Candidates that send a good cover letter along with their resume can really set themselves apart from the crowd. But, it can be difficult to know where to start or what to write. And that's why we've created this site, to tell you how to create a cover letter in just a few easy steps!
A cover letter is an additional document you send alongside your resume when you apply for a job. It essentially sets out in greater detail exactly why you're suitable for the specific job you're applying for. This shouldn't just be a repeat of what's on your resume, but a letter that's highly targeted to the job description. A cover letter is almost like a dry run for the interview, and your personal sales pitch.
Not necessarily. In some cases employers will ask directly for one as a way to weed out those candidates not willing to put the effort in to do one. But in most cases you won't specifically be asked for one.
However, in today's ultra competitive job market, we'd recommend you write one as a matter of course. A good cover letter will help you stand out from candidates that didn't write one.
Cover letters first and foremost highlight your interest in the job, and a willingness to put the work in to get it. This effort is going to make you a stand out straight away.
Not only this, a cover letter is an opportunity to show exactly why you're a strong candidate. It gives you a chance to say exactly why you're a match for the role and to highlight some specific skills that will make you a perfect match.
Always use one if an employer has specifically asked for one. For every other application, it's really up to your discretion. As we've mentioned, we'd recommend almost always adding a cover letter to your application given the benefits it can give you and how competitive the marketplace is.
Don't try and get away with using a copy and pasted cover letter where you change the name of the employer for each letter. This will require a bit of effort and you'll need a tailored letter for each job.
Make it clear you know the company. Find out their pain points if you can and mention how you'll fix them in your cover letter.
Explain why you want this position and show enthusiasm for the job.
This will put the focus on you, when your letter should be focused on the employer. Talk about helping them.
Most recruiters prefer cover letters to be about half a page long. This is easy to read, but should get your point across.
Don't use a generic "I'm good for this job because..." open strong and with something memorable instead.