Cover letter vs CV: What's the difference?

The CV: your business card

The CV is a factual document presenting:

• Your professional background
• Your education
• Your technical skills
• Your experiences

It should be:

• Concise: 1-2 pages maximum
• Factual: objective data
• Quantified: numbers and results

The cover letter: your pitch

The cover letter is a narrative document explaining:

• Why you're applying
• What motivates you
• What you can bring
• Your interest in the company

It should be:

• Personalized: adapted to each position
• Persuasive: make them want to meet you
• Structured: hook, body, conclusion

When to use each document?

Spontaneous application

CV + Cover letter required

Job posting response

Both are usually requested

Via LinkedIn

Often CV alone, sometimes brief letter

Mistakes to avoid

• Copying your CV into the letter
• Forgetting the letter when requested
• Mixing the two documents

Conclusion

These two documents are complementary. Polish both.