3 Common Cover Letter Misconceptions
Isn’t the Cover Letter Dead?
You’re applying for a job online, so you don’t need a cover letter – right? As a savvy professional in the market for new job opportunities: you have read all the blogs, posts and articles talking about how resumes only get 6-10 seconds (if they get read at all) and cover letters are gone with the dinosaurs. Even Liz Ryan, the CEO of the Human Workplace says that: “Cover letters have had their day. They are dead.“ The problem is: this is just an example of one of the 3 common cover letter misconceptions.
If you are applying for a job online you must have a cover letter if it asks for one!
While only 18% of hiring managers rank the cover letter as an important element of the hiring process, according to Addison Group, a Boston-based employment agency, the fact that you included a cover letter with your online application is proof that at least you can follow directions. Consider that box checked! The absence of a cover letter with your online application sends an obvious message that you don’t consider the job worth your while.
Tailoring the Cover Letter to the Position
Another common cover letter misconception I see regularly is when an applicant uses the cover letter to talk about all the great value they can bring to the position. Don’t waste your time! Cover letters, while necessary, are rarely read.
Focus instead on clearly communicating your value towards the job you are applying for in your resume!
Even though online job boards like Monster are still promoting the antiquated idea that an applicant must sell themselves in the cover letter – the raw truth is that it’s a waste of your valuable time. Resumes only get mere seconds to make an impression, why do you think a recruiter or HR professional will read through your cover letter.
You absolutely must tailor your resume to the position with the simple addition of ‘Select Accomplishments’ which allow you to include key impact statements specifically targeted for the position.
Including a Cover Letter with an Email
If you are fortunate enough to have the hiring manager’s email or a direct contact within an organization, don’t send a cover letter as a separate document. The email has now become your cover letter! Take time to tailor your email appropriate to the organizational culture. In other words: if you are reaching out to an accounting firm make sure your words and tone are formal. However, if you are reaching out to a new and hip Start Up company, keep it business casual and friendly.
Tone, word choice and word placement matter significantly. Don’t hesitate to get a second opinion on the email before you hit ‘Send’.
An exception to this would be if you are considering an Executive position. In the rare instances where there isn’t a recruiter involved, a well-written cover letter in addition to the email can serve to introduce your professional portfolio.
Cover Letters are Changing
The good news is: we need to focus less on our cover letters than previous years. The bad news is our professional dossier is receiving less and less attention. Don’t fall victim to one of the many common cover letter misconceptions. It is critical that you hook a hiring manager’s attention in the first ¼ of your resume and clearly communicate your value!
Erin Urban LSSBB, CPDC is a certified professional & leadership development coach and a member of the Forbes Coaches Council with over 8 years in mentoring and coaching successful professional transformations. With an extensive background in leading individual, cultural and organizational change initiatives: her mission is to lift others up to defy their limits and exceed their goals.
