The Customization Shortcut

Writing a unique letter for every application sounds exhausting. Instead, build a modular template with interchangeable parts: create 3-4 "story blocks" you can swap depending on the role.

Before sending, name the company at least twice beyond the header, reference something specific about their product or mission, and feature an achievement that maps to their top requirement. Match their tone, too — formal for law firms, conversational for startups.

Remove every phrase that could apply to any company. This takes about 10-15 minutes per application instead of an hour.