Maximise Your Job Prospects: When It Pays to Use a Cover Letter

The job market is more competitive than ever due to the recession. It is no longer a candidate-driven market. In my experience, for every vacancy posted, there are, on average, 250 applications—1,000 if it's a vacancy for an intern. In times of recession, the volume of candidate applications doubles. Therefore, employers are compelled to ask for "the moon on a stick." It is not unusual for employers to start asking for languages, master’s degrees, and technical expertise for roles that previously didn’t require these skills.

So, what can you do to stand out in a competitive market and a sea of candidate applications?

Over time, cover letters have become less mandatory, and it has become common for employers not to ask for one at the application stage. However, I would argue that in a competitive market, to stand out, it is crucial to have a cover letter. You are doing yourself a disservice by not including one. While CVs are the primary tool for showcasing your skills and experience, a well-written cover letter can make a significant difference. Here are some scenarios where you should definitely include a cover letter:

1. When the Job Listing Requests One

The most straightforward situation is when a job listing specifically asks for a cover letter. If the employer has indicated that they want a cover letter as part of the application process, it's essential to include one. It amazes me how often I see applicants ignore this request and decide to wing it by submitting only a CV. This tells the recruiter and hiring manager that you’re not really interested in the job and are just "CV flinging." Worse still, it gives the impression that you are lazy. It provides insight into how you might perform in the job. Ignoring this request can make it seem like you're not attentive to details or not following instructions, which can lead to an automatic rejection without an interview.

2. When You’re Applying for a Highly Competitive Position

This really is your business card. In highly competitive fields or for roles with many applicants, a cover letter can set you apart. Even if not explicitly required, a cover letter allows you to highlight your unique qualifications, explain your passion for the role, and demonstrate your understanding of the company’s needs. It’s an opportunity to make a personal connection and show how you stand out from other candidates. It also demonstrates to the employer that you have gone above and beyond what was asked for. You’ve been proactive and used your initiative, giving the employer insight into how you will operate in the job and with customers or clients.

3. When You Have Limited Work Experience

If you’re early in your career or have limited work experience, a cover letter can help you stand out. Use it to emphasise your enthusiasm, relevant coursework, internships, or voluntary work. This is your chance to convey your potential and eagerness to learn, showing that you are a strong candidate despite a shorter CV. Make sure you are not regurgitating information from the employer’s website. Conduct thorough research on the company, including awards they have won, products they have launched, whether they are expanding into another country, and what sets them apart from their competitors.

4. When You Have Employment Gaps

Employment gaps can be a red flag for some employers, but a cover letter provides a platform to address them directly. Explain the reasons for your gap honestly, focusing on any skills or experiences you gained during this time. This proactive approach can help mitigate concerns and demonstrate your continued commitment and readiness for the role.

5. When You’ve Taken a Career Break

A career break can be due to various reasons, such as personal development or family commitments. A cover letter allows you to frame this break positively, showcasing how it has prepared you for your next role. Highlight any relevant skills or experiences gained during your break and explain how they make you a better fit for the position you’re applying for.? Perhaps you volunteered abroad, acquiring a new language or skill in a country where the employer is establishing an office.

6. When You’re Changing Careers

If you’re transitioning into a new industry or role, a cover letter is crucial. It gives you a platform to explain your career change and how your skills are transferable. Address any potential concerns about your background and illustrate why you’re a strong candidate despite having a different professional history.? Ensure you emphasise the value you brought to your current role—perhaps you boosted sales or reduced overheads.

7. When Applying for Jobs Overseas

When applying for jobs in different countries, a cover letter is essential to address the unique aspects of your application. Explain why you are interested in working in that particular country, any relevant international experience, and how you plan to handle relocation or cultural adjustments. This can reassure employers of your commitment and adaptability.

8. When Following Up on a Referral or Networking Event

If you’ve been referred to a position by a mutual contact or met an employee of the company at a networking event, a cover letter is a great place to mention this referral. Highlight your connection and explain how the conversation or referral has influenced your interest in the role. This personal touch can strengthen your application and underscore your networking efforts.

9. When Speculatively Reaching Out to a Company

When contacting a company that isn’t actively hiring or applying for an unadvertised position, a cover letter is essential. It helps articulate why you’re interested in working for the company and how your skills and experiences align with their goals. A well-crafted cover letter can prompt them to consider creating a role for you or keep you in mind for future opportunities. Before I made a career change into Human Resources, I worked in the hospitality sector. I decided I wanted to transition out of managing bars and retail and into contract catering. Unfortunately, the company I was interested in working for wasn’t advertising vacancies. I decided to seek out the Head of Recruitment on LinkedIn and emailed her my CV with a cover letter explaining how I’d seen that the company had won a major contract with Heathrow Airport in collaboration with a well-known chef. I outlined my transferable skills and why I wanted to work for them rather than their competitor. Bearing in mind I had no experience working in the contract catering industry, that cover letter got me an interview with the Head of Recruitment. Three weeks later, they had an opening and called me up—I got the job. Remember, opportunity doesn’t happen; you create it.

10. When You Want to Beat the Competition

In a crowded job market, standing out is crucial. A cover letter provides an additional opportunity to showcase your personality, enthusiasm, and fit for the role. Tailor your cover letter to highlight specific achievements and skills that align with the job description, demonstrating why you are the best candidate for the position.

A cover letter is a powerful tool that, when used correctly, can enhance your job application and increase your chances of landing an interview. By understanding when a cover letter is necessary and how to tailor it to your situation, you can make a stronger impression on potential employers. Always remember to keep it concise, focused, and relevant to the job you're applying for.

Do you have any questions about writing a cover letter or need help with a specific part of your job application? Why not book a 121 mentoring session with me or take advantage of my CV Review service. Alternatively, I wrote a step by step guide to creating a winning CV https://linktr.ee/getyourcareerunstuck

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