[PeteSB75]

While the resume is your qualifications, showing that you can do the job, the cover letter is your sales pitch. It's about why you would be a better pick than Joe from down the block who has all the same skills and more experience. It is the single most important part of any job search done directly with hiring managers and HR people. Think of it as a written version of how you will sell yourself in the interview. Use it to tell them why you are the best fit for the job, and everything else becomes a formality.