Does a resume need a cover letter? While you might think a cover letter is optional or even unnecessary, think again! Your resume is backward-facing, detailing everything you’ve done in the past, while your cover letter is forward-facing and is your opportunity to talk about your bright future at your dream company. Let’s dig into why you still need a cover letter and how to craft one that positions you as a top candidate for the job.

Do You Need a Cover Letter Anymore?

“Absolutely!” says Style Nine to Five founder Christie Lohr. Despite the rise of online applications and automated hiring systems, a well-crafted cover letter remains a crucial part of the job application process. “Think of how you feel when you get a birthday gift on its own vs. one with a heartfelt hand-written card. The majority of applicants don’t include a cover letter, so it automatically makes you stand out, especially in a world of automation where human connection is increasingly rare,” Christie says.

While your resume highlights your skills and experience, a cover letter allows you to personalize your application, demonstrating why you’re the perfect fit for the role. Taking the time to express your passion for the role in a cover letter shows how interested you are and lets you explain how your skill set will translate to on-the-job success, something your resume alone just can’t do.

A cover letter offers a chance to explain how your values align with the company’s mission, showcase your communication skills, and provide context for your achievements. A thoughtful cover letter can set you apart from other candidates, showing employers that you are genuinely interested in the position and willing to go the extra mile.

What Do You Need to Include in a Cover Letter?

A strong cover letter is typically divided into three main sections: the introductory paragraph, the middle paragraphs, and the closing paragraph, each serving a specific purpose. Let’s dive into why this cover letter formula works and what to say in each section.

Paragraph 1: Introduction

This is your opportunity to make a great first impression. Start by addressing the hiring manager by name, if possible (search the company on LinkedIn for clues on who they are), and mention the specific job you’re applying for. Start with a bold statement, a quote that’s relevant to your personality, or a personal anecdote that connects you to the role—these openers capture the hiring manager’s attention right away.

Then, highlight a key achievement or relevant skill upfront to grab their attention and show why you’re a strong fit for the position. This paragraph should convey enthusiasm for the role and demonstrate that you’ve done your research on the company.

Paragraph 2: The Body

The body paragraph should dive deeper into your qualifications. Here, you can expand on your resume by showcasing how your skills and experiences align with the job requirements. Focus on relevant accomplishments, providing specific metrics and examples that demonstrate your expertise and how it would benefit the company.

Tailor this section to the role, emphasizing how your background uniquely positions you to solve problems or add value to the team. Use key phrases from the job description to show how you align with what they’re looking for.

Paragraph 3: Closing

The closing paragraph should reiterate your enthusiasm for the position and express your eagerness to discuss how you can contribute to the company’s success. Research the company, make a connection to its values or mission, and talk about how you share the same passion. Pointing out your shared values demonstrates your passion and helps position you as a great fit with the company culture. Finish it off by thanking them for their consideration and expressing that you’re excited to hear from them soon—confidence is key!

4 Expert Cover Letter Tips and Tricks

Write a standout cover letter by making sure you tick these boxes:

1. Detail what you can do for the company. Your resume is all about you, so focus your cover letter on the company and what you can offer them. For example, if you have 10 years of project management experience, describe how that directly benefits them.

2. Share why you want to work there. Are you a big fan of their products? Do you want to contribute to their cause? Have you admired their brand since childhood? Get personal and share what attracts you to the company—the more authentic, the better.

3. Call the company by name. Rather than using “your company,” mention them by name to show that your application is tailored for them. Aim for three name drops—when detailing why you want to work with them, when summarizing how your skills are a great fit for them, and when expressing your desire to join their team.

4. Create a different cover letter for each job. Yes, you can have a general template for your cover letter, but it’s essential that the content you write is specific to the job and company at hand. Hiring managers can spot a generic cover letter a mile away, so customizing yours and making it personal will automatically help you stand out against the candidates who copy-paste the same cover letter with each application.

The Bottom Line

In today’s competitive job market, a cover letter remains a valuable tool for standing out among applicants. It offers a unique opportunity to showcase your personality, explain how your experience aligns with the job, and express genuine interest in the company.

While resumes focus on qualifications, cover letters allow you to connect the dots, highlight soft skills, and provide context for your achievements. In a world where hiring can feel impersonal, a tailored cover letter demonstrates that you’ve done your homework and are serious about the role, increasing your chances of landing an interview.

Are you unsure how to word your cover letter to stand out as the best candidate for the job? Try Style Nine to Five’s Cover Letter Refresh service, where Founder Christie Lohr creates the perfect way to communicate your unique experience and qualifications to potential employers.

Jeanine Gordon is a freelance content marketer passionate about creating stellar strategies for global brands and small businesses alike, specializing in fashion, beauty, and lifestyle.