Cover Letter vs Resume: The Differences Explained 

According to research, the average recruiter spends six seconds looking at a resume. With such little time to make an impression, it’s vital that your resume is able to stand out. This is where a cover letter comes in.

Many people get confused about the difference between a resume and a cover letter and wonder which one is more important. This article will compare cover letter vs resume and explain why both are important when applying for a new job.

Purpose

A cover letter introduces you to a potential employer and explains why you’re the best candidate for the job. A resume is a summary of your qualifications, experience, and skills.

Content

A cover letter should be specific to each job you apply for and include information about why you’re a good fit for the role. A resume is a general overview of your work history, experience, and skills.

Format

A cover letter is typically one page in length and written in paragraph form. A resume can be one or two pages (depending on your experience) and is usually in bullet point format.

When it comes to deciding which one to include, it really depends on the job you’re applying for. Still, as a general rule of thumb, you should always include both a cover letter and resume when applying for a new job.

Types of Resumes

There are many types of resumes, but we’ll look at chronological, functional, and hybrid.

Chronological resumes list your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job. This type of resume is best for people who have a steady work history and clear career progression.

Functional resumes focus on your skills and abilities instead of your work experience. This type of resume is best for people who are changing careers or have gaps in their employment history.

Hybrid resumes are a combination of chronological and functional resume formats. This type of resume is best for people who have a strong work history and relevant skills and qualifications.

Writing a resume can be a daunting task, but there are many resume tips and tricks you can use, like using a professional resume builder.

Benefits of a Cover Letter

While cover letters may seem like an extra step in the job application process, they’re actually very important. Here are some of the key benefits of writing a cover letter:

• Shows that you’re willing to go the extra mile
• Demonstrates your written communication skills
• Allows you to highlight your most relevant qualifications
• It’s an opportunity to sell yourself to a potential employer

As you can see, there are many good reasons to include a cover letter with your job application.

Cover Letter Vs Resume: A Short Guide

So, cover letter vs resume? Both cover letters and resumes are essential when applying for a new job.

A cover letter is your opportunity to introduce yourself to a potential employer and explain why you’re the best candidate for the job. A resume is a summary of your qualifications, experience, and skills.

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