Are you getting ready to apply for an important job?
Whether you are applying online or in person, it’s no secret that you need a compelling resume. You need to spend time editing your resume and tailoring it to the job description. A cover letter is the other main application document that is often requested. However, some employers may not officially ask you to send them this document.
So, let’s find out, ‘do I need a cover letter?’
Contents
The Importance Of Cover Letters
This document is your way of introducing yourself to hiring managers. When written well, the cover letter will make the hiring manager want to know more about you. Let’s take a look at some of the other reasons this document can be so important.
It shows who you are
While your resume is a formal document, your cover letter allows you to take a more personal approach. You can go into more detail about your personal interests, hobbies, and volunteer experience. This will give the hiring manager more insight into who you are. Of course, you need to make sure all this information is connected to the job you’re applying for.
It provides context
This is your chance to show why you think you’re perfect for the job. Your resume will include a lot of information, and some of the compelling elements may go unnoticed. This is your chance to highlight that information so that the hiring manager doesn’t overlook it.
Because of restricted space, certain aspects of your resume may seem a little vague. This is your chance to show how these elements connect and why they were included. This helps to prevent the hiring manager from deciding that your resume is unfocused.
It helps to build a rapport
You can use this document to build rapport with the reader. The best way to do this is by revealing your personality and turning on the charm. Do some research about the reader and provide information that they can connect with in some way. If you have a shared interest that is connected to the job, this is a good time to briefly mention it.
It adds important details
You might not be able to fit all the details about your experience and skills on your resume. You need to keep your resume as brief as possible and be selective about what you include. This is your chance to include any extra information that is likely to appeal to the hiring manager.
It shows why you’re a good fit
This is your chance to demonstrate why and how you would be perfect for the company. It is a good idea to do research into the company culture, mission statement, and goals. You can then reflect on some of these elements when describing yourself and your personal working style. This helps the hiring manager to see that you will be a real asset to the company and its culture.
The Reasons To Include One
Now you have seen what an impact this document can have, you are likely to be anxious to make one. However, this only needs to be done under certain circumstances. Here are the main reasons you should take the time to create a cover letter.
If you are applying for your dream job, you can briefly mention this in your cover letter. You can also use it to explain that you are willing to relocate for the job. While some information may not need to be included in your resume, it can strengthen your chances of getting hired.
To explain a gap
You may have gaps in your employment history that need to be explained. Try to keep it as brief and dynamic as possible. Ideally, the activities you took part in during these gaps should be connected to your career. You can briefly explain the skills and experience you gained during these times.
Employer expectations
You should always read the job description carefully when applying for a role. In addition to providing details about the job, there may be instructions on how to apply. If a cover letter is directly requested, you need to make sure you include one.
Failing to create and attach this document to your resume may make the employer think you’re lazy or lack attention to detail. If you forget to include it, your resume may be discarded without being read. This will automatically mean that you have missed out on an opportunity to connect with an employer.
Reasons Not To Include A Cover Letter
There is no need to create this type of document for certain types of jobs. If you have been called in for an informal interview, you are likely to be hired on the spot. The employer will simply discuss your qualifications and find out if you are right for the role. Let’s look at some other situations when it is best not to create and submit a cover letter.
When it is not requested
The job description may clearly state that you shouldn’t include one. In this case, submitting a cover letter will ruin your chances of getting hired. It is likely to annoy the hiring manager and demonstrates that you can’t follow instructions.
When you don’t have enough time
This formal document can serve as an example of your communication skills and abilities. In most cases, this is your first chance to connect with the employer. Therefore, you need to take the time to craft this letter and make it dynamic.
However, you may be applying for a job at the last minute. You might simply not have the time to spend polishing the letter and making it impressive. In this case, it could be better not to submit the document. You can always work on it later when you have more time and submit one if it is requested.
When there isn’t a way to submit one
If you are completing an online application form, there may not be a way to submit additional documents. In this case, you shouldn’t worry about it. You can always create and submit these documents later if you are asked for them.
Tips For Crafting A Compelling Cover Letter
You need to take the time to craft a compelling document that will grab the attention of employers. The goal is to make the best impression possible while adding value to your application. Here are some ways to make sure a cover letter is as strong and impressive as possible.
Include a compliment
The hiring manager should get the sense that you want to work for the company and have done your research. Start with a personal greeting and something you particularly like about the company. This will grab the hiring manager’s attention and will indicate that you’re a good fit.
Make it targeted
Keep the job description and requirements firmly in mind when creating this document. You need to focus on the abilities and skills that make you a strong candidate. All of the information should be as compelling as possible.
Keep it short
A cover letter should be between three and five paragraphs in length. The hiring manager should be able to scan it quickly to see if it’s worth reading your resume. Every sentence should have an impact and tell them something important about your qualifications.
Go beyond your resume
It is important to avoid simply repeating the information in your resume. While you can expand on certain information, you also need to include unique details. Imagine that you’re introducing yourself to an employer in an interview by creating a few dynamic paragraphs.
Engage with the reader
This document is your first chance to make a lasting impression. It needs to be interesting and make the hiring manager want to know more about you. Make sure the answers they seek are highlighted in your resume.
Edit and proofread
Take the time to read through your cover letter several times and edit it. Take out any unnecessary information to make your cover letter as slick and impactful as possible. The sentences and paragraphs should flow together seamlessly and be easy to read.
You also need to check carefully for spelling and grammar mistakes. These errors are likely to make the reader feel that you are uneducated and careless. It’s also a good idea to ask someone else to read through this document before you submit it.
Excellent Resume Guides For You!
Perfect your resume with these in-depth guides such as the Best Opening Statement Examples For Resumes, Does A Resume Need An Objective, and How Long Should A Resume Be, or how about the Best Resume Format Guide, and How Many Years You Should Go Back On A Resume in 2023.
Next, we move on to the difference between a CV vs Resume, How To Show A Promotion On Your Resume, and Hobbies and Interests To Put On Resume, as well as How To Address A Cover Letter, the Most Important Skills To Put On A Resume, plus How To List References On A Resume.
Finally, let’s take a look at How To List Education On A Resume, the best way to put Job Titles On Resume, and Achievements To List On Your Resume, along with the Motivation Letter Writing Guide as well as How To Write A Letter of Interest.
Final Thoughts
In most cases, it is a good idea to submit a cover letter when applying for a job. This allows you to introduce yourself to the hiring manager and create a positive impression. You can include additional information that is relevant to the job and makes you stand out from the crowd.
However, it is important to follow the instructions of the employer or job post carefully. Skip a cover letter if you are instructed not to submit one or if there is no way to attach it. If you do submit it, you need to make sure it is edited carefully and tailored to the job.
Good Luck with your job applications!