Applying for a job is a multi-stage process. Alongside actually seeking out potential positions, there is also the applying stage. This is arguably one of the most important things to get right as it is your first impression and foot through the door of a potential place of employment. You may have noticed some job applications require a cover letter and some don’t. So, how important is a cover letter when submitting a resume for a job application? Read on to find out. 

What is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is sent in addition to your resume. It forms a part of the job application and details precisely why you are the best candidate for the advertised position. This is your chance to shine and explain how you meet each point in the prerequisite criterion. There is no rule on length, as long it isn’t a ten chapter essay. It just needs to answer the questions: ‘why are you the one for this job?’ and ‘How do you meet our criteria?’.

How Important is it?

Cover letters are regarded as fairly important when they are required. They tend to be more looked at by employers than resumes as they give a more ‘to the point’ account of whether or not a candidate is viable for their advertised vacancy. 

Why do Some Companies Require a Cover Letter and Some Don’t?

It depends on the type of role. Some jobs, for example, a designer type role, may require a portfolio instead of a traditional cover letter to showcase work as opposed to discussing it in written form. Obviously, some things are appropriate in certain lines of work that don’t translate to others. Some prefer to get into the details during a face-to-face interview to gain a better sense of a candidate, and some want people vetted and listed before they get through the door. 

Top Tips for Creating a Good Quality Cover Letter

Hire a Professional! It’s not cheating to enlist the help of an expert from one of the best resume writing services. You are giving yourself the best foot forward and ensuring that the end result will tick all the boxes. These services edit, write and proofread resumes and cover letters so they are definitely worth exploring to give yourself a boost up from other candidates. 

Proofread Everything. Even if you go down the professional route, it is still recommended to double check the end result. Human error is common and you don’t want to lose out on a role because you didn’t double check your application components. 

Look at the Job Description. Read every point and use it as a frame of reference for your cover letter. Remember, the main point is to show how you are a good fit. 

Whether or not a cover letter is important will be decided on a case by case basis! It is up to the employer. If they do ask for one, make sure it has all the required information and use it to really showcase your talents.