Cover Letters Tailoring Your Cover Letter 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Why is it important to tailor your cover letter for each job application?
- It shows the employer you are genuinely interested in their specific role (Correct answer)
- It allows you to use one template without reading the job description
- It guarantees you will get an interview
- It replaces the need to submit a resume
Correct answer: It shows the employer you are genuinely interested in their specific role
A tailored letter demonstrates research and genuine interest, making you stand out from generic applicants.
Question 2: What is the best source of keywords to include when tailoring a cover letter?
- The job description posted by the employer (Correct answer)
- A random list of industry buzzwords
- Your friend's resume
- A thesaurus
Correct answer: The job description posted by the employer
The job description contains the exact language and skills the employer is looking for, which you should mirror.
Question 3: When tailoring a cover letter, what should you research about the company?
- Its mission, values, and recent achievements (Correct answer)
- Only its stock price
- The CEO's personal social media
- How many employees it laid off last year
Correct answer: Its mission, values, and recent achievements
Referencing a company's mission and achievements shows genuine interest and helps you align your pitch with their goals.
Question 4: How should you address a gap in qualifications when tailoring a cover letter?
- Acknowledge it briefly and pivot to your transferable strengths (Correct answer)
- Ignore it entirely and hope they don't notice
- Apologize repeatedly throughout the letter
- Submit the application without a cover letter
Correct answer: Acknowledge it briefly and pivot to your transferable strengths
Briefly acknowledging a gap while emphasizing transferable skills shows self-awareness and confidence.
Question 5: Which of the following best demonstrates tailoring in a cover letter opening?
- 'I was excited to see your opening for a Data Analyst at Acme Corp because of your data-driven culture.' (Correct answer)
- 'I am writing to apply for a job at your company.'
- 'Please find my resume attached.'
- 'I have five years of experience in many fields.'
Correct answer: 'I was excited to see your opening for a Data Analyst at Acme Corp because of your data-driven culture.'
Referencing the specific role and a company trait shows research and immediate relevance.
Question 6: What does mirroring the tone of the company's job posting help accomplish?
- It signals cultural fit and communication style alignment (Correct answer)
- It confuses the reader
- It lengthens the cover letter
- It replaces the need for specific examples
Correct answer: It signals cultural fit and communication style alignment
Matching the company's tone—formal or casual—signals you understand their culture and will fit in.
Cover Letters Tailoring Your Cover Letter 1
Why is it important to tailor your cover letter for each job application?