Despite the ongoing debate about whether cover letters are still necessary, they remain a valuable tool in the job application process.

In fact, they can make a difference in landing that coveted interview, even in a world where many recruiters focus on resumes and LinkedIn profiles.

Here are three reasons why you should still write a cover letter, and tips to make the process quick and effective.

1. It's your one shot to tell your story

Your resume provides a snapshot of your qualifications, but it’s limited to bullet points and job titles.

A cover letter, on the other hand, allows you to tell your story in a more personal and engaging way. It’s your chance to show the hiring manager who you are beyond your list of accomplishments. You can share the why behind your career choices, the passion that drives your work, and how your unique experiences make you the perfect fit for the role.

For instance, if you're transitioning industries or applying for a position where you don’t have direct experience, a cover letter can bridge the gap. You can explain how your transferable skills make you a valuable asset or why you’re excited about this particular role. Without a cover letter, the employer may never understand the full picture of who you are.

To do this quickly, start with a template. Use an outline to map out the key points you want to hit: introduce yourself, explain your qualifications, and express enthusiasm for the role. Once you have this structure in place, writing a customized cover letter becomes much easier and faster.

2. Highlight your communication skills

Strong communication skills are a critical requirement for many jobs, but your resume alone may not fully demonstrate your ability to convey ideas clearly and persuasively (I also highly recommend removing words like “great communicator” or “communication” from your list of skills - this should be evident from your application).

A cover letter gives you a platform to showcase these skills.

In the cover letter, you have the opportunity to articulate your qualifications in a clear, professional tone. Whether you’re writing about a major accomplishment, explaining a career gap, or expressing your passion for the company, your ability to communicate effectively will come through.

Writing this efficiently requires focusing on brevity and clarity. Keep the cover letter short, ideally around 250-400 words. Use simple, direct language that shows you can get your point across concisely. Employers value candidates who can communicate succinctly, so a well-written, to-the-point cover letter will demonstrate this skill.

3. It show's you've gone the extra mile

Writing a cover letter, even when it’s optional, shows that you’re willing to put in extra effort.

It signals to hiring managers that you care about the role, that you’ve taken the time to understand the company’s needs, and that you’re enthusiastic about contributing to their success.

This extra effort can set you apart from other applicants, especially in competitive fields. While some candidates may skip the cover letter altogether, your decision to write one can make a strong impression, particularly with hiring managers who value thoroughness and dedication.

Writing a cover letter remains a smart strategy for standing out in a saturated job market. It allows you to tell your story, showcase your communication skills, and demonstrate that you’re willing to go the extra mile.

Practical Tips to Write Your Cover Letter (and ChatGPT prompts)

Practical Tips to Write Your Cover Letter (and ChatGPT prompts)

To streamline the process, research the company and position briefly before starting. Tailor your letter by highlighting how your skills match the company’s needs, and mention something specific about the company’s mission, values, or recent successes. This shows that you’ve done your homework without requiring hours of research.

Use these ChatGPT prompts to help you write the first draft of your cover letter.

ChatGPT Prompt 1 “Create a Cover Letter Outline for me”

ChatGPT Prompt 2 “Populate this outline and write a cover letter using the information from this resume [upload your resume]”

Then edit your first draft and you’ll be on your way!

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