What is the difference between a resume and a cover letter?

In Singapore's job market, a good cover letter and resume are important to land your next job. It is important to know the key differences between them to gain an advantage over other candidates. This way, you can showcase your skills and experiences in a focused way to the potential employer and get that interview.  

Let us see why understanding these differences is important for your working life. Explore what to add to your application documents, learn the difference between a cover letter and a resume, and explore some tips to help you reflect your best skills to hiring managers. 

Here is what you will find: 

• What is a cover letter? 
• What is a resume? 
• Cover letter vs resume 
• Cover letter example 
• Resume example 
• Cover letter tips 
• Resume tips 
• Common mistakes to avoid 
• Conclusion 
• FAQs 

What is a cover letter? 

A cover letter is a detailed document that conveys your interest in a particular role to hiring managers. It lets them know how your skills match the job description and shows your interest in the job opening. It also gives insights into your personality. 

A cover letter includes the following sections: 

• Date and contact details: Add your name, phone number, address, the date, and the employer's contact details. 
• Salutation: Start with a formal and polite greeting, such as "Dear Hiring Manager." This indicates respect for the future employer along with personalisation. 
• Opening paragraph: State the job you are applying for and how you learned about it. This helps clarify the purpose of your cover letter. 
• Body paragraphs: Explain why you are a good fit for the role, mentioning specific skills and experiences. 
• Closing paragraph: Summarise your interest and express your eagerness for an interview. 
• Closing and signature: End the letter politely and put your signature. 

Make sure you follow a professional letter format with clear sections. Use a readable font and professional tone. Organise the document using a structured format to add to the visual appeal. Use cover letters when applying for jobs unless the hiring manager specifically says not to include one. It helps you share your exceptional qualities and show enthusiasm for your dream job. 

What is a resume? 

A resume is a brief document that tells potential employers about your education, work experience, and skills. The purpose of a resume is to show your qualifications quickly and clearly, helping employers decide if they want to consider you for an interview. It also helps them understand if you are a good fit for the role. 

Typical sections of a resume include: 

• Contact information: List your name, address, phone number, and email. 
• Summary or objective statement: Give a brief overview of your career goals or what you can offer. 
• Professional history: Add your work experience in reverse chronological order. 
• Educational history: In the education section, include only essential information such as degrees you earned and institutions you attended. You may include your GPA if it's between 4 and 5.  
• Skills and abilities: Highlight your key skills to show what you are good at. 
• Certifications: You can add relevant certifications to showcase your academic achievements and enthusiasm for professional development. 

Resumes have clearly defined sections and use bullet points for easy reading and a clean, professional layout. The acceptable length for a resume for Singaporean companies is usually two pages. This is because resumes with few words may not provide enough context for hiring managers. 

It is ideal to use resumes when applying for jobs or internships. They help employers quickly see if you've got the right qualifications for the position. You may consider attaching your photo on the resume if you are applying for an entry-level or government job.  

Cover letter vs. resume 

Knowing the key differences between resumes and cover letters is important for a job search. A cover letter describes your qualifications and interest in the position. It usually consists of three to four paragraphs and focuses on the job you're applying for. 

A resume gives a snapshot of your education and work experience. It contains a detailed list with bullet points and is usually one or two pages long. 

A resume and cover letter are important when you apply for a job. The purpose of each document is different. Your resume serves as a tool for employers to assess your qualifications and suitability for the position they are offering. A cover letter complements your resume and adds a personal touch by explaining why you are interested in the role. It may also describe your future career goals. 

Together, they make a strong job application that tells the employer about your professional background and work experience. They also show how you stand out from other applicants by showcasing your unique strengths. 

Cover letter example 

Here is an example cover letter that can help you in writing yours: 

Hui Min Lim 
123 Orchard Road, Singapore 238888 
Phone: (+65) 9123 4567 
Email: [email protected] 

Date: January 31, 2024 

Jia Ying Tan  
XYZ Company 
789 Tampines Road, #06-11, Singapore 528888 
Phone: (+65) 7123 4567  

Dear Jia Ying Tan, 

I'm writing to express my interest in the marketing coordinator position at XYZ Company, as advertised on your website. With a bachelor's degree in marketing and three years of experience in digital marketing, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your dynamic team. 

In my previous role at ABC Marketing Agency, I successfully executed digital campaigns that resulted in a 20% increase in online engagement for clients. My proficiency in social media management, content creation, and data analysis aligns well with the requirements of the marketing coordinator position at XYZ Company. 

I am impressed by XYZ Company's innovative approach to marketing, and I am eager to bring my skills and creativity to contribute to your continued success. I am open to discussing further how my qualifications make me an ideal person for this role. 

Thank you for considering my job application. I look forward to scheduling an interview to discuss how my skills and experiences align with the needs of XYZ Company. 

Sincerely, 
Hui Min Lim 

Resume example 

Here's a sample resume that can inspire yours: 

Hui Min Lim 
123 Orchard Road, Singapore 238888 
Phone: (+65) 9123 4567 | Email: [email protected] 

Summary: 

Dynamic and results-oriented marketing professional with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing and three years of experience executing successful digital marketing campaigns. Adept at social media management, content creation, and data analysis. Seeking the marketing coordinator position at XYZ Company to contribute to innovative marketing strategies and drive online engagement. 

Professional Experience: 

Digital Marketing Specialist | ABC Marketing Agency, Marina Bay, Singapore| May 2021–present 

• Executing and managing digital marketing campaigns for clients, resulting in a 25% increase in online engagement. 
• Conducting data analysis to assess campaign performance and make strategic adjustments for optimisation. 
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure cohesive brand messaging across digital platforms. 

Marketing Assistant | Mesh Solutions, Orchard Road, Singapore| July 2019–April 2021 

• Assisted customer service representatives in developing and implementing marketing strategies to promote products and services. 
• Coordinated events and promotional activities, enhancing brand visibility and customer engagement. 
• Created compelling content for social media platforms, increasing brand awareness. 

Education: 

Bachelor of Science in Marketing | Singapore University of Social Sciences| May 2019 

Skills: 

• Digital marketing 
• Social media management 
• Data analysis 
• Content creation 
• Brand promotion 

Professional Memberships: 
Member, Marketing Institute of Singapore  

Languages: 
Fluent in English, Mandarin Chinese, and Spanish 

Cover letter tips 

Writing an effective cover letter is crucial when applying for a job. Use the tips below to create compelling cover letters that highlight your professional qualifications and set you apart from other applicants: 

Tailor it to the job 

Customise your cover letter to match the specific job and use the first-person tone while drafting it. Research the specific company and job description to understand the needs and requirements. Highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and accomplishments that align with the position. This shows the employer that you are genuinely interested in the role and have taken the time to customise your application. 

Keep it to one page 

A cover letter expands on why you are the best candidate for the role. While including all your accomplishments is tempting, it is best to focus on the most relevant ones. Make sure to quantify any accomplishments that you add. This establishes credibility and showcases the impact of your work in previous roles.  

Aim to keep your cover letters within a single page to maintain the reader's attention. Use a brief introductory paragraph and separate important points to make it easy to read and understand. 

Address it to the right person 

Address your cover letter to a specific person, such as the hiring manager or recruiter, whenever possible. Use polite salutations like "Dear Sir or Madam" only when you don't know the employer. You can research the company's website or online profile to find the correct recipient's name. Addressing the cover letter to a specific individual shows your initiative and attention to detail. 

Expand your resume 

Your resume tells the prospective employer about your professional skills and experience. But your cover letter is where you can talk more about what you have achieved and how it relates to the job. You can also explain the reasons behind your successes and discuss any breaks or changes in your career. Consider adding hobbies or interests that may reflect your hard and soft skills. 

Resume tips 

Creating an impactful resume helps highlight your qualifications and secure a job interview. Here are some tips for an effective resume: 

Tailor it to the job 

Customise your resume for each job by highlighting the skills, experiences, and accomplishments that match the job requirements. Review key points in the job description and research the company to know what it wants in an applicant. Customise your resume accordingly to show how your skills, experience, and qualifications align with the company's needs.  

If you are a foreigner with a Singaporean residency, such as a Singaporean PR, list it in your resume. Having a work permit can enhance your chances among other candidates. 

Use the right font and format 

Keep your resume clean by opting for professional fonts. You can choose fonts like Roboto, Arial, and Times New Roman for resumes written in English. For traditional jobs, you may opt for serif fonts like Times New Roman or Garamond. Use a PDF or MS Word format for your resume. In Singapore, employers usually opt for the following formats: 

• Reverse chronological resume format: It is ideal if you are an experienced professional. 
• Functional resume format: It is an ideal format for a career shift. 
• Combination resume format: It is an ideal format for candidates with a strong work history, looking for a new career path.  

Use action verbs 

Use power words like strong action verbs to start each bullet point. This helps you rank better on Applicant Tracking System (ATS) scanners. It also creates a dynamic and engaging resume that showcases your capabilities. 

Quantify data 

Use quantifiable data to demonstrate your accomplishments. This adds credibility and helps employers understand your impact in previous roles. For example, instead of saying "increased sales," specify "increased sales in Shanghai branch by 20% in six months." Numbers provide a clear context for your achievements and demonstrate your effectiveness. 

Common mistakes to avoid 

Avoiding common mistakes can improve the overall quality and impact of your cover letters and resumes. This can maximise your chances of securing interviews and job offers. 

Here are some things to watch out for: 

• Not personalising to the job: Tailor your cover letter and resume to the job you're applying for. This helps you distinguish yourself as a strong applicant. 
• Not proofreading: Spelling, grammar, and formatting errors can undermine professionalism. Always proofread the two documents or ask someone else to do so. 
• Repeating information on both documents: Avoid duplicating information. Use the cover letter to provide context for your resume. 
• Ignoring keywords and job requirements: Use relevant keywords from the job description in your application. This helps you rank higher on applicant tracking systems. 

Conclusion 

Knowing the difference between a cover letter vs. resume is important when looking for a job in Singapore. Your resume gives details about your skills, experience, and qualifications. Cover letters help you introduce yourself, show interest in the job, and give context to your resume. Both documents can help employers better understand how well you align with their organisation and culture of respect. 

Remember to check for mistakes in both your cover letter and resume. Add detailed information without repeating any. Highlight your academic background and professional achievements. Give numbers whenever you can. Also, use keywords to help your application get through applicant tracking systems that many companies in Singapore use. 

FAQs 

Here are some frequently asked questions about cover letter vs. resume:  

1. Is a cover letter better than a resume? 
   ⁠A cover letter is not necessarily better than a resume; they serve different purposes. A resume summarises your skills, experiences, and qualifications, while a cover letter introduces you. It explains why you are interested in the role and highlights relevant aspects of your resume. Both are important for job applications, and it is best to submit both when applying for a position. 
2. When should I use a cover letter versus a resume? 
   ⁠Use a resume to show all the essential information about your work history, skills, and education. It is like a summary of your qualifications. Use a cover letter when you want to introduce yourself to the employer and explain why you are interested in the job. This is like a business letter that tells the reader more about you and explains why you would be fit for the position. 
3. Is a cover letter separate from a resume? 
   ⁠Yes, cover letters differ from resumes. A cover letter is a letter you write to introduce yourself to a company and explain why you are a suitable candidate. It helps you explain your qualifications and why the employer should hire you.  
   ⁠
   ⁠A resume is a document that lists your education, work experience, skills, and other important information about you. It is like a summary of your qualifications and experiences. So, a cover letter and a resume are separate, and you usually send them together when applying for a role. But does a resume include a cover letter? No, because these are separate documents. 
4. Do you need a resume summary if you have a cover letter? 
   ⁠A resume summary is a brief introduction at the beginning of your resume that highlights your skills and experiences. It needs to catch a hiring manager's attention and provide a quick overview of your achievements. A cover letter is where you explain in more detail why you want the job and why you are a good fit. 
   ⁠
   ⁠It is a good idea to have both a resume summary and a cover letter. The resume summary gives a quick snapshot of your qualifications, while the cover letter lets you explain more about yourself and why you would be great for the job. So, cover letters complement resumes, and using both can help you make a powerful impression and give prospective employers a better understanding of your skills and interests. 
5. What is the difference between a resume and an application letter? 
   ⁠A resume documents your work experience, skills, and education. It summarises your qualifications and helps a hiring manager understand if you are right for a role. An application letter is a letter you write to apply for a specific role. In it, you introduce yourself, explain your interest in the role, and relate your qualifications to the employer's expectations.