What Is the Point of a Cover Letter?
Employers are accustomed to looking for certain pieces of information and qualities in an application for a position. Over time, a cover letter has become one of these standard components, and to many employers, a resume without a cover letter is missing something. However, there are more reasons to write a cover letter than just employee expectations. Properly done, a cover letter can convey the entire tone of the resume and include very important data.
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Definition
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A cover letter is a short letter addressing the employer in a business application. It typically mentions the basic facts of the application---who is applying, what position the person is applying for, and why the individual thinks he should be hired. To many people this seems redundant. After all, applying to a particular position should be obvious, and all qualifications are included in the resume. Cover letters, however, provide framework for the entire applications.
Purpose
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The cover letter is an introduction. The applicant is showing that he understands the position and that he is applying because he wants the job, not because he is trolling for interviews or applying to every position the company has open. Since it is the first thing an employer reads, the cover letter tends to set the tone for the rest of the resume and gives a very important first impression.
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Benefits
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Resumes tend to be very formal. There is no room for explanation, only the salient facts set out in a clear format. While these facts are useful, the employer cannot get a good read on the applicant or the applicant's personality just by reading his skills and experience. The cover letter, properly written, can give an air of enthusiasm and personality to the entire application and can make the employer's own experience more favorable.
Factors
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A good cover letter should be brief, no more than two paragraphs with a quick salutation. An employer will not have enough time to read a lengthy cover letter, and may not even move on to the resume if the letter is too boring. The writing should be pithy and professional, highlighting the main facts of the applicant's experience in a personable way. The applicant should also mention something about the job and why he would enjoy having it.
Messages
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The cover letter is also an excellent opportunity for the applicant to let the employer know important information the resume may not share. An applicant who is underqualified can give reasons why he should still be considered in the cover letter. An overqualified applicant can explain why he wants the job anyway.
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References
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