Cover Letters

LauZaIM

Hi,

I have read through a lot of postings here about how to fix up and format resumes and cv's, but I have not seen much about cover letters. Is there any sort of "formula" or way you go about cover letters? Please share ideas on what you think they should be about, how long they should be, etc.

networker050184

I don't think many people use them anymore, I know I never have. All of the resumes I've ever looked at didn't have a cover letter. Maybe it was thrown out by HR before it got to me or something though.

ptilsen

networker050184 wrote: »

I don't think many people use them anymore, I know I never have. All of the resumes I've ever looked at didn't have a cover letter. Maybe it was thrown out by HR before it got to me or something though.

I would have to disagree with that. Cover letters are very commonly used. Indeed, I would imagine HR isn't forwarding them to you, or your organization doesn't use them. My organization doesn't use them either, but I know many that do still require, desire, or appreciate cover letters.

When applying to an online posting through an application system (whether it's Monster, CareerBuilder, Taleo, or that organization's system), if they do not recommend or give an opportunity for a cover letter, then it is not recommended to make one. When applying via email, you should always send one (it can be the body of the email) unless it is specified that you do not need one. If it is specified to send a cover letter, you should absolute send one every time. Some organizations will not consider you without one, and it may greatly improve your chances.

Cover letters are not as IT-specific as resumes, so formats you will find online from Google (you'll probably find a lot on About.com) will be suitable for IT work as well.

cyberguypr

Some love them, some hate them. Some companies don't care, others require it.

Here are a few discussions on this issue:

http://www.techexams.net/forums/jobs-degrees/67744-cover-letter-must-should.html

http://www.techexams.net/forums/jobs-degrees/75434-5-signs-your-resume-outdated.html

http://www.techexams.net/forums/jobs-degrees/75907-5-cover-letters-worked.html

ptilsen

cyberguypr wrote: »

Some love them, some hate them. Some companies don't care, others require it.

Here are a few discussions on this issue:

http://www.techexams.net/forums/jobs-degrees/67744-cover-letter-must-should.html

http://www.techexams.net/forums/jobs-degrees/75434-5-signs-your-resume-outdated.html

http://www.techexams.net/forums/jobs-degrees/75907-5-cover-letters-worked.html

"Everyone" pretty much repeats my advice, but more concisely:

Everyone wrote: »

A well written cover letter can get you a call before they even read (or finish reading) your resume.

If the job listing says not to send one, then don't. If the application website doesn't give you an option to include one, don't worry about it. Otherwise, take the time to write one for each position you apply to.

Iristheangel

Exactly what ptilsen said (Reputation added). It can't hurt your chances to have one but it definitely can hurt them if you don't with some companies