What are cover letters? And do they matter?

What are cover letters?

A cover letter is a document that you want to send with your job application to introduce yourself to future employers. Within this document, which is the cover letter, you're going to highlight your qualifications. So your skills, your education, your work experience, any projects you have, your certifications, and your interest in applying to the job. You will typically send this with your CV or resume, and/or your portfolio.

Structure of a cover letter

There are lots of ways to structure your cover letter but here's our recommendation:

1. Introduction
2. Motivation to work at the company and within the team
3. Match your skills to the job requirement
4. Sign off, sum up match

Do you always need to write a cover letter?

Yes, if you want the job, you should always write a cover letter. Even when it is not a requirement, you'll improve your chances of landing an interview with an effective cover letter that demonstrates your motivation.