter tailored to the specific role and company you're interested in. It's helpful to include details about the experiences you would like the cover letter to highlight.

For example, you could provide the following input: "Can you write a cover letter for the position of Associate Editor at ZDNET? I graduated from the University of North Carolina with a major in Journalism and have a strong passion for technology."

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This is just an example—you can be as specific or general as you'd like. However, the more guidance you provide to ChatGPT, the better the output will be.

3. Enhance your cover letter by pasting in the job description (Optional)

If you want your cover letter to be customized to the exact role you're applying for, you can copy and paste the job description into ChatGPT before asking it to generate your cover letter. This method ensures that your cover letter aligns with the specific requirements and responsibilities of the role.

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Similar to the previous step, you can also include details about your own personal experiences that you'd like to highlight. Your prompt could look something like this: "Can you write a cover letter for the position of [role title] at [employer]? Here is the job description: XYZ. For context, I have previous experience in [mention experience you'd like to highlight]."

4. Collaborate with ChatGPT to refine your cover letter

Despite ChatGPT's advanced capabilities, you may still desire to make certain tweaks to the letter. Thankfully, it's easy to modify specific aspects of your cover letter—simply ask ChatGPT to make adjustments, and it will oblige.

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Using the previous prompt as an example, you could say, "Could you please place more emphasis on my passion for technology?"

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are cover letters necessary for a job application?

Cover letters are not always required for job applications; however, nearly all job applications either require them or provide you with the option to submit one. Writing a cover letter offers the benefit of allowing employers to become better acquainted with you and sets you apart from other applicants.

Should you use ChatGPT to write a cover letter?

By leveraging ChatGPT, you can swiftly generate an impressive cover letter, saving valuable time and allowing you to focus more attention on other components of your application that require greater effort. Once ChatGPT creates the letter, you can always add your personal touch to tailor it further.

What should be highlighted in a cover letter?

Your cover letter should distinguish you from other applicants. Therefore, it should specifically outline what attracts you to the role and company and highlight the experiences that make you an excellent fit.