Candidates ask recruiters if submitting a cover letter with their resume is still something employers are wanting in today’s hiring process. Our recruiters at Professional Alternatives have the top three most asked candidate questions specifically about cover letters answered here!

Do you read the cover letters you receive?

Yes, the cover letter is what presets the entire resume when you are not meeting with a potential candidate in person yet. This shows a side of their personality, unlike a resume does. Cover letters are for the in between on your factual resume. When receiving a cover letter attached with a resume it shows that this candidate applying is more serious about getting hired in the applied position.

What is the most common error you see on cover letters?

When the cover letter exceeds over one pages length. Your cover letter should not be in an essay format, but in an organized insightful letter formatted on to one page with around 3 paragraphs in it. Cover letters always end with your signature and contact information and are placed before your resume as a precursor.

Are applicants without cover letters criticized?

It completely matters on the position the candidate is applying for. If they are applying for a higher level role, a cover letter is expected. More entry level or admin positions can get away with not having a cover letter, they may not have much more to add apart from their resume with being so fresh on the job market and that’s okay.

If you are currently searching for a new career opportunity, contact one of Professional Alternatives recruiters TODAY! If you click here, you will be taken straight to our contact page where one of our recruiters will be reaching out to you. Our website also has a Job Board Page where the most recent positions posted by our recruiters are located. Our award winning staffing firm looks forward to aiding your search in the future.