On your job search, the application may require a cover letter in order to apply. Here’s when you might need a cover letter and how to write one.

Cover letters are a big debate. Do you need a cover letter or do you not? And if you do need one, how in the world is it even supposed to be written?

There are times when a cover letter is necessary but there are times when it’s not as well. If you’re ready to learn more about the world of cover letters and how they can easily affect you, you’ve come to the right place!

Here’s When You Need A Cover Letter (And How To Write One)

What is a cover letter and why do you need one?

In a nutshell, a cover letter is a quick and simple way to introduce yourself to the company. It gives you a chance to highlight your skills in a fast way while also including anything else you deem important that shouldn’t be on a resume.

The reason that cover letters can be needed is that it’s a great way to showcase your talent and abilities in a different format. You can also use your cover letter to highlight your writing skills as well.

Should I send a cover letter if not requested?

If a recruiter or company doesn’t request a cover letter, you shouldn’t send one. This is because it’s more than what they want and if it were a requirement then they would put that on the job announcement.

It also shows that you listen and pay attention to details as well. However, if you do send a cover letter even when not asked, you need to make certain that it’s short and sweet and to the point. A cover letter isn’t meant to be a book. It’s meant to be a quick synopsis of you and the resume that it’s covering.

How long is a cover letter?

It’s meant to be short and sweet. Typically a couple of paragraphs or about 1/2 page length. If it’s longer than that, it’s too long. The point of the cover letter is to be a quick introduction that then leads them into your resume.

How do you sell yourself in a cover letter?

This is the whole point of the cover letter! You can sell yourself so that you stand out compared to others who are battling for the same job. Use your cover letter to highlight everything amazing and wonderful about you so that you’re memorable.

Your cover letter should also help the reader flow seamlessly into your resume and make them want to know more about what you can bring to their company.

Now that you know a little bit about when you need a cover letter, let’s dive in and talk about how to write a cover letter.

How do I write a cover letter for a job?

Again, keep it short, sweet, simple, and professional. This is your chance to elaborate on any positions that you’re highlighting in your resume to give them just a little bit more details. That means that you can add in some fun extra information, awards, or even projects that you worked on to really showcase why you’re the perfect fit.

How do you structure a cover letter?

Make certain that you’re addressing the recruiter properly in the cover letter and also using correct spelling and grammar. Nothing will have your application tossed out quicker than a cover letter full of mistakes.

As long as you have that correct, and a few core paragraphs about yourself as you pertain to the position, you can then end the cover letter by using a pleasant signature.

Some people also like to include that they’ll be following up on their application within 1-2 weeks’ timeframe but that is optional and totally up to you.

How do you write an email cover letter?

With an email cover letter, you’ll want to write an appropriate subject line.
Then you place your email cover letter in the body of the email. The format is the same with a paper cover letter.
Type the company contact’s name in the very beginning of the body of the email.
Address whomever the hiring manager is.
Then within the body of the email, state the job you are interested in.
Then succinctly explain your skills, experiences, and accomplishments in relation to the job opening.
End with explaining that your resume is attached and you look forward to any follow-up with the company.
Finish with your signature that includes your contact information.

As you can tell, creating a cover letter when requested by the company is key. If they want a cover letter and you fail to produce one, consider your application more than likely not moving forward.

And if you do have a cover letter, proofread it a ton and keep it short and focused. Those few hundred words are your chance to shine and showcase why you’re meant to be employed by them and their company. Make certain that you tailor your cover letter to be specific to their opening as well so that they know that you’re serious.

If you knock it out of the park, you just might be getting a call to interview in person!

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