Why you Need a Cover Letter
Why do you need a cover letter? Can’t you just send out the resume or post it to the company’s website? Is a cover letter really that important? Yes, in fact, it is. Here are some things that a cover letter can do for you to help set you apart when conducting your job search:
Demonstrate your ability to write. Of course you are going to want to create compelling content regarding the skills you possess and accomplishments that make you a viable candidate in the letter. A well written cover letter will tell the reader a tremendous amount about your ability to communicate in writing. Strong sentence structure, proper grammar and spelling are indicators of how you might communicate if employed. It is also a good example of how you perform. Your attention to detail is the message you are sending in a strong cover letter.
Highlight your unique value proposition. Sometimes there are things you have done outside of your traditional professional positions that might be related in some way to the position for which you are applying. Oftentimes you will not be able to include this in a resume; a cover letter is the ideal place to include such information. I remember when I was working at Martha Stewart and interviewed a woman who wanted to work in the test kitchen. Her resume had no information related to cooking because professionally, she was employed in a different industry. However, her cover letter told the entire story of her cooking expertise, which landed her the interview – and eventually the job!
Research the company. When writing a cover letter you want to make sure that the reader feels that you have an understanding of the company and how your background and skills is a potential match. It is easy enough to conduct some research; demonstrate your interest in the company and make a connection between the business and what you have to offer. Don’t be lazy – take the time to do some due diligence.
Sell it. You are marketing yourself in the cover letter and within your resume. Marketing principles encompass the four P’s: product, place, promotion, and price. Your cover should also contain these same ideas. You are the product in this case. Position yourself to satisfy a need for a potential employer. You want to establish the tone for a sales pitch. Highlight your ability to satisfy a need. Present a clear picture of your accomplishments and connection to the company’s goals.
Make a memorable and lasting impression before the potential employer takes a look at your resume! Convey your intelligence, ability to communicate and drive value in your letter. Your polished presentation will make you stand out and get you the interview for the job you want.
