Are Cover Letter Actually Important?

If you find writing cover letters intimidating then you no doubt entertained the idea that you don't need one. Don't let yourself off that easy, a cover letter is an important part of the process and without your chances are stunted. It accentuates your CV by highlighting your most relevant skills, lets them know the reason you are applying and what you are applying for, and shows your professionalism and enthusiasm much more than a generic CV that is submitted to everyone.

Remember that the person interviewing for the job will probably have to look through a whole stack of resumes for just one opening. Don't make them wonder what job or position you are applying for, tell them up front! Be specific about the position; this shows you have done your research and you know what you want. For employers who want energetic go-getters on their team, this bio can be what convinces them to hire you.

Employers also want to know why you are a good fit for the company. To give them the information then you need to pick the most relevant skills and examples from your CV to showcase that. For instance, if you are applying for a team role then expand on how you have worked well in a team before. If you want a position as a manager then it is crucial that you show them examples of when you have used great management skills. The primary goal of your resume is to make the employer think you are just the kind of person they have been looking for. You can easily do that by just putting a bit of effort into how and what you highlight to them.

If you are really keen to get the job then the cover letter can be the way to signal that, afterall, anyone can stick 20 CVs in the post to companies, but writing a personal cover letter shows dedication. Anyone can send in a great-looking resume; by sending in an effective cover letter as well, you will instantly set yourself apart from the crowd. Lots of employers want to receive a good cover letter to learn more about what kind of a person you are which the CV can't give them. Including one for most people is a symbol of politeness, it also indicates that you are taking everything seriously.

Cover letters provide you with a much better chance of getting an interview. A resume can't do this for you; its purpose is to just list your background information for them to refer to and make sure you have the qualifications they need. With a covering letter then you can come straight out and ask when you could talk to the employer about an interview, or ask for one directly. Even if the job opportunity is one where you work from home or remotely then you can grab a phone interview. Along with the rest of the stuff make absolutely sure you actually come out and ask for an interview, so that the reader knows you mean business.

They are also a great way to prove to a prospective employer how professional you are before you even have to break out your best suit and practice that perfect handshake. There's definitely a right and wrong format for your cover letter; be sure to make use of it! The people doing the interviews know what cover letters are supposed to look like. Make the most of your opportunity and impress them with your professionalism!

For a more great information on writing good cover letters then visit us at http://www.squidoo.com/ExactlyHowToWriteACoverLetter where you can find a template and example letter and information on the correct formatting.

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