Benefits of a good cover letter when applying for a job | The new times

For some companies, a resume is more important when applying for a job. However, there are others who need a cover letter to know more about you and why you are interested in applying for a certain position.

A cover letter is a one-page message sent with an application, which provides information about the position you are applying for, your qualifications for the position, and why you are interested in working for the company.

A well-written cover letter can help you stand out from the rest of the competition.

Business owner Alain Muhirwa says a cover letter is a chance to express your interest and tell more about yourself and why you are the perfect candidate for the job.

“Through a cover letter, recruiters get to know you, and also a chance for you to describe yourself perfectly as you wish. You’re competing for a job with a lot of people, so it’s time to prove your potential,” he says.

According to Indeed, a career website for job postings, some companies value cover letters more than others depending on the job you’re applying for, but it’s still an important tool. to use that can help you get noticed.

“When hiring employees, a cover letter gives you more information about the qualifications of the person and also about the person who referred them to the position. It also helps in knowing how far the employee has done his research on the company and if he is really interested in joining the company,” says Ange Umutoni, who works as a director for an advertising agency.

She says a well-written cover letter adds value to a person’s resume and increases their chances of being invited for an interview.

In the cover letter, you should clearly align your qualifications, relevant skills and previous experience with the job description to emphasize that you have done your research on the position and want to join the team, PageGroup, a UK based recruitment. in their article.

Benefits of a cover letter

It tells your story. While you have the opportunity to show your qualifications for the position and explain what makes you a good candidate, an employer learns more about your current situation.

It establishes a relationship with the employer. Building relationships is key to getting a job that matches your career goals. The same goes for writing a cover letter. The main difference between sending a CV and a cover letter is that a CV covers the facts about what you have done, whereas a cover letter shows your personality to an employer.

It explains your relationship with someone who referred you. You may be in a position where you have leveraged networking to help you find a job. Maybe you participated in an informational interview or know someone who works there, a cover letter explains how you met your reference and how your conversation with them inspired you to apply.

How to write a good cover letter

Writer and editor Evelyne Uwamahoro says writing a good cover letter means taking the job you’re applying for seriously.

“In a well-written cover letter, this is where managers learn how serious and relevant you are, which is why when writing a good cover letter, you need to plan what you need to include and what you shouldn’t, what to watch out for and what not to watch out for. And also, you need to look for professionals to write a good cover letter to help you out,” she says.

A good cover letter will increase your chances of being invited for an interview with the hiring manager.

Below, we go over key tips for maximum impact according to Indeed:

Contact the contact mentioned in the job advertisement

When addressing your cover letter, make sure it is received by the right person, ideally the hiring manager, and clearly state which position you are applying for.

Describe your current work situation and why you want to move on

Don’t be negative If you’re currently employed, explain the reasons for your interest in the new role in the cover letter, whether it’s career advancement, personal interests, or even the fact that you’re looking for just a change.

Show you’ve done your research

Being able to demonstrate an understanding of the history of the company, its field of activity and the work it does for an employer reflects your level of interest in the position.

editor@newtimesrwanda.com

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