What is a key purpose of a cover letter when applying for a job?

A cover letter serves as an important tool for candidates applying for a job, primarily because it allows them to showcase their personality and skills that are directly relevant to the position they are seeking. Unlike a resume, which presents a structured overview of work history and qualifications, a cover letter offers the opportunity to express enthusiasm for the role and to explain how unique experiences and attributes align with the company’s needs.

By tailoring the content of a cover letter to the specific job, applicants can illustrate their suitability in a more personal and engaging way, demonstrating motivation and a genuine interest in contributing to the employer's goals. This direct connection between the applicant's capabilities and the job’s requirements helps to create a compelling narrative that can enhance their candidacy.

In contrast to other options, such as providing a mere list of previous jobs or repeating resume content, the cover letter is meant to complement the resume by presenting a more vivid picture of the applicant. Highlighting personal interests that do not relate to the job would typically detract from the focus and purpose of the cover letter, which is to position the candidate as an excellent fit for the specific role.