8 things to cut from your cover letter

A cover letter is your first introduction to a future employer – a chance to make a good impression and explain why you’re suited to the job. But while it’s important to include one, there are certain words and phrases that can weaken your message. 

Recruiters like Thirayada Jantapon, HR Manager with years of recruitment experience, and business owners like Varavudh Thamrongrat, Director of SoGood House, Post-Production, agree: a cover letter should be short, respectful, and focused. Here are eight things to cut from your cover letter – and what to do instead. 

1. “To whom it may concern” 

This greeting feels impersonal and outdated. 

Do this instead: Use “Dear Hiring Manager” or, if you know the name or position, address it directly. Thirayada notes that a polite, professional greeting sets the right tone without being overcomplicated. 

2. Buzzwords like “self-starter” or “dynamic” 

These clichés add little value and don’t show your real strengths. 

Do this instead: Varavudh advises being humble and specific. Instead of buzzwords, share a short example of when you showed initiative or adapted to change. Let your actions demonstrate your qualities. 

3. “I believe” or “I feel” 

These phrases can make your skills sound like personal opinions rather than facts. 

Do this instead: Use confident, active language. For example: “I managed a team of four” or “I exceeded my targets by 20%.” Thirayada stresses that facts and results speak louder than feelings. 

4. “Dependable” or “loyal” 

Employers already expect these traits, so writing them adds little. 

Do this instead: Show how you’ve worked collaboratively or supported colleagues. For example: “I coordinated weekly team meetings to improve communication, which helped us deliver projects faster.” 

5. Salary expectations 

Mentioning salary too early can limit your options. 

Do this instead: Thirayada is clear: “This is not the stage to talk about salary.” Varavudh adds that negotiations come later. Focus your cover letter on your skills and suitability for the role. 

6. “People person” 

Almost every role involves working with others, so this phrase doesn’t stand out. 

Do this instead: Give a concrete example of teamwork. For instance: “I partnered with colleagues across departments to deliver a new client project on time.” 

7. Overblown words like “incredible” 

Statements such as “I am an incredible salesperson” risk sounding arrogant. 

Do this instead: Let results speak for themselves. Share measurable achievements, such as “I increased sales revenue by 30% in one year.” Varavudh reminds candidates to avoid bragging and keep language professional. 

8. Long explanations or unnecessary detail 

Cover letters are skimmed quickly, so lengthy paragraphs can dilute your message. 

Do this instead: Keep it short and formal. Thirayada advises attaching your resume, portfolio, and qualifications, and letting those documents show your abilities. A concise cover letter with a polite greeting, the role you’re applying for, and a respectful closing is enough. 

A strong cover letter isn’t about flashy words or overselling yourself. It’s about respect, brevity, and focusing on essentials. Cut out the clichés and unnecessary details, and instead highlight your skills with clear examples. As Thirayada and Varavudh both emphasise, humility, professionalism, and evidence of your abilities will make the best impression