“Do employers really read cover letters?”
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard that question, and I always give the same response: “It doesn’t matter. Your cover letter has to be excellent no matter what.” The reality is that some employers read ’em and some don’t. But I can pretty much guarantee that the one time you write a crummy cover letter, it’ll definitely be read.
Murphy’s Law aside, cover letters really are an important piece of the job-hunting puzzle. They provide an opportunity for your real personality and talent to shine through. Like the personal essay portion of a college application, the cover letter helps you to differentiate yourself and make a unique impression on a potential employer. The résumé is science. The cover letter is art. Here are some tips to perfecting your craft.
