Yes, you should include a cover letter with your resume. Yes, recruiters and hiring managers still read them when shortlisting candidates.

The value of writing a cover letter should not be underestimated – it could mean the difference between you getting a chance to interview for a dream role or your resume getting lost under a pile of applications.

A cover letter is your personal link to the hiring manager. It is especially important if your skills, location, or qualifications are different from the ones advertised. Instead of passing off your application, a cover letter can be used to explain this miss-match. In saying that, we do not recommend applying for a role that you are not qualified to do.

A cover should include the following things; keep in mind, “a cover letter shouldn’t read like a novel, no matter how great a plot you’ve got!” – keep it short and sweet.

• Your current key skills / experience relevant to the specific job – be sure to advise on what you can do for the company, not what the company can do for you!
• Future aspirations (should relate to the job you are applying for)
• Your current availability