What Exactly is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is like a friendly hello to the hiring manager. It's a one-page document you send alongside your resume when applying for a job. But, it's more than just a formality. It's your opportunity to introduce yourself, explain why you're perfect for the job, and showcase your enthusiasm.

Why Are They Important?

Just like everything, there are pros and cons to submitting a cover letter with your CV when applying for a role. 

Pros:

Personal Touch: Cover letters allow you to connect with the hiring manager on a personal level. You're not just another name on a resume; you're a real person with real interests.

Highlight Skills: They let you highlight skills and experiences that might not fit neatly into your resume. It's where you can share stories and examples that show you're the right fit for the job.

Address Gaps: If you have gaps in your work history or are changing careers, a cover letter is where you can explain these transitions and make your case.

Show Enthusiasm: A well-written cover letter shows that you're genuinely excited about the job and the company. Employers love to see that enthusiasm.

Stand Out: A thoughtful cover letter can set you apart. It's your chance to be memorable for all the right reasons.

Cons:

Time-Consuming: Writing personalized cover letters for each application can be time-consuming, especially when applying to multiple jobs.

Not Always Read: Some employers may not read cover letters, particularly if they receive a high volume of applications. In such cases, the effort put into crafting one may not yield significant benefits.

Quality Varies: Not all cover letters are well-written or impactful. A poorly written or generic cover letter can do more harm than good.

Redundancy: Sometimes, cover letters reiterate information already present in the resume, making them redundant and potentially frustrating for employers.

Expectation of Perfection: A strong cover letter is expected to be error-free, which can lead to added pressure for candidates.

Every hiring manager has a different opinion on cover letters and not all companies require them, if you are going through a recruiter, we recommend you ask if they think it will strengthen their profile!