Although recruiters are adept at reading and understanding resumes, they cannot read your mind. They may not know what position you are seeking, what area of the country you would like to live in or what your career goals are. Even the best written resume can leave out important information. The cover letter is your opportunity to seem more human, more personal, more real. If a recruiter has the sense that you are a real professional, the recruiter is more likely to think of you when an appropriate position opens.
Cover letters provide both the personal and professional touch.
Cover letters have the most impact if you use the name of an individual. If you e-mail or fax your resume, always follow up with a resume and cover letter by mail . Although a small percentage of search firms are now accepting resumes through e-mail or websites, do not limit your contact to this method. You should include information about what type of job you are looking for, why you are contemplating a change, what location, etc. Many people try to attach their resumes to e-mail messages as MS Word or WordPerfect documents.