Expert COVER LETTERS with ChatGPT: the Definitive Guide (with Examples & Prompts)

Introduction

Three weeks ago, I embarked on a challenge: to explore whether ChatGPT could help write expert-level cover letters. As a careers consultant at Cambridge University, I coach clients in crafting compelling cover letters. Initially, I felt optimistic. But after three weeks and 137 prompts, my confidence was put to the test.

Initial Assessment

To gauge ChatGPT's capabilities, I began with a straightforward prompt for a business analyst role at the British Museum, assessing the output as a baseline. The cover letter started well, stating, "I'm writing to express my strong interest in the position of business analyst at the British Museum as advertised on LinkedIn." However, the first paragraph, while decent, was quite generic and lacked the intriguing details that captivate recruiters.

In the second paragraph, ChatGPT mentioned skills such as data analytics and project management, which weren't highlighted in the actual job description. This revelation suggested that ChatGPT might be web-scraping and using frequently matched skills across business analyst roles instead of processing the specific job description I provided. Ultimately, the letter came across as too lengthy without the essential skills emphasized, earning a score of about 4 out of 10 for a polished submission.

Improving the Process

Determined to push ChatGPT toward higher-quality outputs, I utilized recommended prompts from GitHub, yet they did not yield the expert-level results I sought. Most inputs were singularly focused and did not effectively engage with the job description. So I had an epiphany: if ChatGPT wouldn’t adapt to the job description, I would adapt the job description for it.

Crafting Specific Prompts

First, I delved into what constitutes an expert-level cover letter:

1. Paragraph One: A compelling hook about the organization, a connection to my own work, and a mention of the top relevant skills from the job description.
2. Paragraphs Two and Three: A specific focus on the leading skills mentioned in the job description.
3. Closing: A succinct wrap-up that reinforces my willingness to contribute.

Using this structure, I developed precise prompts that maintained this breakdown while aiming for tailored outputs aligned with the specific application.

Outcomes and Refinements

When I fed ChatGPT the refined prompts, the output began to show appreciation for the British Museum and highlighted organizational skills early, plus it structured the paragraphs neatly. There were clear mentions of top skills, but still, obscure examples were used rather than real-life achievements. While it provided a solid framework for editing, the cover letter still required personal touches to lift it to a ready-to-submit level, which I rated 5 out of 10.

After 137 iterations, I learned that while ChatGPT excels at generating templates and initial drafts, the responses reflected a pattern-matching tool that requires human intervention for refinement.

Best Practices for Using ChatGPT

Step 1: Use Effective Prompts

Leverage the prompt chain developed from my walkthrough. Modify it to fit the specific job description you’re targeting to achieve a solid initial draft, focused on the right elements.

Step 2: Refine the Draft

After generating a draft with ChatGPT, make sure to inject your unique experiences that align with the job description to enhance the quality further.

I’ve included an example expert-level cover letter in the description below for reference. By following these steps, I am confident you will create outstanding cover letters.

Keyword

Keywords: ChatGPT, cover letters, business analyst, British Museum, job description, organizational skills, analytical skills, prompts, drafts, career consulting.

FAQ

Q1: Can ChatGPT write expert-level cover letters?
A1: While ChatGPT can generate drafts and templates for cover letters, it often requires refinement and personal examples to achieve an expert level.

Q2: What's the best way to use ChatGPT for cover letters?
A2: Use structured prompts that reflect the job description and your qualifications, then edit the output by including personal experiences and specific accomplishments.

Q3: How can I improve my cover letter writing skills?
A3: Analyze strong examples, adopt effective prompt structures, and practice contrasting your drafts against job descriptions to hone your writing skills.

Q4: Is ChatGPT suitable for final submissions?
A4: It's not ideal for ready-to-submit cover letters. It’s best used as a starting point from which you can manually enhance the content before submitting it.

Thank you for exploring how to utilize ChatGPT for expert-level cover letters. I hope you find this guide helpful for your application journey!