Dear Cindy – Cover Letters

I've got my résumé ready and it looks great. Is a cover letter important?

Signed,

Seeking to Save Time

Individuals who apply by only filling out an application form do not need a cover letter, but for someone applying by résumé, a cover letter is always a good idea. Usually, at any given time, there is more than one vacancy: perhaps the recruiter knows you're applying for the radiology technologist job and not the pharmacist job, but which radiology technologist job? Or maybe you are currently a staff nurse in an emergency room, but are not applying for that position – you are applying for a more senior position. The cover letter will clarify which position you want, as well as issues such as whether you are interested in full-time, part-time, or weekends-only employment. A cover letter can also be used to explain experience gaps resulting from factors like travel or motherhood. And a cover letter shows something of your personality, which will differentiate you from other applicants.

Also see Write an Effective Cover Letter.