I am starting the search for a new job and heard from a friend that you no longer need to use a cover letter when applying for a job.  Is that true? — submitted by Fran ’91

The simple answer is no, this is not true.  Even though many times you may be electronically submitting your resume through electronic job boards and other means, it is still important to attach a cover letter to any resume that you submit.

A cover letter will help connect your resume to the job you are applying for and show the employer that you have the exact skills they are looking for.  Cover letters need to be well-written, grammatically correct and very carefully constructed in order to highlight why the employer should bring you in for an interview.  It is your first impression to a particular company and the opening of your personal advertisement (your resume).  It also lets the employer know that you understand how to communicate in writing.

When writing your cover letter, make sure that you include:

• The title of the job you are applying for (and requisition number if appropriate)
• Where you learned about the position
• The name of anyone in the company that you have spoken to about the position
• A brief description as to why you are the ideal candidate for the position
• Your contact information (email and phone)
• How you plan on following up with the person you are sending it to

After writing it, take some time to read and re-read it for any errors.  Better yet, have someone else proof it for you.  In this tight job market, one single error could cost you the interview.  For more tips on writing cover letters, check out the free tools provided by CareerBeam on UMassAlumni.com.