Cover letters are not only vital to have in your career management portfolio but are also expected by today’s hiring managers. There is a long running debate on how many employers actually read cover letters, some report they never do, while many always do but all expect them to be included among the resume documents for review. So you need to assume your cover letter will be read, that it is a determining factor in getting an interview, and give it the importance it deserves!

What is the importance of a cover letter? First, it is your voice and your opportunity to interject your character and personality before you have actually spoke with the hiring manager. Whereas your resume provides just the facts on your skills, experience, achievements and education; your cover letter is the right place to infuse your passion, to elaborate on your current and future goals, and any specific circumstances that affects your past or future performance. It can and should be used as a way to introduce yourself and leave a memorable impression with the hiring manager. 

It is also the right place to add any additional information not included in the resume that may be relevant to the position you are seeking. Relocation availability, specific courses or certifications completed; 2^nd language proficiencies, or comprehensive computer knowledge that may not have been asked for in the vacancy announcement but may be a hidden jewel that could make a difference. If you have certain circumstances that need to be addressed upfront, the cover letter is usually the right place to include the information. 

Every sentence of your cover letter you should include your enthusiasm, passion for the position and industry, and interest in working for the employer. Many times job seekers are very polite, a bit passive and don’t impart their aggressiveness or confidence in the cover letter. That can be a fatal mistake. The cover letter is where you are expected to display the zeal you will bring to the job, company and your ambition to meet or exceed the goals of the company.  

What should be included in the cover letter? Specific areas need to be addressed in a cover letter, starting with the first paragraph. Here you should give a quick introduction of your experience while noting where or how you heard about the vacancy and communicate the specific position you are referring to. Next, include a paragraph or two and possibly a bulleted listing of your skills, experience and achievements the announcement has asked for. Detailed highlights of your achievements with specific numbers and examples such as project completions, sales revenue or market share increases, notable cost reductions and significant problem resolutions will give weight to your expertise. 

A paragraph relating your current circumstances, intentions, and career objectives is usually offered toward the end of the cover letter. Although you are conveying your expectations for the position you should try to equate your objectives with the goals and skills sought by the vacancy announcement. The final paragraph in the cover letter should convey your interest in hearing from them and working with them and should thank the employer for his time and for considering you for the position. 

The cover letter length should never exceed one page, it is a document meant to compliment and introduce your resume. It should sell your strengths and entice the reader to continue reading the resume and want to set up an interview to learn more about you.  A well developed cover letter is a great way to get an interview offer.