When applying for a job, submitting a resume and cover letter is important. But do hiring managers read cover letters? Some people say they don’t, while others swear by them. So what’s the truth?
Well, it depends on the hiring manager. Some will read your cover letter, while others may not have time to do so. But if you want to increase your chances of getting noticed, it’s always a good idea to send one.
What Is A Cover Letter?
A cover letter is a brief letter that introduces you and your qualifications to the hiring manager. It should be concise and free of any grammar or spelling errors. In addition, it should be tailored to the specific job you’re applying for.
Do Hiring Managers Read Cover Letters?
Some job applicants may wonder if hiring managers even read cover letters. The answer is yes – hiring managers read cover letters, but not all of them.
In some cases, a cover letter may be all needed to decide on a candidate, but in other cases, a well-written and customized cover letter can help seal the deal.
What Percent Of Hiring Managers Read Cover Letters?
When it comes to job applications, your resume is important. But what about your cover letter? Are hiring managers even reading them?
Studies show that the answer is a resounding yes. Nearly 87% of hiring managers say they always or sometimes read cover letters. If you do not include a cover letter with your job application, you miss out on a valuable opportunity to make a strong impression.
So what should you include in your cover letter? First, take the time to personalize it for each position you apply for. Hiring managers can tell when you’ve just copied and pasted a generic letter and it doesn’t make a good impression.
Second, focus on why you’re the best candidate for the job. What relevant skills and experience do you have? How can you add value to the Company? Answering these questions will help you craft a compelling case for why you should be hired.
If you’re unsure how to get started, plenty of resources are available online to help you write an effective cover letter. So don’t neglect this important step in your job search process – take the time to write a great cover letter, and increase your chances of landing the job you want.
Why Do Employers Want Cover Letters?
Many employers require job applicants to submit a cover letter and resume. But why? After all, the employer already has all the information they need in the resume, right?
There are several reasons why employers ask for a cover letter. First, a cover letter allows the applicant to elaborate on their skills and experience. It also allows them to highlight any special qualifications that might not immediately appear on their resume.
In addition, a cover letter gives the employer a sense of the applicant’s personality and writing ability. These factors can help the employer decide whether or not the applicant is a good fit for the position.
So if you’re applying for a job, take the time to write a well-crafted cover letter. It just might be the thing that sets you apart from the other candidates.
What Do Hiring Managers Look For In A Cover Letter?
A great cover letter will grab a hiring manager’s attention and make them want to learn more about you. Here are some of the things that hiring managers look for in a cover letter:
- A clear understanding of the role you’re applying for
The best cover letters demonstrate an understanding of the job you’re applying for and how your skills and experiences fit into that role.
- Enthusiasm
A cover letter is your chance to sell yourself to a Company, so it should be full of enthusiasm and excitement about the opportunity.
- Clarity and conciseness
A well-written cover letter is clear and to the point. It doesn’t ramble or include unnecessary information.
- Correct grammar and spelling
This may seem like a no-brainer, but many job seekers don’t take the time to proofread their cover letters. Be sure to double-check for any grammar or spelling errors before hitting send.
If you can show that you have all of these qualities in your cover letter, you’ll be sure to impress the hiring manager and increase your chances of landing an interview.
Are Cover Letters A Waste Of Time?
A common misconception is that cover letters are a waste of time. The thinking goes that employers only care about what’s on your resume, so why bother writing a cover letter?
However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. While it’s true that your resume is important, a well-written cover letter can make the difference between getting your foot in the door and getting passed over.
A good cover letter shows employers that you’re not just another faceless resume – you’re a real person with skills and experience. It’s an opportunity to highlight your strengths and explain why you’re the best candidate for the job.
So if you’re looking for a way to stand out from the competition, take the time to write a great cover letter. It could be the difference between getting hired and getting rejected.
What Should Be Avoided In A Cover Letter?
A cover letter is your opportunity to sell yourself to a potential employer, so making a good impression is important. With that in mind, there are certain things you should avoid doing in your cover letter.
First and foremost, don’t simply repeat the information from your resume. A cover letter is not the place to regurgitate facts; rather, it’s an opportunity to elaborate on your skills and experience and explain why you’re the best candidate for the job.
Avoid using clichés or recycled phrases; instead, focus on writing something original that will capture your reader’s attention.
And, don’t forget to proofread your letter before sending it off; typos and grammar mistakes can make you seem careless and unprofessional.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your cover letter positively impacts you.
Conclusion
Hiring managers read the cover letter – but only if they’re well-written and tailored to the specific position you’re applying for. A generic cover letter won’t get you very far, so it’s important to take the time to write a custom letter for each job opening you apply to.
Also, ensure your cover letter is up-to-date and accurately reflects your skills and experience. If you can put together a strong application package that showcases your qualifications, you’ll be one step closer to landing that dream job.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is a cover letter really necessary?
A: In the majority of cases, the answer is yes. A great cover letter can be the deciding factor in whether or not you get an interview.
Q: How do I start a cover letter?
A: Start by introducing yourself and let the hiring manager know how you learned about the job opening. Be sure to mention any mutual connections you have.
Q: How do I make my cover letter stand out?
A: Start by doing your research. Find out as much as possible about the Company and the specific job opening. Tailor your cover letter to address the needs of the Company and the job requirements. Use strong language and concrete examples to demonstrate your skills and qualifications.
Q: How long should a cover letter be?
A: A cover letter should be no longer than one page.
