Do I need a cover letter with my CV?

When it comes to job applications, one of the most common questions people ask is whether they need to write a cover letter to go along with their CV. The answer, though not always straightforward, is generally yes.

While some employers may not explicitly ask for a cover letter, attaching one can significantly boost your chances of standing out in a crowded field.

In this post, we'll explore why cover letters are important, when they might not be necessary, and how to craft one that complements your CV.

> Why a cover letter still matters

1. Personalisation: A CV provides an overview of your skills, experience, and qualifications. However, it doesn’t offer much room for personality. A cover letter allows you to show your enthusiasm and interest in the role and the company, helping the employer understand who you are beyond your credentials.

2. Tailored for the role: While your CV might remain relatively similar across different applications, a cover letter allows you to tailor your cover letter to the specific role. This is where you can align your experience with the job description, showing the recruiter how well-suited you are for the position.

3. Highlighting key achievements: In your CV, your accomplishments may be buried under bullet points and chronological formats. A cover letter allows you to shine a spotlight on the work experience and achievements that are most relevant to the job.

4. Demonstrates effort: Including a cover letter shows that you’re willing to go the extra mile. Many employers value this effort, as it demonstrates a level of commitment and interest in the position that a CV alone might not convey.

> When you might need a cover letter

While a cover letter is generally recommended, there are situations where it may not be necessary:

1. Explicitly stated: If the job posting specifies that a cover letter is not required, it's usually best to follow those instructions. Sending one in such a case could be seen as ignoring the application requirements.

2. Online application forms: Some companies use online forms that require you to input specific answers to questions related to your experience, goals, and qualifications. In such cases, the form itself replaces the need for a traditional cover letter.

3. Recruiters or staffing agencies: When applying through a recruiter or staffing agency, a cover letter is often not needed since the recruiter will advocate for you and present your qualifications directly to the employer.

> How to craft a compelling cover letter

If you decide to include a cover letter (which you should in most cases), make sure it complements your CV rather than repeating the same information.

Here are a few tips to ensure your cover letter makes an impact:

1. Address the hiring manager by name: A generic "To whom it may concern" is a missed opportunity. Research the name of the hiring manager, and address them directly. This small step shows that you’ve taken the time to personalise your application.

2. Be concise and focused: Keep your cover letter brief—no more than a page. Focus on how your experience aligns with the role and highlight a few key achievements that demonstrate your suitability.

3. Use keywords: Study the job description and incorporate relevant keywords and phrases. This not only shows that you’ve read the listing carefully, but it also helps if the company uses applicant tracking systems (ATS) that scan for specific terms.

4. Show enthusiasm: Your cover letter should convey excitement about the role and the company. Show why you want to work there and how your values align with the organisation’s mission and goals.

5. Call to action: End your letter by expressing your eagerness to discuss your qualifications further in an interview. A confident closing statement can help push your application to the top of the pile.

> Example of a cover letter

We’ve included a cover letter example below. Be sure to customise your cover letter for each role or company that you’re applying for.

[Your Name]
[City, Postcode]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]

Hiring Manager’s Name
Company Name
Company Address
City, Postcode

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

Re: Application for Graduate Data Engineer

I am writing to express my interest in the graduate Data Engineer position advertised on your website. I completed a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Computer Science and I am passionate about data engineering and have been actively upskilling to transition into this field.

In my most recent position as Assistant Store Manager at [Current/Previous Employer], I was responsible for managing large datasets of inventory and sales data, where I developed a keen interest in data management, analysis, and automation. I frequently used Excel, and this sparked my desire to pursue further studies in software and data engineering. I have since completed courses in Python, SQL, and cloud technologies, and I’ve gained hands-on experience in building and optimising data pipelines during my free time.

I am particularly drawn to the role at [Company Name] because of your innovative use of data to solve real-world problems and your commitment to technology-driven solutions. I am confident that my strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and growing proficiency in Python, SQL and cloud infrastructure will allow me to contribute effectively to your team’s success.

Please find my CV attached for further details of my qualifications and experience. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my application in more detail. I am available for an interview at your convenience and can be contacted on [your phone number] or via email at [your email address].

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name] and will follow up in a week if I haven’t heard from you.

Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]

> Conclusion

While some might argue that cover letters are outdated, they remain a vital part of the application process for many employers. A good cover letter gives you the opportunity to personalise your application, highlight key aspects of your experience, and show your enthusiasm for the role to potential employers. Unless a job listing specifically states otherwise, including a cover letter with your CV can make a strong case for why you’re the best candidate for the job.

So, next time you're preparing your application, take the extra step and attach that cover letter—you never know how much of a difference it could make.

Put your new cover letter to good use and apply to one of our roles today!