Quote:
Originally Posted by DubaiSis
I think the point of the cover letter is to say
1-here's why I'm applying (I saw a job listed, or a professional way of saying - took a stab in the dark) and attached (or enclosed) is my resume
2-here's why you want me
3-I'm available to interview at your leisure (or a specific time if there would be a limit).
So 3 or 4 paragraphs should cover it.
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Exactly.
I know that this doesn't really apply in this case, but I find that applying for jobs recently has become extremely time-consuming; a lot of information is asked for twice, and employers are searching for even more specific information than ever. Filling out a 10 page online application (I've had to do this a few times), and then still having to submit a resume, even though everything on my resume was already covered in all of the application questions, is kind of annoying (but necessary). And after all of that, I can't imagine needing a lengthy cover letter.
Most of the "here are my skills and this is why I'm good for this job" points should already be covered in the resume/application. I honestly hate having to submit cover letters, because I don't feel like they offer much information to an employer. However, if there is anything additional that you feel is important that you couldn't somehow fit into your resume, this might be a good place to slip it in. Or perhaps there is a past job or extra-curricular activity with a particular skill you learned that may not be obvious, which would be helpful in the job you're seeking; I would mention that. But all of this shouldn't take more than a paragraph or two to explain.
And as others have said, with huge pools of job applicants, people simply won't want to read a 4 page cover letter.
Again, we don't want to freak you out… but of course this is all just good information to have
