How To Use ChatGPT To Create a Cover Letter

A compelling cover letter is essential in today's competitive job market. In a survey of 200 human resource professionals by OnePoll and ResumeLab, over 80% of recruiters report that a well-written cover letter influences their decision to move a candidate forward in the hiring process. Crafting a personalized cover letter that aligns with the job description can set you apart, but writing one can be time-consuming. Fortunately, artificial intelligence (AI) tools, like ChatGPT from OpenAI, can help streamline this process.

Using ChatGPT, a large language model, you can generate the first draft of a cover letter, create templates for specific job types, and personalize your cover letter to highlight your qualifications. This article will guide you through using ChatGPT to build a professional cover letter and provide tips on maximizing its effectiveness for job seekers. Plus, we'll cover how to use your AI-powered cover letter on Upwork to find freelancing opportunities.

Getting started with ChatGPT

Before diving into using ChatGPT for your cover letter writing, take a few steps to prepare. Doing your research ensures that your generated content aligns closely with the job requirements and presents your work experience effectively.

1. Research the job description and requirements

Start by analyzing the job posting thoroughly. Look for keywords and phrases in the job description that highlight the skills, experience, and qualities the hiring manager values. Take note of both the hard and soft skills, as well as any specific job requirements that stand out. For example, if the role is for a marketing manager, the job description might emphasize skills like content strategy, team collaboration, and data analytics.

Researching the job requirements is essential because it allows you to provide relevant information to ChatGPT, ensuring that the generated cover letter includes key skills that align with the role.

2. Identify relevant skills and achievements

Once you understand the job requirements, identify your relevant experience and accomplishments. For instance, if a job requires project management skills, consider specific projects you've led successfully. If you're an entry-level candidate or recent graduate, highlight transferable skills and achievements from internships, coursework, or volunteer work.

This preparation will help you maximize the effectiveness of your ChatGPT cover letter prompts, making sure the generated content is relevant and targeted to the job.

3. Create a ChatGPT account

To start using ChatGPT, sign up for an account. The sign-up process is straightforward and includes phone verification. Once set up, you're ready to use the best ChatGPT tools to generate cover letter examples tailored to your job search.

4. Start the conversation with ChatGPT

After setting up your account, initiate a conversation with ChatGPT. Begin by introducing yourself and explaining that you're looking to generate a cover letter. Share key information about your background, such as your work experience, education, and skills. For instance:

"I need help creating a cover letter for a job application. I have five years of experience in digital marketing, specializing in SEO, social media strategy, and content creation. I'm applying for a digital marketing specialist position and want to emphasize my skills in analytics and audience engagement."

ChatGPT cover letter prompts

Try experimenting with various prompts to tailor the ChatGPT output to your needs. Here are a few prompts that job seekers can use to generate personalized cover letter examples:

• For a shorter letter: "Generate a brief cover letter highlighting my experience in content strategy, SEO, and audience engagement."
• For a casual tone: "Rewrite the cover letter with a more friendly, approachable tone."
• For specific job skills: "Include my project management experience and ability to work cross-functionally in the cover letter."

7 Steps to using ChatGPT for a perfect cover letter

To help you get the most from ChatGPT, here's a seven-step guide to creating a compelling cover letter:

Step 1: Provide your contact information

Start your cover letter with basic contact information, including your name, phone number, and LinkedIn profile link. Adding this information helps ensure that ChatGPT generates a cover letter that's properly formatted and easy for potential employers to reference.

Step 2: Address the hiring manager by name

If you know the hiring manager's name, include it in your ChatGPT prompt. Addressing the cover letter to a specific person shows that you've done your research and adds a personal touch. LinkedIn is a valuable tool for finding the name and job title of the hiring manager, or you might find this information in the job posting itself.

Step 3: Add job details and requirements

Copy and paste the job description or list key job requirements in your ChatGPT prompt. This information allows ChatGPT to create a cover letter that aligns with the specific job requirements, enhancing the chances that your cover letter will catch the hiring manager's attention.

For example, if you're applying for a "content marketing specialist" role that emphasizes SEO, writing skills, and audience engagement, mention these skills in your prompt to ChatGPT.

Step 4: Highlight your relevant skills and experiences

List any relevant skills and experiences that match the job description. For example, if you're applying for a software development role, include programming languages you've worked with or specific projects you've completed. If you're unsure which skills to include, research similar job listings on LinkedIn, or use a resume builder to organize your skills and achievements.

By providing ChatGPT with details on your relevant experience, you can create a cover letter that highlights your key skills and sets you apart from other candidates.

Step 5: Explain your genuine interest in the job or project

Expressing your genuine interest in the specific job and company adds a compelling reason for potential employers to consider your application. For example, you might mention the company's values, culture, or recent achievements that resonate with you. Sharing this information helps ChatGPT create a cover letter that reflects your enthusiasm and connection to the company's mission.

You can also ask ChatGPT to generate a paragraph explaining why you're passionate about the role or industry, then tweak the text to make it feel authentic.

Step 6: Include key accomplishments or unique skills

Highlight any additional points that make you a strong fit for the job. Whether it's a unique skill, a project you led, or an award you've received, ensure you include these details. For example, if you're applying for a role in digital marketing, emphasize your success in driving traffic through SEO or content campaigns.

ChatGPT can help you craft language around these accomplishments, but make sure the final text reflects your own voice and achievements.

Step 7: Proofread and tweak for personalization

After generating your cover letter, carefully proofread it. Even the best ChatGPT output can contain minor errors, awkward phrases, or outright misstatements (hallucinations). Double-check for typos, ensure clarity, and adjust any details that might sound generic. Additionally, review the cover letter to ensure it's written in a tone and style that feels like you.

Proofreading and tweaking are essential to make your cover letter sound natural and authentic, enhancing your credibility with the hiring manager.

ChatGPT cover letter prompt template

To get the most accurate results, provide ChatGPT with as much information as possible. Here's an example prompt:

"Create a cover letter for a marketing specialist role at [Company Name]. My background includes five years in digital marketing, specializing in SEO, analytics, and audience growth. I want to express my interest in joining [Company Name] because of its innovative approach to digital engagement."

Tips for using AI tools effectively

Using AI tools in your job search can save time and help you stand out in a competitive market. When combined with careful research and proofreading, ChatGPT can help you craft a cover letter that effectively showcases your skills, experience, and enthusiasm for the job. When using AI tools like ChatGPT in the job application process, keep the following tips in mind:

• Maintain your voice. Use ChatGPT to enhance your writing, but ensure it reflects your personality and unique experiences.
• Personalize. Adapt the output to align with the company culture, job title, and job requirements.
• Proofread thoroughly. AI tools like ChatGPT are powerful, but they may generate inaccuracies. Proofreading ensures accuracy and coherence.
• Get feedback. For extra confidence, ask a friend, career coach, or mentor to review the cover letter and provide feedback.

Example ChatGPT-generated cover letter

Here's a sample cover letter generated by ChatGPT for a marketing role:

[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[LinkedIn Profile URL]

[Date]

[Hiring Manager's Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

I'm thrilled to apply for the digital marketing specialist position at [Company Name]. With over five years of experience in digital marketing and a proven record in SEO, content creation, and analytics, I'm confident that I can bring immediate value to your team. My work experience includes managing cross-functional projects that increased organic traffic by 50% in one year.

[Company Name]'s commitment to innovative marketing aligns perfectly with my skills in audience engagement and data-driven strategy. I'm excited about the opportunity to contribute to your growth and make an impact on [Company Name]'s objectives.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how my background fits the needs of your team.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Use your ChatGPT cover letter on Upwork

After creating a personalized cover letter, put it to use by applying for freelance roles on Upwork. Upwork is an excellent platform for job seekers looking to find freelance work across various fields, from entry-level roles to highly specialized jobs. A well-crafted cover letter can enhance your chances of getting noticed by potential clients, especially when targeting specific projects that match your skills.

On Upwork, your cover letter serves as an introduction to clients when you bid on projects, so using ChatGPT to create a polished, professional cover letter can make a significant difference. AI tools like ChatGPT also let you create templates for different job types, tweaking them as necessary for each project. 

Read Transcript‍

Once your cover letter template is ready, explore job opportunities aligning with your skills and career goals. Then adjust the cover letter for greater alignment to specific projects. 

Using ChatGPT to write your cover letter is a practical and efficient approach to job hunting. A well-written cover letter demonstrates your capabilities, conveys your enthusiasm, and opens doors to new job opportunities. 

Freelancers on Upwork also have access to Uma, Upwork’s Mindful AI, to help with everyday workflows, including proposals. Learn more about using Uma to craft cover letters on Upwork.

A personalized, AI-assisted cover letter can be the key to landing freelancing projects that match your skills and ambitions. Take your cover letter and explore job opportunities on Upwork.

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Disclosure: Upwork is an OpenAI partner, giving OpenAI customers and other businesses direct access to trusted expert independent professionals experienced in working with OpenAI technologies. Upwork does not control, operate, or sponsor the other tools or services discussed in this article, which are only provided as potential options. Each reader and company should take the time to adequately analyze and determine the tools or services that would best fit their specific needs and situation.