The following exchange took place in the ExecuNet Forum, where members can pose "Ask the Expert" questions and get them answered. In this case, another member replied.
Q: I have heard both sides to the résumé/cover letter story. I tend to follow the cover letter approach to tailor my education/skills/experience to the job description. However, I read an article today that stated that recruiters/HR departments do not look at cover letters. What do you think?
PamP [another member]:
As a recruiter, I generally skim the cover letter to see if it's actually targeted to the job or if it is a "generic" letter. I don't bother to read generics; but telling me about specific accomplishments that make you a fit for the job? Those I read in full.
One, it tells me you've actually read the job description and, two, you've actually given some thought to how your skills and experiences would fit what I need. That's the person I want to hire for my company. I'd err on the side of sending a cover letter. If it isn't read because the recruiter is overworked, at least you tried. If they do read it, even if your résumé doesn't seem to be exactly on target, you'd probably get at least a screening call.
That said, don't write a book — a half-page letter that targets your two best accomplishments in light of the needed skills is enough to stimulate interest.
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