Cover Letters – Do They Really Matter – Yes
Cover Letters Do Matter - Yes, Here's Why
Yes they do, but not to everyone in the hiring process. An ATS software that initially scans your resume will pick up the use of your keywords in your cover letter but that’s about it. Try to optimize a few of the keywords you want to be known for.
Be aware that the first screening of your cover letter is usually performed by a junior level employee. They most likely won’t read your cover letter. However, when they pass along your application to the hiring manager, he/she will most likely read it. That’s why the answer is yes.
You must include your experience as it relates to the job description of the position you are applying for. Once you develop the cover letter, 90% should be template. What should change with each application is the Header/Address and the introduction describing your interest an application for the specific position at the specific company. This will show the reviewer that you at least took the time to customize some of it as opposed to sending something that is all template.
A cover letter reveals a lot about a job seeker’s attention to detail, communication style, personality, and how much research someone has done on a company. Make sure it can stand alone from your resume – in case it gets printed and is separated from your resume. Keep it short but get your point across. If the position you are applying for is in another city, state or country, make sure you state that you are open to relocation.
Other Ways For Your Cover Letter to Stand Out
- To stand out from the other applicants, inject something personal.
- Include your contact information at the top. It is not necessary to include your physical address. The City, State, Phone and Email Address is fine.
- Include a Link to Your LinkedIn Profile.
- If you know the name of the person your application is going to, address the letter to that person.
- Include the job title or the job reference number at the top of the letter.
- The first paragraph is a 3-sentence summary of your entire career experience. If the reviewer doesn’t like what it says, your application is rejected/finished within 10-seconds.
- Each paragraph that is read reinforces what came before and convinces the reviewer to read on.
- Peak the reviewer’s curiosity driving them to want to read more.
- State how you found out about the opening (referral, LinkedIn, Indeed, Social Media, Company Website)
- Address 3 different key requirements stated in the job description and examples of experience you have related to those requirements.
- State the number of years of experience you have.
- State the different educational degrees and certifications you have.
- If you worked for some name brand recognized companies, name drop them and include a few
- Provide measurable, quantifiable examples.
- Help the reviewer connect the dots from your work history and education.
- Write the letter like a story. With a beginning, a middle and an end.
- Keep it under 1 page in length.
- End with a strong 1-2 sentence close re-expressing your interest in the position.