In today’s day and age of video interviewing and Twitter job searches, do you really need to send something as old-fashioned as a cover letter with your resume? Can’t you just skip it?
The answer: Probably not.
Here are 4 reasons why:
Reason #1: You’ll Look Unprofessional.
As one of the leading employment firms in Miami Lakes, Future Force can tell you that business protocol calls for a cover letter being sent with a resume. Unless a job posting specifically says not to send a cover letter, then you’re making yourself look clueless and unprofessional by not sending one.
In addition, in today’s tough economy, employers are nervous about hiring…the last thing they want to do is make a hiring mistake. And by not sending a cover letter, you’re giving an employer who’s already uncertain about hiring a reason to throw your resume right into the recycling bin.
Reason #2: You’ll Miss an Opportunity to Sell Yourself.
Your cover letter gives you an opportunity to explain to an employer why they should hire you. You can use your cover letter to highlight a particularly important accomplishment, demonstrate the unique value that you bring to the table, and set yourself apart in a sea of other candidates.
Reason #3: You Won’t Be Able to Explain Away Red Flags.
For instance, hiring managers aren’t going to know that the big gap in your job history is because you chose to stay home for a few years and care for your children. They’re going to think the worst – that you’re completely unemployable and couldn’t land a job. But a cover letter gives you the opportunity to explain any gaps in employment – or other resume red flags, easing any anxieties a hiring manager may have about you.
Reason #4: You Won’t Be Able to Demonstrate Your Unique Personality.
Resumes are more formal, with lots of structure and bullet points. Cover letters, on the other hand, let you tell more of a story about who you are, what you can do, and why the employer should hire you.
In addition, a cover letter is the perfect place to make reference to things like a mutual connection or a personal business philosophy. These are the kinds of things that will help you to stand out and get noticed…but they don’t really belong on a resume.
While cover letters can certainly be time-consuming to write, it’s in your best interest to send a customized cover letter for each job opening you apply to. Your letter can offer you an important advantage in your job search, and give you the edge over the competition.
Need More Job Search Help?
If you do, let Future Force know. As one of the leading employment firms in Miami Lakes, we’ve helped thousands of job seekers find rewarding career opportunities with great companies throughout South Florida. And we can help you too! Contact Future Force today to learn more.