a cover letter should not include

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3 times you can skip the cover letter—and the 1 time you absolutely shouldn't

Some job listings will say "cover letter required," while others don't include any mention about it at all. When it comes to the latter, many applicants often wonder, Should I submit one in anyway?

It's a competitive job market out there, and hiring managers and job recruiters today spend about six seconds reviewing each resume . According to Glassdoor , a job search and salary comparison website, approximately 250 resumes are submitted for each corporate job listing, and only five or so candidates will be called for an interview.

So when is it necessary to send a cover letter? Here's the thing: Hiring managers love them — they get you noticed quickly, show you've gone the extra mile and demonstrate how much you really want the job.

A bad cover letter, however, can hinder your objectives .

Don't submit a cover letter if...

1. You have no interest in personalizing the cover letter: Many applicants will Google "cover letter examples," pick one in a rush and model their cover letter after it. By doing so, not only will it be evident that you submitted a cover letter designed for mass distribution, but you might have overlooked some mistakes, like addressing the letter to the wrong person, company or even listing the wrong position you're applying for.

(Trust me, this is something hiring managers see all the time, and it's absolutely cringing. It also takes away from their valuable time that could be spent reviewing your resume.)

2. You don't have anything new to say: Hiring managers expect to read a compelling and impressive cover letter, not an exact replicate of your resume. (Think about how you felt when writing your personal statement for all those college applications; it was a big deal and you knew the admissions office were looking for someone who they'd feel proud to have representing their school).

It's no different with cover letters. Do you have any unusual hobbies that led you to be interested in the field of work you're applying for? Is there a backstory that explains why you admire the company? Whatever you write, just don't elaborate on your job history and skills (that's what the resume is for).

3. You only have ideas on how to improve the company

Save the problem-solving suggestions for the job interview (that is, if you're luck enough to get one), when you'll 100 percent be asked those similar questions (i.e., "what would you improve about [XYZ]?"). A cover letter can be used as an opportunity to demonstrate your job knowledge, but don't use it as an outlet to tell your prospective employer what they are doing wrong and how to fix it.

No one likes hearing negative things about their business from a stranger, even if your feedback has merit. Curiosity, humility and tact will trump a "know-it-all" every time. Focus on the positive aspects and potential solutions for the business.

When to include a cover letter

Notwithstanding the above, the only time you should submit a cover letter is when you have valuable information to share that's not conveyed in your resume.

I've hired many candidates based on something that stood out in their cover letter. Here are some examples:

1. A personal connection or referral: If you were personally introduced to a hiring manager (or someone high up in the company), always acknowledge that relationship in a cover letter. Who made the introduction? How you know them? Why did they think you are a good fit for the role? A personal referral goes a long way, so don't miss out on capturing the advantage.

2. You have a history with the company or hiring team: If you have any link to the organization, it's essential to connect the dots. Did you intern at the company? Did you cross paths when you worked for a supplier, a competitor or even a team member in a previous company? You never want to surprise the recruiter and have them hear about the connection from someone else; getting ahead of it will make you an exciting candidate and demonstrate that you're a transparent and a proactive communicator.

3. It's your dream job: If the position you're applying for indeed is your dream job, write a personal and heartfelt cover letter. Take the opportunity to demonstrate that you've researched the company and workplace culture well. If you're going through the trouble of writing a fantastic personalized cover letter, do everything in your power to email it directly to the hiring manager, so it doesn't get lost alongside hundreds or even thousands of other applicants in the automated applicant tracking system.

Debby Carreau is an entrepreneur, author and founder of Inspired HR . She has been recognized as one of Canada's Top 25 HR Professionals and is a regular contributor on multiple TV shows, Entrepreneur Magazine and many other print and online publications. She is a board member for YPO and Elevation Group as well as an Advisory Board member for FinDev Canada.

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What Not to Put in a Cover Letter?

The old saying goes, “it’s not how you start, it’s how you finish.” However, when you are planning on sending in a job application, the entire process matters.

A good introduction to your job application is vital, and that’s why you need to write an excellent cover letter.

It is always the wise choice to include a cover letter unless the job posting specifies otherwise.

A  cover letter  shows that you’re genuinely interested in the position, and it gives you an extra opportunity to sell yourself.

Your letter is the first thing a prospective employer sees. It is your chance to grab their attention and make a  positive first impression . It should be clear, concise, and snappy. To get this right, you need to know  what to write and how to write it .

It’s essential to understand the cover letter dos and don’ts before starting to write your letter.

You may not think about it, but that also includes understanding  what not to put in a cover letter .

Remember that employers receive hundreds of resumes and  cover letter samples  and generally scan them very quickly.

You need to make sure that yours stands out, and doesn’t look like a few generic lines thrown together without care if you want to progress through to the first interview stage.

A common mistake many job applicants commit is trying to  stuff way too much information in their cover letters .

There are a number of other  common cover letter mistakes  that many candidates make that severely hurt their chances of landing an interview.

Below is a list of  things you should never include in a cover letter .

What not to include in a cover letter

A thoughtful,  well-written cover letter  can compliment your resume. Many candidates get it wrong as they don’t know how to format a cover letter.  What not to put in a resume cover letter?  There are a number of things.

One of the most important concerns is the length, as it needs to be  concise and snappy . Read these  cover letter tips  on  how long a cover letter should be . Make sure you avoid the following cover letter don’ts.

Spelling mistakes

For any job position you may be applying for,  this is a cardinal sin .

By submitting a job application with spelling or grammar mistakes, you are demonstrating you have a  lack of attention to detail .

Making silly mistakes such as typos on your cover letter gives a  poor first impression . It looks sloppy and unprofessional.

Make sure you  proofread your cover letter  at least a few times and give it to someone else to look at too, as spotting your own mistakes can be difficult.

Personal information

Employers are not interested in your personal life. Keep your  cover letter format  professional and avoid too many personal details. Focus on your strengths as a worker and the  key job requirements .

You don’t need to say your marital status, religion, ethnicity, age, hobbies, or anything else  unrelated to your ability to do the job .

Save any personal discussions or humor for once you get the job.

Salary expectations

Maybe you want to discuss your potential salary, however, this should wait. During the interview process or  once you receive an offer  would be a much better time.

Only include this if the job posting specifies that you should. And even if you’re required to, be vague and give a  very wide salary bracket .

You don’t want to give the impression that your money is your  primary motivation for applying , and you also want to put yourself in a strong position to  negotiate your salary  when the time comes.

Too much information

This is one of the most important  cover letter mistakes to avoid . You should be clear, concise, and snappy, cut to the chase.

This is one of the most common mistakes when writing a cover letter. Many applicants include skills or work experience that has nothing to do with the vacancy.

You can avoid this by carefully reading the job description, and that will allow you to create a great cover letter.

The same applies to your resume, using a  resume template  can also help you avoid putting too much unnecessary information.

You should  focus on a few key strengths  and not simply reword your entire resume in the form of a letter. Your cover letter  should be a short summary  that is kept under a single page.

Negative comments

Complaints about past or present employers are things your cover letter should never say.

Doing this  reflects poorly on your attitude  and doesn’t explain how you will help your potential new employer.

Apart from bringing negativity to your job application, it is also irrelevant information to include that could  lead to a hiring manager ending your candidacy .

Stay positive and focus on  what you can bring to the role  you’re applying for. You want to make a positive first impression, not a negative one.

Lies or exaggerations

Facts can easily be checked  and  lying on your resume  or cover letter can put you in a difficult position.

Don’t include qualifications that you don’t have or made up past job positions. With improving technology it is now easier than ever to fact-check and  many candidates get caught out .

Sooner or later,  the truth will come out , because you show you aren’t capable of performing the tasks you say you can do, or because your employer fact-checks your previous experience.

Empty claims

Don’t be modest  by hiding your talents but if you do make a claim, back it up with evidence. You can’t expect an employer to just take your word from it.

Provide examples  of when you’ve shown your strengths in past positions.

Your resume will help to support the claims you make in the cover letter. Make sure it’s up-to-scratch by using a  resume builder .

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll have a much better chance of landing an interview and getting hired for the job you want.

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• Cover Letters

Do You Need a Cover Letter When It's Not Required?

When you do (and don't) need a cover letter to apply for a job

Why Write a Cover Letter?

Reasons to include a cover letter, reasons not to include a cover letter.

• Tips for Writing a Cover Letter

Do you really need a cover letter if a company doesn't ask for one? Writing a lot of cover letters during a job search is often both challenging and time-consuming. Because of this, it's not surprising that applicants often hesitate to include a cover letter when it is not explicitly required by an employer.

If you're wondering if you should include a cover letter, the short answer is yes. That said, there are a few exceptions.

You should  almost always submit a cover letter , even if the company doesn't ask for one. 

Here's what you need to know about the value of cover letters, along with the situations where you can skip a cover letter. 

If you're serious about landing the job, a well-written  cover letter  gives you a chance to sell yourself to the employer in a narrative format, and explain why you are an ideal candidate. Taking the time to  match your qualifications to the job  can help you get selected for an interview.

All of your efforts in the cover letter will help hiring managers do their job of screening applicants, and may get your resume a closer look.

A cover letter also affords you the opportunity to highlight your strongest qualifications.

An effective, well-written, and  customized cover letter  also makes it clear that you are highly interested in the job. That's because it shows the hiring manager that you want the job enough to go the extra distance.

To Share Extra Information

A cover letter gives you an opportunity to include details that your resume does not contain. For example, if you are applying from a distance, your cover letter will enable you to present a rationale for relocation and to mention that you will be in the area shortly for a possible interview. 

To Explain a Gap

Gaps in employment  with reasonable explanations can also be addressed in your letter. A cover letter is also an ideal place to provide specific examples that prove you have the skills and experience listed on your resume.

The Employer May Expect One

Additionally, some employers expect to receive cover letters even though they did not stipulate that a cover letter was required in their job advertisements.

Candidates who don't take the time to compose a letter are often viewed as less motivated for the job.

In many cases, employers won't even look at a job application that doesn't contain a cover letter or letter of interest.

For some jobs, you won't need a cover letter to apply. Some employers don't accept cover letters as part of the application process. For other positions, there may be no way to submit one. If a cover letter is optional, it's better to skip it if you don't have the time to compose a well-written one.

When the Employer Doesn't Want One

If the job application instructs that you should not include a cover letter, then it's definitely best to follow directions so as not to annoy your potential employer.

When You Don't Have Time

No letter is much better than a poorly written one. A well-composed cover letter serves as a sample of your writing ability, but the opposite is also true. If you don't have time to write a well-crafted cover letter that pitches your skills and positions you for the job, forego the effort.

When There's No Way to Submit One

Also, if the company asks you to submit your application through an online platform, and there is no place for you to submit a cover letter, don't worry about it. 

Tips for Writing a Cover Letter That Will Impress

When you do include a cover letter with your resume, it's important to make it a good one. Here are tips for writing a cover letter that will make the best impression and add value to your application.

Kelly Miller. / The Balance

• Make it targeted.  Be sure to compose a  targeted letter  that is written with the job listing in mind. Focus on the skills and abilities you possess that make you a strong fit for the specific job.
• Keep it short.  Make sure that your  letters are concise  (no more than one page topping out at five paragraphs) and that every statement you make conveys something significant about your qualifications for the candidacy.
• Go beyond your resume.  Avoid simply repeating your resume. Provide examples not listed in your resume, and expand upon things mentioned only briefly in your resume. Your cover letter should have a distinct purpose regarding your application.
• Edit, edit, edit.  Errors in your cover letter  can hurt your chances of getting an interview. Errors make you look sloppy, or worse, not educated. Be sure to thoroughly read your letter before submitting it. Consider asking a friend or colleague to read it as well to check for typos, grammatical errors, and confusing language.

Key Takeaways

• Writing a cover letter makes the hiring manager's job easier, by highlighting exactly why you're the right match for the role. That gives your application an edge. 
• Even if the company doesn't specifically request a cover letter, it's a good idea to write one if you're interested in the role at hand. 
• Skip a cover letter if the employer says not to write one, or if there isn't a place to include one in an online application form. 

Career Advice Blog

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When (and When Not) to Include a Cover Letter

In simple terms, a cover letter is a tool that helps you introduce yourself to recruiters in a concise yet memorable way, when applying to a job. A well-designed cover letter does include information from your resume, but only to take readers (usually hiring managers) on a guided trip of your professional experiences and accomplishments in an engaging way.

While your resume is about presenting facts related to your career, a cover letter is expected to reflect more of your personality. This is because it serves as the very first introduction to the person who has considered you for a job opportunity. Thus, the primary intent of a cover letter is to create that first impression on recruiters.

While crafting a cover letter, it is a great idea to always plan about the content beforehand according to the industry as well as the job you are applying to. Moreover, the format you choose should also be in accordance with the corresponding organization or industry.

How a Perfect Cover Letter Should Look Like?

A cover letter should be well structured, appealing to the eye, and present all information in an orderly fashion. A great cover letter must have the following sections:

• Your name, address and date
• Recruiter’s name
• The company’s name along with its address
• A salutation/greeting
• An opening statement
• A short main-body paragraph
• A closing sentence
• A valediction
• Your name and/or signature in the end

When Not to Include a Cover Letter

While experts recommend including a cover letter every time, there are instances/occasions, wherein you are not required to or should not include a cover letter.

• In case you are applying for a job online, you may not get an option to upload or submit a cover letter. Hence, don’t worry as you don’t need to do so.
• Many times, employers strictly state that what they want you to submit as a job applicant, viz., resume, reference and more. So, if not asked, you don’t need to include a cover letter. Nevertheless, you can still consider sending a concise form of the same in the email body, if you have the space for the same.

While applying to jobs, what needs to be remembered is that you should not miss any opportunity to impress recruiters. Often times, employee do expect a cover letter, but do not explicitly ask for the same. In such cases, you should never forget attaching the one with your resume.

Now when you know what cover letter is as well as its importance, let’s see how we can craft a really imposing cover letter.

Tips to Create a Striking Cover Letter

As mentioned above, a cover letter must be crafted in a way to leave a lasting impression on recruiters. This, in turn, improves the chances of your resume getting noticed by hiring managers. And as you know very well, a good resume is your key to securing an interview call!

A cover letter should be tailored, particularly as per the job you are applying to and the industry you are serving in general. This might seem a bit puzzling and challenging at first glance but trust us, creating an impressive cover letter can really be a cakewalk!

While there is nothing wrong using an industry-specific cover letter template, you need to take care of some seemingly trivial yet crucial aspects of cover letter.

Keep reading to have some really great tips on cover letter writing.

Use a Fresh Cover Letter for Every New Position you apply to: First and foremost, just like resume, a one-size-fit-all cover letter is never going to work in your favor. While it is easy to copy-paste the old one when applying to a new job opening, it will surely not help you stand out. To show that you are really excited about the job, use a unique cover letter every time you apply to a new opening. However, you can consider rewording some parts of the previous cover letter or including something more relevant to the job opening.

Choose the Right Type: Jon seekers share varied types of cover letters with employers. There are conventional ones (also called, application letters) used to apply to job openings. And then, there are letters of interest (also known as prospecting letters) through which, job seekers ask employers about any possible job opportunities. So, choose the right format.

Think Beyond Resume: Your cover letter shouldn’t be just an abridged version of your resume. Rather, it should reflect what actually you will bring to the company, if employed. Also, emphasize on letting recruiter know how you are a great fit for the job and the company. Include 2-3 appropriate skills and present data to show your exceptional performance in previous or current roles.

Do Not Apologize for Missing Skills: It is quite possible that you do not fulfill all the job-related requirements, but why to apologize for that! Instead, stress on your strong points and transferrable skills.

Highlight Just the Relevant Experience: Here, the job description (JD) comes to your rescue. JDs usually include most important requirements at the top or are repeated several times. Always mention your past roles and experiences pertaining to those requirements.

Mention Relevant Skills: This is specifically important when you know that you are capable of doing the job, but your experience might not be directly suiting to the requirements of the same. In such a case, focus more on your skills.

Avoid Giving Links to Social Media: While repeating your name, phone number and address is acceptable, mentioning links to social media profiles, portfolio and profiles is not at all necessary. Save these for your resume.

Choose Active Voice and Avoid Buzzwords: This good resume writing tip, also applies to cover letters. Use an active voice to express yourself. Also, avoid using unnecessary jargons, clichés and buzzwords in your cover letter. The only exception to this is when such a jargon turns out to be a job-specific keyword.

Address It to a Specific Person: It is a great idea to get personal when it about creating great cover letters. Always address the letter to the hiring manager, who is handling the job opening you are applying to. This gives a personal touch to the letter and helps catch the attention of the hiring professional. Thus, try finding as much as you can about the organization and hiring manager. Check out employer’s official website or if needed, do not hesitate calling the company. You can also get some clue from the corresponding JD too

Avoid Being Too Formal: Despite the common advice of retaining the formal structure, avoid being too formal with your choice of words in your cover letter. A first-person narrative style is very much acceptable (though not in resumes). You can also use some colloquial terms and phrases to show your enthusiasm about the job as well as your human side.

Select the Right Font: Use fonts that are easy to read. A wrong font can be annoying to recruiters, no matter how great your content is. Usually, cursive and too fancy fonts disrupt readability; hence avoid using them.

Explain an Employment Gap, If Any: If you have an employment gap mentioned on your resume, try explaining it in the cover letter in short. You shouldn’t essentially bring this to the attention of the recruiter, but if you have a strong reason, such as volunteering or childbirth, it is never a bad idea to state the reasons behind such gaps.

Don’t Begin with Your Name: Besides being unnecessary, this is somewhat absurd too as your name is already there in your mail, resume and even at the top of your cover letter. So, starting the letter with your name is simply pointless

Start with an Impactful Sentence: Begin on the right note with a strong opening sentence or introductory paragraph. This will certainly compel the hiring manager to continue reading it further, and chances would then be high that he/she may consider going through your resume too immediately thereafter.

Present It the Right Way: It is indisputably the key to starting on the right foot. Strictly follow all the basic rules while drafting your cover letter. Keep your name and address at the top (in the right, left or center) along with phone number and email id. This should be followed by the recruiter’s name along with the company’s complete address, aligned left just over the salutation.

Make It More about the Employer: Instead of aimlessly explaining everything about you, concentrate on mentioning the ones that can let the recruiters know how well you are suited to the company with respect to experience and skills Also, study a bit about the company on its website or social media to get insights into its culture, language and tone. Make use of this knowledge to present yourself the way the company wants you to.

Do not Hesitate Writing about Yourself: If you really find it hard stating your qualities, achievements or exceptional skills, just think of those positive things about you that you have heard from your bosses, mentors and colleagues until now in your earlier roles

Consider Adding Testimonials: Although sparingly included in cover letters, positive feedbacks from clients, co-workers and managers can make a huge difference in portraying your passion and proven skills

Include Keywords to Pass Through ATS: ATS stands for Applicant Tracking System, an application software, which hiring managers use to narrow down the large pool of applications on the basis of several keywords relevant to the opening. So, do include them in your cover letters too.

Show Your Enthusiasm without Going Overboard: Employers actually don’t look for candidates, who just meet the job requirements or willing to do the job. They prefer people who are highly motivated, and enthusiastic about working in their organization. However, it is to be kept in mind not to go overboard with flattery, jokes or begging for a job. Showing them your interest is all okay but making them feel negative about you is never a great idea, especially if is about your dream job.

Keep it Chronological and Sensible: Never hop around from the past to present and then back to the past on your cover letter. This will do nothing but create a lot of confusion for the reader. For coherence, try mentioning your career growth in a chronological order, beginning from your first job (or the last relevant job) to the present one. Below is the proper way to present your career progression:

• Past roles and accomplishments
• Present roles and achievements
• Skills you have acquired until now that make you an ideal candidate for the job opening

Explain How You are the Best Choice: Make use of the main body of your cover letter to briefly describe what value you would bring to the organization, if hired. As you do on your resume, quantify your accomplishments to show your prowess and skills relevant to the job opening.

Never Lie About Anything: You might think that it is okay to ginger up your cover letter by exaggerating a bit about you, your skills or even experience, just to catch the eye of the recruiter. But, remember that the truth will reveal sooner or later, only to sabotage all your efforts to get an interview call

Show How You are a Great Fit to the Culture of the Company: Apart from showing how you are best suited to the job, it is equally important to demonstrate that you are a wonderful ‘cultural fit’ too. Let your potential employers know that you share values similar to that of the company and you will seamlessly assimilate into the company’s work culture.

Just Be Yourself: As a person, just be honest on your cover letter. If you have a creative bent and the company, you are applying to, too appreciate creativity, it is never a bad idea to make your cover letter a bit unique in your own way. You can also add a dash of fun without going too far since most modern employers take it in a positive way. Well, how far you can go depends on the company, the hiring manager and of course, what you personally feel.

Give a Strong Conclusion Too: When you have been impactful throughout the cover letter, give a strong conclusion to leave a lasting impression on the hiring manager since this is your final chance to show your enthusiasm. Conclude with phrases like ‘Looking forward to hearing back from you’ or ‘Waiting for a positive response from your end at the earliest.’

Edit the Right Way: Why to take chance when you have put in all possible efforts to come up with the best cover letter! Once done, edit the content as suggested below:

• Cut down or adjust the length as per the requirement
• Proofread for grammatical and spelling errors (consider using tools like Grammarly)
• Obliterate any vague or confusing statement
• Replace overly used words

Use the P.S. Hack: This is a great way to grab recruiters’ attention. Use postscript (P.S.) to highlight something uniquely important, such as “Can join immediately’ or ‘Willing to relocate.’

Check for Anything Specific: Before sending the application email, with the cover letter and resume attached, make sure to re-scan the JD for anything specific that has been asked by the recruiter to include in the email body or subject line.

Get It Checked By Someone: Show your cover letter to a close friend and ask him/her to check for something unusual. Also ask your friend if it sells you as a perfect match for the job, and whether he/she finds the cover letter compelling. Your friend doesn’t need to be an expert, but sometimes a second opinion matters, just in case you missed or overlooked something.

While the above tips can certainly be your gateway to writing an imposing cover letter, these are not the only way. Most importantly, you cover letter should represent you professionally but always with a personal touch. It should also be tailored as per the specific requirements. So, customize your cover letter for every job opportunity you apply to.

Try to be just you, and keep the content concise and to the point. Lying, exaggerating your skills or excessive enthusiasm might work against you. Keep a perfect mix of formal and informal tones to grab the recruiters’ attention. This will improve the chances of getting your resume read by them, and take you a step closer to your dream job.

Kshama Sharma - Resume, CV and Cover Letter Writing Expert

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5 things to avoid when writing a cover letter

Proving you're the right candidate for the job on one side of A4 isn't easy but it's vital that you get your cover letter right. Learn more about how to avoid common cover letter mistakes

While your CV outlines your academic achievements and your employment history, whether you’re invited to interview usually hinges on your cover letter.

While many are aware of  common CV mistakes  (think poor formatting, spelling errors and lying) cover letter errors are often overlooked.

'Mistakes in your cover letter can create a negative impression,' says Carl Jukes, employability adviser at the University of Birmingham. 'Employers often use cover letters to assess your attention to detail, communication skills, and professionalism. Mistakes can make you appear careless or unqualified for the position. It is essential to thoroughly proofread and edit your cover letter to ensure it is error free.'

To make sure your letter doesn't stand out for the wrong reasons look at what to avoid when writing one.

1. Using a general greeting

'Addressing your cover letter to a named person demonstrates that you have taken the time and effort to research and personalise your application,' explains Carl. So always try and identify a named contact when writing your  cover letter . 'It shows that you have a genuine interest in the company and the position. Additionally, it helps create a connection between you and the employer, making your letter more engaging.'

Opening with 'To whom it may concern' or 'Dear Sir/Madam' will likely lead your application to the no pile, especially if recruiters' details are easily found in the job description.

Using a general salutation also suggests that you've used a generic cover letter template without trying to change any of the details (see more on templates below).

You usually address cover letters to HR managers or heads of department if applying directly to organisations, or to specific recruitment consultants if applying through an agency.

If a contact isn't listed in the job description, or if you're applying for a role speculatively , you'll need to do some research. Visit the company website to see if you can find the name of their hiring manager, conduct a Google search to see if you can find their details, are they on LinkedIn? If you've searched online and can't find the information there's nothing wrong with giving the organisation a call to enquire who to address your cover letter to.

Only when you've exhausted all your options when looking for a named contact is it ok to use a general salutation. ''Dear hiring manager' is still better than a generic 'To whom it may concern,'' adds Carl.

Remember that the way you address your letter also affects how you sign off. If you include a named contact, sign off with 'Yours sincerely' and if you are not able to identify a contact, end with 'Yours faithfully’. 

2. Being overly friendly

While a cover letter should give a recruiter an insight into who you are as a person, being overly personal or overly friendly is a big no-no. Avoid writing about your personal life and steer clear of jokes and sarcasm - these don't translate well on paper.

'Remember that a cover letter is a formal business document, and maintaining a professional tone is crucial,' says Carl. 'Being excessively casual or informal may come across as unprofessional and undermine your credibility. It's best to strike a balance by being polite, enthusiastic, and respectful without overstepping professional boundaries.'

Similarly, try not to sound too keen. Enthusiasm for the role is important and your cover letter is the perfect place for you to convey this, but don't go overboard with compliments. Avoid gushing about or begging for the job. Your cover letter needs to sound genuine; employers can spot insincerity a mile away.

Trying too hard to stand out by using methods such as unusual fonts and coloured paper is a huge turn off for recruiters. If you're the right candidate for the job, you'll stand out regardless.

3. Only focusing on what the company can do for you

This cover letter mistake will kill your application before it even gets started. Explaining why you want the job in terms of what you can gain from the organisation is kind of like stating the obvious - employers already know what they have to offer.

Instead, it's essential that you use your cover letter as an opportunity to detail how your knowledge, skills and experience can benefit the company.

Making your cover letter all about you and your goals can give the impression that you're not a team player. In applying for a new job employers understand that you're trying to progress your career, but they also want to know how you'll help their organisation progress.

To do this successfully you'll need to research the company. Use a range of resources to help with this - from looking at the employer's annual report or information about their vision, mission and values, to reviewing their social media posts and connecting with people who work at the organisation on LinkedIn.

Carl points out that you need to 'emphasise how your skills and experiences can benefit the company. Address their pain points or challenges and explain how you can contribute to their success.'

A good tip to find out if you’ve successfully tailored your cover letter is to remove the employer's name once you’ve drafted it and read through to judge whether you could use the same letter when applying for a similar role at another company. If you could, then you need to spend more time tailoring your letter.

4. Underselling yourself

No one likes to sound like they're boasting but you need to make sure you're not underselling your achievements and sometimes this means you must bang your own drum.

Don't be afraid to highlight your accomplishments and unique selling points and don't shy away from confidently stating you can carry out certain competencies well.

'If you downplay your achievements or fail to communicate your value effectively, the employer may assume that you are not a strong candidate,' explains Carl. 'It is essential to highlight your strengths, experiences, and unique contributions to make a compelling case for why you are a good fit for the role.'

That said, there's a fine line between confidence and cockiness so make sure you're on the right side. Ask someone who doesn't know you personally, like a careers adviser, to read through your letter to get a sense of how it comes across.

Unintentionally drawing attention to your weaknesses in your cover letter can also let your application down. Avoid sentences such as 'Although I don't have any experience in (specific competency) I'm willing to learn.' Instead swap this for 'My experience in (this field) has given me X and Y transferrable skills…'.

There's no place for negative or passive sentences in a cover letter. Focus on what you can do not what you can't.

5. Copying and pasting a template

Cover letters have a standard structure you need to follow and using a template can often help, especially if you're struggling with what to include. The problem occurs when you copy and paste a  cover letter example  and only make minimal changes to the document.

Templates should only be used as a guide so avoid using them word-for-word. The only things you should be taking from online examples are inspiration and ideas.

Employers can easily spot a copy and paste job because they see them all the time. To really make your cover letter stand out you need to put your own spin on it. Recruiters want to hear you voice behind the words.

Although time consuming every cover letter you write needs to be unique, so once you've perfected one cover letter don't fall into the trap of using it for every job you apply for.

Other cover letter don'ts

• Rewriting your CV - this cover letter mistake will lead your application straight to the bin. View your cover letter as a sidekick to your CV - they need to work together but they shouldn't repeat each other. Use your cover letter to add context and detail to certain skills and experiences mentioned in your CV - always keeping in mind the job description/person specification.
• Writing your life story - it's easier to waffle in your cover letter than on your CV but don't fall into this trap. You need to keep cover letters concise and to the point. A typical cover letter should only take up one side of A4. To help cut it down consider every sentence and ask yourself 'do employers need to know this?' and 'is it relevant to the job?' Recruiters don't need to know about the bit of advice your English teacher gave you seven years ago or a step-by-step breakdown of how you got to where you are today.
• Failing to proofread - it might seem obvious, but you'd be surprised how often this cover letter mistake is made. Failing to proofread can lead to spelling mistakes, grammatical errors and formatting slip-ups. This could give employers the impression that you're careless. Don't proofread your letter straight after writing it as it can be hard to spot mistakes. Take a break and come back to it later the same day or the next for a final check before sending.

Find out more

• Learn more about writing CVs and cover letters .
• Find out how to get a job .

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How to write a great cover letter in 2024: tips and structure

Understand Yourself Better:

Big 5 Personality Test

A cover letter is a personalized letter that introduces you to a potential employer, highlights your qualifications, and explains why you're a strong fit for a specific job.

Hate or love them, these brief documents allow job seekers to make an impression and stand out from the pile of other applications. Penning a thoughtful cover letter shows the hiring team you care about earning the position.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to write a cover letter — and a great one, at that.

What is a cover letter and why does it matter?

A professional cover letter is a one-page document you submit alongside your CV or resume as part of a job application. Typically, they’re about half a page or around 150–300 words.

An effective cover letter doesn’t just rehash your CV; it’s your chance to highlight your proudest moments, explain why you want the job, and state plainly what you bring to the table.

Show the reviewer you’re likable, talented, and will add to the company’s culture . You can refer to previous jobs and other information from your CV, but only if it helps tell a story about you and your career choices .

What 3 things should you include in a cover letter?

A well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out to potential employers. To make your cover letter shine, here are three key elements to include:

1. Personalization

Address the hiring manager or recruiter by name whenever possible. If the job posting doesn't include a name, research to find out who will be reviewing applications. Personalizing your cover letter shows that you've taken the time to tailor your application to the specific company and role.

2. Highlight relevant achievements and skills

Emphasize your most relevant skills , experiences, and accomplishments that directly relate to the job you're applying for. Provide specific examples of how your skills have benefited previous employers and how they can contribute to the prospective employer's success. Use quantifiable achievements , such as improved efficiency, cost savings, or project success, to demonstrate your impact.

3. Show enthusiasm and fit

Express your enthusiasm for the company and the position you're applying for. Explain why you are interested in this role and believe you are a good fit for the organization. Mention how your values, goals, and skills align with the company's mission and culture. Demonstrating that you've done your research can make a significant impression.

What do hiring managers look for in a cover letter?

Employers look for several key elements in a cover letter. These include:

Employers want to see that your cover letter is specifically tailored to the position you are applying for. It should demonstrate how your skills, experiences, and qualifications align with the job requirements.

Clear and concise writing

A well-written cover letter is concise, easy to read, and error-free. Employers appreciate clear and effective communication skills , so make sure your cover letter showcases your ability to express yourself effectively.

Demonstrated knowledge of the company

Employers want to see that you are genuinely interested in their organization. Mention specific details about the company, such as recent achievements or projects, to show that you are enthusiastic about joining their team.

Achievements and accomplishments

Highlight your relevant achievements and accomplishments that demonstrate your qualifications for the position. Use specific examples to showcase your skills and show how they can benefit the employer.

Enthusiasm and motivation

Employers want to hire candidates who are excited about the opportunity and motivated to contribute to the company's success. Express your enthusiasm and passion for the role and explain why you are interested in working for the company.

Professionalism

A cover letter should be professional in tone and presentation. Use formal language, address the hiring manager appropriately, and follow standard business letter formatting.

How do you structure a cover letter?

A well-structured cover letter follows a specific format that makes it easy for the reader to understand your qualifications and enthusiasm for the position. Here's a typical structure for a cover letter:

Contact information

Include your name, address, phone number, and email address at the top of the letter. Place your contact information at the beginning so that it's easy for the employer to reach you.

Employer's contact information

Opening paragraph, middle paragraph(s), closing paragraph, complimentary close, additional contact information.

Repeat your contact information (name, phone number, and email) at the end of the letter, just in case the employer needs it for quick reference.

Remember to keep your cover letter concise and focused. It should typically be no more than one page in length. Proofread your letter carefully to ensure it is free from spelling and grammatical errors. Tailor each cover letter to the specific job application to make it as relevant and impactful as possible.

How to write a good cover letter (with examples)

The best letters are unique, tailored to the job description, and written in your voice — but that doesn’t mean you can’t use a job cover letter template.

Great cover letters contain the same basic elements and flow a certain way. Take a look at this cover letter structure for ref erence while you construct your own.

1. Add a header and contact information

While reading your cover letter, the recruiter shouldn’t have to look far to find who wrote it. Your document should include a basic heading with the following information:

• Pronouns (optional)
• Location (optional)
• Email address
• Phone number (optional)
• Relevant links, such as your LinkedIn profile , portfolio, or personal website (optional)

You can pull this information directly from your CV. Put it together, and it will look something like this:

Christopher Pike

San Francisco, California

[email protected]

Alternatively, if the posting asks you to submit your cover letter in the body of an email, you can include this information in your signature. For example:

Warm regards,

Catherine Janeway

Bloomington, Indiana

[email protected]

(555) 999 - 2222

2. Include a personal greeting

Always begin your cover letter by addressing the hiring manager — preferably by name. You can use the person’s first and last name. Make sure to include a relevant title, like Dr., Mr., or Ms. For example, “Dear Mr. John Doe.”

Avoid generic openings like “To whom it may concern,” “Dear sir or madam,” or “Dear hiring manager.” These introductions sound impersonal — like you’re copy-pasting cover letters — and can work against you in the hiring process.

Be careful, though. When using someone’s name, you don’t want to use the wrong title or accidentally misgender someone. If in doubt, using only their name is enough. You could also opt for a gender-neutral title, like Mx.

Make sure you’re addressing the right person in your letter — ideally, the person who’s making the final hiring decision. This isn’t always specified in the job posting, so you may have to do some research to learn the name of the hiring manager.

3. Draw them in with an opening story

The opening paragraph of your cover letter should hook the reader. You want it to be memorable, conversational, and extremely relevant to the job you’re pursuing. 

There’s no need for a personal introduction — you’ve already included your name in the heading. But you should make reference to the job you’re applying for. A simple “Thank you for considering my application for the role of [job title] at [company],” will suffice.

Then you can get into the “Why” of your job application. Drive home what makes this specific job and this company so appealing to you. Perhaps you’re a fan of their products, you’re passionate about their mission, or you love their brand voice. Whatever the case, this section is where you share your enthusiasm for the role.

Here’s an example opening paragraph. In this scenario, you’re applying for a digital marketing role at a bicycle company:

“Dear Mr. John Doe,

Thank you for considering my application for the role of Marketing Coordinator at Bits n’ Bikes.

My parents bought my first bike at one of your stores. I’ll never forget the freedom I felt when I learned to ride it. My father removed my training wheels, and my mom sent me barrelling down the street. You provide joy to families across the country — and I want to be part of that.”

4. Emphasize why you’re best for the job

Your next paragraphs should be focused on the role you’re applying to. Highlight your skill set and why you’re a good fit for the needs and expectations associated with the position. Hiring managers want to know what you’ll bring to the job, not just any role.

Start by studying the job description for hints. What problem are they trying to solve with this hire? What skills and qualifications do they mention first or more than once? These are indicators of what’s important to the hiring manager.

Search for details that match your experience and interests. For example, if you’re excited about a fast-paced job in public relations, you might look for these elements in a posting:

• They want someone who can write social media posts and blog content on tight deadlines
• They value collaboration and input from every team member
• They need a planner who can come up with strong PR strategies

Highlight how you fulfill these requirements:

“I’ve always been a strong writer. From blog posts to social media, my content pulls in readers and drives traffic to product pages. For example, when I worked at Bits n’ Bikes, I developed a strategic blog series about bike maintenance that increased our sales of spare parts and tools by 50% — we could see it in our web metrics.

Thanks to the input of all of our team members, including our bike mechanics, my content delivered results.”

5. End with a strong closing paragraph and sign off gracefully

Your closing paragraph is your final chance to hammer home your enthusiasm about the role and your unique ability to fill it. Reiterate the main points you explained in the body paragraphs and remind the reader of what you bring to the table.

You can also use the end of your letter to relay other important details, like whether you’re willing to relocate for the job.

When choosing a sign-off, opt for a phrase that sounds professional and genuine. Reliable options include “Sincerely” and “Kind regards.”

Here’s a strong closing statement for you to consider:

“I believe my enthusiasm, skills, and work experience as a PR professional will serve Bits n’ Bikes very well. I would love to meet to further discuss my value-add as your next Director of Public Relations. Thank you for your consideration. I hope we speak soon.

Tips to write a great cover letter that compliments your resume

When writing your own letter, try not to copy the example excerpts word-for-word. Instead, use this cover letter structure as a baseline to organize your ideas. Then, as you’re writing, use these extra cover letter tips to add your personal touch:

• Keep your cover letter different from your resume : Your cover letter should not duplicate the information on your resume. Instead, it should provide context and explanations for key points in your resume, emphasizing how your qualifications match the specific job you're applying for.
• Customize your cover letter . Tailor your cover letter for each job application. Address the specific needs of the company and the job posting, demonstrating that you've done your homework and understand their requirements.
• Show enthusiasm and fit . Express your enthusiasm for the company and position in the cover letter. Explain why you are interested in working for this company and how your values, goals, and skills align with their mission and culture.
• Use keywords . Incorporate keywords from the job description and industry terms in your cover letter. This can help your application pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and demonstrate that you're well-versed in the field.
• Keep it concise . Your cover letter should be succinct and to the point, typically no more than one page. Focus on the most compelling qualifications and experiences that directly support your application.
• Be professional . Maintain a professional tone and structure in your cover letter. Proofread it carefully to ensure there are no errors.
• Address any gaps or concerns . If there are gaps or concerns in your resume, such as employment gaps or a change in career direction, briefly address them in your cover letter. Explain any relevant circumstances and how they have shaped your qualifications and determination.
• Provide a call to action . Conclude your cover letter with a call to action, inviting the employer to contact you for further discussion. Mention that you've attached your resume for their reference.
• Follow the correct format . Use a standard cover letter format like the one above, including your contact information, a formal salutation, introductory and closing paragraphs, and your signature. Ensure that it complements your resume without redundancy.
• Pick the right voice and tone . Try to write like yourself, but adapt to the tone and voice of the company. Look at the job listing, company website, and social media posts. Do they sound fun and quirky, stoic and professional, or somewhere in-between? This guides your writing style.
• Tell your story . You’re an individual with unique expertise, motivators, and years of experience. Tie the pieces together with a great story. Introduce how you arrived at this point in your career, where you hope to go , and how this prospective company fits in your journey. You can also explain any career changes in your resume.
• Show, don’t tell . Anyone can say they’re a problem solver. Why should a recruiter take their word for it if they don’t back it up with examples? Instead of naming your skills, show them in action. Describe situations where you rose to the task, and quantify your success when you can.
• Be honest . Avoid highlighting skills you don’t have. This will backfire if they ask you about them in an interview. Instead, shift focus to the ways in which you stand out.
• Avoid clichés and bullet points . These are signs of lazy writing. Do your best to be original from the first paragraph to the final one. This highlights your individuality and demonstrates the care you put into the letter.
• Proofread . Always spellcheck your cover letter. Look for typos, grammatical errors, and proper flow. We suggest reading it out loud. If it sounds natural rolling off the tongue, it will read naturally as well.

Common cover letter writing FAQs

How long should a cover letter be.

A cover letter should generally be concise and to the point. It is recommended to keep it to one page or less, focusing on the most relevant information that highlights your qualifications and fits the job requirements.

Should I include personal information in a cover letter?

While it's important to introduce yourself and provide your contact information, avoid including personal details such as your age, marital status, or unrelated hobbies. Instead, focus on presenting your professional qualifications and aligning them with the job requirements.

Can I use the same cover letter for multiple job applications?

While it may be tempting to reuse a cover letter, it is best to tailor each cover letter to the specific job you are applying for. This allows you to highlight why you are a good fit for that particular role and show genuine interest in the company.

Do I need to address my cover letter to a specific person?

Whenever possible, it is advisable to address your cover letter to a specific person, such as the hiring manager or recruiter. If the job posting does not provide this information, try to research and find the appropriate contact. If all else fails, you can use a generic salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager."

Should I include references in my cover letter?

It is generally not necessary to include references in your cover letter. Save this information for when the employer explicitly requests it. Instead, focus on showcasing your qualifications and achievements that make you a strong candidate for the position.

It’s time to start writing your stand-out cover letter

The hardest part of writing is getting started. 

Hopefully, our tips gave you some jumping-off points and confidence . But if you’re really stuck, looking at cover letter examples and resume templates will help you decide where to get started. 

There are numerous sample cover letters available online. Just remember that you’re a unique, well-rounded person, and your cover letter should reflect that. Using our structure, you can tell your story while highlighting your passion for the role. 

Doing your research, including strong examples of your skills, and being courteous is how to write a strong cover letter. Take a breath , flex your fingers, and get typing. Before you know it, your job search will lead to a job interview.

If you want more personalized guidance, a specialized career coach can help review, edit, and guide you through creating a great cover letter that sticks.

Elizabeth Perry

Content Marketing Manager, ACC

3 cover letter examples to help you catch a hiring manager’s attention

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What the National Association of Realtors' settlement means for consumers and real estate brokers

A groundbreaking $418 million settlement announced Friday by the powerful National Association of Realtors is set to usher in the most sweeping reforms the American real estate market has seen in a century. It could dramatically drive down homebuyers’ costs — and push some real estate brokers out of business.

Here’s a look at how we got here and what to expect in the months ahead.

NAR already lost a big case

For decades, the NAR has required home sale listing brokers to provide an offer of compensation to a buyer’s agent up front. That usually comes out to about 6%, split between a seller’s broker and a buyer’s agent.

But that model has come under intensifying scrutiny from critics who have likened it to a cartel . Late last year, a jury in a Kansas City federal court found the longstanding practice to be a form of collusion that artificially inflated real estate fees, awarding a massive $1. 7 8 billion judgment against NAR .

What changes now for homebuyers and sellers

If the settlement announced Friday is approved by a federal court, the standard 6% commission goes away. Sellers would no longer have to make a compensation proposal to prospective buyers and their agents. Critics have said the encouraged brokers to push their clients toward more expensive properties.

Another new rule would see homebuyers having to sign an explicit deal with a broker before they start working with one — something experts say would lead many homebuyers to forgo using brokers entirely.

The new rules would kick in within months of approval, currently expected around mid-July.

What about the next few months?

Everyone involved in the market should expect “a certain amount of uncertainty for the coming months,” said Marty Green, principal at mortgage law firm Polunsky Beitel Green.

“The industry will be in transition as everyone digests the settlements and market forces begin working,” he predicted. “We will begin to see some creative buyer’s agent arrangements that may have been harder to get traction on before.”

Home buyers and their agents will need to decide on a commission and put it in writing. Sellers, likewise, will need to work carefully with their listing agents as the new rules come into effect.

U.S. consumers might save in the long run ...

The changes could mean buyers will save on commissions, eventually bringing U.S. fees more in line with the much lower transaction costs seen in other residential property markets around the world.

Some commissions could even be cut in half, Jaret Seiberg, housing policy analyst for TD Cowen Washington Research Group, told clients in a note Friday.

The new rules “should lead to commissions falling 25% to 50%, which we view as benefiting online real estate brokers,” Seiberg wrote, but he warned it’s too early to declare “the end of local real estate agents given their local expertise and reputation in neighborhoods. It is why we do not see this following the travel agency model in which online eclipsed local offices.”

... but buyers could face more confusion

Holden Lewis, a home and mortgage expert at NerdWallet, warned of a “potential negative trade-off”: “Buyer-seller negotiations will become more complex, and buyers with plenty of cash might navigate the process more easily than buyers who don’t have a lot of savings,” he said. Seiberg flagged a similar concern in his note, saying it could particularly affect first-time buyers with limited means to pay for an agent.

Brokers and agents have come out against the settlement, saying it will make the home-buying process more byzantine for consumers and discounts the important role agents play in helping them navigate it.

“I’m a full-service real estate agent, so when I go to list my client’s house, I align their goals with my goal, and that goal is selling for the highest amount possible,” said Roy Remick, a realtor based in Northern Virginia, who said he often pays thousands of dollars of his own for services like staging homes to aid the sale process.

“This is ultimately someone saying, ‘You guys make too much money,’ which I don’t think is right for someone to dictate,” he said.

Buyers’ agents will be left “flying blind” since they won’t know how much they’ll end up making from a given home, Remick warned. “We’ll have to make a bunch of phone calls, because now we don’t know what [the commission] is because we can’t see it in the MLS. But we’ve already got an agreement with buyer how much they’ll be able to compensate us.”

Christine Romans is the senior business correspondent at NBC News.

Rob Wile is a breaking business news reporter for NBC News Digital.

Trump fails to secure bond for $454 million judgment in civil fraud case as asset seizures loom

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What We Know About Trump’s Failure to Arrange a Half-Billion-Dollar Bond

Donald J. Trump’s lawyers told a judge that their client could not come up with the collateral needed to stave off efforts to collect a $454 million judgment. He has three days left.

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By Kate Christobek and Ben Protess

It’s crunchtime for Donald J. Trump.

By Monday, March 25, the former president must secure an appeal bond for roughly half a billion dollars in his civil fraud case in New York, and his ability to do so was called into question this week.

In a court filing, Mr. Trump’s lawyers revealed that he had been unable to secure an appeal bond despite “diligent efforts” that included approaching about 30 bond companies.

While Mr. Trump this month managed to post a $91.6 million bond in his defamation case against the writer E. Jean Carroll, securing the deal at the 11th hour from a large insurance company , he lacks the assets needed to secure the far bigger guarantee for the fraud case.

If he cannot produce the bond in time, Mr. Trump faces the possibility of financial disaster and humiliation. New York’s attorney general, Letitia James, who brought the fraud case, would be entitled to collect the $454 million and could move to freeze some of Mr. Trump’s bank accounts.

She could also seek to seize some of his New York properties, and public records show that Ms. James has formally posted the judgment in Westchester County, a preliminary step needed to stake a claim to Mr. Trump’s private estate and golf club there. Yet any effort to seize property would most likely trigger a lengthy court fight with an uncertain result.

Mr. Trump’s money problems spread well beyond New York. As the presumptive Republican nominee for president, he is facing increased pressure to raise money to fund his campaign, lagging behind his opponent, President Biden, in fund-raising.

In recent days, The New York Times has received many questions about Mr. Trump’s financial woes. Here are answers to several:

What was Trump accused of?

Ms. James took Mr. Trump, his company and his adult sons to trial last fall, accusing them of fraudulently inflating the value of his golf clubs, office buildings and other properties to the tune of about $2 billion.

Mr. Trump exaggerated the property values, and in turn his own net worth, to obtain favorable loan terms from banks and insurers, according to Ms. James.

At the trial, which lasted months, Ms. James’s lawyers showed that Mr. Trump’s company had ignored appraisals and manipulated numbers to sometimes absurd heights.

For example, the former president had valued his triplex apartment in Trump Tower on Fifth Avenue as if it were 30,000 square feet for years. It was actually 10,996 square feet.

Mr. Trump lost the trial. The judge overseeing the case — there was no jury — ruled in favor of Ms. James.

How was he punished?

The judge, Arthur F. Engoron, came down hard on Mr. Trump, imposing a judgment of $355 million plus interest, amounting to $454 million.

The judge also imposed a range of penalties that could curb Mr. Trump’s influence over his family business, barring him from serving as a top executive at a New York company for three years.

What comes next?

Mr. Trump has appealed the judgment.

Although he does not have to pay Ms. James’s office the $454 million while he appeals, he is on the hook to either cut a check to the New York State Court system for the full amount himself, or, more likely, obtain an appeal bond.

What is an appeal bond?

In this case, it would be a document in which a bond company promises to pay the $454 million judgment, plus interest, if Mr. Trump were to lose his appeal and fails to pay.

To obtain a bond of such size, Mr. Trump would need to pledge a significant amount of collateral to the bond company — about $557 million, his lawyers said — including as much cash as possible, as well as any stocks and bonds he could sell quickly.

He would also owe the bond company a fee that could amount to nearly $20 million.

Does he have enough cash to obtain one?

Short answer: No.

A recent New York Times analysis found that Mr. Trump had more than $350 million in cash as well as stocks and bonds, far short of the $557 million he would need to post in collateral.

In a court filing on Monday, Mr. Trump’s lawyers said they had contacted more than 30 bond companies, and none had agreed to do a deal.

But I thought he was a billionaire?

While Mr. Trump has long bragged about his wealth, his true financial position remains something of a mystery. And most of his wealth is tied up in his real estate holdings, which bond companies don’t typically accept as collateral.

He also has less liquid collateral available today than he did even a few weeks ago. Earlier this month, Mr. Trump had to post a $91.6 million bond in the defamation case he lost to E. Jean Carroll. For that, he most likely had to pledge more than $100 million in collateral to Chubb, the insurance company that provided the bond. That money cannot be used as collateral for a second bond.

What is the deadline for the bond?

Mr. Trump asked an appeals court either to pause the fraud judgment while he appeals it, or to accept a lesser bond of $100 million. It is unclear whether the court will rule before Mr. Trump’s deadline to post the bond.

Although Ms. James could have moved to collect the $454 million immediately, she offered a 30-day grace period, which ends on March 25.

Ms. James could still grant additional time for Mr. Trump to pay or show mercy to the former president by offering a counterproposal.

What other options does Trump have?

If the appeals court denies his bid for a pause, and he still can’t find a bond by March 25, he might appeal to the state’s highest court.

Assuming that fails, he could quickly sell one of his properties or other assets, or seek help from a wealthy supporter. He might also try to obtain a loan from a bank, hedge fund or private equity firm, which he could then post as collateral for a bond. And the attorney general has suggested that Mr. Trump could pledge his properties to the court.

And his net worth could soon leap when shares of his social media company start trading on the stock market as early as Monday. His shares are currently valued at roughly $3 billion. Although he is prohibited from selling the shares for six months, Mr. Trump could find ways around that restriction that enable him to use his stake to raise cash for the appeal bond.

If all else fails, he could have the corporate entities implicated in the fraud case file for bankruptcy, which would automatically halt the judgment against those entities. But Mr. Trump is likely to balk at bankruptcy, and even if he were to pursue that path, it is not a panacea.

Ms. James’s judgment would not be halted against Mr. Trump himself, and she would most likely seek to hold him accountable for his company’s debts.

How could the state collect?

If Mr. Trump misses the March 25 deadline, Ms. James could move swiftly to begin collecting the money owed to the state.

It could get ugly for Mr. Trump. She could send so-called restraining notices to Mr. Trump’s banks and brokerage firms, effectively freezing his accounts. She could do the same to anyone who owes Mr. Trump money, essentially collecting rent from tenants in his building.

And if she wanted to take a more aggressive posture, she could even try to seize some of the properties involved in the case, including the golf club and Seven Springs estate in Westchester. She has threatened to take aim at his office tower on Wall Street in Lower Manhattan, but it unclear whether she can, because Mr. Trump does not actually own the building. Instead, he effectively controls the property and pays rent to the owner.

Actually seizing any property through the courts could take significant time without a guarantee of a huge payoff. Mr. Trump could seek delays, and even if Ms. James can force a sale, Mr. Trump’s lenders would be first in line to collect.

Ms. James probably would not be entitled to seize assets unrelated to the case, though that and similar questions might require litigation to resolve.

Although Ms. James can’t put Mr. Trump in jail — because it is a civil case, not a criminal one — Justice Engoron could issue an arrest warrant for Mr. Trump if he repeatedly flouts court orders in the collection process. That, however, is unlikely to happen.

Could Trump use campaign money to pay?

Probably not.

A super PAC supporting Mr. Trump’s candidacy can raise unlimited amounts of money, but it is legally banned from coordinating with him and cannot pay the judgment.

And although the former president has used a political action committee under his control to pay for lawyers and witnesses in his legal cases, that group lacks the kind of money needed to address the $454 million penalty.

He is now scrambling to raise campaign cash as he faces a significant financial deficit. Mr. Biden’s campaign recently announced that it had entered March with $155 million cash on hand. Mr. Trump’s campaign and the Republican National Committee had about $40 million total on hand at the end of January, though the Trump campaign has not released a more recent total.

What else is happening on March 25?

Mr. Trump also has a crucial hearing in his Manhattan criminal case, which could be the first prosecution of a former American president.

The Manhattan district attorney, Alvin Bragg, filed charges against Mr. Trump that accuse him of covering up a sex scandal involving a porn star to bolster his 2016 presidential campaign. The case is now proceeding to trial.

Jury selection was originally scheduled to start on March 25, but the trial was delayed late last week after the disclosure of more than 100,000 pages of records that had been in the possession of the federal prosecutors.

While the documents have now been turned over, Mr. Trump’s lawyers were given until mid-April to review the papers.

Justice Juan M. Merchan set the March 25 hearing to determine if the trial should be delayed further and to rule on Mr. Trump’s motion for an outright dismissal.

The Manhattan case is among four criminal prosecutions Mr. Trump faces.

Ben Protess is an investigative reporter at The Times, writing about public corruption. He has been covering the various criminal investigations into former President Trump and his allies. More about Ben Protess