How do you write a cover letter when you're over or underqualified?

1 Research the employer and the job

Before you start writing your cover letter, do some research on the employer and the job. Find out what their mission, vision, values, and goals are, and how they align with yours. Identify the main skills, qualifications, and responsibilities they are looking for, and how they relate to your own. This will help you tailor your cover letter to their specific needs and expectations, and show that you've done your homework.

2 Address the gap or the surplus

Don't ignore or hide the fact that you're over or underqualified for the job. Instead, address it directly and honestly in your cover letter, and explain why you're still a strong candidate. If you're underqualified, focus on your transferable skills, relevant achievements, and willingness to learn and grow. Demonstrate how you've overcome similar challenges or gaps in the past, and how you can add value to the employer. If you're overqualified, emphasize your enthusiasm, flexibility, and compatibility with the employer's culture and vision. Show how you can leverage your expertise and experience to benefit the employer, and how you're open to new opportunities and challenges.

3 Showcase your personality and passion

A cover letter is not just a summary of your resume. It's also a way to show your personality and passion for the job and the employer. Use a friendly and professional tone, and avoid generic or cliched phrases. Tell a story that illustrates your interest, motivation, and fit for the role. Share what excites you about the job and the employer, and what makes you unique and valuable. Be confident, but not arrogant, and express your gratitude and enthusiasm.

4 Proofread and edit your cover letter

Before you send your cover letter, make sure it's error-free and polished. Proofread your cover letter for spelling, grammar, punctuation, and formatting mistakes. Use clear and concise language, and avoid jargon or slang. Check that your cover letter is aligned with the job description and the employer's brand and tone. Use a professional and appropriate salutation and closing, and include your contact information. Keep your cover letter to one page or less, and use a standard font and size.

5 Follow up with the employer

After you submit your cover letter and resume, don't just wait for a response. Follow up with the employer to show your interest and initiative. Send a polite and brief email or call to confirm that they received your application, and restate your enthusiasm and qualifications for the job. Ask if they need any additional information from you, and when you can expect to hear from them. Thank them for their time and consideration, and express your hope to hear from them soon.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?