The Importance of a Cover Letter

The resume and cover letter are your main tools in the job search. They’re the number one thing you use to get your foot in the door, highlight your previous experience and characteristics. Yet, many job seekers underestimate the importance of well-written resumes and cover letters – a mistake that can seriously decrease the chances of getting that job you really wanted.

The cover letter complements your resume and gives you a chance to personalize your job application. A well-written cover letter is often more important than a remarkable resume because it gives an idea about your work ethic and personality. The resume might list some very impressive accomplishments, but it means nothing if you can’t communicate your genuine passion or relevance to the position.

The cover letter also allows you to market yourself for the position. It’s not meant to summarize or paraphrase your resume. It illustrates the big picture of your qualifications and experience in relation to the job’s needs. It’s your opportunity to point out reasons for why you are the perfect person for the job.

Recruiters look for the right fit for the positions they fill. The cover letter gives them the opportunity to understand the candidate’s personality, what drew the candidate to the job opening, and whether or not they can communicate effectively.

Things to remember

1. Proofread – avoiding spelling mistakes and using proper formatting is crucial!

2. Don’t write a novel – keep it to the point and no longer than half a page.

3. Don’t be too generic – give specific examples and don’t let it be just a rewrite of your resume.

4. Never use the same cover letter over and over again – always tailor it for every job application!

5. Even if an online application does not require a cover letter and has left it optional – do upload that cover letter! With the multitude of applicants, hiring managers might dismiss applicants that didn’t include a cover letter because it shows a lack of passion toward the position.

http://www.ddiversified.com/2016/07/08/importance-writing-cover-letter/

http://www.forbes.com/sites/ashleystahl/2016/01/08/8-common-cover-letter-mistakes-to-avoid/#6367e94a4b2d

~Maarja Sau

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