When we speak of cover letter, we generally mean the letter you send by e-mail, not by post, which is no longer common.
We recommend that you put the content of that letter directly in the body of your e-mail so that the recruiter doesn’t need to open an extra file. When applying via an application form however, you might not have the choice but to attach your cover letter to your application.
A good cover letter is the key to success. Generally, companies struggle to find new employees who meet their requirements – even these days. This is the perfect opportunity to set yourself apart from other candidates and increase your chances of finding the job of your dreams!
- Your cover letter allows you to put yourself forward, to differentiate yourself from other candidates whose CV is comparable to yours and who apply for the same job. You can incorporate arguments that show whatmakes YOU the ideal candidate for the job. On a CV you can’t go into details, you have to stick to the facts – but your cover letter lets you explain why the company should hire you.
- Your letter can include more information about your experience, education and personality, and why you arethe best candidate for the job. Analyse your CV with a critical eye and ask yourself if everything is clear. Afew doubts? Then go into more detail on those points in your letter.
- You can also take the opportunity to pique the interest of the recruiter. If you can make the recruiter curiousabout you, then it’s because you wrote the letter well. That doesn’t mean you should be mysterious, but stating, for example, that you have some ideas you would like to put into practice when in the job mightarouse recruiters’ curiosity and make them keen to see what you have to offer to the company.
- And last but not least … companies really expect you to send them a cover letter! They want to learn moreabout the candidates and find out whether they are right for the job. And if a recruiter is hesitant afterreading your CV, your cover letter might convince them to invite you for an interview.
So take the time to write a cover letter – it really is worth the effort!