Cover letters… I often get asked, “Do I really need to bother?” In short, the answer is always, “yes”. That said there is one rule which negates the need for a cover letter - but we’ll get onto that later.
So, back to that “yes”. My question to you would be, “Why would you not want to send a cover letter?”
This is an ideal opportunity for you to tailor your application to the specific role that you're applying for - basically, providing what the Hiring Manager wants and needs to see to decide whether or not to move you through to the interview stage.
It’s part of the recruitment process people often flounder over, which is why I’ve compiled an easy-to-follow list of the key areas to cover in your cover letter.
Why do you want that specific role? This is the time to tell the Hiring Manager who is reading your application. What is your motivation for applying? Specifically for this job, not the general reason you're applying for jobs (like redundancy) but why that particular job has caught your attention and why you feel you are best suited to be appointed.
Answer their questions. Look at what they are asking you for and give bold statements and a brief example of where you tick each box. Of course, you will need to back that up in the interview when you are asked about it., so make sure you can authentically expand on what you write here. I’d also urge you to consider the order in which you place these, starting with the most important at the top.
Are you adaptable? Look at the competencies or transferable skills they are asking for and highlight where you have them. Be sure to continue making bold factual statements here, that you can expand upon in the interview.
Reflect the language. Use the same words they are using in the job description so they more easily identify where your application matches their requirements.
Length, matters. Keep your content to one page and use bullet points. Long paragraphs that Hiring Managers have to wade through are extremely offputting.
Ah - the exception to the rule? The one and only situation where no cover letter is required is if the Recruiter or company specifically states 'no cover letter'.
Even if this is stated, I would still advise you to go through the right process to gather the information you need to share as part of your application and certainly in your interview.
Want to know more?
Enquire to find out more about my full Cover Letter Coaching Service for a more in-depth view of how and why to produce an effective cover letter.