Q&A: Do I Need a Cover Letter?

Cover Letters are often optional when submitting a job application, which begs the question: Do I even need one? You may be tempted to skip this step in the interest of getting your application submitted that much faster. So what are the pros and cons of submitting a cover letter? 

Here’s the thing: a cover letter can be a double edged sword. A good cover letter will get the interest of the hiring manager and can tip the balance in your favor. However, a bad cover letter can get you sent straight to the discard pile, even if your resume is flawless. So you’re better off not submitting a cover letter at all than you are submitting a bad one.

With that said, few people take the time to write a good cover letter so by doing so you can really stand out from the crowd. Keep in mind that you’re trying to answer two main questions: Why do you want to work here, and why should I hire you? 

Here’s some tips for a winning cover letter:

1. Start with a warm introduction wherever possible. If someone is referring you to the job, drop their name here and provide some context around how you know them and why you want to work for the company.

   I was informed of an exciting Financial Analyst opportunity at ABC Company by Jane Doe.  I had the pleasure of working with Jane as an Accountant at Previous Firm, and she has wonderful things to say about ABC Company. I really appreciate your company’s commitment to professional development, since I’m someone who is always trying to learn and grow professionally.   

2. Research the company. Read their website, social media, and blog posts. You’re trying to get a sense of their communication style, as well as understand their values. You’ll want to mirror the language in your cover letter after their own copy, a subtle way of showcasing your communication skills and letting them know that you’re a good culture fit. Submitting a very formal cover letter to a startup is probably a nonstarter, so do your research.

3. Identify your “win themes.” In consulting, before even beginning the work of writing a proposal, we would sit and brainstorm what value we bring that our competition does not. You can do the same thing, on a smaller scale. Read the job description and then read it again. What 3 things jumped out at you and made you think “Yes, this is me!”? Use the body of your cover letter to tell them more about why they should hire you instead of someone else. 

   I have a positive, can-do attitude.  I regularly schedule meetings, lead events, and solve problems in the workplace. My favorite part of the job is greeting people and giving tours to candidates and new hires.

   I am agile.  As proven by my ability to excel in varied and diverse business settings, I quickly learn new things and adapt to new industries. For my work at XYZ Company, I was quickly able to acquire my State of ABC Health Insurance License, despite having no prior experience in the industry.

   I can wear multiple hats. Unlike many professionals with an administrative background, I also have hands-on experience with small business management, event coordination, customer service, and marketing.

4. End strong. Close the letter with a summary of what you just told them about why they should hire you. You should tie this to what you know about the company and its goals (remember Step 2?) Is it a startup looking to grow its business? Is it a healthcare organization trying to offer world class service to its patients? Fintech company trying to add value to shareholders? Make it relevant and specific to them. 

   My technical abilities as well as communication and administrative skills will enable me to quickly add value to ABC Company and the clients it serves.  I look forward to further discussing how my experiences can help to grow your organization.

5. Read it, then read it again. And again. Any typos, bad grammar, or run-on sentences are going to count against you. Consider having a friend or colleague review for you as well, or hire a professional to help.

One caveat: most hiring managers will only read your cover letter after they’ve reviewed your resume and are considering inviting you to interview. That’s why I 100% recommend making sure that your resume is in good shape before turning your attention to writing a cover letter. Need help? I offer both resume and cover letter writing services on my site here.