cover letters necessary

Everything You Need To Know About A Cover Letter And Why It's Still Important

Wondering if you really need to submit a cover letter? Here's the truth about this part of the job ... [+] application process.

Some experts say that the cover letter is dead. Others vehemently disagree. But what both sides of the fence do agree on is that dead or alive, a cover letter is still necessary when applying for a job.

What is a cover letter for a resume?

A cover letter is a snapshot of who you are and what you've done. It gives hiring managers more information about you, your accomplishments, and what you bring to the table– information outside of what your resume shows. But aside from those more obvious things, a cover letter is also a way to showcase your communication skills and personality. A cover letter is vital for demonstrating how well you relay information in writing, making it a crucial element for positions requiring verbal and written communication skills. Your cover letter also helps employers make a hiring decision about you when they’re torn between you, and another candidate.

Do you need a cover letter?

Short answer: Yes. Even in situations where the cover letter is optional, a recent poll found that 72% of hiring managers expect a cover letter, and 77% will move your resume up a notch if you submit one. In that same poll, 83% of recruiters said a cover letter could land an interview even if the resume isn't good enough.

In short, even if your cover letter isn’t getting read, it’s positively acknowledged.

In certain situations, a cover letter is necessary. When you're applying to a specific person, use a cover letter to address them individually. Also, write a cover letter if you were referred. Use it to mention the name of the person making the referral to boost your chances of an interview, especially if that person has some clout. And, of course, include a cover letter if the job posting requires one.

But aside from these specific instances … include a cover letter anyway .

What can a cover letter do for you?

Your cover letter is your personal introduction. It tells the company a little bit about you and why you're a great fit for the company. It's your first chance to make a good impression. The cover letter is also used to set one candidate apart from another in the event of two equally qualified applicants. It shows that you're willing to expend the energy to get the position … it’s worth the extra energy.

One of the better uses of a cover letter is to explain gaps or career changes in your resume. Gaps aren't definitive rejections in the hiring process, but hiring managers want to know why there's a gap, whether that's because you lost your job or decided to take time off on your own. Cover letters can also be used to explain career changes that are not obvious steps following a natural career progression. That being said, topics like resume gaps or career pivots must be addressed clearly and briefly– the longer you focus on them in a cover letter, the more you may generate concern versus comfort for the recruiter. Remember, there’s a fine line between shining a spotlight on an insecurity and simply addressing a weakness or question they may have. Plus, in the wake of the recession and pandemic, full of layoffs and change, recruiters are more forgiving on resume gaps.

What should you include in a cover letter?

Your cover letter complements your resume. It should be no more than two pages, but one page is better because research simply affirms that the second page isn’t as likely to be read... The cover letter needs to show the employer you can meet the job requirements, why you want to work at the company, and who you are. Include an anecdote about your experience that shows how you were a benefit to your previous employers. And always end your cover letter with a subtle request for an interview like, "I look forward to hearing from you" or “I’m excited to learn more about the role,” and include your contact information of course.

Do your homework before writing your cover letter (and your resume). Learn about the company where you're applying to discover whether you’re a fit for them– or they’re a fit for you. This means doing more than a 5 minute google sweep! It means examining their competition, who is in the role you’re seeking and what their linkedin says, if there’s any public announcements on the direction the company is taking, their client roster or results… and more! Analyze the job description to design your cover letter to address key components and leverage keywords. This is necessary to pass automated tracking software (ATS) used to screen applicants. Finally, identify the hard and soft skills you bring to the position so you can highlight those in the cover letter. Every cover letter needs to be tailored to the position.

Just as a good cover letter can set you apart, a bad cover letter can hurt you. Your cover letter needs to show you put in the effort. It should show the recruiter you read the job description, understand the role and how your experience aligns with the job responsibilities, and that you know a little bit about the company. That is what will set you apart from other candidates.

So, whether one is required or not, including a cover letter with your resume remains an essential element of the application packet.

Do I Need a Cover Letter in 2024? Are Cover Letters Mandatory?

During the job-hunting process, you might find yourself asking “do I really need a cover letter?”

And honestly, that’s a very good question.

You might’ve heard a lot of recruiters say that cover letters aren’t nearly as important as the resume. Some recruiters even openly admit that they don’t read cover letters at all.

So, no wonder that you’re confused about whether or not you really need a cover letter.

In this article, we’re going to deep dive into the topic and teach you when you really need a cover letter (and when you don’t).

• Whether you need to include a cover letter in your application (and why)
• When to not include a cover letter with your resume 
• When to really put effort into your cover letter   

Do I Need a Cover Letter For My Resume

Short answer: yes , you should submit a cover letter alongside your resume.

Here’s why:

• Most job openings require you to submit a cover letter. Recruiters might not have the time to read ALL the cover letters they receive, but they will definitely read cover letters if they’re on the fence for a candidate. Besides, even if they never get to your cover letter, failing to submit one when it’s required will be a red flag.
• A cover letter shows that you’ve put in the extra effort. So, even if the recruiters don’t read them, they will know that you really want the job and that you are committed to taking all necessary steps to show you’re worth it.
• A cover letter can set you apart from other candidates. Imagine this scenario: a recruiter is looking at two candidates with the same exact professional background and resume. The difference? One submitted an A++ cover letter that showed exactly why they’re the perfect fit for the job, while the other just copied and pasted an internet template. Which one would you pick? Our point exactly!

The above being said, there do exist a few cases where a cover letter isn’t necessary and a few others where you shouldn't just submit a cover letter, but you should really put in the extra effort to make it memorable!

Ready to go through them?

When Not to Include a Cover Letter

The 3 cases where you don’t need to include a cover letter with your application are:

#1. The job opening doesn’t require one. 

Yeap, in some cases, the job description will specifically instruct you not to submit a cover letter when you’re applying for the position. Needless to say, submitting one regardless of the instructions will not make you a poster child for dedication; it will just show you can’t follow instructions. 

#2. You don’t have the time to customize your cover letters. 

If there’s one thing that’s worse than not submitting a cover letter, is submitting a bad cover letter. What do we mean by bad? An uncustomized cover letter, or a cover letter based on a one-fits-all kind of template that you plan on mass-sending to all the jobs you’re applying for.  

So, if you’re applying to many jobs and you just don’t have the time (or creativity) to write a separate cover letter tailored to each job, then just don’t write one instead of making that cover letter mistake. 

#3. There is no place to upload one on the application platform.

When you’re filling out an online job application, you might notice there is no place to upload a cover letter.

Consider that a clear sign that a cover letter is not required for that particular role.  

When Should You Put Extra Effort to Submit a Cover Letter

Now, as we said, the best practice is to submit a cover letter with your resume for any job, internship, or even internal position that you apply for (unless they explicitly ask you not to). 

That being said, there are a few cases in which you should REALLY submit a cover letter—and put in extra effort to make it significant: 

• You have important information to add. It might be a career gap, the need for a relocation, or a career change - anything, basically, that you can’t go into detail about in your resume. Your cover letter is your chance to explain it (especially if it adds significant value to your application).
• There’s a personal connection/referral. If someone has personally referred you to the company, make sure to acknowledge that in your cover letter. A personal referral means bonus points for your application, so don’t miss out on a chance to mention it.
• You have a link to the company. Did you complete an internship at the company? Or maybe you know the hiring manager or someone higher up the ranks outside of work. No matter the case, be upfront about any link you may have to the company in your cover letter. It will probably do your application good or at least show those reading it that you’re transparent.
• It’s your dream job. Without making it a love letter to the company, use your cover letter to express what this job means to you professionally and how it’ll help you thrive. Passion goes a long way!

6 Tips For a Perfect Cover Letter 

The bottom line? 

Overwhelmingly, a cover letter is an essential part of your job application and you should include one with your resume.

So, as you can imagine, your cover letter should be on par with your resume. Before you start writing your cover letter, here are a few tips to make the process easier for you:

• Keep it short. One page is more than enough when it comes to cover letters. Actually, the optimal length for a cover letter is between 250-400 words long.
• Follow submission instructions. In the job description, look out for specifics on the cover letter format (Word or PDF), fonts and margins, and content (such as which sections or information to include).
• Proofread your cover letter. Once you’re done writing, make sure your cover letter doesn’t have any grammar or spelling mistakes. Use spell check software such as Grammarly to be on the safe side.
• Avoid cliches. Saying you’re a “great team player” or “effective communicator” will get you nowhere. Instead, aim to show it by backing it up with your experience. Think, “I’m a great communicator” versus “I’m a great communicator, having closed 50+ sales per month at my last job.”
• Enhance your personal brand. Opt to use the same fonts, margins, colors, and style in both your resume and cover letter. In this way, you can highlight your personal brand and make more of an impression on the hiring manager.
• Use action verbs . To make your achievements stand out, use action verbs. So, instead of repeating “I was responsible for” or “I was in charge of,” you can use action verbs such as “managed” or “coordinated.”

Do you still have some unanswered questions? Here are the most frequently asked questions on whether cover letters are mandatory.

Do I need a cover letter for a part-time job?

You should follow the same practice with your part-time job application as you would with a full-time one. That means you should definitely submit a strong cover letter with your resume (unless otherwise indicated in the job description).

Do I need a cover letter for an internal position? 

When you apply for an internal position within the company, you should create a cover letter to highlight your experience and professional interest in the position. 

Do I need a cover letter for an internship?

Yes, you should include a cover letter with your resume when you’re applying for an internship. The cover letter should focus on your skills and strengths, your education, and your dedication to the internship program. 

Not sure how to write a cover letter for an internship from scratch? This article will tell you all you need to know!

Do I need a cover letter for an entry-level job?

Yes, an entry-level cover letter is a must.

You might not have many professional or relevant experiences to list on your resume (e.g. you’re a recent college graduate or you’re changing career paths), so the cover letter is where you can convey your enthusiasm and commitment. Plus, you can also (in words) explain how your skills from your university or past career translate into the job you’re applying for. 

Do employers read the cover letter or resume first?

Generally, employers will first read your resume to see if you have the relevant experience or skills for the position. From there, they decide whether your cover letter is worth reading or not.  If you send your cover letter in the body of the email where you have attached your resume, though, the recruiter will probably skim through it before opening your resume.

Keep in mind that in such a case your cover letter should be perfect, especially in terms of spelling and business etiquette. If the recruiter spots a “u r” instead of “you are,” or a smiley face, they might not even get to your resume.    

Want your cover letter to match your resume? We are confident that the hiring manager will appreciate the effort. Do it effortlessly by using Novorésumé's matching cover letter and resume templates !  

Key Takeaways

Well, that was all on whether cover letters are mandatory in 2023. We hope that we answered all your questions on the topic. 

Here’s a quick review of the main things we covered:

• In 98% of cases, you should include a cover letter in your job application. Although recruiters might not always read it, they expect candidates to submit one. A cover letter will considerably boost your chances and set you apart from other candidates with similar backgrounds and resumes.
• Don’t include a cover letter if the job opening specifies it’s not necessary, if you don’t have time to customize it to the position, or if there is no place to upload one in the application platform.
• Put extra effort in your cover letter if you have extra information to add to your resume if you have been personally referred for the job, if you have a link to the company, or if you’re applying to your dream job.

Related Readings: 

• How to Start a Cover Letter
• How to End a Cover Letter
• How to Address a Cover Letter

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Are Cover Letters Necessary? Do You Need One in 2023?

Cover letters are one of the most important parts of the job application process. It’s a way for you to explain why you’re a good fit for the position. But are cover letters necessary?

Cover letters make you stand out from other candidates. It’s also an opportunity for you to show off your writing skills. And that can be useful during an interview or follow-up email exchange.

But, in this age of technology, it’s understandable why people still wonder, “Do I need a cover letter?” Especially since you can submit many applications online or via text message.

So are cover letters necessary? And do you need one? This guide will answer these questions and share expert cover letter tips that can help you land an interview.

Table of Contents

Cover Letters Can Make a Significant Difference in Your Job Application

Cover letters are not necessary, but they can make a huge difference in your job application. Here’s what we mean.

If you’re applying for a job and don’t have a cover letter, it’ll be hard to stand out from other applicants. And that’s because cover letters show why you want to work at a particular company and are serious about it.

For example, two equally qualified candidates are applying for a position, one with a cover letter and one without.

Chances are that the applicant who took the time to write a well-crafted cover letter will get an interview. And that’s because the person, for example, highlighted how their previous accomplishments would help the company to improve.

It’s simply not enough to send only your resume in most situations.

Are Cover Letters Necessary?

Yes, in most cases.

What you should know about cover letters is that they’re optional for some jobs. For example, your resume alone will likely be enough if you apply for an internship or a low-level assistant position.

However, let’s say you’re applying for a higher position, like an executive director position. First, you’ll need to have a well-written cover letter. That will help prove that you’ve researched the company and are interested in being part of its team.

Expressing your interest in an organization isn’t something the hiring manager will get from your application online. That’s why cover letters are crucial and should not be ignored.

Do You Really Need a Cover Letter in 2022?

The short answer is yes; you still need a cover letter in 2022.

One of the purposes of a cover letter is to demonstrate that you understand the position and are invested in it.

They give employers a good idea of who you are as an applicant. And that makes it easier for them to decide whether or not they want to interview you for their open positions.

Your cover letter can also help distinguish you from other candidates who apply for similar positions. You can use your cover letter as an opportunity to show more about yourself than what’s available on paper!

Tips to Prepare a Perfect Cover Letter

1. do your research.

A cover letter is an opportunity to tell a potential employer why they should hire you. So it should be tailored for each job and company.

The first task is to research the company and role, including the person reading your cover letter. It’s not always the hiring manager. Try to find out what they’re looking for in an employee and how their organization operates.

This will give you insight into what’s important to them in an applicant. Also, take some time to think about how today’s job market differs from that of several years ago. That can help you fine-tune your cover letter. It doesn’t matter if the change is small. It can make a huge difference.

2. Tailor Your Cover Letter to Each Role

The first and last thing you want to do is address the person reading your cover letter. Then, when applying for a job, read up on the company and find out who the hiring manager is. If there’s no name listed in the job description, call or email someone at the company to ask whom you should address it.

If there are multiple people responsible for hiring decisions, make sure to address each one individually. For example: “Dear [Hiring Manager],” “ To Whom It May Concern: ” and “Hello Mr./Ms.[First Name]. ‘

3. Don’t Let Your Resume Appear in Your Cover Letter

The primary purpose of a cover letter is to highlight and sell your qualifications. Your resume is the place where you list everything you’ve done. So don’t repeat that information in your cover letter.

Instead, do the following:

• give a brief overview of your qualifications,
• why they make you a good fit for the job, and
• how they relate to the position requirements listed by the company.

Related: How to Address a Cover Letter Without a Name

4. Be Clear and Concise

Be clear and concise to get the most out of your cover letter. One page is okay if you can; you don’t need to use up all the space. If you have more than one page, use bullet points rather than paragraphs. That makes it easier to skim through quickly.

Your tone should be professional throughout. Also, avoid using too many buzzwords, if any, as they tend to be taken seriously if used sparingly.

Finally, consider adding an “about me” section near the end of your letter. You can use that section to list relevant information about yourself that doesn’t fit anywhere else in your application. For example, employment history, educational background, or volunteer work.

5. Avoid Gimmicks, Like Weird Fonts and Drawings

Have you seen some cover letters that looked like a child wrote them? Or that included a drawing of the applicant’s pet cat? Cover letters are not the place to do that; avoid these gimmicks.

They will not help you get the job. In fact, they can do more harm than good by making you seem less professional. It can overshadow your best qualities as an employee.

Try to avoid using standard intro like “My name is [your name], and I am applying for the [position] at [company].” This is not original or creative; it’s uninteresting to read.

Instead, personalize it: “Hi, [name], My name is John Doe, and I’m applying for the Marketing Manager role at ABC Company.”

Having a friendly title will help establish rapport between readers. But don’t be too casual or informal. You want to keep things professional so that they can see how well you’ll fit in with their team or company culture if hired.

6. Use Action Words to Highlight Your Accomplishments

Use action words that highlight your accomplishments and experiences. For example, try using phrases like “increased sales by 55% within 6 months.” Or “led team through a project from concept stage to completion within two weeks.”

This way, even if someone doesn’t remember everything about you, these phrases will help them know whether or not you have what it takes.

7. Don’t Make It All About You

Don’t make the mistake of making the cover letter all about you. Instead of boasting about a skill, talk about how that skill can help the potential employer.

How are you the perfect fit for the company? How will you contribute to the company’s success? And what have you done or will do to help the company? Answer these questions in your cover letter.

8. End Your Cover Letter with Enthusiasm

You may be well qualified and rightfully confident in your abilities. But employers still want to know that you’ll be a motivated and enthusiastic employee.

So, remember to end your cover letter with enthusiasm. This will show your interest in the position and willingness to work hard and passionately if hired.

You have a greater chance of being employed if you are enthusiastic. And you’re also far more likely to stay on board over the long term. So it makes sense that 71% of CEOs believe that employee engagement is essential to the success of their company.

As a result, often, the only factor distinguishing two equally qualified candidates is their level of passion and zeal for the job.

Check our guide on how to write a cover letter for more in-depth details.

Why Is a Cover Letter Important?

Your cover letter gives the hiring manager a chance to know you better. In addition, it’s an opportunity for you to show off your writing skills and make yourself stand out from the crowd.

You can also use it to sell yourself, highlighting why they should hire you, not someone else.

Because there are so many applicants for every open position, employers have less time and resources to read through them. So it’s up to you to make sure that yours stands out from the rest.

The best way is by using a well-crafted cover letter that showcases how great an employee you’ll be if given a chance.

When Can You Skip a Cover Letter?

If you’re applying for a job that doesn’t require a cover letter—say, an internship—you can skip it. In fact, many employers will be quite clear in their postings when they don’t want to see your cover letter.

If the company does not specifically state that it wants a cover letter, you can assume it’s unnecessary. Sometimes, job listings or job descriptions don’t mention a cover letter. But it has all the other required materials, like a resume and references.

In such a situation, submit those documents without attaching additional materials such as your cover letter or résumé summary statement.

Cover Letters Alone Can’t Get the Job Done

You want to make sure you don’t let your employer down before they even meet you. In fact, without a cover letter, you might not even have the chance to meet them. Most recruiting managers expect to receive a cover letter from you.

It helps them get a sense of who you are and decide if you’re a suitable fit for the position. However, you can’t rely solely on a cover letter to get a job. It’s not an alternative to a resume nor an excuse for poorly prepared or formatted documents.

Also, there’s a difference between cover letters and resumes . Knowing the difference can help you craft the perfect cover letter or resume.

A good cover letter does have some value, though: briefly introducing yourself and explaining why you’re applying for the position. It also helps make your application stand out from the competition.

So, are cover letters necessary in 2022? Yes, if you want to stand out from the crowd of applicants. That said, your resume and online presence are enough to get noticed by recruiters these days.

But a well-written cover letter could give you an edge over other candidates.

A good cover letter will show that you care about the position and want it more than anyone else. And that makes all the difference when it comes to hiring decisions!

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Is a Cover Letter Necessary in 2024?

Updated: July 23, 2024

Published: April 03, 2024

Writing a cover letter can be daunting.

I’ll never forget my college career coach, who made writing a cover letter look easy. Even with her tips, I’ve always found it incredibly difficult to talk about myself and hype up my accomplishments.

While it acts as a letter of introduction, I’ve wondered if a cover letter is necessary in 2024. To find out, I spoke with two recruiters and gained insights on how to write the best cover letter for any job application.

How important is a cover letter?

Is a cover letter necessary, when to skip a cover letter, when to include a cover letter, tips for writing a cover letter, what if the cover letter is optional.

Cover letters are short letters of introduction that you include with job applications.

Typically, they are your chance to go into deeper details about your accomplishments that you might not have highlighted or had room to mention on your resume.

Tiffany Hall, a professional resume writer and founder of Resume911 , says cover letters are an important part of the job application process.

Hall says, “Cover letters can be very important. It’s supposed to sell why you, of all applicants, should get the job. The issue is that applicants use them to regurgitate what’s on their resume, and that’s not what it’s for. It should speak to what isn’t easily explained with your resume.”

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For example, if your resume says you’re skilled at building web pages, your cover letter is a great place to name-drop companies that you’ve worked for to create their websites.

Matthew Muehleisen, a corporate recruiter , thinks a cover letter is also a great place to show you’ve done your homework and researched a company.

Muehleisen says, “It can be what sets you apart from other candidates and applicants and is a good opportunity to show that you’ve done research on the position and company to further showcase your interest in the role.”

Knowing the importance of a cover letter still begs the question: Is a cover letter necessary in 2024?

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While a cover letter can help demonstrate your knowledge of the company you’re applying to and highlight more of your achievements, both Hall and Muehleisen agree that a cover letter isn’t entirely necessary.

Muehleisen says, “Unless it’s a requirement of the application, I wouldn’t say it’s necessary to include a cover letter. There are some roles (usually in content creation and marketing) that will ask for a cover letter as a form of a writing sample. In these instances, make sure your letter is polished and focused.”

If Hall had her way, she would eliminate the cover letter entirely, focus more on the resume, and ask for a link to an applicant’s LinkedIn profile.

According to Hall, “Most cover letters either repeat the resume or they speak to why the applicant isn’t a good fit. Neither is the purpose of a cover letter.”

Nevertheless, 74% of hiring managers still prefer applications to include a cover letter. So, it is definitely worth considering including one — even if the application says it’s optional.

If you’re looking for a new role, writing a cover letter can be time-consuming — especially if you take the time to personalize every letter you send to a hiring manager.

Although a cover letter does serve a legitimate purpose, and 83% of hiring managers read it, there are a few situations where you shouldn’t include a cover letter. Let’s take a look at those scenarios.

If You Only Have a Template of a Cover Letter

I get it. Writing an effective cover letter takes a significant amount of time.

But consider not sending one if you only have time to plug your information into a cover letter template without personalizing it before hitting submit on an application.

Don’t get me wrong. A cover letter template is a great starting point to write your cover letter. Templates often remind you to include pertinent information like the hiring manager’s title, name, and your contact information.

However, if you don’t take the time to edit the body of the cover letter and personalize it with research and your relevant experience, you risk sending the same letter as another candidate.

And considering that 48% of hiring managers spend anywhere from 30 seconds to two full minutes reading each cover letter, the chances are high that your hiring manager can spot a form letter a mile away.

Don’t send it if you don’t have the time to personalize a cover letter.

If Your Cover Letter Is Full of Critique

A cover letter is meant to explain why you’re the best candidate for the open position. However, a cover letter is not a place for you to share your ideas of how the company can improve.

Sure, every company likely has areas of improvement, and the job you’re applying for might be the role that gets a say in that, but a list of improvements might read as a critique.

You don’t want to potentially offend a hiring manager before you even get an interview. A bad cover letter can hurt a strong candidate, according to 33% of hiring managers .

Before you submit your cover letter, read through it several times to make sure it’s not a critique. If it does sound like a critique, throw it out.

If It’s Not Required

There are other instances where you shouldn’t send a cover letter. For example, if the application’s instructions specifically state that you do not need to submit a cover letter for consideration for the job.

In fact, sending a cover letter anyway can signal to the hiring manager that you don’t follow instructions. Not following instructions is also a great way to land your application in the trash bin.

The bottom line is this: If the application specifically states not to send a cover letter, don’t send it.

Of hiring managers, 74% prefer to see job applications with a cover letter apart from the resume. Knowing this, if you have the time to include a cover letter with your job application, don’t skip it.

Here are three instances when you should send a cover letter with your application.

Send a cover letter if you’re very interested in the role.

Think of your cover letter as your time to shine. Use it as a place to highlight your experiences and the qualifications that make you a great fit for the position.

Hall says, “If you can speak to why you’re a good candidate without copying your resume in paragraph form, include a cover letter.”

In other words, don’t use bullet points in your cover letter to describe your previous employment history.

Instead, talk about what you learned on the job and how your skills will help you excel in the role you’re applying for.

Send a cover letter when there’s a gap in your resume or you’re transitioning industries.

If you’re looking to transition to another industry, you should definitely include a cover letter with your application.

Speaking from personal experience, if I had only submitted a resume to my school district when I applied to be a Spanish teacher, the hiring manager would have just seen my experience in Public Health and would not have known about my skills and success in tutoring students in Spanish.

Muehleisen puts it this way, “If you’re looking to transition to a new industry or if there is a position and company you’re really excited about pursuing as an opportunity, these are the best instances to include a cover letter so that you can possibly give yourself an advantage.”

A cover letter can also help explain any gaps in your resume — especially if the gap in your employment history is beneficial to the role you’re applying for.

For example, maybe you volunteered in South America, and the role you’re applying for is for a position in Global Operations.

It never hurts to include positive, pertinent information in your cover letter.

Send a cover letter when it’s required.

The most obvious time to include a cover letter with your application is when it is required. Just like not including a cover letter when it’s not required, it shows you can follow directions.

Include a cover letter when the application asks you to submit one, which shows you can follow directions.

Plus, if the application asks for a cover letter, you can bet the hiring manager will look for it. If no cover letter is included, well, you’re sabotaging your chances of getting an interview.

Only 13% of hiring managers will consider giving a candidate an interview if they don’t attach a required cover letter to an application.

Writing a cover letter is not as painful as it sounds. There are great templates you can use as a starting point for your cover letter.

The trick with a template, though, is to make sure you always personalize the letter to your own experiences and qualifications.

Here are five expert tips to write a winning cover letter.

1. Tailor your cover letter to the job description.

When writing a cover letter, especially if you use a cover letter template, you should tailor the letter to match the job description and meet the requirements of the application.

For example, if the application asks you to attach a short cover letter, keep it brief. Your best bet is one to two short paragraphs detailing why you’re a great fit for the position.

You’ll also want to reference keywords from the job description in your cover letter. Many recruiters use applicant tracking systems that scan application packets for the best fit.

Often, hiring managers review the applications that match the keywords first.

Now, that doesn’t mean to stuff your cover letter with keywords. Instead, use them in a natural way as you discuss your qualifications.

2. Be personable with your greeting.

You might have seen the advice telling you to use “To Whom It May Concern” instead of the hiring manager’s name. This is good advice, but only if you do not know the hiring manager.

Before resorting to a generic greeting to start your cover letter, take the time to look on the company’s website and LinkedIn to find out who makes hiring decisions.

If you have contacts in your network who are familiar with the company, ask them. Taking the time to research the hiring manager and the company shows you care about the details — a quality many hiring managers look for in a candidate!

If you’re still unsure after researching the company, consider using “Dear Sir or Madam” as your greeting.

3. Be yourself.

While a cover letter is a formal introduction of yourself to a potential employer, it doesn’t need to be lacking in personality. Hall suggests sprinkling your personality in your cover letter to spark connections with the hiring manager.

Hall says, “Be your best professional self. I’m a foodie and will include references to food on my LinkedIn, and I’ve done it in a cover letter. I’ve had managers reference them, and we had a chuckle. I am also very clear about aligning myself with companies whose mission and goals I respect and can contribute to. I make sure to speak to that in the cover letter.”

Take Hall’s advice. Showcasing your vibrant personality in your cover letter can help break the ice in your interview!

4. Proofread your cover letter.

Once you’ve written your cover letter and before you hit “send,” double-check that it is free from spelling and grammar errors and that the company you referenced is the company you are applying to.

Muehleisen says skipping proofreading your cover letter is a big mistake — and it could cost you the job!

Muehleisen says, “Make sure that you are proofreading prior to sending. If the cover letter feels like it is a simple cut/paste or if the job title and company name are incorrect, it may do more harm than good. So, be sure that what you’re sending is pertinent.”

5. Be cautious of AI.

AI tools, like ChatGPT or Claude, are great for helping draft content. You might be tempted to ask generative AI to write your cover letter for you. However, both Hall and Muehleisen say to proceed with caution when it comes to AI.

Hall says, “AI is coming along in amazing ways, so it may come as a surprise that my best tip didn’t include AI. I tell my clients when they’re stuck to look to their peers. You can search people by job title on LinkedIn. See how they describe themselves and pull from there. Or, hire a resume writer or career strategist to help you.”

Muehleisen agrees with her. He says, “I would hesitate to use a tool or service for a cover letter as the point should be to show your authenticity. If you are going to use AI for assistance, make sure to put your own words in as well.”

However, when you write your cover letter, whether using a template or generative AI, personalizing it is key to standing out from the competition.

If the job description says a cover letter is optional, should you send one, or can you get by without it?

That can be tricky, considering 72% of recruiters still expect a cover, even if it’s optional.

According to Muehleisen, sending a cover letter is not a bad idea. He says, “I’ve never heard of a cover letter hurting an applicant’s chances; just make sure the one you’re including is specific to the job description and posting.”

Check out these cover letter examples for more inspiration.

Experiment With Your Cover Letters

Writing a cover letter is a breeze once you get the hang of it. With today’s challenging job market, sending a cover letter with your application can make a difference in whether you get called for an interview.

I can’t make promises that your cover letter will dazzle hiring managers each time, but for the right position for you, it will.

Remember Hall and Muehleisen’s advice when you craft your cover letter. Personalization is key to success!

Don't forget to share this post!

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When Are Cover Letters Necessary (With Examples)

• How To Write A Cover Letter
• When Is A Cover Letter Necessary
• Free Cover Letter Templates
• Cover Letter Mistakes To Avoid
• Cover Letter Tips
• How To Sell Yourself In A Cover Letter

Find a Job You Really Want In

Summary. Cover letters can be necessary and important to clarify a confusing resume , fill in employment gaps, and to add information that doesn’t fit in your resume. You should avoid sending a cover letter if the employer doesn’t want it or you are not tailoring it to each specific job. Job trends have changed over the past few years with working from home becoming common, large amounts of people unemployed due to covid-19, and companies overwhelmed with applicants. Your biggest concern is making a great impression and getting the job. The first question you need answered — are cover letters necessary? A recent study found that employers place a significant amount of importance on cover letters. If you feel like you’re suddenly being asked to perform for an empty auditorium — you’re right. Employers want you to submit a cover letter but they’re never going to read it — probably. Add that little tidbit of data to your desire not to write a cover letter and your belief that they do little to advance your application and you come up even more confused than before. We’re going to help you understand why and when cover letters are important so you can make an informed decision based on your particular situation. Key Takeaways: Showing the effort to add a cover letter, even when they aren’t required, shows that you’re willing to put in extra work and that can push you over the top and make you stand out. Make sure to check the employer’s application requirements on whether or not to include a cover letter and if they don’t specify, err on the side of adding one anyway. Submitting a poorly written or uninformative cover letter won’t help you chances of getting a job it’ll make you look unprofessional. Cover letters serve to introduce you to the company in a way that resumes can’t so it’s important to include reasons why you want the job, about accomplishments that are hard to put in a resume. A cover letter is a great place explain any oddities in your resume, such as employment gaps and special projects In This Article    Skip to section When a Cover Letter Is Important When Not to Send a Cover Letter Why Write a Cover Letter? Is a Cover Letter Necessary to Get a Job? Submitting a Cover Letter and Resume Parts of a Cover Letter (With Examples) Importance of a Cover Letter FAQ References Sign Up For More Advice and Jobs Show More When a Cover Letter Is Important

Can you determine if a cover letter is needed or not?

Obviously, not all jobs are the same, so their requirements probably aren’t the same. This is an absolutely correct assumption. The problem is there aren’t any hard-and-fast rules about what industries require a cover letter. Let’s first look at when a cover letter is important.

To clarify a confusing resume. If you have something in your resume that needs clarification, a cover letter is where you get your chance to do that.

Fill in or explain gaps in employment history. If you have a gap in your employment history , you can explain it in your cover letter.

Show willingness to relocate. If you live in a different region but are willing to relocate, that’s also important information.

Bolster your credentials if your new to the field. If you’re an entry-level worker , a cover letter can showcase your non-professional, related experience and convey your enthusiasm.

Showcase key skills. If you have specific skills or experience that relates directly to the position, highlight it in a cover letter.

Personal connection. If you have a connection to the company that’s hiring, your cover letter is a good place to point it out.

If you’re applying for a higher-level position. If you’re applying for a job in mid-management or above, you should always include a cover letter as part of the formal process.

The employer may request it. If the employer asks for a cover letter, even if you don’t feel it’s necessary, you need to include one with your job application.

To add information doesn’t fit in your resume. If you feel you have something relevant to say that’s not covered in your resume, then a cover letter lets you do that.

When Not to Send a Cover Letter

Okay, we just told you that having a cover letter is all but imperative, but what about when it’s not? There are definitely some situations where a cover letter isn’t required and then some situations when it will do you more harm than good. The following times are when it’s probably best not to send a cover letter:

When the employer doesn’t want one. Whether they tell you not to write one in the job description or they have software that doesn’t allow for one — these people don’t want to see a cover letter. Note: if it says cover letter optional, you should write one.

Your cover letter is full of errors. If your cover letter is full of mistakes and makes you look like a bad job candidate. A cover letter needs to be proofread and edited by someone who is good with language and grammar. If that’s not your strong suit, then you need to find some help or skip the cover letter.

You’re not customizing each cover letter. If you’re using a generic, non-customized, cover letter template that doesn’t add any value to your application, you can go ahead and skip it altogether.

Why Write a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is your introduction to the company. It’s a handshake and a hello on paper. Even if only half of all employers read cover letters, and even if they’re just skimming them, this is still your chance to shine and to highlight your achievements, special skills , and experience.

It may be a formality and, for many, it’s not a fun part of their job search , but it can be the one thing that makes you stand out as a professional, gets you noticed, and creates a good impression.

Some percentage of hiring managers and recruiters do find cover letters valuable. A good cover letter showcases how you intend to add value to the company, suggests solutions for the role, and contains pertinent information about how to contact you and your availability.

Just think of it this way: if a hiring manager is on the fence about deciding between which candidate to call in for an interview, a stellar cover letter could be just the thing to help you pull ahead.

Is a Cover Letter Necessary to Get a Job?

A cover letter is probably not necessary to get a job in most situations, but there’s always a chance that it might be, meaning there’s no harm in sending one. Your resume should give the employer the basics of your experience and they can do the math to determine if your skills line up with their opening.

Add to that the fact that most employers don’t do more than peruse a cover letter, at best. It seems like a cover letter is a thing of the past, but it’s not.

Unless the job posting specifically states that a cover letter isn’t necessary or you’re completing an online application and there’s no spot for a cover letter, then you should consider it necessary.

It’s all about showing a prospective employer that you know how to follow the rules and you’re willing to do what’s asked of you. When you think about it, just that reason alone is enough to include a cover letter.

Going further than job etiquette, if you land one of those employers who actually read cover letters, you definitely want to use it to your advantage. In today’s job market, with competition running hot, you want to use everything you can to be a desirable candidate.

You not only want to include a cover letter but you want to fill it with everything that the employer wants to hear. You need to research cover letter tips so you can craft the best cover letter that employer has ever seen.

You want to see that letter framed and hanging on their wall when you go in for a job interview — well, not really of course, but that’s the mindset you should have when you’re writing it.

Submitting a Cover Letter and Resume

All this talk about cover letters, it seems like we’re forgetting about the resume. Don’t worry, we’re not.

Writing a great resume that gets you hired is such an important task that it’s a topic for another article. Just know that if you’re submitting a cover letter, you definitely need to include a resume because that’s something that’s not only going to get read, but also resonate with future employers.

Parts of a Cover Letter (With Examples)

Now that we’ve stressed the importance of a cover letter, you’ve got a task ahead of you — to write a knock-their-socks-off cover letter that gets you hired. Make sure all of the standard parts of a cover letter are present:

The header. Include all of the contact information for yourself and the employer. Also, include the current date between the two sets of addresses.

Bill Billson 22 Happy Court Marigold, TX, 10987 April 26, 2021 Alice Allison New Company 5225 East Park Ln. Austin, TX , 73301

The greeting. Always do your best to find the hiring manager’s name . Check the job posting, the company website, and the company’s LinkedIn page . If you strike out online, simply call the company and ask who you should address your cover letter to for whatever position you’re applying for.

Never use “Mrs.” as it is difficult to determine the marital status of the hiring manager . Stick with Ms./Mr./Dr. (or any other professional title) followed by the person’s last name. If their name is gender-neutral, play it safe and use their full name.

If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, you can use “Dear Hiring Manager” or one of its alternatives . Never use “ Dear Sir or Madam ” or “ To Whom It May Concern ” — it’s not 1921 and the recruiter will assume you’ve copy/pasted the same cover letter all over town.

Dear Ms. Bickerly, Dear Pat Thompson, Dear Software Engineering Hiring Team,

Opening paragraph . Start by indicating the role you’re applying for and then grabbing the reader’s attention with an impressive and relevant accomplishment. You want to come across as enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and competent right off the bat.

When I saw a job posting for a Marketing Manager at ABC Inc., I knew I had to apply. I’ve long been a fan of ABC’s methodology of direct email campaigns alongside social media outreach and organic content marketing, and my 6+ years in Marketing have made me adept at each of these facets of an effective marketing strategy.

The body. Your cover letter’s body paragraph(s) should accomplish two things: explain why you’re a perfect candidate with all the right qualifications and experiences and explain why you’re attracted to this particular company. The first part is all about using the same important keywords from the job description.

The second part might involve a bit of research and creativity to determine the company’s values and show how they align with your own.

I have a special passion for content marketing that achieves big results. By strategizing a 6-month campaign that saw over 400 pieces of high-quality content produced, I got to watch XYZ’s organic traffic skyrocket by 569%. Even better, by streamlining our funnel with the sales and product teams, we were able to drive revenue by 36% YoY. My passion is helping customer’s find answers to questions, which is why your brand statement “Quality Solutions the First Time” really resonates with me.

Closing . Now all you have to do is close your cover letter with a reiteration of your excitement for the role and an invitation for follow-up steps. A call-to-action is the usual way to wrap things up; in practice, this simply looks like:

I look forward to discussing ABC’s marketing goals and helping achieve those goals. Thank you for considering me for the role.

Signature. If you’re sending a physical letter, add 4 spaces between your sign-off and your printed name. Then, put the signature between the two. If you’re emailing your cover letter, you can use an email signature or simply include your contact information after your typed name.

We recommend sticking with a classic like:

Sincerely, Best Regards, Thank you for your consideration,

When writing your cover letter, pay particular attention to the open because that’s where you’re going to get their attention and, hopefully, encourage them to keep reading. Then customize the letter so you really explain why you’re the perfect fit, brag a little if you can.

Finally, create a cover letter close that’s friendly and personal. Try not to concern yourself with wondering if they’ll read it or not, assume they will and do the best job you can.

Importance of a Cover Letter FAQ

How important is a cover letter?

A cover letter is very important. Including a cover letter with your resume will give hiring managers a complete picture of what you’d bring to the company than your resume can often provide. It will also often answer questions and alleviate concerns they may have after they read your resume.

If you have a gap in your work history, it’s difficult to communicate the reasons for that gap through your resume alone. In addition, it’s nearly impossible to share your enthusiasm for the job through resume bullet points, and employers want to see your passion for the position.

You can, however, include all of this information and more in your cover letter. Writing one lets you flesh out your resume and let your personality shine through, which can be an advantage when you’re competing for a job opening.

What happens if you don’t include a cover letter?

If you don’t include a cover letter, you risk getting passed up for another candidate who did. If you don’t include a cover letter for a company that specifically asked for one, your application will likely be thrown out immediately. (For the same reason, if the company specifically tells you not to include one, don’t include one.)

If the company doesn’t tell you what to do one way or another and you don’t write a cover letter, you risk losing your competitive edge.

Hiring managers have to narrow down the list of candidates one way or another. Suppose you and another candidate are similarly qualified, but they wrote a cover letter, and you didn’t. You’re generally more likely to be the one who gets eliminated.

This is because writing a cover letter when you weren’t asked shows that you’re willing to go the extra mile to do a job well, it helps hiring managers see that you’re passionate about the position, and it showcases your communication skills.

Not only that, but if hiring managers have a question or hesitation about your resume, your cover letter can often answer this for them, keeping you in the running.

Leaving out this extra communication channel lowers your chances of moving forward in the hiring process, especially if another candidate did write a cover letter that silences hiring managers’ concerns.

Should I include a cover letter if they don’t ask for one?

Yes, you should include a cover letter if they don’t ask for one. A cover letter allows employers to see your personality and passion for the job, and it allows you to truly sell yourself as a candidate.

You can do this by explaining why you’re interested in this particular position and how you and your skills would help further the organization.

This is important because if hiring managers are on the fence about offering you an interview based on your qualifications alone, your cover letter might be the piece that pushes your application over the edge to get to move forward to the next step in the hiring process.

There are some exceptions to this rule, however. Don’t include a cover letter if:

You can’t ensure it will be professionally written without typos or grammatical errors.

You’re going to use a template cover letter.

There isn’t a place on the online application to submit a cover letter.

Submitting a badly written or impersonal cover letter can do more harm than good, so if you can’t spend the time required to tailor it to the job or to have someone help you proofread it, it’s usually better to skip it entirely.

Do cover letters really make a difference?

Yes, cover letters really make a difference. When you apply for a job, hiring managers are looking for reasons to either move your application forward in the hiring process or to eliminate you as a candidate, and your resume, answers to application questions, and cover letter provide the only information they have on which to base this decision.

A cover letter can play a variety of roles in your efforts to sell yourself as a candidate, including:

Explaining any gaps in employment.

Highlighting your soft skills if you’re new to the industry and don’t have much relevant experience.

Demonstrating your personality to make a personal connection.

Showing how your skills and experience relate to the position.

Sharing why you want this particular position and what you would add to the company if hired.

It isn’t necessarily a given that you won’t get a job without a cover letter and will get the job with one, but if you don’t include one, you’ll certainly miss out on all of the benefits that a cover letter can give you.

To further understand the difference a cover letter can make, put yourself in the hiring manager’s shoes. You have a stack of similar resumes that needs to shrink.

Wouldn’t you be more likely to keep a candidate in the running if you could get a glimpse of their personality and passion for the job than someone with a similar list of accomplishments who didn’t provide that information?

What do employers look for in a cover letter?

Employers look for conciseness, professionalism, and personality in a cover letter. The technical details will change based on the job and requirements, but these three elements carry through no matter what content you put in your cover letter.

Hiring managers don’t have time to read through multiple pages of fluff about your every accomplishment and professional goal, and some don’t even read one full page. They want you to get to the point about what you’re trying to say, so make sure your letter is lean and to the point.

As you write, there is no need to be overly stuffy, but you should add a little more polish than you would to an email you’d write to a coworker.

Follow formatting guidelines for formal letters by including the recipient’s name and address as well as your own. Maintain a polite tone of voice and proofread your letter, getting someone else to check over it for you if possible.

Within the parameters of professionalism, though, you should let your personality shine through.

Hiring managers want to see what you’re passionate about in your work and why they should choose you for the position, so make sure you share how your values and skills line up with the organization’s and how you’d use them to help further the company.

Columbia University Center for Career Education – How and Why to Write a Great Cover Letter

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Kristin Kizer is an award-winning writer, television and documentary producer, and content specialist who has worked on a wide variety of written, broadcast, and electronic publications. A former writer/producer for The Discovery Channel, she is now a freelance writer and delighted to be sharing her talents and time with the wonderful Zippia audience.

Matt Warzel a President of a resume writing firm (MJW Careers, LLC) with 15+ years of recruitment, outplacement, career coaching and resume writing experience. Matt is also a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and Certified Internet Recruiter (CIR) with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Marketing Focus) from John Carroll University.

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• Ask Amanda: Do I Really Need...

Ask Amanda: Do I Really Need a Cover Letter?

3 min read · Updated on March 10, 2022

Have cover letters become a thing of the past?

Q: Should I write a cover letter for every job application I submit?

I haven't searched for a job in a while. Is a cover letter still necessary or have things changed? — Hal B.

If you're wondering whether you still need a cover letter for your job search, you're not alone. Many of you have reached out to me over the years asking this specific cover-letter question. And it makes sense — if you've asked colleagues or peers whether you should write a cover letter, I'll bet good money you've received some conflicting advice.

That's because the data on this topic sends some pretty mixed messages. For instance, according to the 2016 Recruiter Nation Report by recruitment software provider Jobvite , 74 percent of recruiters do not consider cover letters important in their decision to hire an applicant. However, a poll from recruitment firm Robert Half found that 90 percent of executives consider cover letters to be invaluable when assessing candidates.

So what does that mean for you? Well here's my take …

You still need to write a cover letter!

While it's true that not every hiring manager or recruiter will read your cover letter — in fact, the last time I informally polled employers on the topic, many of the respondents admitted to regularly skipping over this document and jumping straight to the resume — there is still a portion of employers who consider the cover letter to be important. When you're applying for a job, there's no way of knowing for sure which side of the fence that employer falls on. Better safe than sorry, right? This is why many of our resume-writing services include a cover letter as part of the package.

A cover letter is also a great way to give employers a glimpse of your personality or to add some additional context to your application when you're changing careers or searching for work after a substantial employment gap.

Of course, not all cover letters are created equal. A poorly written cover letter can hurt — rather than help — your candidacy. Check out the following resources for tips on how to craft a winning cover letter for every job application:

How to Address a Cover Letter

How to Break Down Your Cover Letter Into 3 Simple Sections

How to Tailor Your Cover Letter for Each Job Application

Exceptions to the cover-letter rule

There are some exceptions to this rule. If the job listing specifically states that a cover letter isn't necessary or required, you shouldn't feel compelled to write one. In fact, blatantly ignoring the instructions found within the job listing is a surefire way to get your application discarded.

Final thoughts

The next time you find yourself asking, “Do I need a cover letter?”, assume the answer is yes and start thinking about what information you can incorporate into your cover letter to set your application apart.

Amanda Augustine is a certified professional career coach (CPCC) and resume writer (CPRW) and the resident career expert for Talent Inc.'s suite of brands: TopResume , TopCV , and TopInterview . On a regular basis, she answers user questions like the one above. Have a question? Take a look at her career advice or ask a question on her Quora page .

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