What is the primary purpose of a covering letter?

The primary purpose of a covering letter is to introduce the applicant and their intent. This document serves as an opportunity for candidates to communicate directly with a potential employer, present themselves, and express their enthusiasm for the position they are applying for. It allows applicants to convey their personality and motivation, setting the stage for a more personalized engagement beyond what a resume typically presents.

Covering letters enable applicants to highlight specific experiences or circumstances that make them a fit for the role, while also creating a compelling narrative about their career path. This personal introduction is crucial, as it gives candidates a chance to connect with the employer on a more individual level, discussing not only their qualifications but also their passion for the field and the particular job.

While listing job qualifications and summarizing a resume are important components of a job application, the covering letter's core function is to serve as an introduction and to communicate the applicant's intentions towards the job opportunity. References, while valuable, are typically provided separately and not intended to be a focus in a covering letter. Therefore, the emphasis on introduction and intent clearly distinguishes the covering letter's role in the job application process.