Cover Letter Keywords Guide – How to Use the Right Keywords in Your Cover Letter

A strong cover letter can significantly improve your chances of landing an interview — but only if it gets seen. Just like resumes, many companies now use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan cover letters for relevant keywords before a recruiter reads them.

If your cover letter does not include the right keywords, it may never reach the hiring manager. This complete guide will help you understand how to use cover letter keywords effectively and how a professional CV maker can help you optimize your application.

What Are Cover Letter Keywords?

Cover letter keywords are specific words and phrases that match the job description. They typically include:

• Job titles
• Core skills
• Technical expertise
• Certifications
• Industry terminology
• Soft skills mentioned in the job posting

These keywords help ATS systems and recruiters quickly identify whether you are a suitable candidate for the role.

Why Cover Letter Keywords Matter

Many job seekers focus only on resume optimization and ignore their cover letter. However, recruiters often scan cover letters to:

• Evaluate communication skills
• Assess job-specific knowledge
• Check alignment with company requirements
• Confirm technical and soft skills

Using the right keywords in your cover letter:

• Improves ATS matching
• Demonstrates attention to detail
• Shows alignment with the job role
• Increases interview probability

How to Find the Right Cover Letter Keywords

1. Study the Job Description Carefully

Identify repeated phrases and required skills in the job listing. If certain skills or tools are mentioned multiple times, they are likely essential keywords.

2. Mirror Important Skills Naturally

Instead of copying the job description word-for-word, incorporate important keywords naturally into your sentences.

Example:

• Incorrect: "I have skills mentioned in the job description."
• Correct: "With over three years of experience in project management and stakeholder communication, I have successfully led cross-functional teams to deliver results."

3. Include Both Hard and Soft Skills

Balance technical keywords with soft skills. Employers look for both expertise and personality traits.

Hard Skills Examples:

• Data Analysis
• Python
• Financial Reporting
• SEO Optimization

Soft Skills Examples:

• Leadership
• Problem-Solving
• Communication
• Time Management

Where to Use Keywords in a Cover Letter

Opening Paragraph

Mention the job title and one or two core skills relevant to the position.

Middle Paragraph

Highlight achievements that include job-specific keywords. Use measurable results whenever possible.

Example:

• "In my previous role, I increased organic traffic by 45% using advanced SEO strategies and performance analytics."

Closing Paragraph

Reinforce your suitability by restating key qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.

Common Cover Letter Keyword Mistakes

• Keyword stuffing unnaturally
• Repeating resume content without personalization
• Using vague language instead of specific terminology
• Ignoring the company’s industry language
• Copying phrases directly from the job description

Your cover letter should sound natural, personalized, and professional — not robotic.

How a CV Maker Helps Optimize Cover Letter Keywords

A modern CV maker can simplify the process by:

• Suggesting role-specific keywords
• Providing structured cover letter templates
• Ensuring ATS-friendly formatting
• Highlighting missing skills
• Helping tailor content to specific job descriptions

Using a smart CV maker ensures your cover letter is optimized for both ATS systems and human recruiters.

Final Thoughts

Cover letter keywords are just as important as resume keywords. By carefully analyzing job descriptions, integrating relevant terminology naturally, and aligning your skills with employer expectations, you significantly increase your chances of securing interviews.

When paired with an optimized resume, a keyword-rich cover letter can set you apart from other applicants. Start optimizing today and let your CV maker help you craft a powerful, job-winning application.