Gabriela
What is a cover letter ?
There are so many mixed reviews about including a cover letter , and i do not know if that is something I should include with my resume and if it is what is it ? #resume #cover-letters #job-application
6 answers
Simeon Snow
Simeon’s Answer
James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
What is a Cover Letter?
A cover letter is a formal document that accompanies your resume when you apply for a job. It serves as an introduction to your application and provides an opportunity to highlight your qualifications, experiences, and motivations in a more personalized manner than a resume typically allows. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what a cover letter entails:
1. Purpose of a Cover Letter:
Introduction: The primary purpose of a cover letter is to introduce yourself to the employer. It gives you the chance to explain why you are interested in the position and how you learned about it.
Highlight Qualifications: A cover letter allows you to elaborate on specific experiences or skills that make you an ideal candidate for the job. You can draw attention to particular achievements or projects that relate directly to the job description.
Show Personality: Unlike resumes, which tend to be more factual and structured, cover letters provide insight into your personality and communication style. This can help employers gauge whether you’d be a good cultural fit for their organization.
2. Structure of a Cover Letter:
Header: Include your contact information at the top, followed by the date and then the employer’s contact information.
Salutation: Address the letter to a specific person if possible (e.g., “Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name]”). If you cannot find a name, “Dear Hiring Manager” is acceptable.
Introduction Paragraph: Start with an engaging opening that states the position you’re applying for and where you found it. Mention any mutual connections if applicable.
Body Paragraphs:
In one or two paragraphs, discuss your relevant experience and skills. Use specific examples that demonstrate how you’ve successfully handled similar responsibilities in past roles.
Explain why you’re interested in this particular company and position, showing that you’ve done your research about their values or recent projects.
Closing Paragraph: Reiterate your enthusiasm for the role, thank them for considering your application, and express your desire for an interview. Provide your contact information again if necessary.
Signature: End with “Sincerely,” followed by your name.
3. Importance of Including a Cover Letter:
While some employers may not require cover letters, many still value them as part of the application process. A well-crafted cover letter can set you apart from other candidates who may only submit their resumes.
It demonstrates professionalism and shows that you are willing to put in extra effort in your application.
4. When Not to Include One:
If the job posting explicitly states not to include a cover letter or if you’re applying through an online system that doesn’t allow attachments, then it’s best not to include one.
In conclusion, including a cover letter with your resume can significantly enhance your job application by providing context for your qualifications and demonstrating genuine interest in the position. It’s advisable to tailor each cover letter specifically for each job application rather than using a generic template.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
The Balance Careers: A comprehensive resource on career advice including detailed guidelines on writing effective cover letters.
Indeed Career Guide: Offers insights into job applications including best practices for crafting compelling cover letters.
Harvard Business Review: Provides expert opinions on professional development topics including effective communication strategies in job applications.
God Bless You!
JC.
Fiona Meow
Fiona’s Answer
Blake H.
Blake’s Answer
Deborah R. Brandt, PT, DPT
Deborah R.’s Answer
Google "cover letter" and you will get a lot of information. When you have a general question like this one, look it up on Google - just type the two most important words into the search bar and you will get a lot of information. If you don't get the answer you are looking for, put in two or three other important words and try again. After you get the basic information you can ask a more specific question here. That way you will get the best of both options. But for sure keep asking your questions!
Kim Igleheart
Kim’s Answer
A cover letter introduces your resume. I know that sounds silly at first, but it is a way to put a personal/human touch to what otherwise doesn't always sound so personable. Some interviewers read them, some don't. I have gotten many compliments on my cover letters. When to include them? When it is a job you really want. If the on-line application process lets you upload only one document, make the cover letter page 1 of the resume and upload them together!
The secret to a good cover letter is to customize it to the job you are applying for. Do not use the same cover letter for each resume you submit!
How to write it? Well, to do it right, it takes work. That's why I don't write them for every single job that I apply to! A cover letter is short - absolutely no more than one page! It takes the format of a regular business letter, with your return address in the upper right corner, the employer's business address below that, but on the left hand side, the date below that, and the salutation (Dear. _), below that! Try to get the name of whoever will be doing the interviewing, but, if you cannot, address it Dear Hiring Manager, or something like that. The body of the cover letter is 3 paragraphs, then you end with a Sincerely/Respectfully, or something like that. Leave 4 spaces, type your name, and then sign it above your typed name.
The body is as follows:
1st paragraph: Short - what position you are applying for and how you found out about it. It is okay to "drop names" if an employee recommended that you apply.
2nd paragraph. This one takes work. It is where you explain that you understand what the job entails (you have read the job announcement and visited the website, right?), and show why you are a good fit for the position. It is NOT a regurgitation of the resume. I like to draw on experience from two different jobs, if possible. For example: If I was applying to be a Bank teller, I would explain my experience as the treasurer of a non-profit organization, plus my customer service experience working at the Workforce center, makes me the ideal candidate, and could possibly throw in how my experience as a police officer developed my attention to detail and how my integrity is above reproach.
3rd paragraph. Ask for the interview! "please find my resume enclosed. I look forward to meeting with you to further discuss this exciting career opportunity!" (or something like that)
I used to recommend the website gotresumebuilder.com, and still do, except they recently started charging. If you are a student or have a library card, I believe you can circumvent the fees. In addition to resumes, they offer cover letter templates.
Best of luck to you! Please feel free to ask any follow-up questions.