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Top Prompts to Write a Top-1% Cover Letter with ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini (2025)

Top Prompts to Write a Top-1% Cover Letter with ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini (2025)

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LucyBrain Switzerland ○ AI Daily

Top Prompts to Write a Top-1% Cover Letter with ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini (2025)

November 19, 2025

Introduction

Writing a cover letter that actually gets read is harder than most people think. Most cover letters sound robotic, full of corporate jargon, or too generic to stand out. Hiring managers read hundreds of them. They skip the ones that feel like templates.

The good news is that AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini can help you write cover letters that sound human, show your value, and match the job perfectly. But only if you use the right prompts.

You can use all the prompts on this page for free. A small reading window applies, but you still get full access to the content. Lucy+ simply unlocks unlimited reading time and more than 30,000 pro prompts.

This guide gives you the top prompts to write cover letters that hiring managers actually want to read.

Why Most AI-Generated Cover Letters Fail

Most people type something like "write me a cover letter for this job" into ChatGPT. The result sounds like every other cover letter. It uses phrases like "I am writing to express my interest" or "I am a results-driven professional." Hiring managers recognize this instantly.

The problem is not the AI. The problem is the prompt. Bad prompts create generic output. Good prompts create personalized, human-sounding cover letters that show real fit.

How to Use These Prompts Correctly

Before you paste any prompt, you need to give the AI context. This means:

  • Your background and experience

  • Specific achievements or results

  • Why you care about this role

  • What makes you different

Every prompt below includes instructions that force the AI to avoid robotic language, buzzwords, and corporate fluff. The AI will write in a natural, clear tone that sounds like you.

Top Prompts for Cover Letters

Prompt 1: Simple, Human, Value-First Cover Letter

Before you start, here is my context: [add your background, key skills, 2-3 relevant achievements, why this role matters to you].

Write the cover letter as if you were a human.
Avoid jargon, avoid robotic tone, avoid long sentences, avoid sales language.
Use simple, natural words.
Use short paragraphs.
No em dashes.
Make it feel like a real person explaining why they want this job.

Now write a cover letter for this job: [paste job description]

When to use this: When you want a straightforward cover letter that focuses on fit and value.

Prompt 2: Achievement-Focused Cover Letter

Here is my background: [list 3-5 specific achievements with numbers or outcomes].

Write the cover letter in clear, direct language.
No buzzwords.
No corporate tone.
No long sentences.
Make it feel like someone explaining their wins in a conversation.
Focus on proof, not promises.

Now write a cover letter that shows why these achievements make me the right fit: [paste job description]

When to use this: When you have strong measurable results to showcase.

Prompt 3: Career Changer Cover Letter

Here is my situation: [explain your current field, transferable skills, why you are changing careers, what you bring from your past experience].

Write in a natural human tone.
Keep sentences short.
No poetic language.
No fluff.
Explain the career change clearly without sounding defensive.
Show how past experience applies to this new role.

Now write a cover letter for: [paste job description]

When to use this: When you are switching industries or roles.

Prompt 4: Skills-Match Cover Letter

Here are the key skills from the job post: [list 4-6 required skills].
Here is how I have used these skills: [explain each with a short example].

Write the cover letter like a human explaining their fit.
Avoid robotic tone.
Avoid jargon.
Use clear examples.
Keep it short and readable.
No em dashes.

Now write a cover letter that directly matches my skills to this job: [paste job description]

When to use this: When the job post lists specific technical or professional skills.

Prompt 5: Story-Based Cover Letter

Here is a short story about why I care about this work: [explain a moment, challenge, or project that made you passionate about this field].

Write the cover letter in a natural, storytelling tone.
Keep it professional but human.
No corporate buzzwords.
No long paragraphs.
Use short sentences.
Show why this job matters to me.

Now write a cover letter using this story: [paste job description]

When to use this: When you want to show genuine interest and passion.

Prompt 6: Company-Specific Cover Letter

Here is what I know about the company: [mention their mission, recent news, products, or values].
Here is why I connect with this: [explain your personal connection or interest].

Write in a clear, human tone.
Avoid sounding like a fanboy.
Avoid corporate jargon.
Keep sentences short.
Show real understanding of the company.

Now write a cover letter that explains why I want to work here: [paste job description]

When to use this: When you are genuinely interested in a specific company.

Prompt 7: Short and Direct Cover Letter

Before you start, here is my context: [add your role, experience, and top 2 skills].

Write a very short cover letter.
Maximum 150 words.
Clear and direct.
No fluff.
No buzzwords.
Just the essential fit.

Now write it for this job: [paste job description]

When to use this: When you know hiring managers prefer brevity.

Prompt 8: Remote Work Cover Letter

Here is my remote work experience: [list tools you use, how you communicate, past remote roles].

Write in a natural human tone.
Avoid robotic language.
Show that I understand remote work discipline.
Keep it short and clear.

Now write a cover letter that highlights my remote work fit: [paste job description]

When to use this: When applying to remote-first companies.

Prompt 9: Junior Role Cover Letter

Here is my situation: [explain education, internships, side projects, or volunteer work].

Write the cover letter like a human.
Avoid sounding insecure.
Show energy and willingness to learn.
Keep sentences short.
No corporate jargon.

Now write a cover letter for this entry-level job: [paste job description]

When to use this: When you have limited professional experience.

Prompt 10: Leadership Role Cover Letter

Here is my leadership background: [list teams managed, projects led, outcomes achieved].

Write in a clear, confident tone.
Avoid jargon.
Show leadership through examples, not claims.
Keep it professional but human.
Use short paragraphs.

Now write a cover letter for this leadership position: [paste job description]

When to use this: When applying to management or senior roles.

Prompt 11: Freelancer to Full-Time Cover Letter

Here is my freelance background: [list clients, projects, skills developed].

Write the cover letter in a natural tone.
Explain why I want to go full-time.
Show that freelance experience = real work experience.
Avoid sounding apologetic.
Keep it clear and short.

Now write a cover letter for: [paste job description]

When to use this: When transitioning from freelance to employment.

Prompt 12: Problem-Solver Cover Letter

Here is a problem the company might face: [describe a challenge based on the job description].
Here is how I would approach it: [explain your solution or past similar work].

Write in a conversational, helpful tone.
No buzzwords.
Show thinking, not promises.
Keep sentences short.

Now write a cover letter that positions me as a problem-solver: [paste job description]

When to use this: When you want to stand out by offering insight.

Prompt 13: Gap in Employment Cover Letter

Here is my situation: [explain the gap honestly: caregiving, health, learning, travel, etc.].
Here is what I did during that time: [mention any skills, projects, or growth].

Write in a clear, honest tone.
No defensiveness.
No over-explaining.
Keep it short and confident.

Now write a cover letter that addresses the gap naturally: [paste job description]

When to use this: When you have a resume gap to address.

Prompt 14: Passion Project Cover Letter

Here is a project I built or contributed to: [describe the project, your role, the outcome].

Write in a natural, enthusiastic tone.
Show real work, not just interest.
Keep it professional but human.
Avoid jargon.
Use short sentences.

Now write a cover letter that highlights this project: [paste job description]

When to use this: When you have personal or side projects that show your skills.

Prompt 15: Technical Role Cover Letter

Here are the technical tools and languages I use: [list technologies].
Here is how I have used them: [give 2-3 short examples].

Write in a clear, direct tone.
No corporate fluff.
Show technical fit without sounding robotic.
Keep it readable for non-technical hiring managers too.

Now write a cover letter for this technical role: [paste job description]

When to use this: When applying to developer, engineer, or technical positions.

Prompt 16: Internal Promotion Cover Letter

Here is my current role: [describe your position and tenure].
Here is what I have accomplished: [list 3-5 key contributions].
Here is why I want this promotion: [explain your motivation].

Write in a professional but personal tone.
Show respect for the process.
No overconfidence.
Keep sentences short and clear.

Now write a cover letter for this internal position: [paste job description]

When to use this: When applying for a promotion within your company.

Prompt 17: Referral-Based Cover Letter

Here is who referred me: [name and their role].
Here is my connection to them: [how you know them, what they told you about the role].

Write in a warm, professional tone.
Mention the referral naturally.
Avoid name-dropping.
Keep it short and genuine.

Now write a cover letter using this referral: [paste job description]

When to use this: When someone inside the company recommended you.

Prompt 18: Recent Graduate Cover Letter

Here is my education: [degree, major, relevant coursework].
Here is what I built or learned: [capstone projects, research, internships].

Write in a fresh, energetic tone.
Avoid sounding inexperienced.
Show that education = real preparation.
Keep sentences short.
No jargon.

Now write a cover letter for this job: [paste job description]

When to use this: When you recently graduated.

Prompt 19: Overqualified Candidate Cover Letter

Here is my background: [list experience that might seem too senior].
Here is why this role still fits: [explain your honest reasons: lifestyle, interest, growth, etc.].

Write in a humble, clear tone.
Address the overqualification directly.
No defensiveness.
Show genuine interest.
Keep it short.

Now write a cover letter for: [paste job description]

When to use this: When you have more experience than the job requires.

Prompt 20: Cold Application Cover Letter

Here is why I am reaching out: [explain why you are applying even though they are not hiring].
Here is what I bring: [list your value].

Write in a respectful, direct tone.
Show initiative without sounding pushy.
Keep it very short.
No corporate fluff.

Now write a cold application cover letter to: [company name and role you want]

When to use this: When applying to a company without an open job post.

Prompt 21: Military to Civilian Cover Letter

Here is my military background: [rank, role, key responsibilities].
Here is how this translates to civilian work: [explain skills in non-military language].

Write in a clear, professional tone.
Translate military terms to business language.
Show leadership and discipline naturally.
Keep sentences short.

Now write a cover letter for: [paste job description]

When to use this: When transitioning from military to civilian roles.

Prompt 22: Part-Time to Full-Time Cover Letter

Here is my part-time experience: [describe role, achievements, skills gained].
Here is why I want full-time work now: [explain your motivation].

Write in a natural, professional tone.
Show that part-time = real experience.
Avoid sounding apologetic.
Keep it clear and direct.

Now write a cover letter for: [paste job description]

When to use this: When moving from part-time to full-time employment.

Prompt 23: Industry-Specific Cover Letter (Healthcare)

Here is my healthcare background: [certifications, experience, patient outcomes].

Write in a compassionate but professional tone.
Show patient care priority.
Use clear medical terminology where appropriate.
Keep sentences short.

Now write a cover letter for this healthcare job: [paste job description]

When to use this: When applying to healthcare positions.

Prompt 24: Industry-Specific Cover Letter (Education)

Here is my teaching background: [subjects, grade levels, student outcomes].

Write in a warm, professional tone.
Show passion for education.
Include student impact examples.
Keep it clear and readable.

Now write a cover letter for this teaching job: [paste job description]

When to use this: When applying to education roles.

Prompt 25: Nonprofit Sector Cover Letter

Here is my background: [relevant experience, volunteer work, mission alignment].
Here is why this cause matters to me: [explain your connection to the nonprofit's mission].

Write in a passionate but professional tone.
Show mission alignment naturally.
Avoid sounding preachy.
Keep sentences short.

Now write a cover letter for this nonprofit job: [paste job description]

When to use this: When applying to nonprofit organizations.

Prompt 26: Startup Cover Letter

Here is my experience: [relevant skills, fast-paced work, adaptability examples].

Write in an energetic, flexible tone.
Show startup mindset.
Highlight adaptability and initiative.
Keep it short and direct.

Now write a cover letter for this startup job: [paste job description]

When to use this: When applying to startup companies.

Prompt 27: Corporate Role Cover Letter

Here is my corporate background: [large company experience, process skills, team collaboration].

Write in a polished, professional tone.
Show understanding of corporate structure.
Highlight collaboration and process.
Keep it clear.

Now write a cover letter for this corporate job: [paste job description]

When to use this: When applying to large established companies.

Prompt 28: Creative Role Cover Letter

Here is my creative work: [portfolio highlights, creative process, outcomes].

Write in a creative but professional tone.
Show personality without being unprofessional.
Include creative thinking examples.
Keep sentences clear.

Now write a cover letter for this creative job: [paste job description]

When to use this: When applying to design, marketing, or creative positions.

Prompt 29: Sales Role Cover Letter

Here is my sales background: [numbers, deals closed, client relationships].

Write in a confident, results-focused tone.
Lead with numbers and outcomes.
Show relationship-building skills.
Keep it direct.

Now write a cover letter for this sales job: [paste job description]

When to use this: When applying to sales positions.

Prompt 30: Customer Service Cover Letter

Here is my customer service experience: [satisfaction scores, problem resolution, communication skills].

Write in a friendly, professional tone.
Show empathy and problem-solving.
Include customer impact examples.
Keep sentences short.

Now write a cover letter for this customer service job: [paste job description]

When to use this: When applying to customer support roles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using generic openings. Never start with "I am writing to express my interest." It signals a template.

Writing long paragraphs. Hiring managers skim. Keep paragraphs 2-3 sentences max.

Overusing buzzwords. Words like "synergy," "results-driven," and "team player" sound robotic.

Talking only about yourself. Show how you help the company, not just what you want.

Not editing the AI output. Always review and personalize before sending.

Copying the resume. Your cover letter should add new information, not repeat your resume.

Forgetting to proofread. One typo can cost you the interview.

Making it too long. Keep it under 400 words. Hiring managers do not have time for essays.

How to Make These Prompts Work Even Better

Add specific numbers. If you increased sales by 30%, say that. Numbers stand out.

Name the company. Generic cover letters get ignored. Use the company name naturally.

Match the job description language. If they say "collaborative," use that word when relevant.

Keep it short. Aim for 250-350 words. Hiring managers do not read long cover letters.

Test different prompts. Try 2-3 versions and see which feels most authentic.

Include the hiring manager's name. If you can find it, use it. It shows effort.

Research the company. Mention something specific about their work or culture.

Quantify your achievements. Always include numbers when possible.

Show enthusiasm without going overboard. Be genuine, not fake-excited.

End with confidence. Close strong with a call to action.

What Makes a Cover Letter Stand Out

The best cover letters do three things well. They show specific fit for the role. They prove value with examples. They sound human and genuine.

Hiring managers can spot templates instantly. They look for personalization. They want to see that you understand the company and the role. They need to believe you actually want this job.

Your cover letter should answer three questions. Why this company? Why this role? Why you?

If your cover letter could work for any company, it will not work for any company. Specificity matters more than length.

How to Edit AI Output for Better Results

AI gives you a strong draft. But you need to make it yours. Here is how:

Read it out loud. If it sounds weird, rewrite that part.

Cut unnecessary words. AI sometimes adds fluff. Remove it.

Add personal details. Include something only you would know or say.

Check for repetition. AI sometimes repeats ideas. Delete duplicates.

Verify facts. Make sure all details about your background are accurate.

Adjust the tone. If it sounds too formal or too casual, fix it.

Remove obvious AI phrases. Words like "leverage" or "utilize" can be simplified.

Final Tips to Increase Your Interview Rate

Lead with your strongest fit. Put your best skill or achievement first.

Show, do not tell. Instead of "I am a great communicator," say "I led weekly client presentations that improved retention by 20%."

End with action. Close with something like "I would love to discuss how I can contribute" instead of a passive sentence.

Proofread everything. One typo can cost you the interview.

Send it fast. Apply within 24-48 hours of the job posting.

Follow up. If you do not hear back in a week, send a polite follow-up email.

Customize every cover letter. Never send the same letter to multiple companies.

Keep a swipe file. Save good phrases from past cover letters to reuse strategically.

Test subject lines. If emailing directly, your subject line matters.

Format cleanly. Use standard fonts, clear spacing, and professional layout.

FAQ

1. Can I use these prompts for free?

Yes. You can use every prompt on this page for free. The reading window applies, but the content is fully accessible.

2. Do these prompts work with ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini?

Yes. These prompts work with all major AI tools.

3. Are these cover letters safe for professional use?

Yes. The prompts are designed to create professional, clear, and appropriate cover letters.

4. Should I edit the AI's output?

Always. Review the cover letter, add personal touches, and make sure it sounds like you.

5. Why do these prompts work better than generic prompts?

These prompts include tone instructions, context requirements, and anti-jargon rules. This forces the AI to write naturally instead of robotically.

6. How many prompts are available on the platform?

The library includes thousands of free prompts across all categories.

7. What is the difference between free prompts and Lucy+ prompts?

Lucy+ unlocks unlimited reading time and access to more than 30,000 professional prompts. The free library already includes powerful, usable prompts.

8. Can I use the same cover letter for multiple jobs?

No. Each cover letter should be customized for the specific job and company.

9. How long should my cover letter be?

Aim for 250-350 words. Most hiring managers prefer shorter, focused cover letters.

10. What if the AI output sounds too formal?

Add instructions to "write in a more casual, conversational tone" to your prompt.

If you want to explore more, Lucy+ gives access to more than 30,000 professional prompts for 10 USD per month. No pressure. Most of the powerful prompts are already free in the library.

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