How to Differentiate Your Cover Letter from Your Resume

How to Differentiate Your Cover Letter from Your ResumeHow to Differentiate Your Cover Letter from Your ResumeYour resume and titelblatt letter are two of the most important tools in your job search. But how do you differentiate your cover letter from your resume? First, you have to understand the purpose of each document (they might not be what you think).Below are several tips on how to differentiate your cover letter from your resume.Your Cover Letter Is the Voice of Your ResumeAccording to Don Goodman, the only purpose of your cover letter is to get people interested in you enough to read your resume. With that said, you shouldnt reiterate everything you say in your resume in your cover letter. Otzu sichwise, youd only send your resumeThe goal of your cover letter is to piqueinterest. Its your first impression and opportunity to convey your passion for the industry, show them why you want the job, and explain why youre a good fit for the position- in your own words.Think of it as the voice of your resume. It explains what your resume cant. If you just shoved your resume in someones hands without any explanation of yourself, do you think theyll call you? Probably not. You need to talk with them a little bit, tell them what youre all about, and make them see that you have potential. This is essentially what your cover letter does.Your Resume Is the Interview FilterA common misconception is that your resume will get you a job. False The purpose of your resume is to get an interview based on how well you present your experience and skills.Generally speaking, if you dont have the appropriate skills, expertise, education, or background, then youre not getting an interview.Think of your resume as the interview filter. People dont have time to waste interviewing applicants who dont showcase the right skills from the get-go. Your resume is a way for them to filter candidates based on their credentials alone.In conclusion, the purpose of your cover letter is to get p eople to read your resume, and the purpose of your resume is to get an interview. Although they have different short-term goals, these documents work together to help you achieve your long-term goal getting a job.Readers, how do YOU differentiate your cover letter from your resume? Let us know in the comment section belowAriella Coombs is the managing editor ofCAREEREALISM. Shes a wicked career nerd and loves finding ways to make career more fun. Follow her on TwitterAriellaCoombs