Question

why shouldnt applicants to job openings send their cover letter as an attachment in an e-mail? when would it be acceptable to send a cover letter as an attachment?

Explanation:

• Why not as attachment:
• Employers may be cautious of opening attachments due to virus risks. Also, if the email system has issues (e.g., attachment size limits, compatibility problems), the cover - letter won't be seen. It's better for the cover - letter to be immediately visible in the email body for quick scanning.
• When acceptable:
• If the job application instructions explicitly ask for the cover - letter as an attachment (e.g., in a specific format like PDF, and the employer has a secure system to handle attachments). Also, if the cover - letter has complex formatting (like graphics or non - standard fonts) that might not display correctly in the email body, and the employer is aware and okay with receiving it as an attachment.

Answer:

• Why not: Virus risks, email system issues (size limits, compatibility), and lack of immediate visibility.
• When acceptable: When application instructions require it (specific format, secure system) or for complex formatting that won't display well in the body.