Is a Cover Letter Still Relevant?

Make your application stand out with relevant details and visual proof instead of a standard cover letter.

More and more recruiters are skipping cover letters, as resumes often contain all necessary information and letters can be exaggerated or AI-generated. How do you make your application for vacancies in Limburg, Belgium, compelling? This article explains how to use creativity to stand out.

You’ve found your ideal job: a part-time role in construction with the option for a permanent contract, 4 days a week in Limburg. You’re aiming for a long-term job, so this opportunity is perfect. Your resume, including personal details, qualifications, education, and career history, is ready. Is it enough, or do you need a cover letter?

Is a Cover Letter Still Necessary?

Our survey of ten recruiters and HR departments with vacancies in Limburg, Belgium, shows that most don’t read cover letters. Why? The resume typically includes all essential information, making an additional letter redundant. This is a clear recruitment trend.

Recruiters also notice that cover letters are often AI-generated or exaggerate the candidate’s skills, failing to provide a realistic picture. Time constraints are another factor: with many applications, reading every letter is impractical.

When do they read a letter? When the resume shows potential but lacks certain details, like an explanation for a career gap. Instead of a letter, it’s better to include these clarifications directly in your resume, such as why you want to work in construction or in Limburg.

Make Your Application Unique

How can you stand out as a candidate? Get creative and show your value visually.

  • Relevant hobbies: Applying as a technician and enjoy working on cars? Add a photo of yourself tinkering with an engine.
  • Concrete achievements: For a carpenter role? Send photos of a cabinet you built. For a plumber position? Show a water installation you completed.
  • Specific context: Whether you’re an operator, production worker, or mason, include visual proof of your work to demonstrate your skills.

With this approach, you convince not just with words but with tangible evidence. This boosts your chances of landing the job.

Good luck with your application! Show what you can do, not just what you say.

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