The Cover Letter and the Resume: the Integration of the Two
Admit it or not, we all have gone through a tough job hunt. But are you aware of the things that we carry upon applying? Did you exactly know the primary purpose of having and submitting every single page of your application form? Primarily, your answers will be no. So, let us discuss the significance of that sheet in your application form aside from your resume.
The letter of application, commonly known as the cover letter, is a prior draft passed along with your resume that establishes your first impression from the potential employer. It shows that you take the exceptional effort to introduce yourself and modify why you are the ideal person for the job.
The cover letter complements your resume and plays two different purposes. While your resume expresses your professional qualifications and emphasizes your education and accomplishments, the cover letter identifies the area to which you match the job requirements for a particular industry and how you will fit in.
It is a very gripping tool to get an interview. Having more than 200 applications that an average advertised job opening usually gets, the hiring officer will usually shortlist the applications. Unluckily, the applicants who did not submit any letter of application are the first ones to go.
One better way of having a greater chance to get a job is to tap into the hidden employment market. What is the hidden employment market, anyway? It is composed of different jobs that are not normally advertised. According to written reports and articles, these unadvertised jobs range from 80 to 85 percent. So, how does an employer fill them?
The answer for this question is through “grassroots”- word of mouth. If there is a job vacancy, the employer will just ask around if anyone knows someone who can fill the available position. If the employers get enough referrals, they will then start with the interview procedure. If they were not able to get enough recommendations, they will go to the recruiters. Obviously, a good networking can result into a job employment.
On the other hand, recommendations through friends and recruiters must not be considered as a replacement for the cover letter.
HOW TO WRITE A COVER LETTER?
A cover letter must be short and precise. It must lead to the idea that you are interested in the job. Enumerate all your key characteristics to the potential employer through your cover letter. Before you write one down, make a thorough research. The contents of the cover letter must be smartly detailed showing that you exactly know what you are looking for.
On the first paragraph of the cover letter, you must specify the job position that you are applying for and state where you have seen the job advertisement. Aside from that, you must also stimulate the reader’s attention by telling your purpose for writing instead of saying upfront that you are looking for a job. Show them your enthusiasm and express your specific reason of applying.
In the body of the cover letter, give your employer a good justification why they must pick you over other applicants and what you can offer to the company and the industry. Cite the skills you have and state the details of your employment background that are relevant to the job you are applying for.
Avoid beating around the bush and jump right into the point. If the employer is looking for some who can work for irregular and long hours, you can include information such as having prior experiences with jobs that require shifted work schedule. Do not put yourself in a negative light by offering information such as lacking the job experience they require.
Your last paragraph must stimulate an action on the part of the employer. Politely, you can directly ask an employer when you can have the job interview and you can also tell them your available time. You can sincerely end your cover letter by thanking him for spending time in reading it.
Indeed, the contents of your cover letter and resume are essential. Be mindful on how it must appear. A resume or a cover letter must be arranged accordingly and kept carefully. Keep the format of your documents as simple as possible. Do not apply any design or motif even if it’s for creative purposes. Getting your resume chosen is the first step in obtaining your dream job, so spend time in creating it; be patient and you will be suitably satisfied!
By: Allan Stewart
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