There is a lot of hype around cover letters and articles on how to write a proper cover letter. However, as a recruiter and someone who reads up to 100 resumes a day, I’m not sure how important they are. Actually, I bet most outside recruiters don’t read them, I know no one in our office does.
If you’re working with an outside recruiter, sending one isn’t necessary most of the time. A good recruiter will pick up the phone and call you to get necessary information that isn’t on your resume. The recruiter will then relay the relevant information to the hiring manager directly. A recruiter’s job is to make it easier for the hiring manager. The less paperwork we send, the better. Consequently, recruiters usually send the resume and evaluations of the candidates, that’s all.
Let’s address when a cover letter can be important. If you are applying for a position online, directly to the company, they often ask for a cover letter. In this method of applying for a position, you don’t have a third party evaluate you, highlight your attributes, and address red flags on your resume. In this case, it is very important to put together a winning cover letter. Companies typically look for a few key pieces of information: why you’re looking for a position, why you’re interested in your company, salary, and any notable achievements that set you apart.
The main reason companies request a cover letter is to obtain information that is not on your resume. They will use this information as a first screen. If you need to make $100,000 and the company only pays $80,000, then you are out of the question. So be very careful about the information you include. This is your opportunity to address any gaps on your resume and why you are looking for a position. For example, if you are moving or downsizing, you can address that and any other concerns here.
The bottom line is, if you are working directly with one or more outside recruiters, they will be evaluating you and sending notes directly to the hiring manager/company, your resume is the only thing to send. If you are going to send a resume directly to the company you are applying for, prepare your cover letter!
Note the importance of short but sweet. Only include information that is not on your resume.
