Should You Send a Cover Letter If Not Requested (With 3 Examples)?

Applying for a job can be a daunting task, and one question that often comes up is whether to include a cover letter when it's not explicitly requested. A cover letter serves as an introduction and a chance to showcase your writing and communication skills, as well as provide additional context for your resume. Including a cover letter when it's not specifically requested can give job seekers an advantage by demonstrating their interest, professionalism, and qualifications for the position, with some exceptions. In this article, we will explore the reasons to include a cover letter, the exceptions to the rule, the importance of tailoring the cover letter, and tips for writing an impressive cover letter.

There are several reasons why including a cover letter can be beneficial when applying for a job, even if it's not explicitly requested.

1. Showcases your writing and communication skills: A well-written cover letter demonstrates your ability to communicate effectively, which is an essential skill in many industries. According to a BBC Worklife article, companies may ask for cover letters to influence the quality of applicants and assess their communication skills.

2. Allows you to expand on your resume and provide additional context: A cover letter gives you the opportunity to elaborate on your accomplishments and experiences, showing how they are relevant to the position you're applying for. As explained in a My Job Search article, cover letters and resumes complement each other, with the cover letter providing context and a deeper understanding of your qualifications.

3. Helps you stand out from the competition: In a job market where the average position receives over 100 applications, a cover letter can help you stand out from the crowd. A Coursera article states that including a cover letter can be an excellent way to differentiate yourself from other applicants.

4. Demonstrates your enthusiasm for the position and company: A personalized cover letter shows that you've done your research and are genuinely interested in the company and the role. This enthusiasm can make a strong impression on hiring managers.

5. Tailoring the cover letter to the specific job can show your attention to detail: Addressing the specific requirements of the job posting and using keywords from the job description can demonstrate your attention to detail and commitment to the position.

A well-tailored cover letter can significantly enhance your job application. Here are some tips to ensure your cover letter is tailored to the specific position and company:

1. Address the specific requirements of the job posting: Carefully read the job description and address how your skills and experiences align with the requirements of the position.

2. Use keywords from the job description: Including relevant keywords from the job description can help your application pass through applicant tracking systems and catch the attention of hiring managers.

3. Show how your experience and skills match the position: Provide specific examples of how your past experiences and skills make you a strong candidate for the role.

4. Research the company and mention its values or recent news: Demonstrating your knowledge of the company's values, culture, or recent news shows your genuine interest in the organization.

5. Describe how you can contribute to the company's goals: Explain how your unique skills and experiences can help the company achieve its objectives and contribute to its success.

In conclusion, including a cover letter when it's not requested can be advantageous in many cases, as it demonstrates your interest, professionalism, and qualifications for the position. However, there are exceptions to this rule, and it's essential to tailor your cover letter to the specific job and company to increase your chances of success.

Studying successful cover letters can provide invaluable insight into what makes them effective. They can inspire and guide you when crafting your own. Below are examples of cover letters across various industries that have led to job offers.

Each of these examples demonstrates important components of an effective cover letter:

1. Addressing the hiring manager by name, showcasing attention to detail and personalization.
2. Exhibiting genuine enthusiasm for the company and its mission.
3. Providing specific instances of relevant experience and skills.
4. Mentioning recent company news or initiatives, signaling thorough research.
5. Concluding with an invitation for further discussion, indicating eagerness for an interview.

Using these examples as a template, you can craft a tailored and persuasive cover letter that highlights your unique qualifications and enthusiasm for the position.

To craft a cover letter that stands out, follow these best practices:

1. Start with a strong opening that grabs the reader's attention: A compelling opening sets the tone for the rest of the letter and encourages the hiring manager to continue reading. For example, mention a specific accomplishment or experience that directly relates to the job you're applying for.

2. Keep the content concise and focused: A cover letter should be no more than one page in length, so focus on the most relevant and compelling information. Avoid repeating information from your resume; instead, provide additional context or expand on specific accomplishments.

3. Use action words and quantify your accomplishments: Use strong verbs and provide specific numbers or percentages whenever possible to demonstrate the impact of your work.

4. Proofread carefully and avoid errors: Typos, grammatical errors, and other mistakes can undermine your credibility and give the impression that you lack attention to detail. Use tools like Grammarly or ask someone to review your cover letter to ensure it is error-free.

5. Close with a call to action and express your eagerness for an interview: Politely request an opportunity to discuss your qualifications further and convey your enthusiasm for the position.

In most cases, including a cover letter when it's not requested can be advantageous, as it demonstrates your interest, professionalism, and qualifications for the position. However, there are exceptions to this rule, and it's essential to tailor your cover letter to the specific job and company to increase your chances of success. By studying examples of successful cover letters and following best practices, you can craft a compelling cover letter that helps you stand out from the competition and land your dream job. Best of luck in your job search!