Cover Letter Phrases to Avoid And What to Use Instead

Writing a cover letter can be a daunting task, especially when you want to make a strong impression but also sound genuine. The challenge is striking the right balance between professionalism and personality, all while showing your value to the employer. Unfortunately, many job seekers fall into the trap of using overused, vague or clichéd phrases in their cover letters that do more harm than good. These phrases can make your application blend in with the crowd instead of standing out.

In this blog, we will explore common cover letter phrases that recruiters find frustrating or unhelpful. More importantly, we’ll offer alternative ways to express the same ideas in a way that feels fresh, sincere and impactful. If you want your cover letter to really grab attention and help you land an interview, this is a guide worth reading.

The Problem with Overused Phrases

Certain phrases have become so overused in cover letters that they have lost all meaning. When a recruiter reads “I am a hard worker” or “I am a team player”, these statements have little impact. They are vague, unoriginal and don’t provide any real insight into who you are or what you bring to the table.

The same goes for generic statements like “I am passionate about this industry” or “I have excellent communication skills”. Everyone claims these things but very few provide concrete examples or evidence to back them up.

Overused phrases can make your cover letter sound like a template, which reduces your chances of standing out. Recruiters often skim through applications quickly, and these clichés don’t catch the eye or spark curiosity.

Avoid “I Am a Hard Worker”

This is one of the most common lines found in cover letters. The problem is it is completely subjective and means different things to different people. Instead of telling the employer you are a hard worker, show them how you have demonstrated hard work.

Try sharing a brief story about a challenging project you completed on time or a time when you went above and beyond to meet a deadline. Describing your work ethic through specific achievements makes a far stronger impression.

For example, you might write: “In my previous role, I consistently met tight deadlines while maintaining high-quality standards, which earned me recognition from my manager.”

Skip “I Am a Team Player”

Everyone wants a team player but stating it outright is unconvincing. Rather than say it, show it through your experience.

You could say something like: “Collaborating with cross-functional teams to develop solutions has been a key part of my role, enabling us to improve project delivery times by 20 percent.”

This kind of statement demonstrates teamwork with a clear example and impact, rather than just making a bland claim.

Drop “I Have Excellent Communication Skills”

Communication is crucial in most jobs, but simply stating you have excellent communication skills is too vague.

Instead, specify what kind of communication you excel at and provide an example. Maybe you led client presentations, resolved conflicts, or wrote reports that influenced decision making.

You could write: “I regularly deliver presentations to clients, simplifying complex technical information to ensure understanding and build trust.”

This tells the recruiter exactly how your communication skills are applied in the workplace.

Avoid “I Am Passionate About This Industry”

Passion is important but just saying you are passionate does not convince anyone. Instead, explain why you are passionate and how this passion drives your work.

You might say something like: “My enthusiasm for sustainable design has led me to pursue additional training in green building practices and successfully implement eco-friendly initiatives on site.”

This gives substance to your passion and shows you take proactive steps to develop yourself.

Steer Clear of “I Am a Quick Learner”

Being adaptable is valuable but telling employers you are a quick learner without proof is unhelpful.

Show your ability to learn by describing a situation where you picked up new skills quickly or adapted to a new system or process.

For example: “When introduced to a new project management software, I independently mastered its features within a week, enabling my team to streamline workflows.”

This offers evidence of your adaptability and eagerness to learn.

Don’t Use “References Available Upon Request”

Including this phrase at the end of your cover letter or resume is unnecessary. Employers know they can ask for references if needed, so this statement takes up valuable space.

Instead, use the space to add more relevant information about your skills or achievements.

Avoid Overly Formal or Stuffy Language

Some people think using very formal or complex language makes them sound professional. However, overly stiff writing can feel unnatural and hard to read.

Aim for clear, conversational but professional language that feels authentic to you. Write as if you were speaking to the hiring manager directly.

For example, instead of “I would be honoured to be considered for the role”, say “I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team.”

Say No to Repetition of Your Resume

Your cover letter should complement your resume, not repeat it word for word. Recruiters want to learn something new about you from your letter, such as your motivations, cultural fit or how you approach challenges.

Focus on telling a story or expanding on key points in your resume. Use your cover letter to explain why your experience makes you the best candidate.

What to Use Instead

The key to a great cover letter is showing rather than telling. Use specific examples and measurable outcomes where possible. Make your language vivid and engaging but keep it professional.

Focus on what you can bring to the company and how you solve problems or add value. Be sincere about your enthusiasm and back it up with real actions.

Try to connect your skills and experiences directly to the job description. Use some of the keywords from the ad but make sure it flows naturally.

Here are some phrases that work better and help you avoid clichés:

• “I am motivated by challenges that require creative problem solving, such as when I…”

• “I have a track record of delivering results under pressure, demonstrated by…”

• “Working closely with diverse teams has helped me develop strong collaboration skills, as seen in…”

• “I am committed to continuous learning and recently completed training in…”

• “I thrive in environments that value innovation and adaptability, which aligns well with your company’s culture.”

  
  

Final Tips for Writing a Fresh and Effective Cover Letter

Take time to research the company and role so you can personalise your letter meaningfully. Use their language and values as a guide but always keep your own voice.

Before submitting your cover letter, read it aloud. Does it sound natural? Does it tell a story or just list facts? Are there any clichés or vague claims you can replace with concrete examples?

Ask a friend or mentor to review your letter and give honest feedback.

Above all, remember that your cover letter is your chance to make a memorable first impression. Avoid tired phrases and put your best self forward with words that reflect your true strengths and enthusiasm.

If you’d like personalised support—whether it’s professional Resume and Cover Letter writing, FIFO Resume, Employer Sponsorship Resumes and Cover Letters, SEEK and LinkedIn profile optimisation, Selection Criteria for Government Jobs, one-on-one Job Interview Coaching or Other Professional Writing Services —call us on 0423 686 904 or email us at hello@adriennasresumes.com