Last updated on November 12th, 2025 at 10:34 am
Looking Beyond the Resume
Many job seekers focus solely on their resumes, yet modern applications often require more. Employers expect a cohesive package that includes a cover letter and, sometimes, a CV. Building these documents from scratch can be intimidating. Zety simplifies the process by offering a suite of tools that go beyond the resume. This article explores how to use Zety’s cover letter maker, CV builder, and bundle options to create a polished application package.
Why Cover Letters Still Matter
A cover letter introduces you before a recruiter sees your resume. It explains why you are interested in the role and how your skills meet the job’s needs. When well-written, it can:
- Highlight achievements that don’t fit neatly into a resume.
- Explain career transitions or gaps in employment.
- Show personality and enthusiasm.
Skipping a cover letter can make your application feel incomplete, especially for roles that value communication skills.
Zety’s Cover Letter Builder
Zety’s cover letter maker is integrated with its resume builder. Once you create a resume, the tool pulls data from your profile to pre-fill details in the cover letter template. You answer a few questions about your motivation and the company. Zety then generates text suggestions you can edit to fit your voice. Key benefits include:
- Matching designs: Cover letters align with your resume template.
- Guided prompts: The builder asks targeted questions to help you craft a narrative.
- Built-in spell check: Errors and grammar issues are flagged automatically.
You can download the cover letter in PDF or Word format or email it directly to yourself.
Understanding CVs
In some fields—academia, research, or certain international roles—you need a curriculum vitae (CV) instead of a resume. CVs include detailed information about your education, publications, research projects, and sometimes personal interests. They are typically longer and more exhaustive than resumes.
Zety’s CV Builder
Zety offers specialized templates for CVs. The tool provides extra sections to list:
- Research projects
- Publications and presentations
- Certifications and awards
- Professional affiliations
You can rearrange sections to highlight what matters most. The builder also offers content suggestions tailored to academia or scientific roles.
Bundling for Efficiency
Purchasing individual tools can add up. Zety offers bundle plans that include access to the resume builder, cover letter maker, and CV builder for one subscription price. Bundles typically provide:
- Unlimited resume and cover letter downloads.
- Matching design across all documents.
- Access to a cover letter and CV generator for the same period.
Opting for a bundle can save money if you need multiple document types or plan to apply for different kinds of roles.
Pricing and Plans
Zety’s pricing is designed for flexibility. You can choose a short-term access plan or a longer subscription. Short-term plans work for immediate job searches, while annual plans provide ongoing access for career development, including updates to your application materials as your career evolves.
How Zety Compares With Competitors
Several platforms offer similar services. Here’s a simplified comparison:
| Platform | Cover Letter Builder | CV Builder | Bundle Offers | Approx. Pricing* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zety | Integrated with resume builder, design match, guided prompts | Yes, academic-focused templates | Yes, resume + cover letter + CV | $1.95 for 14-day access; $5.95/month for annual plan |
| Resume Genius | Simple prompts, separate download fee | Limited CV options | Bundles include resume and cover letter | $2.95–$7.95 trial then monthly |
| Novoresume | Matching designs, some automation | Full CV templates | Premium plan includes cover letters | Free basic; Premium $16/month |
| Kickresume | AI cover letter generator, creative layouts | CV builder with website integration | Bundles with portfolio website | $19/month for full access |
| VisualCV | Customizable templates and analytics | Yes, strong CV focus | Pro plan bundles resume, CV, and website | Free basic; $19/month Pro |
| Canva | Design-first templates, manual writing | CV designs available | No formal bundles, but free templates | Free; Pro $12.99/month |
*Pricing varies by region and promotions.
Zety is ideal for users who need guided writing assistance and cohesive design. Novoresume and VisualCV excel in minimalistic layouts. Kickresume and Canva offer creative flexibility but less structured guidance. Resume Genius is great for quick builds but charges separately for downloads.
Tips for Personalizing Your Documents
Whether you use Zety or another platform, remember to make your documents unique:
- Tailor each cover letter to the specific role. Mention the company name and why you want the job.
- Quantify achievements in your resume and CV where possible. Numbers make your impact clear.
- Proofread everything, even with built-in checks. Reading aloud can catch awkward phrasing.
- Keep design consistent. A mismatched resume and cover letter can appear sloppy.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Application Package
In today’s competitive job market, you need more than a polished resume. Cover letters and CVs add depth and context to your story. Zety’s tools make it easy to produce cohesive, professional documents without design or formatting headaches. By exploring beyond the resume, you create a comprehensive package that showcases your abilities and helps you stand out—whether you’re applying for a corporate role, an academic position, or a creative opportunity.
