What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is a document that accompanies a resume and serves the purpose of explaining and expanding upon the candidate's qualifications for a specific job position. It allows the applicant to present their unique personality, highlight relevant experiences, and articulate why they are particularly interested in the role and the employer. This personalized message can give potential employers insights into the candidate's motivations and how their skills align with the company’s needs.

The value of a cover letter lies in its ability to provide context to the resume, outlining specific achievements and elaborating on how past experiences are applicable to the job being applied for. This interaction creates an opportunity for candidates to stand out by directly connecting their background to the specific role and demonstrating their enthusiasm for the position.