Career Advice

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Last updated August 26, 2026

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Highly Competitive Role

TL;DR: When the applicant pool is large, specificity and a strong opening line matter more than ever.

Open with something memorable, not generic

A strong, specific opening line differentiates your letter from a stack of similar-sounding openers.

Lead with your single strongest qualification

Rather than covering everything, choose the one credential or achievement most likely to stand out and build the letter around it.

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