Are you required to submit a cover letter along with your resume for the job application? Or are you simply unable to decide whether to attach a cover letter or not. Well, with new emerging job portals, one might feel that cover letters are redundant, and sending a detailed resume is enough to get the job.
That is a poor mistake. The truth is sending a well-written Cover Letter might even get you to the next step of the process even when your resume is not up to the mark.
Read this article to understand cover letters better and to learn some tips on writing a cover letter for your resume.
What are Cover Letters
A cover letter is a document you send to the hiring manager along with your resume to provide some additional information about yourself.
You can talk about your passion, your goals, your achievements, or whatever that makes you more memorable to the employer.
Remember to add something extra that supplements your resume, and not something that duplicates it.
Why write a Cover Letter
Writing a cover letter can prove to be of great value. Why? Well, it gives you another chance to set yourself apart from other applicants.
Unlike a resume that is completely fact-oriented, a cover letter gives a personal touch which in-turn helps create a better and lasting impression.
Also, an engaging cover letter can make even your ordinary resume stand out.
When to Write a Cover Letter
While some jobs expect applicants to send both cover letters and resumes, most of them do not specify sending one. Nonetheless, it will do you good to include one.
That is, you can write a cover letter almost every time you are sending your resume, except in cases where the job listing explicitly mentions not to. In those cases, you should include only the specific documents.
What to Include in a Cover Letter
Again, your cover letter should not be a complete copy of your resume.
You may provide the same information while highlighting some parts that are relevant or add some achievements to demonstrate your soft skills.
You may also describe a certain part of your resume in detail that needs some explanation. Like, you can clarify the career change, or the gap in your studies or employment, or even how you plan to add value to the company with this opportunity.
Try not to focus on anything negative, like any skill that you lack or any unpleasant experience you had endured in your previous job.
read more cover letter checklist
Some Tips for writing a Cover Letter for your Resume
- Format your letter well
Your first impression matters a lot. Hence, take your time to format the letter properly, giving spaces wherever necessary to make it look polished.
- Write a tailored cover letter for every job role
You must always write custom cover letters specifying only those details that match the job description. Also, make sure to choose the correct type of cover letter; whether you are writing for a particular job role or you are looking for possible openings in the company.
- Use keywords in the cover letter
Including some keywords from the job listing will not only demonstrate that you are a good match but also help you get past the automated applicant tracking system.
- Address your cover letter to the right person
You might have to spend some time to find the hiring manager who will be reading your letter, but it is worth the effort. Addressing the right person in the letter will show your eagerness and effort which is a great way to grab the attention of your employer.
Read more Proofreading Tips for Cover Letter
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