Is the Cover Letter Dead, or do you Still Need One in 2023?

There’s been much debate lately about the cover letter. Some people say it’s dead, while others believe it’s still an essential part of your job application. So, what’s the truth?

The answer is: maybe. It depends on several factors, including the type of job you’re applying for and the company you’re applying to.

If you’re unsure whether a cover letter is necessary, the best course of action is to err on the side of caution and include one. In this blog post, we’ll give you tips on writing a cover letter that will help you stand out from the competition.

Are Cover Letters Still Necessary in 2023?

Cover letters are still often required by employers as part of the application process and can help you stand out from the competition. Even if the job posting doesn’t mention a cover letter, including one can demonstrate your attention to detail and gives you the opportunity to explain your skills in more depth than your resume alone.

A recent survey of recruiters and hiring managers by ResumeGo found that 87% of employers read cover letters, and 65% said that cover letters influence who they interview and hire. This shows that cover letters are a valuable part of any job search strategy.

Cover letters have also evolved in recent years. Instead of the bulky, detailed letters of the past, today’s cover letters are more modern and concise. The survey found that half of employers spend less than one minute with their eyes on your cover letter, so make sure it is well-written and proofread.

What Should I Include in My Cover Letter?

When writing a cover letter, it’s essential to include your contact information at the top, as well as a professional greeting to the hiring manager or recruiter. Take the time to do some research and find out their name – avoid using outdated, impersonal greetings such as ‘Dear Sir/Madam’ or ‘To Whom It May Concern’ where possible.

In the body of the letter, you should include information about your relevant skills and accomplishments, what you know about the company, why you’re applying for the job, what value you can bring to the company, and any measurable results you can include to make your case. Additionally, you can address any potential concerns like job gaps, career changes, or relocation.

Finally, it’s important to avoid only talking about how great the position would be for you and instead focus on what you can bring to the table. Take a look at the job description for hints about what skills and qualities are most important, and make sure to highlight your skills and experiences that match those.

To make your cover letter really stand out, include stories that show how your personality, professionalism, and skill set can add to the values and overall mission of the company. A lot of this information can be found with some quick online research or by asking someone you may know who already works for the organisation.

Dos and Don’ts for Writing a Winning Cover Letter

When writing a cover letter, avoiding certain mistakes, and ensuring you put your best foot forward is essential. Here is a list of helpful dos and don’ts to get your cover letter noticed:

Don’t	Do
Use a generic cover letter to apply for multiple roles	Tailor your cover letter for each role you apply for
Use greetings such as ‘Dear Sir/Madam’ or ‘To Whom it May Concern’	Include a personalised greeting using the recruiter or hiring manager’s name
Just summarise your CV. There’s no point sending two documents that say the same thing	Use your cover letter to enhance your CV and add additional context to your skills and experience
Use long paragraphs or sentences	Make it easy for your cover letter to be skim-read. Consider the formatting and ensure it’s visually clear and appealing
Talk about how great the role will be for you	Let them know what you bring to the work party. Demonstrate how your skills and experience will benefit the role and the wider business
Be fake or over-enthusiastic	Show your enthusiasm for the role by giving a genuine reason for your interest in the job and the organisation
Strike the wrong tone	Use a similar voice to that of the organisation. Is the company uber-professional, or are they cool and contemporary? You should be able to assess this from their website and social media
Go over one page	Recruiters and hiring managers have a lot of applications to go through and not a lot of time, so keep your cover letter clear and concise
Forget to include your contact information	Ensure you have a professional email address and include a call-to-action (what would you like the recruiter or hiring manager to do next?)

 

If you want to stay ahead of the job search curve, focus on creating a strong CV, a compelling cover letter and a professional online presence.

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