What is a Cover Letter?
Many times when employers are seeking new employees they will ask for a resume and a cover letter. Everyone knows what a resume is, but what is a cover letter? A cover letter is an introduction letter that will highlight what you have accomplished and why you are a good fit for the job that you are applying for.
A cover letter gives better focus to your resume. Since many employers ask for a cover letter, as well a resume, it is important for your employment seeking strategy to have one that is well written. A cover letter is more tailored than a resume to the specific job that you are looking to land. A good cover letter is just as important as a good resume. The employer will see, with a cover letter, what position you are looking for and why you would be a good candidate for the job.
A good and well-written cover letter is important because it can explain various things that your resume will not. A cover letter can explain gaps in your employment history, if you are changing career paths, or if you are entering the field after being away for some time. A resume cannot explain why you are doing any one of these things, but a cover letter is your chance to explain why you are doing it. A cover letter can positively reflect various circumstances you may have that you cannot explain on your resume.
A cover letter is very much the same as an objective statement on your resume. The difference is the cover letter can be longer and more detailed. A cover letter can also explain that you are open to more than one option in terms of what type of work you are looking for. You can say in a cover letter that you are looking for a certain position but would be willing to take other positions.
Basically a cover letter will explain things your resume cannot. It will show what you are looking for, why you are qualified for the job, and why you are a good fit for the job. Spending a few extra minutes on developing a quality cover letter will have a big impact and return great rewards.
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