Cover Letter – Yay or Nay?

What you really need to know

Feb 12, 2023

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This week I saw a post from a LinkedIn user with a poll.

He asked whether job seekers should include a cover letter in their application.

Here’s a snapshot of the post -

If you have been following the online community, especially LinkedIn, you will notice that this is a hugely debated topic.

It’s probably one of the most contested topics on LinkedIn, and I don’t know why.

While many professionals think it should be sustained, others believe it’s unnecessary and adds more workload for job seekers.

From my perspective, a cover letter is a credential attached to your resume and used to communicate to potential employers why you are fit for a role.

Yes, you might argue that that’s what a resume does. It’s not incorrect; however, a cover letter can move you from zero to hero if used effectively.

Anyway, I responded to the LinkedIn post to share my thoughts, and I would also share it with you.

Here’s What You Should Do

I believe you should attach a cover letter to your job application even though it’s optional if you:

truly love the role – because you don’t mind going to extra lengths for the job you truly love
are a student or graduate- because you probably have no or limited experience, and your resume might look unimpressive without a cover letter
are switching careers – because you need to state why you are changing your career. Your resume might not tell the whole story.
you have great writing and marketing skills – because you have skills that can give you an edge
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Why You Should Consider A Cover Letter

A cover letter can be a secret weapon to landing your dream role if used effectively.

It helps you tell a story. You can use a tone that connects directly to the hiring manager.
It gives you an edge over those who did not submit one
It helps you tell the employer that you are willing to go the extra step to make a case for yourself.
It provides an indirect opportunity to make a case if you are not a true fit.

I hope my framework will help you decide whether you need a cover letter.

Let me know what you think.

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Banji Alo

Career Digest from Banji Alo