Depending on the circumstances or the task, sometimes good enough works just fine. When you're looking for a job, though, you'd better ratchet up your performance if you want to score the interview.

That means you need to take the time to write a solid cover letter.

19 months of recession and cover letters are still being treated as afterthoughts by a whole lot of people. If you're simply going to "rip one out" or "throw one together" you may as well pass on the whole process, because you're wasting your time.

A poorly written cover will almost always assure that your resume will never be read.

Is that what you want? Or are you seriously interested in the opportunity?

You don't include a cover letter with your resume because it's protocol - or some goofy, arcane ritual. There's a reason for the cover. It's your sales letter. You don't just send a prospect a product brochure without some type of introductory letter; this situation is no different. Your resume is the product brochure. It requires some type of setup and context - you're providing that in the cover.

While it's no more than a few paragraphs, a properly written cover accomplishes a great deal.

You're introducing yourself and letting the reader get a sense of who you are; you're telling him what you have to offer and how you can help the organization achieve its goals; and you're asking for the sale.

You are not paraphrasing your resume. You're not talking about why the job is a great fit for you.

A poorly written cover tees up your resume. It peaks the hiring manager's interest. It exponentially increases the odds that your paperwork will get a closer read.

Would you roll out of bed, skip your shower, throw on whatever you grab first when opening the closet door and then run a comb through your hair in the subway prior to a first meeting with a prospective employer? You might be presentable enough...good enough...but I'll bet you'd work a little harder at your presentation.

Do the same thing with your cover letter.

Rebecca Metschke helps professionals improve their marketability. The author of The Interview Edge ( http://www.TheInterviewEdge.com ), a comprehensive career guide to career management, she also writes a daily blog posting strategies, tips and advice for those whose careers are in transition ( http://blog.TheInterviewEdge.com ).