does a resume need a cover page

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What Is a Resume Cover Page?

Definition & Examples of a Resume Cover Page

How a Resume Cover Page Works

• Resume Cover Page Requirements

Examples of a Resume Cover Page

A resume cover page is a letter sent along with your resume when applying for jobs. It provides additional information on your skills and qualifications to a prospective employer.

Here's why you need a cover page and how to write one.

A resume cover page provides detailed information on why you're qualified for the job you're applying for. Don't think of the letter as a summary of your resume. Well-written cover letters explain why you're interested in this specific position and organization and why you're the best candidate for the job.

• Alternate names : Cover letter, covering letter

The purpose of a cover letter is to land an interview. Specificity is essential. If you write a generic letter and use it for every job application, it will show. It sends a signal that you're not that interested in the position and that you're not attentive to detail.

While it might sound overwhelming and time-consuming to personalize each cover page , the groundwork will be quite helpful if you do get an interview. Your research gives you a sense of the organization and how you can contribute it, and you can use that information to inform your interview.

Your cover page is your first impression with a hiring manager. In addition to making a case for your candidacy, take the time to proofread the letter and/or ask a friend or trusted mentor to review it and provide feedback.

The only time you shouldn't send a cover page is if the job posting specifically says not to.

Requirements for a Resume Cover Page

Before you start writing, spend some time  reviewing the job advertisement . A close examination of the ad will reveal what's important to hiring managers. For instance, if the posting mentions the need for organization and time management skills, mention in your cover letter that you're deadline-driven. If the position calls for leadership competencies, mention teams or projects that you've overseen. 

The format of a resume cover page varies slightly depending on whether you're emailing your resume as an attachment or sending it in the body of an email. Here's the standard format for an attachment. 

Standard Cover Letter Format

Your Contact Information

Name Address City, State, ZIP Code Phone Number Email Address

Employer Contact Information  (if you have it) Name Title Company Address City, State Zip Code

Salutation : Dear Mr./Ms. Name: ( begin here if you are sending the cover page in the body of an email)

First Paragraph Provide information on how you found out about the job and why you're applying. Mention the precise job title. 

Middle Paragraphs This section of the cover letter can be one paragraph or several. Use this space to describe your experience, focusing on how it shows that you're a good match for the position and have the necessary qualifications.

Final Paragraph Wrap up your cover page letter here by thanking readers for their consideration, and providing information on how you will follow up. 

Complimentary Close

Respectfully yours,

Typed Signature

Below is a sample resume cover page to help you craft your own.

Sheila Johnson 1234 Dogwood Avenue Knoxville, TN 37914 (123) 456-7890 sheila_johnson@email.com

July 2, 2020

Ms. Alexandra Eliot Hiring Manager ABC Company 3457 Neyland Street Knoxville, TN 37913

Dear Ms. Eliot:

I was very interested to learn that ABC Company is searching for a new Administrative Assistant through your recent posting on Indeed.com. Please accept the attached resume as a sign of my deep interest in this position.

As a recent graduate from Pellissippi State Community College’s Administrative Professional Technology Program, I can offer you advanced Microsoft Office 365 and QuickBooks accounting software skills. I am well-versed in traditional administrative tasks such as database management, data entry (typing 83 WPM), filing, and appointment scheduling.

You specify in your job posting that you're looking for someone with strong web design and social media management experience. Concurrent with my education at Pellissippi State, I also worked part-time as a Social Media Assistant for the Riverside Creative Agency. In that capacity, I helped create and manage new social media accounts on Facebook and LinkedIn for many local businesses. I’m sure that the skills I gained in social media design, SEO, and AdWords will allow me to contribute substantially to the in-house management of your website and social media presence.

My training, practical experience, attention to detail, and dedication to excellence will ensure that I hit the ground running as your next Administrative Assistant. ABC Company is widely respected as one of Knoxville’s best workplaces, and I would love to launch my career with your organization.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to discussing my qualifications in more detail. Please let me know if there is any additional information I can provide.

Sheila Johnson

Type your name at the close of the email followed by your contact information (email and telephone number). Your email  subject line  should include your name and the role you are seeking.

Key Takeaways

• A resume cover page is a letter sent along with your resume when applying for jobs. 
• It provides detailed information on why you're qualified for the job you're applying for.
• Tailor each cover page to the position. Don't just summarize your resume; provide context and make a case for your candidacy. 
• Use an example to help you craft your own cover page. 

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In the competitive job market, a well-crafted resume cover page can make all the difference. It’s not just a piece of paper; it’s your chance to showcase your skills, highlight your career goals, and captivate potential employers from the get-go. But what exactly is a resume cover page, and how can you create one that stands out? In this article, we will delve into the world of resume cover pages, providing you with inspiring examples, expert tips, and a step-by-step guide to help you craft a winning document. So, let’s embark on this journey to elevate your professional profile to new heights!

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What is a Resume Cover Page

A resume cover page, also known as a cover letter, is a one-page document that accompanies your resume when applying for a job. It serves as an introduction to your qualifications, skills, and experiences, allowing you to showcase your unique value proposition to potential employers. Unlike the resume, which provides a concise summary of your work history, a cover page gives you the opportunity to highlight specific achievements, express your enthusiasm for the position, and demonstrate your compatibility with the company’s values and culture. Think of it as your personal marketing tool, designed to make a memorable first impression and entice employers to delve deeper into your application.

How to Create a Resume Cover Page

Before diving into the creation process, it’s essential to understand the purpose and significance of a well-crafted resume cover page. This introductory paragraph will guide you through the key elements and considerations involved in creating an impactful cover page.

Step 1: Understand the Job Requirements

Begin by thoroughly analyzing the job description and understanding the key skills, qualifications, and qualities the employer is seeking. This will help you tailor your cover page to align with their expectations.

Step 2: Research the Company

Conduct research on the company’s values, culture, and mission. This knowledge will allow you to showcase your compatibility and enthusiasm for their organization in your cover page.

Step 3: Personalize Your Introduction

Start your cover page with a strong and engaging introduction. Address the hiring manager by name, if possible, and express your interest in the specific position. Grab their attention and make them eager to read further.

Step 4: Highlight Your Skills

In the body paragraphs, focus on showcasing your skills, both hard and soft, that are relevant to the job. Provide specific examples and quantify your achievements when possible. This will demonstrate your capabilities and differentiate you from other candidates.

Step 5: Connect with Your Career Goals

Clearly state your career goals and explain how the position aligns with your aspirations. Showcase your enthusiasm for the industry and your motivation to contribute to the company’s success.

Step 6: Showcase Your Work Experience

Highlight your relevant work experience and accomplishments. Emphasize how your previous roles have prepared you for the position you are applying for and how your contributions have made a positive impact.

Step 7: Maintain a Professional Tone

Throughout your cover page, maintain a professional and confident tone. Avoid clichés and generic statements. Instead, focus on providing specific, compelling evidence of your qualifications and abilities.

Step 8: Proofread and Edit

Before submitting your cover page, carefully proofread it for any grammatical or spelling errors. Ensure that the formatting is consistent and the content is concise and easy to read.

Step 9: Tailor for Each Application

Customize your cover page for each job application. Highlight the most relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that directly relate to the specific position you’re applying for. This shows the employer that you’ve taken the time to understand their requirements and are genuinely interested in the role.

Step 10: Use an Effective Closing

End your cover page with a strong closing paragraph. Reiterate your interest in the position and express your eagerness for the opportunity to discuss how your qualifications align with the company’s needs in an interview. Thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration.

What are hard skills and soft skills, and why are they important on a resume cover page?

Hard skills refer to specific technical or job-related abilities, such as coding, project management, or language proficiency. Soft skills , on the other hand, encompass interpersonal qualities like communication, leadership, and problem-solving. Both types of skills are crucial to showcase on a cover page as they demonstrate your competence and potential to excel in a given role.

How should I format the paragraphs on my resume cover page?

When it comes to paragraph format on a cover page, it’s essential to maintain a clean and organized appearance. Start with an engaging introduction paragraph , followed by two to three body paragraphs highlighting your skills and experiences. Use bullet points, subheadings, or bold text to enhance readability and make important details stand out.

What is the optimal text structure for a resume cover page?

A well-structured cover page typically consists of an introduction that grabs attention, body paragraphs that provide evidence of your qualifications, and a strong conclusion that reiterates your interest in the position and invites further action. Consider using a logical flow that guides the reader’s attention and maintains coherence throughout your cover page.

Crafting an impressive resume cover page is an art that requires careful consideration and attention to detail. By showcasing your skills, aligning your career goals , and highlighting your work experience , you can create a powerful document that sets you apart from the competition. Remember, whether you’re creating an internship resume or a manager resume , the principles remain the same – make it engaging, concise, and tailored to the specific role you’re applying for.

Now armed with examples and a step-by-step guide, go ahead and create your own outstanding resume cover page. This invaluable tool will help you open doors to new opportunities and increase your chances of landing your dream job. Good luck on your journey to professional success!

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