what is the purpose of a resume cover letter

Pro-Tip: If you’re applying to several similar opportunities, creating a draft cover letter in advance, geared toward that type of opportunity, can be a helpful way to save time in your actual application process.

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Sample cover letters.

These sample cover letters will help you get started and give you an idea of what to include in your own letters!

How to Write a Strong Personal Statement

A few adjustments can get your application noticed.

Whether applying for a summer internship, a professional development opportunity, such as a Fulbright, an executive MBA program, or a senior leadership development course, a personal statement threads the ideas of your CV, and is longer and has a different tone and purpose than a traditional cover letter. A few adjustments to your personal statement can get your application noticed by the reviewer.

At multiple points in your life, you will need to take action to transition from where you are to where you want to be. This process is layered and time-consuming, and getting yourself to stand out among the masses is an arduous but not impossible task. Having a polished resume that explains what you’ve done is the common first step. But, when an application asks for it, a personal statement can add color and depth to your list of accomplishments. It moves you from a one-dimensional indistinguishable candidate to someone with drive, interest, and nuance.

We’ve led prominent professional programs for over two decades and sat on prestigious awards committees. Between us, we have read thousands of personal statements. While a few stand out, most are lackluster and miss the mark. A few adjustments to your personal statement can get your application noticed by the reviewer.

Write what they want to hear.

Most organizations that offer a fellowship or internship are using the experience as a pipeline: It’s smart to spend 10 weeks and $15,000 on someone before committing five years and $300,000. Rarely are the organizations being charitable or altruistic, so align your stated goals with theirs. For example, if you’re applying for a Fulbright — whose goal is to foster cross-cultural dialogue — your defined goals should specifically mention international ambitions rather than a desire to go into the domestic financial sector.

Too often, we read statements that wax lyrical about building a career as a physician when applying to a summer program sponsored by an engineering PhD program. The same goes for charitable foundations: Are they looking for global leaders? Those who hold a connection to the disease they’re funding? Position yourself as holding the same values and goals as the organization sponsoring the opportunity.

Know when to bury the lead and when to get to the point.

Be aware of creative writing strategies that you can employ depending on the length of the essay. It’s hard to paint a picture and explain your motivations in 200 words, but if you have two pages, give the reader a story arc or ease into your point by setting the scene. Take the example of a junior analyst at a bank applying for an executive MBA program. If they’re given the opportunity to write a longer piece, an opening describing how a meaningful volunteer experience shaped their worldview can give the reader insight into their multiple facets and diverse interests.

In a brief essay, on the other hand, you should get right to the point. That same junior analyst, when applying for a company-sponsored leadership development bootcamp, should focus a brief statement on projects they’ve contributed to, leadership skills they’ve so far displayed, and how the course would be used to support further (internal) growth.

Recognize that the evaluator is subjective.

Qualifications, transcripts, and in some cases, tests all form objective measures that determine worthiness for consideration for an opportunity. The personal statement is subjective, meaning you’re also being assessed on unknowable criteria. Most of us on evaluation committees are reading for whether or not you’re interesting. Stated differently, do we want to go out to dinner with you to hear more?

While writing your statement, realize that reader’s opinions might not be based on what you’ve done, but rather on how you position yourself. What did you do with the opportunities and challenges you were given, or how did you create opportunities? Write it so that the person reading it wants to hear more and can’t wait to mentor or equip you with this additional opportunity.

Address the elephant in the room.

So maybe your grades weren’t great in core courses, or perhaps you’ve never worked in the field you’re applying to. Make sure to address the deficiency rather than hope the reader ignores it — because they won’t. A few sentences suffice. Deficiencies do not need to be the cornerstone of the application.

To wit, it’s preferable to read, “You will no doubt see I received a C in organic chemistry and you may wonder why a program in chemistry would consider a candidate with a low grade in such a core topic. I wish I could explain my need to balance a part-time job in the glass-washing facility with schoolwork, and I wish I could explain how much I underestimated how different I would find organic chemistry after sailing through freshman chemistry.”

As opposed to “My high school teacher told me I was good at science and I aced freshman chemistry, so I figured organic chemistry would be easy too. It was taught very unimaginatively in a really big auditorium. I don’t really want to go that direction anyways, but I really want to be in your internship because so far the only lab experience I have is as a glorified dishwasher in the glassware core.”

One example shows grit and perseverance, the other shows a person who would not make an effective team member.

Ultimately, what you have accomplished is important, but it can be dismissed if packaged incorrectly. A bespoke personal statement is a critical component of your application package. The goal is to intrigue the reader with the depth of your character and answer the “how” and “why” questions that your truncated resume is unable to accomplish.

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What Is the Difference Between a Resume and a Cover Letter?

Alison Doyle is one of the nation’s foremost career experts.

Resume vs. Cover Letter

What a Resume Includes

What a cover letter includes.

Use a Cover Letter to be Subjective

Prostock-Studio / iStock / Getty Images Plus

What's the difference between a resume and a cover letter? Both a cover letter and a resume share the common purpose of proving that you have the right skills to excel at the job for which you are applying.

However, there are clear distinctions between the structure and intent of the two documents. Job seekers should view their cover letter and resume as a complementary but unique pair of documents. That is, your cover letter should be more than just bullet points regurgitated from the resume.

Many employers require that a resume is submitted with a job application.

A cover letter may not be required. But, including one when you apply for a job can help your chances of getting selected for an interview.

The Difference Between a Resume and a Cover Letter

You can think of your resume as a general summary of your work experience and your cover letter as a summary of your work experience as it relates to the job at hand.

A resume is a document that itemizes your employment history. It summarizes the jobs you have held, the education you have attained, certifications, skills, and other quantifiable information about your background and work experience.

The most common resume format is a list with your contact information, and experience section that includes job titles, position descriptions, dates of employment, an education section, and other relevant information.

Typically, a resume is written in the third person and uses as few words as possible to summarize the experience. So, instead of writing "I supervised the large buying team at XYZ company" a resume would have a bullet point that says, "Supervised 19-person buying team."

Whenever possible, you'll want to use numbers on your resume, such as the number of people you supervised, percent sales increased, the number of customers helped, etc.

A cover letter is written to highlight the qualifications you have for the job for which you are applying. It is used to provide the employer with additional information as to why you are a good candidate for the job. The main function of your cover letter is to show off how your qualification makes you a match for the job.

A cover letter is written in a letter format including a salutation, several paragraphs, and a closing. Unlike a resume, you should use the first-person to write your cover letter . (That said, avoid using "I" too much.)

Your resume should provide employers with a detailed list of your work experience and education. The skills and accomplishments associated with each job you have held should be described in enough detail to show employers how you have added value in those specific roles.

Often, resumes provide information in bulleted lists; this helps make the document concise and allows recruiters to scan through it quickly.

A cover letter is a short three or four paragraph document. It should be written with the assumption that employers will consult your resume to match it to the statement you are making in the letter about your qualifications.

A cover letter will help employers to interpret your background as represented on the resume and will help prove how your previous experiences qualify you for a job.

When you are writing a cover letter for a job, first review the job requirements that are detailed in the job posting. Use your cover letter to explain how you meet those criteria.

Use a Cover Letter to Convey Subjective Information

A resume states the facts – who, what, when, and how. In contrast, a cover letter provides an opportunity to explain why you are qualified for the job. This document adds a bit of color and personality and is intended to persuade employers that you're a good fit for the position at hand.

A cover letter is a better vehicle than a resume to convey more subjective information like the basis of your interest in a position, how your values motivate you to pursue a job, or why the culture of a company appeals to you.

Your cover letters will help you sell your qualifications to prospective employers while your resume provides the details to back up the information included in your letters.

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Home Cover Letter Help Cover Letter vs Resume: What’s the Difference?

Cover Letter vs Resume: What’s the Difference?

You should always pair a well-written cover letter with your resume to make your job application stand out. But it’s essential to know how to write these two documents so they don’t repeat the same information.

An image showing a cover letter vs a resume

A cover letter formally introduces you, your interest in a specific position, and your suitability for that position to a hiring manager. A resume, on the other hand, provides a hiring manager an overview of your skills and professional experience.

These two different yet complementary documents act as a dynamic team when you apply for jobs. Together, they give you the best chance of impressing hiring managers and landing work.

On this page, we provide answers to the following questions:

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is a professional document used to introduce yourself to an employer and explain why you want a specific job. Unlike a resume, which is an objective overview of your qualifications, the purpose of a cover letter is to prove why your qualifications make you the best fit for the job opening.

The normal cover letter length is 300 to 500 words, giving you plenty of room to show why you’re the ideal candidate.

Your cover letter can be broken into six parts :

A labeled cover letter from a resume and cover letter pair.

List your contact details (name, phone number, email address) in your cover letter header .

B. Salutation

The best cover letter opening is Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx] [Hiring Manager’s Name]. Using the hiring manager’s name is an easy way to make a good immediate first impression and show that you’ve done your research.

Dear Hiring Manager is also acceptable. Using To Whom It May Concern isn’t ideal because it sounds overly formal and generic.

C. Introduction Paragraph

Your introduction paragraph is where you introduce yourself as a candidate to the hiring manager. Use this space to highlight:

D. Body Paragraphs

Your second paragraph (and third if you have lots of experience) should address the responsibilities listed in the job description. How can your skills and experience help you handle those responsibilities?

When writing your cover letter you can also use bullet points in the middle if you want to highlight major career achievements and/or awards.

E. Conclusion Paragraph

Your cover letter closing paragraph is where you aim to set up an interview. Start by expressing your enthusiasm for the opportunity, and suggest setting up a time to discuss further. Then, thank the hiring manager for their time.

F. Sign-off

No need to get creative here. Simply writing “Sincerely” followed by your name is the perfect way to sign off on your cover letter .

What is a resume?

A resume is a document that provides a concise, neatly formatted overview of your professional qualifications. When writing your resume , make sure to include your relevant work experience, education, skills, and notable accomplishments.

There are six standard resume sections :

A labeled example of a how a resume differs from a cover letter

A. Contact Details

Your contact details are included in your resume header .

At a minimum, your contact details should include your:

Additionally, you can add LinkedIn to your resume (make sure it’s up to date!), and your mailing address or city if you want to prove you live within commuting distance.

B. Introduction

The resume introduction comes after your contact details and provides a brief overview of your key qualifications and skills. Your introduction should include enough information to entice the hiring manager to continue reading your resume without being overly wordy.

Depending on what qualities or skills you want to highlight, you can use any of the following types of resume introductions:

C. Work Experience Section

The work experience section is the core of your resume. This section is where you list your previous job titles or any roles you’ve held that are relevant to the job you want to fill.

Your work history should be arranged with your most recent job at the top, and include the following information for each position:

Each job entry generally includes three to five bullet points that highlight your key accomplishments and responsibilities in that role.

D. Skills Section

The resume skills section is where you list relevant job skills . Include a diverse mix of hard skills and soft skills to demonstrate that you’re a well-rounded candidate and can handle a variety of challenges.

E. Education Section

The resume’s education section is where you mention the basics of your education history. This includes at minimum your school names, highest degree earned, and majors and minors.

If you lack work experience, you can also list relevant coursework , your GPA (if it’s greater than 3.5), and any academic honors or awards that you feel make you more qualified for the job.

F. Awards Section (Optional)

You can add an additional section on your resume to list awards if you have any impressive honors you’d like to highlight.

Consider noting any of the following items:

The difference between a cover letter and a resume

There are four key differences between a cover letter and a resume:

1. Importance

Resumes are a requirement when you apply for work. On the other hand, cover letters are often necessary , but optional when a company specifically says to not include one.

Do resumes need cover letters?

It’s always best to include a cover letter for a resume because it provides a personal touch and makes your application stand out.

2. Structure

The standard cover letter format is similar to that of a business letter . It includes a heading, an introduction paragraph, body content, a conclusion paragraph, and a sign-off.

Meanwhile, there are three different resume formats , and each format emphasizes different sections of a resume.

Additionally, unlike a cover letter (which is mostly paragraphs), a resume is largely broken up into bullets.

Should your cover letter match your resume?

Yes, make sure you match the important details like your contact information on your resume and cover letter. We also recommend using the same design elements, such as font and colors, to make your application look consistent.

The purpose of your resume is to showcase your job qualifications. Your cover letter, on the other hand, can explain why those qualifications make you the ideal candidate for that particular role.

In addition, your cover letter complements your resume by expanding on specific experiences or qualifications that don’t fit within the space-constrained format of a resume.

The tone of a resume is more objective than that of a cover letter.

A cover letter’s tone varies depending on the job and industry, but should always have a little personality. Just make sure that personality is still professional and doesn’t detract from the letter’s content.

Examples of a cover letter and resume

As a reference, here are two professional examples of a resume and a cover letter to use as inspiration when writing your own:

Cover letter for a customer service representative

An example of a cover letter for a resume

Cover letter example (text version)

HANNAH RENNER

[email protected] | (895) 555-555 4397 Aaron Smith Drive Harrisburg, PA 17101

Tammie Jardine 531 Roosevelt Ave. Philadelphia, PA, 19019 (907) 541-1102 [email protected]

Dear Mrs. Jardine,

I’m excited to submit my enclosed application for the Call Center Representative position at Phone Sales Inc. With over 3 years of experience in sales and customer service, I’m confident that my skillset and passion for customer satisfaction make me an ideal fit for the role.

As a call center representative at Gibby Sales, I spent two years honing my upselling techniques, conflict resolution skills, and phone etiquette. In just five months on the job, my managers had me onboarding and training new employees. By the end of my employment at Gibby, I had achieved the following results:

• A consistent customer service rating of over 90%. • Regularly upsold products, generating a total of $25,000 in additional revenue for the company. • Resolved 96% of customer issues given to me while maintaining one of the highest satisfaction rates in the company.

It would be a fantastic opportunity to put my skills to the test as a member of the Phone Sales Inc. customer service team. Your company is one of the best in the industry at employee development, and I’m confident I could quickly become a contributing member of the team.

I am looking forward to discussing the position with you in more detail and am available by phone or email at any time most convenient for you. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Hannah Renner

Resume for a customer service representative

An example of a resume for a cover letter

Resume example (text version)

Call Center Representative

Email: [email protected] Phone: 895 555 555 Address: 4397 Aaron Smith Drive Harrisburg, PA 17101 Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/Hannah.renner

RESUME SUMMARY

• Experienced: Customer service professional with 3+ years in call centers and the hospitality industry • Efficient: Proficient at handling numerous calls simultaneously and reliably resolving client issues in a timely manner • Bilingual: English – Native ; French – Fluent. Capable of providing excellent customer service in both languages

CALL CENTER REPRESENTATIVE Gibby Sales, Philadelphia, PA / September 2018 – Present • Handle 60+ customer interactions per day, providing personalized and helpful service to ensure satisfaction. • Memorize details of over 220 company products, and able to answer customer questions about them quickly and thoroughly. • Regularly generate an excess of $2,00 each month in additional revenue by successfully upselling customers • Maintain and update sales spreadsheets • Close at least 5 sales per day in both English and French • Onboarded and trained 4 new employees in customer interaction, upselling, and conflict resolution

HOSTESS Fat Larry’s Canoli House, Swarthmore, PA / June 2016– August 2017 • Greeted an average of 200 guests per day and escorted them to their tables • Organized and scheduled reservations for 20+ customers daily over the phone and online • Presented the restaurant’s weekly specials and upsold customers on drink options

English – Native French – Fluent

SOFT SKILLS

Interpersonal Skills Collaboration Problem Solving Patient

HARD SKILLS

Microsoft Office Suite Google Drive Suite 70 WPM Typist Quickbooks

B.A. ENGLISH Swarthmore College, Swarthmore, PA 2016

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Written by Conrad Benz

Conrad Benz is a Digital Media Specialist & Resume Expert at Resume Genius, where he helps countless job-seekers craft standout resumes and launch their careers. His... more

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Purpose of a Cover Letter

by Resume-Now Staff Writer

What is its significance?

A cover letter is an important element to find a job. This document provides employers the enough information to invite them you read or not your resume and determine if you are the right person for the job position. It is also used to:

The cover letter you write should always motivate readers to want to know more about you. It should let recruiters know of what you are able to do and what you cannot do. This is the reason why you always should personalized cover letters. You should also try to connect you to the reader. Most job-hunters recommend writing a neat and brief cover letter. It must be a speaker of your candidacy.

Finally, you should always try to sell yourself as the ideal candidate for the job position in your cover letter. Most expert job-hunters recommend paying attention to this document. It can be the key to get or not the job.

The way you focus your desires, personal information and job skills will provide a perspective of you to your potential employer, so it advisable to avoid talking about needless thing or giving unnecessary information.

About the Author

Resume-now staff writer.

At Resume-Now, we firmly believe that all jobseekers deserve access to the best expert knowledge and job-winning resume tools on the market today. To accomplish this, we’ve handpicked a team of diverse experts to offer advice for jobseekers from every imaginable angle.Our team of recruiters, human resources professionals, certified resumes writers, and award-winning journalists have pooled their knowledge to create a toolbox of tips and resources for today’s jobseeker. Together, they share their unbeatable wisdom to make resume writing effortless, and the job search a little less painful.Resume-Now offer help for entry-level workers, executives, and everyone in between. You can get the job you want with a little help from Resume-Now!

Was this information helpful? Let us know!

How to Write an Impressive Letter of Introduction: Tips and Examples

Introduction:

Start by introducing the concept of a letter of introduction and why it is important.

You can highlight how it can help job seekers stand out from the competition and create a positive first impression on potential employers.

1. What is a letter of introduction?

Start by defining what a letter of introduction is and what its purpose is.

Explain how it differs from a cover letter and a resume.

2. Why are letters of introduction important?

Highlight the benefits of writing a letter of introduction, such as introducing yourself to potential employers, expressing interest in a job, and

showcasing your skills and accomplishments.

3. Tips for writing a successful letter of introduction:

Provide practical tips for writing a successful letter of introduction.

For example, advise readers to keep it concise, personalize the letter to the recipient, and showcase their unique skills and experiences.

4. Examples of effective letters of introduction:

Provide examples of effective letters of introduction and break down what makes them successful.

This can include highlighting specific skills and accomplishments that are relevant to the job, using a professional tone, and showcasing

enthusiasm for the position.

5. How to incorporate a letter of introduction into your job search:

Offer advice on how to incorporate a letter of introduction into your job search strategy.

This can include sending it along with your resume and cover letter, using it to introduce yourself at networking events, or sending it directly

to hiring managers.

Conclusion:

Sum up the main points of the blog post and encourage readers to take action by writing their own letter of introduction.

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Resume & Cover Letter

Importance of cover letters for job success.

Posted by Glassdoor Team

Career Advice Experts

Last Updated June 29, 2021

Guide Overview

Understanding the importance of cover letters for career success.

A cover letter is an important tool for selling yourself to a recruiter or hiring manager and staying top-of-mind with them. If you take the time to write a quality cover letter to accompany your resume, you are demonstrating to the employer your passion for their position, which can help you stand out from candidates whose applications didn't include one.

Understanding the importance of cover letters in the hiring process can help you market your skills more effectively and give your chances of getting the role a significant boost. Here, we outline reasons to include a cover letter in your application, offer tips for writing cover letters, and provide an example cover letter to help you practice.

What is the purpose of a cover letter?

A cover letter is a document you submit with your resume when applying for a job. The purpose of the cover letter is to introduce yourself professionally to the recruiter or employer. It comprises a summary of your professional qualifications, achievements, and other personal qualities that qualify you for the role.

When well written, a cover letter can vastly increase your chances of getting hired because it sets you apart from candidates who didn’t include the document in their application. By writing a cover letter, the hiring manager perceives you as a person who is serious about working for their company, and this can make them to give your candidacy more priority when it’s time to hire.

Reasons why a cover letter is important

Regardless of the position you are applying for, supporting your resume with a cover letter can boost your chances of landing a job. Here are some reasons why cover letters are important:

Impress employers

One of the most important functions of a cover letter is that it allows you to make a good first impression on the employer. A well-written cover letter that highlights your best role-specific strengths can position you as an outstanding candidate among equally qualified applicants.

Because the cover letter emphasizes your core competencies , it does an excellent job of marketing your skills and gaining the hiring manager’s attention, increasing the chances of getting the role.

Show personality

Unlike a resume that is space-constrained, a cover letter allows you to elaborate your personality traits. You can use it to demonstrate several positive personal qualities such as leadership, self-motivation, and other traits that will add value to the company. Writing a cover letter also allows you to further impress upon the reader the reasons you are the most qualified candidate for the role.

A cover letter can also add context to your application. It provides the opportunity to elaborate on your previous roles, successes and challenges, and reasons for seeking new opportunities. These give the reader insights into your motivation and can positively influence your ability to progress to the next stage of the selection process.

Demonstrate suitability for the role

A cover letter allows you to demonstrate to the employer how your role-relevant skills, achievements, and experience will translate to results when hired. You can use successes from previous roles to help the reader visualize you have the knowledge and workplace experience to perform effectively if hired.

Showcase passion for the role

The mere exercise of writing a cover letter shows you have a strong interest to work in an organization. Writing a powerful letter that demonstrates an in-depth understanding of the role and the employer’s needs helps you stand out from the crowd and shows you will likely have a positive impact on the company.

Build relationship with the employer

A compelling cover letter helps the employer understand your personality, professional accomplishments, and motivations, making it a powerful tool for building relationships. It lets you demonstrate how your career goals align with the company’s interests and your ambitions for the organization when employed. Help the reader appreciate your unique combination of skills, experience, and personality traits by highlighting your most important accomplishments and how you will leverage them to make the position and the company a better place.

Showcase writing skills

A well-written cover letter can also show the employer you have impeccable writing skills. In most positions, employers value the ability to articulate your thoughts and put them down in coherent and easily understandable writing. It shows you have excellent communication skills , which are essential for effective workplace performance.

Demonstrate ability to follow instructions

Writing a concise and well-thought out cover letter shows an employer you can follow instructions. A good cover letter will not only showcase your writing skills but also show you understand the job requirements and the employer’s needs.

How to write an effective cover letter

Here are tips for writing a winning cover letter that will make a powerful impression on hiring managers and increase the likelihood of progressing in the selection process:

Study the job description

Going through the job description will give you almost all the information you need to create a compelling cover letter. The job description typically provides the qualifications, skills, experience, and personality traits required for the role. It will usually also include the instructions for applying, documents, and deadline for application.

Research extensively

Before writing a cover letter, it is vital to perform an in-depth research into the role and the employer’s needs. Doing this will help you create a letter that is relevant to the job, and the company’s distinct culture, values, and industry. Check the employer’s website, past recruitment materials, employee reviews, social media handles, and industry communication materials for more insights into their operations and employee expectations.

Make it personal

Write a personalized cover letter for each job application. If you know the hiring manager, address the cover letter to them personally. You can get their contact details through the company website or professional profiles on various social media platforms. Crafting an original cover letter that demonstrates a deep understanding of the role and the employer shows you are serious about the role and can help you stand out from less-thorough candidates.

Make it captivating

Start your cover letter with a powerful sentence that will motivate the recipient to continue reading. Catch their attention by immediately emphasizing your best-selling points and the traits that make you the ideal fit for the position. Include achievements from previous roles to create a connection with the company’s roles and your ability to solve their problems.

Include contact details

It is important to include your name, email address, and phone number if you are submitting a hard copy cover letter to make it easier for the employer to reach you. If you are emailing the cover letter, you can still include your professional online profile under your signature.

Incorporate job-specific keywords

Incorporate some keywords in the job description in your cover letter, especially if the document will pass through an applicant tracking software (ATS). However, it is not advisable to stuff a cover letter with keywords-include just the right amount to scale the ATS.

Include a professional close and signoff

At the end of the letter, close with a call to action that will motivate the reader to take action. Finish with a formal close such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards” and sign off with your name (for email) or signature (for hard copy).

Proofread and format before submission

Once you’ve drafted your cover letter, go over it a few times to check for spelling, grammar, and structural errors. Proofread, edit and double-check the address of the recipient and any other information regarding the role, the employer, and your previous roles. Format the document properly, using the right margins, a professionally acceptable font and font size, and the right length .

Example cover letter

Here is an example of a cover letter you can use for practice when writing your own:

I am applying for the position of HR Assistant Manager recently advertised by your company. With over three years of experience in recruitment, employee development, payroll management, and other human resources management areas, I would make an ideal fit for Carrielli Consults.

I have worked in every aspect of human resources management for the past four years. During that time, I have supervised the selection and hiring process of over 100 entry, middle, and senior level employees.

Working as a HR Assistant with Beldon Corporation, I handled payroll management, onboarded new employees, and worked with resource organizations to create training plans and employee job development programs. I have an in-depth understanding of state and federal labor laws, and I have helped my organization to resolve over 15 employee-management conflicts.

Over the years, I have trained more than 20 HR administrative assistants, created workflows for employees, managed benefits and bonuses, and efficiently oversaw employee-employer relationships for improved productivity and efficiency. I am looking for new challenges, and I believe my skills and experience will be of immense benefit to your organization.

I would appreciate the opportunity to work with a successful company like yours. Please don’t hesitate to contact me for any information or document you may need during the selection process.

Toby Wilkinson

Whether you are applying for a new generation company or an organization with a traditional culture, the importance of cover letters in the hiring process cannot be overemphasized. Learn how to write powerful, personalized cover letters that will help you stand out from other candidates and improve your chances of getting your dream job.

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Everyone says you don’t get a second chance to make a good first impression. And all of those unnamed people are completely right. First impressions are essential, especially when you’re looking for a job.

So you made a great resume, with a unique template, one that covers all the important past experiences and how you’re the best employee that would grace us with its presence on this planet.

But how can you make this even better?

This is when cover letters step in.

Even if you’re not required to write one when you apply for a certain position, it can only help.

In this article, we will show you all the benefits of sending a cover letter, the basic outline that you can follow, some common mistakes, and many other cover letter tips.

Let’s dive in.

What's the purpose of a cover letter?

Cover letters are an extension to your CV or resume that will dive even deeper into your professional and personal qualifications, showing the company why you are the best candidate for the job.

It’s something that a lot of candidates skip when they apply for a certain position, so if you have a cover letter, you are already a couple of steps ahead of the competition!

These letters are a great way to properly introduce yourself in a more personalized way by addressing the points they care about the most.

Take it as something that would add a personal touch to all the facts and data you’ve already included in your resume, enticing them to read further and really get to know you.

It will show that you have put the time into researching the job you’re applying for. You know what they need and you will give it to them.

Before you start writing, take a look at some effective cover letters so that you can see how the candidates tailored the content to fit the company and how they expressed themselves.

Employment gaps can easily turn off an employer and give a bad impression of your consistency and work ethics. And the bad thing is, there is no space on the resume where you can explain them.

This happens most often when you use the chronological type of resume. If you’re still wondering which type of resume will suit your needs best, take a look at our resume guide .

So, if you’ve decided to use the reverse chronological resume , all your gaps will shine bright like the sun, and there is no space left where you can clarify the circumstances that surround them.

Cover letters give you the freedom to do just that. Use it to tackle any controversial topics head-on and don’t leave anything to the imagination of your potential employer.

Don’t try to hide those gaps or other pieces of information such as only working in a company for 2 months. The best tactic is to be upfront about everything so you can win their trust even before the interview.

Of course, you can always find employers that would be hesitant to hire someone with long employment gaps, regardless of the explanation. However, those are companies you don’t want to have anything in common with.

And remember, the goal of a cover letter is to get you an interview. Don’t over-explain yourself, 1 or 2 sentences per gap would be enough. If the recruiters need more information, they can just ask you during the interview.

Then you will have the chance to go in-depth and make the best impression since you can look at their reactions, analyze their behavior, and see how they react to certain pieces of information.

Enhancv What Is The Purpose Of A Cover Letter In An Application

Introduction

It’s best you start with an opening section that includes your personal information such as full name, address, email, phone number, etc. You can also insert a link to your professional profile, for example, LinkedIn.

Pay special attention to the email. It needs to look professional. No matter how long you’ve used your high-school email, “ [email protected] ” will not impress your future employers, unless you’re applying for a band.

Next is the greeting. Usually, the job offer includes the name of the hiring manager and if it doesn’t, take your time to research them. It will make a great impression if they see you made the effort to learn the contact names.

Still, it needs to be respectful. Say the name of the hiring manager is Josh. Don’t start with “Hey Josh” or “What’s up Josh?”. A simple “Dear Josh” would be great. Or, if you have a full name, use it – “Dear Mr.Smith”.

Representation of your qualifications

Now that you’ve finished with the presentations, it’s time to start advertising yourself.

Start with how you found out about the position and the things that motivated you to apply for it. Briefly explain how your qualifications and skills are related to the job, making sure you’re using the ones they specified in the ad.

If they are looking for someone who can manage multiple projects at a time, include it. See what they need the most in their candidates and if it’s something you’re confident in, don’t forget to put it in.

This part needs to be very engaging, it will determine whether they will continue reading or stop in the middle, throwing your resume and letter away for good.

Be specific about your achievements and responsibilities. “I was proofreading documents” is not as nearly as effective as “I was the main proofreader for all the legal documentation for the Accounting department”.

Be confident when you talk about what you’ve done but be careful not to appear cocky and arrogant. Simply highlight your accomplishments and let them speak for you, instead of saying how great and unique you are.

Values and Goals

The next section should include arguments about why you’re such a unique fit for the company, how they can benefit from someone with your personality, and how enthusiastic you are about applying for this position.

Take some time to explain about your hobbies, about you as a person. Show that you’re not a mindless robot, but a unique human being with their own passions and desires.

Share with them your dreams and what you expect to accomplish both as an employee of their company and in life in general.

If you’ve spent time volunteering, this is the perfect place to mention it and what it gave to you as a person and a professional.

End your cover letter with call to action

Now that you’ve listed all your amazing achievements, experience in the field, and personal qualifications, it’s time to finish off and entice the recruiting manager to contact you for an interview.

Remind them about the resume you’ve attached along with the cover letter and let them know the best way to contact you.

Thank them for the time they spent on your application and how you’ll be waiting in anticipation for the reply.

The recruiters shouldn’t doubt how much you want this job so make sure to remind them again. A simple “Eagerly waiting for your positive reply”, should do you just right.

Still not sure what to include? Take a look at some cover letter examples that have secured impressive job positions in no time!

Just as there are important things that would attract your future employers, there are some phrases that are a definite turn-off and should be avoided.

Let’s go through the main ones.

“Thank you for reading my resume.”

You can’t assume they’ve already read your resume. Chances are they haven’t and the cover letter is the first thing they go through.

“I will be an excellent fit for your position.”

Let your achievements and qualifications speak for you. And by saying “I will be”, you already assume they hired you, which is quite arrogant.

Instead, rephrase it to – “I believe I can be a great asset to your team/department/company.”

“Dear sir, or madman”

Since cover letters include more written content than resumes, any punctuation and grammar errors will be easily noticed.

An inconsistent and incorrect writing style will make a really bad impression and everything else you’ve put as accomplishments and experience will be of no importance.

Proofread a few times. We recommend that you use an online tool like Grammarly or Enhancv’s Content Analyzer .

Be careful when you choose the font, make sure it’s professional. A cover letter entirely written in Comic Sans will throw off any sane, intellectual human being on this planet.

Cover letters are an extremely useful addition to your resume. They bring character and soul to the factual CV or work resume.

Most companies look for people that would add value to their business and a cover letter should be used to show them just that.

How you can give them exactly what they need and much more.

Still, cover letters can be quite difficult to pull off. Do your research, both for the company itself and for all the things a cover letter should include, as well as the recommended writing style, and much more.

Don’t use the same cover letter template for each company. Make it personal, show them you care.

For your convenience, we have gathered our years of expertise in a number of useful articles that will help you with your cover letter .

Cover Letter Guides

Turning the Tables: How an Informational Interview can Launch Your New Career (with 24 Bonus Informational Interview Questions you can use)

The Best Resume Formats You Need to Consider (5+ Examples Included)

How to Tailor My Resume to the Job Description

Functional Resume: Everything You Need to Know

How to Answer: “What’s the Reason for Leaving Your Job?”

What Makes a Good Resume

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COMMENTS

What Is a Cover Letter? (And How To Write One)
A cover letter, also known as an application letter, is a document you send with your resume that provides additional information about skills and experiences related to the job you're applying to. It typically includes three to four paragraphs that highlight your skills, experience and achievements in relation to the position you're applying for.
What is a Cover Letter? Definition & Examples
The goal of a cover letter is to convince employers that you're interested in and qualified for a job. Your cover letter is also a great place to provide additional details about your work history, skills, or life situation to a prospective employer.
What Is the Purpose of a Cover Letter?
What is the purpose of a cover letter? The main purpose of a cover letter is to fill in the gaps in your resume, and give a hiring manager some insight into your professional background. The best cover letters act as an effective marketing tool, and the product being marketed is you.
What Is the Purpose of a Cover Letter?
The purpose of a cover letter is to give a recruiter or hiring manager a more detailed view of your accomplishments and a sense of what you'll bring to the table if you are hired. For this reason, learning how to write a cover letter is a critical skill for all job seekers.
The Purpose of a Resume: Uses for Job Applicants and Employers
The goal and overall purpose of a resume is to introduce your qualifications and skills to employers. It's an informational document that tells your career story, outlining all details in an easily read format. Resumes also hold meaning within themselves. For example, showing a resume to an employer conveys an intent to apply for a position.
What's the Purpose of a Cover Letter? (Definition Plus Tips)
The purpose of a cover letter is to help distinguish you from other candidates applying for the same position. Unlike a resume, which provides a general overview and summary, this document allows you to showcase aspects of your personality and background and detail your experiences that are relevant to the role.
What Is the Purpose of a Cover Letter?
The purpose of a cover letter is to help you stand out as a viable candidate when applying for jobs. Some hiring managers place a high value on cover letters, while others only request a resume. Writing a cover letter can help you get noticed by talent teams regardless of whether it is mandatory in the application process.
7 Key Components of an Effective Cover Letter
What is the purpose of a cover letter? A cover letter introduces you to an employer through a personalized explanation of your qualifications and interest in a position. While a resume shares the technical details of your skills and work experience, a cover letter gives insight into your soft skills, attitude and motivations.
Resume vs. Cover Letter: What's the Difference?
A cover letter is a detailed document that shows hiring managers your desire for a particular job. It is an opportunity to demonstrate more of your personality than you can on your resume. Throughout the letter, you can discuss specific items listed in the job description and how your skills and experience match those requirements.
What Is the Difference Between a Resume and a Cover Letter?
The purpose of a cover letter is to emphasize your qualifications for the position you're applying for. It is used to give the company more details about why you are a strong candidate for...
How To Format a Cover Letter (With Outline and Examples)
A cover letter is a one-page document that highlights your qualifications and often accompanies your resume when you apply for jobs. In this article, we discuss everything you need to know about creating a winning cover letter, including an outline and examples for you to follow.
What is a Cover Letter and Why is it Important for Job Applications?
This article explains the importance of cover letters in job applications. It covers the purpose and components of a cover letter and provides tips on how to write an effective one, including researching the company and job, customizing the letter, and showcasing qualifications. The article also offers advice on making the letter stand out and avoiding common mistakes. Finally, the article ...
The Importance of a Cover Letter (Plus Writing Tips)
The cover letter gives you the opportunity to elaborate on your story before getting the chance to interview with the hiring manager. While you get the chance to exhibit your qualifications for the job and explain what makes you a good fit, an employer gets to know more about your current situation.
What is a Resume? Definition and Purpose
The purpose of a resume is to show employers you're qualified for a position and convince them to offer you an interview. Many job seekers wrongly assume their resume should provide a full overview of their professional history. Instead, think of your resume as an advertisement of yourself.
How and Why to Write a Great Cover Letter
With your cover letter, you'll aim to: Highlight your qualifications: You'll show how your skills and experience relate to the employer's needs for a specific position. Showcase your motivation: You'll demonstrate your enthusiasm for the specific position and the organization.
How to Write a Strong Personal Statement
A bespoke personal statement is a critical component of your application package. The goal is to intrigue the reader with the depth of your character and answer the "how" and "why ...
The Difference Between a Cover Letter and a Resume
A cover letter is written to highlight the qualifications you have for the job for which you are applying. It is used to provide the employer with additional information as to why you are a good candidate for the job. The main function of your cover letter is to show off how your qualification makes you a match for the job.
How to Include "About Me" in a Resume (With Examples)
Creating an about me section in your resume is a critical part of personalising the resume. The purpose is to write a brief segment that describes your aspirations and introduces your skills. Apart from your resume, you can also add the about me section to your cover letter or professional social networking platforms. Doing so helps you stand ...
Cover Letter vs. Resume: How Are They Different?
A cover letter is a professional document used to introduce yourself to an employer and explain why you want a specific job. Unlike a resume, which is an objective overview of your qualifications, the purpose of a cover letter is to prove why your qualifications make you the best fit for the job opening.
Glassdoor Guide: How to Write a Cover Letter
The cover letter is a tool to help introduce yourself in a memorable, personal way during a job application. A well-crafted cover letter goes over information on your resume and expands this information for the reader, taking them on a guided journey of some of your greatest career and life achievements.. Its purpose is to elaborate on the information contained in your resume while infusing ...
What is the Purpose of a Cover Letter?
Well, you should write a cover letter, because it is an essential part of job search. The purpose of a cover letter is to capture your future employer's attention in just few lines. It also helps you to express your interest in the job. The cover letter often provides a first impression of you to employers, so that a poorly written and produced ...
How to Write an Impressive Letter of Introduction: Tips and Examples
Examples of effective letters of introduction: Provide examples of effective letters of introduction and break down what makes them successful. This can include highlighting specific skills and accomplishments that are relevant to the job, using a professional tone, and showcasing. enthusiasm for the position. 5.
Write Effective Cover Letters
Elaborate and expand as needed. Explain how you intend to follow up. It's the sender's responsibility (yours) to follow up after sending a resume. In the last paragraph of the letter, say how and when you intend to contact them. As a general rule, only one paragraph would be required for steps 1 and 3, while step 2 might involve two or more ...
Importance of Cover Letters for Job Success
A cover letter is a document you submit with your resume when applying for a job. The purpose of the cover letter is to introduce yourself professionally to the recruiter or employer. It comprises a summary of your professional qualifications, achievements, and other personal qualities that qualify you for the role.
What Is The Purpose Of A Cover Letter In An Application
And remember, the goal of a cover letter is to get you an interview. Don't over-explain yourself, 1 or 2 sentences per gap would be enough. If the recruiters need more information, they can just ask you during the interview. Then you will have the chance to go in-depth and make the best impression since you can look at their reactions ...
What is the purpose of a cover letter?
The purpose of a cover letter - is to introduce yourself to an organization, demonstrate your interest in the company or a specific vacancy, draw attention to your resume and motivate the reader to interview you. [ ] Log in for more information. This answer has been confirmed as correct and helpful.