Should You Send a Cover Letter with Your Job Application?
To cover or not to cover? That’s the question many job seekers grapple with. The truth is, it depends. If the job listing explicitly asks for a cover letter, then it’s a no-brainer. However, if there’s no mention of one, it might be more worthwhile to focus your energy on tailoring your CV instead.
Most recruiters or hiring managers don’t prioritize cover letters. They dedicate the bulk of their time to reviewing your CV. Yet, there are scenarios where cover letters can add value. They can serve as a gauge of your writing prowess, especially if the job requires strong communication skills.
If you opt to submit a cover letter, keep it concise and on point.
Here’s what you should include:
- The position you’re applying for: Clearly state the job title and where you found the listing.
- Your top two or three qualifications for the role: You don’t need to rehash your entire resume. Briefly highlight a few key skills or achievements that align with the job requirements.
- Why your skills are a good match for the position: Use a few sentences to demonstrate your understanding of the role and how your skills align with it.
- Your interest in further discussion about the role: Express your eagerness to discuss your qualifications in more detail. Include your phone number for easy contact.
- A courteous thank you: Wrap up your letter with a polite expression of gratitude for the reader’s time and consideration.
Remember, keeping it brief and relevant increases the likelihood of your cover letter making an impact.
Disclaimer: Opinion of Recruitment Consultant
The advice provided in this article is based on the opinions and expertise of a recruitment consultant. It is important to note that individual circumstances may vary, and the information presented here is intended for general informational purposes only. The recruitment consultant’s opinions and recommendations are not intended to be a substitute for professional advice tailored to your specific situation. The recruitment consultant assumes no responsibility for any errors or omissions in the content or for any actions taken based on the information provided in this article.
Furthermore, the recruitment landscape is dynamic, and industry standards may change over time. The opinions expressed in this article reflect the perspective of the recruitment consultant at the time of writing and may not necessarily represent the prevailing views in the future.
By accessing and reading this article, you acknowledge and agree that the information provided is not a guarantee of specific outcomes, and you should exercise your own judgment and discretion when applying any advice or suggestions contained herein.