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Should I or Shouldn’t I? The Recruiter’s Guide to Candidate Cover Sheets



Are candidate cover sheets worth your time? Absolutely. Not only do they help build your brand, but they also showcase your value as a recruiter, demonstrate that you've done your homework, and make it easier for your clients to see why a candidate is perfect for the role—all without them having to sift through a lengthy CV. Let’s dive into why you should be using them and what they should include.


Why Candidate Cover Sheets Matter

  1. Brand Recognition: A professional, well-presented cover sheet is more than just a summary; it’s a representation of your brand and the quality of service your provide, reinforcing your reputation as a recruiter who goes the extra mile.

  2. Saves Your Client Time: Hiring managers are busy people. A cover sheet gives them a quick snapshot of the candidate, saving them time from digging through lengthy CVs to find the information they need.

  3. Demonstrates Your Value: By providing a cover sheet, you’re showing that you’ve done the extra leg work. It shows you’ve thoroughly vetted the candidate and believe they’re a strong fit for the role. This builds trust with your clients, ensuring they come back to your for future hiring needs. 


What Should a Candidate Cover Sheet Include?

A good cover sheet doesn’t just repeat what’s on the CV. It highlights key details that give your client the information they need at a glance. Here’s what you should include:

  • Expected Salary: Helps align expectations from the start.

  • Notice Period/Availability: Timing is key, and knowing when a candidate can start is crucial.

  • Job Title: Clarifies the candidates level of experience.

  • Key Skills: Highlight the skills that make the candidate an ideal fit for the role. Focus on the skills that matter most for the role.

  • Sector/Industry Experience: Specific industry experience can be a deal-maker. Make sure to emphasise the candidate’s relevant background.


Depending on your industry, you might also want to add:

  • Work Status: Especially important for roles requiring specific work permits.

  • Previous Employers: Highlighting well-known companies can add credibility and weight to their application.

  • Qualifications: Essential for roles that require specific certifications.


The Profile Summary: Your Key Selling Point

The profile summary is where you really sell the candidate. This is your chance to explain why they’re the perfect match for the role.

  • Overview of Experience: Give a snapshot of the candidate’s career, focusing on their level of experience and most relevant expertise.

  • Key Achievements: Highlight any significant accomplishments that demonstrate how to candidate has added real value in previous roles. 

  • Core Skills: Reiterate the most relevant skills, especially those that align with the job description.

  • Personal Attributes and Aspirations: Share what drives the candidate and what they’re looking for in their next role.

  • Motivation for Moving: Why is the candidate looking to make a change? This could include seeking career growth, looking for better work-life balance, or wanting to contribute to a mission-driven company.


Keep in mind, the length and detail of the profile summary should match the industry and role. For example, a legal role might require a more in-depth summary, while a construction role could benefit from a straightforward, bullet-pointed overview.


Final Thoughts

A candidate cover sheet isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a powerful tool that sets you apart from other recruiters. By providing a well-crafted, informative cover sheet, you show your clients that you’ve done your due diligence, saving them time and helping them make informed decisions faster. In a market where every minute counts, this can make all the difference in securing top talent and keeping your clients coming back.


Remember, your role isn’t just about filling positions—it’s about adding value at every step of the recruitment process. A candidate cover sheet is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to do just that. So next time you’re sending over a candidate, take a few extra minutes to craft a cover sheet that shines. Your clients will thank you, and so will your bottom line.


Happy recruiting!


Automate Candidate Cover Sheets

Short on time or not sure how to create impactful candidate cover sheets? Let AdScribe do the work for you. With AdScribe, you can automate the process—just upload the CV and add any notes, and in one click, you’ll get a fully formatted, high-quality cover sheet ready to impress your clients

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