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To Cover Letter, or Not to Cover Letter?

  • Publish Date: Posted about 5 years ago

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Applying for a new role can be a daunting process. Our podcasts are here to make the process as seamless as possible, by providing you with the information and tools you need to land your next dream role. Hosted by our experienced Australia, Hong Kong and UK teams, we aim to help you stand out and showcase your ability and experience. 

Listen to our latest podcast  - To Cover Letter, or Not to Cover Letter?

This podcast is hosted by David Valks from the become Sydney office, Australia. 

In our latest podcast, we discuss whether or not to include a Cover Letter in your job application.  If you do include one, how do you create one that gets you noticed and hired?

To Cover Letter or Not to Cover Letter - That IS the question!

  • When researching for this episode I asked the consultant in our business for an honest opinion on whether they read cover letters or not? It wasn’t as cut and dry as you might think - most answered- sometimes.

  • However, digging a bit further I found that there is definitely value in a cover letter, if it is great!

Cover letter Vs email

  • Your introductory email can actually be a good substitute for a cover letter.

  •  But I do see value in a really well structured and presented cover letter.

What to avoid

  • Generic letter that adds no value

  • Don’t make it too long.  Nobody likes a rambler

  • Mistakes - grammar, spelling, incorrect names etc


Purpose of a cover letter

  • With a recruiter - it’s to get you through the door.  We become the walking talking version of your cover letter.

If applying direct it can serve a number of purposes:

  • You can tell them exactly why you are right for the role

  • Gives you the opportunity to showcase your personality

  • Can show that you really have researched and understand the company

How to make the cover letter count

  • Address is specifically to the person advertising the role

  • Tailor the cover letter for every role you are applying for

  • Go beyond the platitudes and highlight exactly why you are right for the role

  • You might want to play around with layout and design (don’t go crazy with this but make it look really presentable)

  • Don’t be afraid to insert personality maybe even humour


If you need assistance with putting together your CV and just not sure what to include and avoid, check out our previous podcast on CV Tips here.

We hope this episode inspires you to make your cover letter count! Check back to www.becomerecruitment.com/podcast to keep up to date with all the latest news and podcasts.