Do People Still Send Cover Letters?
The short answer is: yes! Cover letters have changed in recent years. The format is slightly different, and there are more options for the delivery method. However, the basics of the cover letter remain the same. I’ll answer some of the most common cover letter questions that I receive. If you are a serious job searcher, you need to know this.
What is the purpose of a cover letter or cover email message?
Some employers like to read a cover letter to assess your writing skills. Do you have an excellent grasp of English grammar? The letter also is a representation of how you communicate. Are you succinct, factual, and persuasive? Your candidacy may come to a quick end if your letter is poorly written.
Is it alright if I forego the cover letter?
Not all hiring managers or recruiters will read your cover letter. You don’t have to worry about them. You should focus on those that think a cover letter is important. For that reason, never forego the cover letter.
If you skip the cover letter, you might be seen as lazy or out-of-touch with standard job search practices.
What should my cover letter contain?
Your cover letter is another chance to promote yourself. The primary rule for a resume applies to the cover letter. Present your top values that fill the need of the hiring employer. Review the job posting and gain a solid understanding of the open position. Focus on how you meet the requirements and share a few examples of how you have excelled in the past. The opening paragraph explains why you are drawn to the position and how you are qualified, in two to three sentences. The middle paragraph is the meat. This is where you share examples of your top relevant achievements. To make this area stand out, you can use short bulleted statements to highlight your critical achievements. The closing paragraph is your call to action, asking for the opportunity to interview.
How should I send a cover letter?
Candidates wonder if they should send the cover letter and resume by postal mail, by email with the resume as an email attachment, or should the email message take the place of the cover letter. In many situations, an employer will state exactly how they want a resume submitted. Follow those instructions. If not specified, email you resume with the cover letter in the email message box. Some candidates like to send a back-up via snail mail to stand out from the crowd.
The Bottom Line
If you are thinking about skipping the cover letter, consider what is at stake. You are sacrificing the chance to showcase your writing skills and missing an additional opportunity to sell yourself.