When it comes to applying for a job role, one of the questions you may be asking yourself is whether or not you really need a cover letter. After all, isn’t a CV enough to prove your worth as a potential employee? This is one of the many aspects that job seekers query and for very good reason. Some job adverts ask for you to submit one and others don’t, so it is even worth the effort?
According to recruiters, a cover letter could be the push you need to land an interview. It proves that you’re highly interested in the job and wish to go the extra mile to make yourself stand out. Let’s take a look at just some of the benefits of a cover letter:
Includes additional information
As a general rule of thumb, the average CV should only cover two A4 pages which often prevents you from going into detail about your experience, interests and suitability for the job. A cover letter, however, allows you to tell your professional story and entice the employer to want to find out more about what you can offer.
Explain employment gaps
You may have been out of work for a while – but for good reason. Employers typically look unfavourably on CVs with a large gap between employment, but a cover letter allows you to discuss why this may be so that you’re not immediately disregarded. Some viable reasons may include illness, personal issues or even travelling. Add this aspect near the top of your cover letter if it applies to you.
Proves you have done your research
Employers like to know that job applicants have done some background research on the business before applying for the role. This is your chance to use company-specific examples of what makes you a good employee and why you’re interested in working for them. Instantly, this sets you apart from other applicants by demonstrating a clear understanding of what the employer is looking for and your understanding of the company culture. It can often be a small hint that you plan on staying with the company for a long time rather than job-hopping which is a sought-after trait and may make you a much more likely candidate.
Shows you have put the work in
Even if a job advert doesn’t ask for a cover letter, you should still send one if the opportunity allows. Just for the fact you have spent time writing one without it being compulsory proves you’re a dedicated worker with patience initiative. These are all valuable traits for any job role and is such a simple tactic to help you stand out from the competition.
Give them a taste of your personality
Dependent on your writing skill, you can get inventive within your cover letter to allow your personality to shine through. If you’re not the best of writers, don’t panic. You can hire cover letter writers to work with you to put together a creative and professional cover letter for the job role you’re applying for.
Employers like to get an insight into who they could potentially be working with and so if you seem likeable, it could catapult you into their good books before you even attend an interview.
Covers letters are extremely beneficial when applying for job roles and could help you to stand out from the crowd. Luckily, we’re here to help – get in touch with us today for professional cover writing services or read more on our services page here.
