After searching for several weeks, you have found the perfect job. You get excited and prepare to apply. While going through the application, you realize they require a cover letter.
Panic sets in.
You start to wonder, “What is the purpose of a cover letter?” Why do they even need one? If you’ve found yourself wondering about the cover letter’s purpose, this article is for you.
So, what is the main purpose of a cover letter?
When applying for a job, a cover letter might seem like an extra step you could skip. Although tempting, cover letters could mean the difference between a recruiter’s callback list versus the “no” pile.
While they can be bothersome to write, cover letters are important components of your job applications.
At its core, the main purpose of a cover letter is to explain why you’re the right person for the job.
Here's how you can make the most of it:
1. Add depth to your application
A cover letter allows you to expand on aspects of your career that don’t fit into a resume. It provides room to share more of your personality, showcase your enthusiasm, and express your passion for the role, helping you stand out as a memorable candidate.
2. Address unique experiences or employment gaps
If there are any unique elements of your background, or if you need to explain gaps in your employment history, a cover letter is the perfect space to present these in a positive light, offering context to help the hiring team understand your career journey.
3. Differentiate yourself through storytelling
Use your cover letter to set yourself apart from other candidates by telling a compelling story that emphasizes the value you bring to the role. You can provide context to your career narrative, highlight your achievements, and demonstrate strong written communication skills.
In other words, the cover letter serves as your chance to connect with the hiring team by creating a narrative that connects your past work with your future role at that organization.
According to a recent article from Jobera.com:
- 83% of recruiters agree that attaching a cover letter with a job application is crucial.
- 60% of companies admitted that they require a cover letter for analyzing candidates.
- 87% of hiring managers admitted to reading cover letters.
- 72% of companies expect candidates to submit a cover letter even if it is mentioned as optional.
How to write a strong cover letter
Now that you know the purpose of a cover letter, how can you make it effective? Here are some quick tips:
1. Tailor the cover letter. Customize each cover letter for the specific job you’re applying for. Consider the state of the industry, challenges they are facing, and their strategic goals.
2. Be concise and stay focused. Keep your cover letter brief and to the point. Aim for a about 250 words and focus on the most important and relevant information.
3. Proofread. Proofread. Proofread. Don’t lose out on your opportunity because of a silly mistake. Carefully proofread your cover letter to catch any errors.
If you need help writing your cover letter, check out our free cover letter templates that will help you stand out and get hired faster
Key takeaways
A cover letter serves as a personal introduction to potential employers and complements your resume by highlighting relevant experiences.
It allows you to express enthusiasm for the role, address gaps or unique situations, and demonstrate your communication skills. By tailoring each cover letter to the specific job, you can show why you’re the right fit for the position.
