Do You Need a Cover Letter?

Do you need a cover letter? Sometimes the job application doesn't require one. So why then spend the time and effort into writing it? If you want to show that you're really serious and passionate about the position, you should write a cover letter regardless of whether you're required to or not.

Some of the benefits of having a cover letter in your application are that the hiring manager will get to know you more, you'll have a better chance of convincing them that you're right for the job, and you'll be able to share your vision for the position.

Before we get into it, make sure you've got an amazing resume. After all, it's the resume that opens the door for your cover letter.

First of all, let's have a look at what a cover letter is.

The cover letter is not always required. Most applications nowadays require one since competition is steep, but some positions leave it up to the candidate to decide whether they'd like to submit a cover letter or not.

So, do you need a cover letter if the application doesn't require you to have one? Let's look at the top 8 reasons why you should send a cover letter with the rest of your paperwork.

It's always a good idea to submit a cover letter even if the application claims that having one is optional. Here are the top 8 reasons why:

1. You get to show your personality, not just the facts

Leave the facts to the resume. Explaining where you worked, for how long, and what you did is needed but that's dry information.

The cover letter gives you an opportunity to show who the person behind the work experience is.

If you've got a sense of humor, you can use it on the cover letter. You can explain why you work in your respective industry and how you find it fulfilling.

2. It gives you the opportunity to show motivation

Hiring managers want to have driven people on their team. The resume, unfortunately, doesn't give you enough opportunity to show your motivation.

This is where the cover letter comes in handy. You can explain why you love the industry and what it means to you to get the job. Some candidates go as far as saying: "I will walk through a wall for this job."

In any case, you can make a bold statement in the cover letter which would be a plus.

3. You can demonstrate your company knowledge

Every hiring manager wants to bring on people who already know and love the company. Show them that you're the best person for the job by mentioning facts you appreciate about the business in the cover letter.

4. Having a cover letter means you put in an extra effort

While many candidates will choose not to write one if it's only optional, those who do send in a cover letter will prove that they're willing to walk the extra mile for the position.

Think about it, you've already perfected your resume and prepared for the interview. Go all the way and write a cover letter.

5. If you're changing industries you can talk about your transferable skills

Those who are changing industries should absolutely write a cover letter. Why? Because it won't always be obvious to the recruiter how you're qualified to do the job if you've worked in a whole different sphere previously.

For example, if you've been a customer service rep, you're likely to be a good hotel concierge but the connection might not be immediately visible.

The cover letter gives you the opportunity to explain how your skills are transferable.

6. The cover letter gives you a chance to share your vision for the job

Those who go in with a solid plan always get the job. Show that you've thought about what you will do and how you'll help the business grow by preparing a cover letter.

7. You get to be personal

While many candidates send out the same resume to various positions, that isn't a good approach. It's immediately obvious when a candidate has taken the time to personalize their application.

The cover letter is the ultimate piece of the puzzle that will add up your efforts to a successful outcome.

8. You get to brag about your accomplishments and strengths

Your job application is not the place to be humble. Emphasize the awards you've won and the strengths you've got to bring to the table.

So, do you need a cover letter? The simple answer is yes. It gives you the opportunity to emphasize your skills and explain your vision for the company.

The cover letter gives your personality a chance to shine and helps you stand out from the competition.

Take one last look at your resume and make sure it looks flawless. Then write your cover letter and get to applying.