Combining Your Cover Letter and Resume: A Comprehensive Guide

When applying for jobs, the decision of sending your cover letter and resume in one file or as two separate files can be a point of contention. This article aims to provide clarity on the benefits and drawbacks of each approach, and offer guidance on how to make the best choice based on the specific requirements of your target employer.
The decision-making process involves understanding the context in which your application will be reviewed, the use of applicant tracking systems (ATS), and employer preferences.

Pros of Combining Your Cover Letter and Resume

Convenience: The single file approach streamlines the application process for hiring managers, who can easily handle and organize applications with a single file. This reduces the burden of managing multiple files, making the review process more efficient.

Professional Appearance: A combined document can present a polished and cohesive appearance, especially if the formatting is done well. This can create a positive first impression and reflect your attention to detail.

Cons of Combining Your Cover Letter and Resume

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS): Some ATS may not be able to parse combined documents correctly, which could negatively impact how your application is reviewed. Ensure that your document is saved in a format that is compatible with most ATS, such as a PDF.

Employer Preferences: Some employers specifically request separate documents. Not following instructions could be seen as a lack of attention to detail, which might not be viewed favorably. It is always best to check the job posting for specific application instructions.

Best Practice: Follow Instructions

Always read the job posting carefully and follow the application instructions provided by the employer. If the posting does not specify, consider the following:

Small Organizations: For smaller companies, they may review applications directly in the email. In this case, including your cover letter in the email and your resume as an attachment might be the best approach.

Larger Organizations: Many larger organizations use recruitment systems that save your cover letter and resume in separate categories. These systems may also allow you to save the email as a cover letter.

Specific File Requirements: Some places may only ask for a resume. In such cases, you can include your cover letter in the resume file if you believe it is crucial to your application.

Regardless of the number of files you use, ensure your documents are professionally formatted and optimized for both human and AI reviewers. Format your resume as a PDF to maintain formatting consistency, especially if you decide to combine your cover letter and resume.

Conclusion

In summary, combining your cover letter and resume can be effective, but it is crucial to align your approach with the application guidelines provided by the employer. By understanding the specific requirements of each employer and optimizing your documents for both human and AI reviewers, you can present your best self and improve your chances of standing out in the hiring process.