Let’s be honest, no one loves writing cover letters.
They feel outdated. Time-consuming. Awkward. And in 2025, when everything seems to be automated, AI-generated, or resume-only, the big question remains:
Do you really still need a cover letter?
The short answer: Sometimes, yes. And when it counts, it can make all the difference.
Here’s the truth: most hiring managers won’t read a cover letter unless they’re already interested in your resume. But when they do read it, it’s usually to answer one of these questions:
- “Why does this person want to work here?”
- “Can they communicate clearly?”
- “Do they actually care about this role?”
The problem? Most cover letters don’t answer those questions—they just regurgitate the resume or spout generic fluff.
In this article, we’ll cut through the noise and break down:
- When a cover letter matters (and when it doesn’t)
- Why most cover letters get ignored
- How to write one that actually helps you get hired
Let’s settle the debate once and for all.
The 2025 Reality – Are Recruiters Even Reading Cover Letters?
Let’s cut to the chase:
No, not every recruiter reads cover letters in 2025.
But when they do? It’s often the final step before deciding whether to call you.
Many hiring teams use the resume to determine if you can do the job—and the cover letter to figure out if they want to work with you.
The Honest Breakdown:
- Some recruiters read every cover letter.
- Some skip them entirely.
- Most will glance at one if they’re on the fence about your resume, or if the role is competitive, leadership-level, or client-facing.
So why write one?
Because you don’t always know who’s reading. And when your competition skips it, your cover letter could be what tips the scale in your favor.
Especially if:
- You’re making a career pivot
- You have a gap in your work history
- You’re relocating, or the role isn’t a perfect fit on paper
In these cases, the cover letter becomes your chance to explain what your resume can’t.
When You Definitely Need a Cover Letter
There are situations where skipping the cover letter isn’t just lazy—it’s a missed opportunity.
Here’s when you absolutely should include one:
1. You’re Applying for a Competitive or Senior-Level Role
The more desirable the position, the more likely recruiters are to expect effort. A tailored cover letter can help you stand out in a sea of qualified candidates.
2. You’re Changing Industries or Job Functions
Resumes don’t always tell the full story. A cover letter gives you space to explain why you’re pivoting, and how your past experience still makes you a great fit.
3. You Have a Gap, Relocation, or Unique Circumstance
If you’re reentering the workforce, moving to a new city, or returning after a break, your resume might raise questions. A cover letter is where you control the narrative.
4. The Job Posting Requests One
If they ask for it, skipping it is a red flag. It shows you can’t follow directions—or worse, you don’t care.
5. You’re Reaching Out Directly to a Hiring Manager or Recruiter
When you’re bypassing an online application and submitting via email or LinkedIn, the body of your message is your cover letter.
If your situation is unique, your background is non-traditional, or the competition is fierce—write the letter.
It’s your chance to fill in the blanks, show intent, and make a personal connection.
When You Can Skip It (and Be Totally Fine)
Yes, there are absolutely times when a cover letter just isn’t necessary. If it feels like a waste of time for certain roles, that’s because sometimes it is.
Here’s when you can confidently hit “submit” without one:
1. The Application Platform Doesn’t Ask for One
Many online portals (especially for large companies) don’t even offer a cover letter upload option. If it’s not required, and there’s no text box to paste it, you’re safe skipping it.
2. You’re Applying to High-Volume, Entry-Level, or Hourly Roles
Think warehouse jobs, retail, food service, delivery, or gig-based roles. These employers prioritize speed and availability over personalization. Your resume and application are enough.
3. The Employer Uses Pre-Screening Questions Instead
If the application includes short-answer questions like “Why do you want this job?” or “What makes you a good fit?”—those replace the need for a traditional cover letter.
4. You’re Submitting Through a Recruiting Firm
Agencies often reformat your materials anyway, and they rely on direct communication rather than long-winded letters. Unless they ask for one, it’s optional at best.
5. You’re Reapplying to the Same Role
If you’ve already submitted a tailored letter in a previous round, repeating it won’t help. Instead, follow up with a brief email or note explaining your renewed interest.
If the application doesn’t request one, and it’s not a complex or competitive role, you’re fine skipping the cover letter.
But if there’s even a chance it could help? It’s worth writing a short, sharp one that makes you stand out.
What a Good Cover Letter Actually Does
Let’s get one thing straight: a good cover letter isn’t a formality. It’s a strategic asset, when done right.
It’s not just there to say “Hi, I’m applying.” It’s your chance to do what your resume can’t.
A Great Cover Letter Should:
1. Add Context to Your Resume
Maybe you’re switching industries. Maybe you took a break. Maybe your job titles don’t clearly reflect your impact. The cover letter lets you fill in the gaps.
2. Show Personality (Professionally)
Resumes are formal. Cover letters are a bit more personal. You can express enthusiasm, talk about your “why,” or share a quick story that connects you to the company’s mission.
3. Tailor Your Message to the Role
You can speak directly to the company’s needs. Not just “here’s what I’ve done”—but “here’s how I can help you.”
4. Prove You Understand the Company
Referring to something specific—like a recent initiative, value, or project—shows that you did your homework. That makes you stand out.
5. Give a Strong Closing Pitch
You can make it clear that you want the job—and that you’re ready to contribute. A confident, focused closing can move you from “maybe” to “interview.”
Why Most Cover Letters Fail (And Get Ignored)
Let’s not sugarcoat it: most cover letters are instantly forgettable, or worse, they work against the applicant.
If you’re going to write one, make sure you’re not doing any of the following:
1. Repeating Your Resume Word-for-Word
Saying “I have 10 years of experience in marketing and managed multiple campaigns” adds no value if that’s already in your resume. The cover letter should expand, not echo.
2. Using a Generic Template
If your letter could be sent to any job at any company, you’re wasting your shot. Recruiters want to see that you made the effort, not that you filled in the blanks of a copy-paste template.
3. Leading with Weak Openers
“I’m writing to apply for the position of…”
Everyone starts with that. You’ve lost them already. A dull opener doesn’t inspire a recruiter to keep reading.
4. Getting Too Formal or Robotic
Stiff phrases like “I wish to express my sincere interest…” don’t sound human. You’re better off being clear, direct, and authentic.
5. Making It Too Long
A cover letter should be short and to the point—ideally 3 short paragraphs or half a page. Long-winded letters get skimmed, if not skipped entirely.
If your cover letter doesn’t say anything new, personal, or tailored, it’s not worth sending.
But if you can craft a tight, customized message that shows why you’re the right person for the role, you’re ahead of 90% of applicants.
How to Write a Cover Letter That Gets Read
If you’re going to write a cover letter in 2025, make it worth reading. That doesn’t mean long, flashy, or flowery—it means clear, focused, and relevant.
Here’s the formula that works:
1. Start Strong—Grab Attention Fast
Skip the dull intros. Lead with energy, relevance, or connection.
Instead of:
“I am writing to express interest…”
Try:
“As a long-time admirer of [Company]’s mission to [do X], I’m excited about the opportunity to bring my 8+ years in [field] to your [job title] role.”
2. Mention the Company by Name
Show you’ve done your homework. A simple reference to the company’s values, goals, or culture instantly makes your letter feel tailored—not templated.
3. Focus on 1–2 Key Wins
Pick one or two relevant accomplishments from your resume and give quick context. Make it easy for the reader to connect the dots between your experience and their needs.
“At my last company, I led a CRM overhaul that cut client churn by 22%. I’d love to bring that same proactive approach to your growing sales team.”
4. Be Human, But Professional
Use a conversational tone that reflects confidence—not corporate jargon. You can show personality without being casual or sloppy.
End With a Clear Call to Action
Don’t beg. Just close confidently and express your interest in moving forward.
“I’d welcome the chance to bring this experience to your team and would be happy to discuss how I can contribute.”
The Ideal Format:
- Paragraph 1: Why this role, why this company
- Paragraph 2: What you bring to the table (backed by results)
- Paragraph 3: Wrap-up and CTA
Short. Focused. Tailored. That’s how you win.
Do AI Tools Help or Hurt in 2025?
AI tools are everywhere now, including in cover letter writing. And let’s be honest: they can save time. But the real question is, do they actually help?
The answer: Yes… if you don’t treat them as the final draft.
When AI Can Help:
- Structuring your letter when you’re stuck
- Generating ideas or phrasing to get you started
- Speeding up customization for multiple applications
- Catching grammar or tone issues
When AI Hurts More Than Helps:
- When you copy and paste it without editing
- When it spits out generic, robotic-sounding fluff
- When it references skills or achievements that aren’t true to you
- When it misses the tone of the company or role
Recruiters Can Spot “AI Copy” Instantly
If your letter sounds like ChatGPT wrote it, and not you, a savvy recruiter will notice. AI writing often:
- Overuses phrases like “I am confident I would be an excellent fit…”
- Uses filler without substance
- Lacks specific, personal details that connect you to the role
Use AI as a tool, not a substitute
Let it help with structure, polish, or inspiration—but you bring the voice, the story, and the authenticity.
That’s what makes a great cover letter actually feel human.
ResumeRick Pro Tips – When in Doubt, Add a Short Letter
Still not sure if you need a cover letter?
Here’s our honest advice: If you’re even slightly unsure, write a short one.
It doesn’t have to be formal. It doesn’t have to be long. But it should be smart, sharp, and tailored.
Keep It Simple. Here’s How:
If there’s no upload option for a full letter, drop a short version into the body of your email or application message:
EXAMPLE (Body of an Email or Quick Apply Message):
Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I’m excited to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company]. With [#] years of experience in [your field], I’ve led [key achievement], and I’m confident I can bring that same value to your team.
I’ve attached my resume for your review. I’d welcome the chance to connect and discuss how I can contribute to [Company’s goal/project/etc.].
Best regards,
[Your Name]
When in Doubt:
- 3–5 sentences is better than silence
- Show intent and interest
- Tailor it just enough to stand out
You’d be surprised how often this quick touch is the difference between a call and a pass.
Conclusion: So, Do You Really Need One?
In 2025, the cover letter isn’t dead, it’s just misunderstood.
You don’t need to send one with every single application. But when the role is competitive, your resume needs context, or the company values personalization, a well-written cover letter can absolutely set you apart.
Think of it like this:
- Required? Not always.
- Expected? Sometimes.
- Helpful when done right? Absolutely.
A modern cover letter isn’t about following tradition; it’s about making a strategic connection. And in a world of AI filters and hundreds of applicants, that human touch can be the one thing that gets you noticed.