Do you think sending a cover letter with your resume is a waste of time? Regardless of what your answer is, you’ll want to listen to this audio clip for some career wise information about how to craft a cover letter that makes you stand out from the crowd.
Creating a job search strategy can be a bit overwhelming.
That is especially true if you are sending resumes to many different places.
It’s easy to justify simply using the cover letter to point to your attached resume, or leaving off the cover letter altogether.
Do you absolutely HAVE to have a cover letter?
No.
What I don’t recommend, however, is wasting a page (whether it’s printed or digital) to simply say your resume is attached.
It’s a waste of someone’s time, and it shows that you don’t care enough to make a connection.
What I do recommend is using the cover letter as an opportunity to make a genuine connection with the hiring manager of the company you are sending your resume to.
It could make the difference between getting called in for a job interview or not.
Remember you’re not writing to 500 people.
While it may feel like your resume is going into a black hole somewhere, you should always be writing to one person.
The cover letter is your chance have a one-on-one conversation, and to tell your story.
Doing this creates a connection with the reader.
What I mean by “tell your story” is:
- Tell them why you are different or unique.
- Tell them pertinent things about you that are not included in your resume.
- Address anything you are nervous about, like your job change reason, a hole in your job history, or why you are changing industries (if you are). The cover letter is a perfect place to proactively explain these things rather than having anxiety around being asked about it in an interview.
- Explain why this job is inspiring to you and what you have to contribute.
Another important nuance to creating a stellar cover letter is to frame your story in a way that illustrates what’s in it for them.
Rather than talking about the things you love to do, what a quick learner you are, etc., turn this approach around 180 degrees and describe how your unique qualities and attributes can contribute to the success of their company.
If you’ve done your research, you will know a bit about what the company’s goals are and what they are working on.
So use the cover letter as an opportunity to let them know how you can contribute to the bottom line and help them reach their goals.
Is your work situation frustrating you? Do you hate your job, but have no idea what to do instead? Attempting to navigate those waters without support is not fun (yes, I do know, but that’s another story). I’m excited to announce that I’ve created The Job I Love Toolkit, with all the resources you’ll need to finally clarify how to get paid to do you.TM To be the first to hear more details, join the VIP Wait List.
And if you know a friend or neighbor who could use hearing the advice in this article or needs The Job I Love Toolkit, please forward this to them.