Why do I need to write a cover letter?

Great question! When you’re applying for jobs cover letters become the bane of your existence. Crafting each letter to match each opportunity can be exhausting and time-consuming, but it’s important and here’s why.

Why a cover letter?
 
A cover letter helps bring your resume to life, it allows your personality and experience to work together and give employers a better understanding of you. With the current competitive job market, experience isn’t enough to get you over the line. How you’ll fit into the corporate culture plays a huge part in the hiring process, of which your cover letter can shine some light on.

What do I need to include in a cover letter?

Your cover letter needs to do four main things:

1. Convince the hiring manager that you understand their business
2. Convey you both understand and will fit into their corporate culture
3. Showcase how you align with the company’s values
4. Ensure they feel as though they’re your employer of choice

My biggest tip is to work from the job description of the role you’re applying for. Most importantly the section surrounding what they’re looking for in an employee. Describe how you embody each of these qualities, how your previous experience facilitated this and what you’d contribute to the business as a result. It’s your time to show off, put on your salesman shoes and sell yourself! Of course, don’t overdo it but make sure you leave little room to argue that you’re the right fit.