11 Reasons Employers Should Request Cover Letters

When you’re hiring for a new position, it’s tempting to go straight for the most impressive resume or portfolio. With dozens of applications to read and not much time to make a decision on who to interview, the cover letter often gets overlooked in the hiring process.

But the truth is, cover letters can reveal a lot about a candidate (both good and bad), and it’s worth taking the time to read every single one.

Take it from this panel of 11 successful entrepreneurs from the Young Entrepreneur Council, who share the reasons they ask for cover letters.

1. They Test for Fit

Resumes are a really easy way to bulk-spam a lot of potential employers. Cover letters aren’t. By asking for a cover letter that includes certain information, you’ll be sure to get fewer candidates of much higher quality. Only the ones who really want to work with you will apply.

—Wade Foster, Zapier

2. They Tell You Who Is Serious

I always look at candidates who write a great cover letter much more seriously. Taking the time to do a custom one signifies that the candidate has a high interest in your organization and pays attention to detail. Those who only send a resume or a template cover letter are clearly indicating they are applying for numerous jobs at once, and you didn’t deserve an individual email. Read more...