Not to write a covering letter?

11 replies

TheoriginalLEM · 01/06/2015 09:33

When the application is by application form. The application form is fairly generic but allowed me to say why i was suitable for the job etc and list relevant experience. Is a covering letter that pretty much is going to be repeating that expected or are they just interested in the form? Its been a while since ive applied for jobs.

I know this isn't really AIBU sorry sorry but i have to send it off today :)

OP posts:

DisappointedOne · 01/06/2015 09:38

I wouldn't expect a letter, no.

justonemorethread · 01/06/2015 09:39

You should use the covering letter to highlight your best points. They see hundreds of application forms that all look the same, but a good covering letter will make you stand out. You can expand on things and say things like ' doing the job at xyz I was able to devolop xyz skills when project managing/ assisting/ organising ... Etc etc '

Do you really want this job? Sounds Like you are making a half hearted application!

You will def stand out for not including a cover letter if it is a requirement

justonemorethread · 01/06/2015 09:42

Oh sorry, just re read your post properly, if they don't ask for one then no you don't need to write one. But I would still write a letter if it is a hard paper, not online app. Just something like dear so and so, here'smy aapplication, look forward to hearing from you soon. (Just with better spelling!)

Original poster

TheoriginalLEM · 01/06/2015 09:43

Why does it sound like a half hearted application? I am happy to write a covering letter but i wasn't sure of what was expected as the request was for the application form to be returned, no mention of a covering letter. So i don't want to go for overkill.

OP posts:

PtolemysNeedle · 01/06/2015 09:44

Writing a cover letter isn't going to do any harm, if you want the job you may as well do it just to be on the safe side.

MyCatIsAGit · 01/06/2015 10:21

Even if its not requested, I'd always include one, its another chance to show that you are articulate and to stress any really good points about your application and draw attention to them.

DarthVadersTailor · 01/06/2015 10:23

Usually on an application form the box asking why you're suitable IS the cover letter, just as the rest of the form IS your CV just in their preferred format. So no I wouldn't bother with a cover letter.

Littlef00t · 01/06/2015 10:23

A cover letter is to pique the interest enough for the application form or cv to be even looked at. It's always worth doing one even if you're repeating a lot of the same info, it's a shortened version of the bit inside the form.

AmyElliotDunne · 01/06/2015 10:28

Unless it specifically requests NO cover letter I'd include one. It can't do any harm and can only be a positive.

Do you want to be one of the many applicants who did exactly what they were asked, or one of the few who put in a little extra effort? Because I know which one I'd be keener to employ.

Original poster

TheoriginalLEM · 01/06/2015 10:37

Thanks guy - cover letter done :)

OP posts:

justonemorethread · 01/06/2015 13:22

theoriginal I said half hearted because I had misinterpreted, I thought they requested a cover letter and you thought you had put enough detail in your application so didn't need to do one.
Then I reread and realised it was not a requirement.
Some application forms give you enough space for your life story, and some don't.
Anyway, well done for doing one, I'm sure it can't hurt. Good luck and let is know how you get on!

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