Your resume says a lot about your skills and experience. But it does little to explain the kind of person you are and the life experiences you’ve had. This is where a cover letter comes in. Whereas the rest of your resume gives basic facts about your history and references, a cover letter allows you to speak directly to potential employers. It is a chance to let the person behind the resume shine through. A cover letter is your chance to grab the attention of employers to make you more than just a piece of paper.

A cover letter is the ideal place to explain any gaps in your work history, such as going back to school or starting a family. These are both valid reasons to have gaps in your work record, but without any explanation they may actually hurt your chances of landing the job. A brief explanation of employment gaps can do wonders to reassure potential employers.

Your cover letter is also a place where you can highlight any special skills or useful coursework that could set you apart from other applicants. For example, pointing out your previous coursework in accounting could make you a greater asset than other candidates. This is especially helpful if you have a degree that is not directly related to the job for which you are applying. You cover letter is your chance to explain what classes you took, what grade you received, and what skills you gained that make you uniquely qualified for the position.

In addition, your cover letter serves as an opportunity to bring up life experiences that further qualify you for the job. For instance, if you are applying to be a daycare provider but do not have adequate work experience, point out that you gained experience taking care of younger siblings or your own children. It is little things such as this that may give you the edge over another equally qualified applicant.

As you can see, a cover letter is a beneficial addition to your application. It would be a shame to waste such a wonderful opportunity. So, go on and tackle your first draft. If you need help with the format or do not know how to begin, there are several free resources on job related websites to give you a boost. Try searching for “cover letter” on your search engine and you are sure to find a wealth of knowledge. Good luck!