Summer Job Search Series: Part 3
When it comes to job applications, the cover letter is often treated like a formality—or worse, an afterthought. But when done right, it can be a game-changer.
A great cover letter is more than just a companion to your resume. It’s your chance to introduce yourself, highlight your interest in the role, and show the company why you’re not just qualified, but the right fit. For hiring managers, it’s often the first clue into how a job seeker communicates, thinks, and aligns with their culture.
Let’s break down how job seekers can make theirs stand out—and how hiring managers can use them to gain deeper insight.
For Job Seekers: Let Your Voice Be Heard
You’ve polished your resume and hit “apply”—but before you send, pause. A well-written cover letter can be the extra edge that gets your foot in the door.
Why It Matters:
A cover letter gives your application a voice. It lets you show personality, passion, and a genuine interest in the job. Plus, it shows that you’ve taken the time to learn about the company—not just clicked “apply” a dozen times in a row.
Here’s how to make it count:
1. Personalize It
Reference the company by name, mention something specific about the role, and explain why you’re excited to apply. It doesn’t have to be long—but it does have to be intentional.
2. Keep It Concise
Aim for 3–4 focused paragraphs. The goal isn’t to repeat your resume, it’s to add context. Think of it as the trailer, not the full movie.
3. Make the Connection
Highlight how your experience, skills, or goals align with the role. This is your chance to say, “Here’s why I’m the right fit for this position, and here’s what I bring to the table.”
4. Use AI Thoughtfully
AI tools can help you brainstorm structure or tighten up phrasing, but don’t rely on them to write your letter from scratch. Employers can spot a copy-paste job from a mile away. Your personality should still come through.
For Hiring Managers: Read Between the Lines
You’ve read dozens—maybe hundreds—of resumes. But the cover letter? That’s where the real insight often lies.
Why It Matters:
A thoughtfully written letter can reveal more than a resume ever will—motivation, communication style, attention to detail, and even cultural alignment.
Here’s what to look for:
1. Signs of Curiosity and Enthusiasm
Did the job seeker do their homework on your company? Are they genuinely excited about the role, or just applying to everything they see? A good letter will show you.
2. Clues About Fit
A cover letter can signal whether a job seeker understands your values, your mission, or your team dynamics. Use it to spark deeper interview questions about how they’ll mesh with your culture.
3. Storytelling
Cover letters are often where job seekers explain a career pivot, a resume gap, or a shift in goals. Keep an eye out for compelling personal narratives—it might just be the story that sets them apart.
The Bottom Line
Cover letters aren’t dead—they’re just underutilized. Whether you’re applying for a job or reviewing applications, this extra step can reveal so much more than a bullet-point list.
For job seekers, it’s your chance to speak directly to the hiring manager and make a personal connection. For companies, it’s a tool to gauge passion, communication skills, and alignment with your values.
At High Profile, we coach job seekers on how to write effective, authentic cover letters—and we help clients interpret them for deeper hiring insights. It’s one of the many ways we bring clarity and connection to the hiring process.
Up Next in Our Summer Job Search Series: How to Prep for Interviews (and Answer the Tough Questions with Confidence)
