You just got notified a new job became available and can’t help but rush to submit your resume or CV. You scroll down and see “cover letter required” and a painful realization bombards your mind, you don’t have one and if you do, it’s wrong.

Do you still submit your application without a cover letter? Or should you rush to submit one? The answer to both is no. The biggest disservice you can do to yourself is to overlook an application requirement and submit something that lacks professionalism.

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is also known as an application letter that’s meant to provide insights to who you are. The cover letter should include a brief introduction about yourself, the job your are applying or looking for, information about your skills and experience, and how your skills correlate to the job posting. Also, encourage the reader (of your cover letter) to read your resume or CV.

The beauty of a cover letter is that you have the opportunity to go into more detail about your professional career and how you are the right candidate for the job.

Having a well-written cover letter has the ability to set you apart from other applicants and be considered by the employer.

Important things to keep in mind when writing a cover letter:

• Cover letter format
• Header
• Greeting and/or salutation to the person reading the letter
• Your opening paragraph needs to be an attention grabber. Needs to be concise and explain your specific interest in the role.
• Second paragraph should include work experience. This is an overview of relevant positions held, achievements, skills, specialities, etc.
• Your closing paragraph can focus on a particular skill or achievement. Anything you feel is important and worthy to be mentioned.
• Always end with a professional sign-off.

What should a Professional Cover Letter Header have?

• Your name
• Your phone number
• Email
• The date
• The person you are addressing the letter to; example, hiring manager, etc.
• The company’s address.

Additional information that can be pertinent to mention in a cover letter would be your tittle (if you have one), your address, professional website.