Discussion on:

The purpose of a cover letter

I have not really applied for a job in years, but when I was applying for jobs where the hiring manager did not know me, I would include a paragraph where I would embed a table that showed "your requirements" and "my experience". I would really spell it out because the HR manager needs that, and it shows the hiring manager I am cognisant of their needs.

The wording, as you mentioned, is different than the resume. Just another pitch to get a phone call or interview.

Here are a few more cover letter pointers that I've shared in the past:

1. Tailor the cover letter to the posted job description. Reference a few key requirements and relate them to your experience and skills.

2. Always attach a separate Word file if given the opportunity. Some online sites give you the option to enter a cover letter in a form field, but a document is always better.

4. Don't address the cover letter to "To whom it may concern". If possible, use the name of the recruiter. If you don't know that, go with "Dear hiring manager".

5. Don't rush it. This is your first impression and a chance to show your writing skills. If you are applying online, write the cover letter before starting the application process. Nothing is more frustrating than filling out five pages of info and have to start over because the system timed out while you edit the cover letter.

Last, and most important:

6. Tell them why you want the job. This is very important, and an opportunity missed by many! The best cover letters offer a paragraph about what personally motivates you about the company, the position, or industry. Most hiring managers are looking for motivational fit in addition to job fit, and the cover letter is where you show it.

Totally agree. I think a cover letter is the first form of introduction and if it is properly drafted, assures me that the receiver continue to read my resume.

Nowadays I use to include the cover letter directly into the body of the email message and my resume as an attached file.

Regards. GDP.

When I was working with a placement service a few years ago, they had me tailor my cover letters two ways:
1. For non skill specific or cold call applications, I had a letter tailored to the company.
2. For postings that spelled out the exact skills required, I actually used a chart outlining their requirements and how my own skills met them.

At the time, #2 got some comments about how easy it was to see I was a good match. But I wonder if anyone does that anymore?

@GDP, I would be careful with putting the cover letter in the body of the application email. A lot of HR departments just print off the attachments, so you wouldn't want your cover to get lost.

I have read a great deal of expert "How To" advice ranging from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) to professional cover letter writers. While there is general agreement on best practices, I have yet to see a model example of what good looks like.