Should We Include a Cover Letter with our Job Application?
Should we include a cover letter with every job application?
Different opinions exist on this – in reality it is typically zero harm to include a cover letter, but equally, many recruiters openly acknowledge not reviewing cover letters which makes us question its value. The debate surrounding the necessity of a cover letter persists - Read on for a simple answer to the question.
Simply put, whether we HAVE to include a cover letter depends on the employers’ application process. If the listing states it is not required or the application platform does not provide an option to upload a cover letter, that’s a clear message that not including one is ok and we should pay particular attention to the requested documents. In contrast, if they specify the need for a cover letter, then we need to include it.
However, the title of this blog is: SHOULD we include a cover letter with our CV?
Despite the above and some recruiters downplaying their importance, experts in the industry will typically advise including a cover letter. When optional, the only potential situation we should not include a cover letter is when we are unable to create bespoke versions. Submitting a generic, hastily written cover letter can do more harm than good. Instead of mass-producing subpar cover letters for multiple applications that have zero personalisation, it may be better to forgo them altogether. However, given the time, we should always work to create a unique cover letter and include it in our application. There are three main reasons to do this even when its optional:
1. Submitting a personalised cover letter alongside our CV showcases our enthusiasm and commitment for the role and organisation. A well-crafted document demonstrates that we've gone the extra mile to express our interest and suitability for the position, potentially setting us apart from other applicants. While a CV succinctly highlights our skills and experience, a cover letter offers the chance to further customise our application and explain our particular interest in the role. It enables us to narrate our story and articulate how we would add value to the organisation. Moreover, even if a recruiter disregards our cover letter, failing to provide one may in some cases cast a negative impression – a lack of enthusiasm, detail-orientation or effort. Generally this is not the case, but we don’t want to give a busy recruiter an excuse not to progress us. Again, if a cover letter is requested, we must include one – not providing one will definitely eliminate our candidacy.
2. Although recruiters likely won’t read all cover letters, if they're undecided about a candidate, they might use the cover letter as a dealbreaker. Then it becomes essential to have crafted a specific, non-generic cover letter. Consider the scenario of two candidates that possess identical qualifications on paper. However, one submits a personalised cover letter showcasing their passion for the industry and relevance to the role, while the other opts for a generic template or doesn’t submit one at all. In this case, the cover letters will ultimately decide the candidates’ fate.
3. Lastly if our experience does not fully align with the role or if we're undergoing a career change, a cover letter offers us the opportunity to explain our circumstances and why we are still suited to the position. Traditional CVs and applications don’t afford us the chance to explain in detail why we have gaps in our CV or why we are shifting our career path. Crafting a well-written cover letter with comprehensive explanation of our situation can explain away what otherwise may be CV red flags.
In summary, while the necessity of a cover letter is debated and there are instances where a cover letter may not be obligatory, it's generally advisable to include one. However, we need to ensure we are creating unique versions for each role and company. Going above and beyond has never been marked as a negative for a job applicant. Our CV is undoubtedly our primary application document, but a memorable cover letter can make the difference in capturing a recruiter's attention and progressing us to the next round. This is very much the case if we have concerns about career gaps or career changes. Ultimately, submitting a cover letter can enhance our application and demonstrate our interest and qualifications for the position.
We hope you got something from this article. Keep an eye out for an upcoming, related post: “Key Tips for Crafting a Good Cover Letter”.
If you have any questions on the above, or our other articles, please contact us.