What is a Cover Letter

Article on frequently asked resume question "What is a Cover Letter"

One of the most overlooked parts of a professional application to a particular company or open job position is the cover letter. While so many applicants consider it enough that they send their resume and nothing more, for review against a potential employer’s list of matching qualifications and experience; it isn’t. Not at all. If you have been subscribing to this notion of resume sans cover letter for the entirety of your career life; now is the time to fully comprehend what a cover letter is; and what its value is to your future of prospective job opportunities-to better your chances of interviews and subsequent job positions.

A cover letter-often, also referred to as a letter of inquiry-is a means of formally introducing your interest and candidacy for a job position; and stating the highlights of this candidacy for the potential employer’s quick and convenient review. A cover letter, not only, introduces who you are and your interest in a position with a company; but it also highlights your skills, qualifications, and experience to the company-as a summary of your resume’s content.

Employers, not only find a cover letter convenient and personable, as a part of a professional application for employment; but also, expect it-for the reasons summarized above. For this reason alone, you should start incorporating a professional letter of inquiry, if for no other reason than to avoid being discarded at first glance. Including a cover letter is not just an optional choice for a candidate who wants the possibility of an interview; but a must; it is as vital as the resume itself. This said, it should be understood, that in many cases; cover letters are the only document reviewed by potential employers; so if you only send off a resume, you are out of luck.

So, what do you need to know if you are just beginning to draft a cover letter or letter of inquiry for your resume’s presentation? Here are the most basic tips of creating a successful cover letter, but for more details-locate the section on creating cover letters for more help:

1. Make it concise: It is important to ensure your letter of inquiry is less than a page-at its optimum, it should only be a couple paragraphs. This is just enough for the employer to see your most compelling experience, and qualifications.

2. Include the significant: Make each word count in your cover letter. After an initial my name is and I write to inquire about blah blah blah position, you’ll want to list the most compelling highlights of your experience and qualifications. Two paragraphs should be enough to tell them how many years you have in your field, what you shining achievements are, and other transferable skills.

3. Introduce and conclude correctly: Once you know the meat (the highlights of your career history) of your cover letter; you need to make sure that you begin and conclude the letter correctly. The beginning should say your name and your interest in the position, as well as what you have included in the package of application, i.e. resume, samples, etc. The conclusion should always thank them for their time, and look forward to hearing from them, or something to that effect. Lastly, a Sincerely,Your Name should finish the cover letter.