Cover letters: they’re a pain, but unfortunately they still matter
Recruiters and employers don’t unanimously agree that cover letters are important. Great, you might think, I won’t bother to send one, or I will just quickly cut and paste some generic text.
The problem is that a lot of decision-makers do still value cover letters, and you usually have no way of knowing whether the recipient of your application is a lover or a hater. So basically you can’t afford to take any chances. Like it or not, you must write a decent letter (unless you are specifically told otherwise).
“The impact of a well structured resume can be decreased considerably by a poor cover letter. The letter should show an employer that you have read the advertisement carefully, considered it and understood what is required of you,” says Andrew Brushfield, director, Robert Half International.
Emma Peardon, director, Charterhouse Partnership, adds: “A cover letter is your first introduction to a prospective employer, and it is key to capitalising on your chances of obtaining an interview.”
Peardon shares her insights on how to get the structure right…
Introduction
“The opening paragraph establishes why you are making contact. If you are applying for a specific position, it is important to advise which job you are applying for and where you saw it advertised.”
Body
“The body of your cover letter should be two or three paragraphs in length, addressing your skills, experience, qualifications, personal attributes and how they match the requirements of the position. This is your sales pitch about you, and as to why you are the best person for the job. It is important to highlight your relevant career achievements."
“Additionally, the body of your letter is an opportunity to express why you are interested in working for the organisation and how you can attribute to the company’s ongoing success. This should only be done if you know specifically who the company is and have researched their values.”
Conclusion
"Your closing paragraph outlines your next action. It should refer the recruiter or prospective employer to your resume attached, detail the next steps in the process and also advise of the best point of contact for you."