Starting your career after university or vocational training can feel like stepping into a new world. Among the first challenges you’ll face is navigating the job application process, which often begins with crafting a CV (Curriculum Vitae) and a cover letter. 

But what exactly are these documents, and how do they differ? 

In this blog, we’ll explain the differences between a CV and a cover letter. We’ll offer practical advice on how to create each one, and give expert tips on making sure they work together to land you that dream job.

In this article:

The Difference Between a CV and a Cover Letter: The Essentials

What’s the difference between a CV and a cover letter?

 At first glance, CVs and cover letters seem similar. After all, they’re both used for job applications. But they’re quite different. A CV is like your professional autobiography. It lists your education, work experience and skills in a clear, structured format. On the other hand, a cover letter is a one-page letter tailored to each application. It explains your interest in the role and what makes you a great fit. 

A CV is designed to give employers a comprehensive overview of your qualifications. It usually includes your degree as well as A Level and GCSE results. It’s mostly static, meaning you’ll update it over time (i.e. with each new job or qualification), but the core structure remains the same.

While your CV provides the facts, your cover letter connects the dots and tells the story of why you’re the perfect person for the job.

Are CVs and cover letters the same?

CVs and cover letters are very different things. 

Think of it this way. Your CV is the who, what, where and when of your professional life – who you are, what you’ve done, where you’ve worked, and when you achieved your milestones. 

Your cover letter, however, is the why and how. Why are you passionate about this particular job? How does your background align with the role and the company’s goals?

For example, if you’re applying for a marketing position, your CV might list your marketing degree apprenticeship, internships and any relevant projects. Your cover letter, meanwhile, would explain how those experiences prepared you to excel in this specific marketing role. It could describe how you led a social media campaign that increased engagement by 30% or how your personal interests inspired you to get into the industry.

Can I use my CV as a cover letter?

It might be tempting to use your CV as a cover letter. After all, you’ve already put in the hard work to create it, so why not just send that? However, this is a big no-no. A CV and a cover letter are complementary, but they’re not interchangeable.

Your cover letter shouldn’t simply restate the information in your CV. Instead, it should highlight the most relevant parts of your experience for the job you’re applying for and provide context that a CV can’t. 

For example, if your CV lists that you managed a project, your cover letter could elaborate on the challenges you faced during the project and how you overcame them to deliver results.

Wondering how long a cover letter should be? Take a look at our in-depth cover letter writing guide.

Is a cover letter more important than a CV?

 If you’re comparing CVs and cover letters, it’s not about which one is more important. They both play crucial roles. 

Think of your CV as the foundation and your cover letter as the polish that makes everything shine. Your CV gets you in the door by showing that you meet the requirements for the job. Your cover letter is what makes an employer stop and think, “Wow, this person really understands what we’re looking for.”

Let’s say two candidates have similar CVs. Both have the same first class degree, similar work experience and comparable skills. The cover letter is where you distinguish yourself by demonstrating a deep understanding of the company’s mission, showing personal enthusiasm for the role and how your background makes you a perfect fit.

Ready for the next step? Here’s your ultimate style guide for what to wear in job interviews.

Do employers care about cover letters? 

So, do people still use cover letters in 2024? They might seem outdated when all our professional achievements and qualifications are instantly accessible on sites like Linkedin.

But it’s a big yes. And employers do care.

Employers use cover letters to gauge a candidate’s communication skills, attention to detail and interest in the role.

For example, in a competitive field like law, your CV might be enough to get you noticed by an ATS (Applicant Tracking System), but your cover letter is your chance to stand out to the human recruiter making the final decision. It’s an opportunity to show you’ve researched the company, understand its challenges, and are excited about how you can contribute.

The Difference Between a CV and a Cover Letter: Sending Etiquette

Can I send a CV without a cover letter?

While you technically can send just a CV, it’s not a good idea. Unless a job advert specifically says “no cover letter required,” you should always include one. A cover letter shows you’ve taken the time to tailor your application and are genuinely interested in the role. 

Should I put my CV or cover letter first?

When submitting a job application, put your cover letter first. It’s a bit like the opening act before the main show. Your cover letter should warm the employer to the idea of you as a candidate before they dive into your detailed CV.

So for example, if you’re sending your application via email, include your cover letter in the body of the email and attach your CV as a separate document. This way, the employer can quickly read your cover letter and easily access your CV to learn more.

Of course, many jobs have an online application system, where you won’t have a choice about the order your CV and cover letter appear. In this case, don’t worry. It’s the same for everyone.

Do employers look at a CV or cover letter first?

It varies depending on the employer and industry (and even the individual!), but many employers will skim your cover letter before moving on to your CV. If your cover letter catches their attention and they’re intrigued by your potential, they’re more likely to review your CV with a positive mindset, in greater detail.

Should I put my CV and cover letter together?

In most cases, your cover letter and CV should be separate documents, submitted at the same time.

When submitting via email, include your cover letter in the email body with your CV attached. This ensures the recruiter reads your cover letter first and has easy access to your CV. 

But if you’re applying through an online job portal that allows only one file, combine your cover letter and CV into a single PDF. Just make sure the cover letter comes first.

How to Write a Cover Letter: Quick Tips

What should I include in a cover letter?

A cover letter should be a concise, one-page document that complements your CV. 

Start with a strong introduction mentioning the role you’re applying for and why you’re interested. 

Then, provide a brief overview of your relevant experience, highlighting the skills and achievements making you a good fit for the role. If you’re applying for a role in sales (for example), you might mention that during your internship at a major retail chain, you helped increase sales by 15% by implementing a new customer engagement strategy. 

Finish with a closing paragraph that expresses your enthusiasm for the role and invites the employer to contact you.

What three things are in a cover letter?

A well-crafted cover letter includes three key components, each showing you’re the right fit for the team. This includes your introduction, relevant skills and experience and a strong closing paragraph.

Here’s a brief overview.

1. Introduction and purpose

The first part of your cover letter should introduce who you are and why you’re writing. This isn’t just a polite formality. It’s your opportunity to grab the employer’s attention off the bat. Mention the position you’re applying for and convey your enthusiasm for the role and the company.

For example:

Dear Joe Blogs,

I am excited to apply for the Marketing Coordinator position at XYZ Company, which I discovered on your website. With a degree in Marketing and hands-on experience in digital campaigns, I am eager to contribute to your team and help elevate XYZ’s brand presence.

2. Relevant experience and skills

The second part of your cover letter is where you align your experience and skills with the job you’re applying for. This is your chance to connect the dots between your CV and the job description, showing exactly how your background makes you a strong candidate.

For example:

During my internship at ABC Agency, I led a social media campaign that increased client engagement by 40% in just three months. My experience in crafting targeted content and analysing performance metrics would be an asset to XYZ’s marketing initiatives, particularly in expanding your social media presence.

3. Closing and “call to action”

  The final part of your cover letter should wrap things up with a strong closing statement. Reaffirm your interest in the position, thank the employer for considering your application, and clearly state your eagerness to discuss the opportunity.

For example: 

  I am truly excited about the opportunity to contribute to XYZ Company and am confident my background in digital marketing aligns well with your team’s goals. I would love the chance to discuss how my skills can benefit your company in an interview. Thank you for your time and consideration.

How many pages should a CV be?

If you’re just starting your career, your CV should ideally be one page. 

Keep it concise and focused on the experiences and skills most relevant to the job you’re applying for. Employers don’t have time to wade through pages of information. So make sure every detail counts.

A one-page CV also forces you to be selective, which is a good thing. For instance, if you’re applying for a role in accountancy, your CV should emphasise your professional qualifications, degree classification, internships and projects showcasing your communication, analytical and quantitative skills.

If you’re worried about leaving out important information, remember that your cover letter fills in the gaps and provides extra context.

Ready to get started on your career journey?

Writing a standout CV and cover letter is just the beginning of your professional journey. At Academic Coaching, we’re dedicated to helping graduates and early-career professionals navigate the competitive job market. 

Whether you’re aiming for a prestigious graduate program, the perfect internship or preparing for your first full-time role, our personalised coaching will give you the edge you need. Get in touch today to discover how we can support your path to professional excellence.