To write or not to write: The controversy behind the proverbial cover letter.

A recent poll from Fishbowl by Glassdoor, which surveyed over 13,000 professionals, found that 58% think cover letters are redundant.

I'm sure you've seen the many headlines:

?? Cover letters are overrated

?? Cover letters are redundant

?? Cover letters are time-consuming

?? Cover letters are not a true reflection of skills

?? Cover letters are stupid

And you know what? The headlines are probably right. However, if a job application requires a cover letter, then including one is important. Period.

As someone passionate about storytelling, I have found that cover letters are an excellent tool for conveying my message to potential employers or collaborators. Whether I am applying for a job, pitching a project, or seeking new opportunities, a well-crafted cover letter allows me to showcase my skills, experience, and personality in a way that a resume or portfolio simply cannot. By sharing my story through a cover letter, I can capture my audience's attention and leave a lasting impression that sets me apart from other candidates or competitors.

Among other benefits, cover letters can be especially helpful for job seekers with a nontraditional career path, such as those with gaps in employment, those entering the workforce later in life, or those who are pivoting to a different industry.

In these cases, the cover letter provides a blank canvas where the jobseeker can share their story and explain how their experiences and skills make them a good fit for the job.

However, let's face it – crafting a compelling cover letter can be as challenging as navigating a maze blindfolded. It's the task that makes you question your life choices, and you might even find yourself wishing for a time machine to transport you to a world where cover letters never existed.

But here's the silver lining: mastering the art of the cover letter can set you apart in a sea of job applicants. Think of it as your secret weapon in the battle for that dream job.

So, how do you turn a seemingly tedious task into a powerful ally? Here are a few tips to transform your cover letter game:

1. Personalize it:?Generic cover letters are the job application equivalent of a yawn. Take the time to tailor each letter to the specific role and company. Mention why you're excited about the opportunity and how your unique skills align with their needs.

2. Highlight your achievements:?Instead of listing your job history chronologically, focus on your accomplishments. Share success stories that demonstrate your skills and make a memorable impact. Numbers and metrics can be your best friends here.

3. Show your passion:?Employers want to hire people who genuinely care about their work. Use your cover letter to convey your enthusiasm for the industry, the company, and the position. Passion is contagious.

4. Keep it concise and focused:?Nobody has time to read a tele novella (unless it's a throwback like Miramal or Do?a Bella). Keep your cover letter concise and to the point. Highlight the most relevant information that makes you an ideal candidate, and leave the rest for the interview.

Be Professional, Yet Authentic:?Maintain a tone of professionalism in your cover letter while infusing it with authenticity. Striking the right balance showcases your ability to communicate effectively and respectfully. Use language that aligns with the company culture and industry norms, but don't shy away from injecting elements of your personality to make a memorable impression. This balance demonstrates that you can navigate the professional landscape while staying true to yourself.

Remember, while cover letters might seem like an unnecessary hurdle, they're an opportunity to showcase your personality, skills, and passion. Embrace the challenge, and let your cover letter be the narrative that propels you toward your next career milestone.

Do you have any cover letter tips or success stories to share?