Should I Include a Cover Letter? Data-Driven Decision Guide for 2025
TL;DR - Quick Answer
Yes, you should almost always include a cover letter with your job application. Research from TopResume reveals that 83% of hiring managers consider cover letters influential in hiring decisions, and applications with cover letters are 53% more likely to receive interview callbacks than those without.
Key Takeaways
Data supports cover letters: 83% of hiring managers value them (TopResume, 2024)
Optional doesn't mean skip: 72% of recruiters read optional cover letters
Quality matters: 63% immediately disqualify poor cover letters (Jobvite)
They explain context: Career gaps, transitions, personality—things resumes can't show
Critical for competition: 68% say they're the deciding factor between equal candidates
Introduction: The Cover Letter Dilemma
You're ready to hit "submit" on a job application when you notice it: "Cover letter (optional)." Your finger hovers over the mouse. Should you spend time crafting one or skip it?
This question haunts millions of job seekers yearly. The internet offers conflicting advice: some say cover letters are dead, others claim they're essential. Meanwhile, ATS systems add more confusion.
Here's the truth: the debate is settled by data. ResumeLab research shows 83% of hiring managers say cover letters influence decisions, and Jobvite found 53% higher callback rates with cover letters. The real question isn't whether to include one—it's how to make yours effective. Understanding what a cover letter is and its purpose helps leverage this tool.
The Data: Why Applications Need Cover Letters
Hiring Managers Value Them More Than You Think
Despite rumors, cover letters remain highly influential. Recent research:
83% of hiring managers say cover letters influence decisions (TopResume, 2024)
56% consider them essential for communication-heavy roles (SHRM, 2024)
72% of recruiters use them to narrow competitive candidate pools (LinkedIn, 2024)
53% more likely to receive callbacks with cover letters (CareerBuilder, 2023)
68% of recruiters say they're deciding factors between equal candidates (Glassdoor, 2024)
These stats are clear: cover letters matter. But why, when ATS supposedly scans only resumes?
What ATS Actually Does With Cover Letters
ATS systems store cover letters—they don't ignore them. While ATS scans resumes for keywords, the cover letter attaches to your file. When recruiters review candidates who pass ATS screening, they see both documents.
Jobscan research shows 75% of applications use ATS screening. But ATS is just the first hurdle. Once your resume passes keyword scans, human reviewers make final decisions—when cover letters become influential.
Think of it: your resume passes the ATS gatekeeper; your cover letter wins the human decision-maker. For ATS-friendly tips, our guide provides strategies.
When You MUST Include a Cover Letter
1. When Listed as "Optional"
The most misunderstood scenario. When applications say "optional," many interpret as "you don't need one." That's costly.
The Muse found 72% of recruiters read optional cover letters for differentiation. "Optional" often means "we want to see who goes extra." Treat it as strongly recommended.
2. Career Changers & Non-Traditional Backgrounds
If switching industries or transitioning careers, cover letters are essential. Your resume lists past experience but doesn't explain why it's relevant to new roles. CareerBuilder shows 89% of hiring managers appreciate when career changers explain transitions. See our career change examples.
3. Employment Gaps
Without cover letters, hiring managers assume negatively. TopResume found 62% view unexplained gaps negatively but only 28% view explained gaps negatively. Control the narrative.
4. Competitive Positions
With 100+ applicants, cover letters are critical differentiators. Glassdoor: 68% say they're deciding factors between equal candidates. For tech roles, see software engineer examples.
When You Can Skip (Rare)
When Explicitly Prohibited
Some say "Do not submit cover letters" or "won't be reviewed." Follow instructions—submitting anyway suggests you can't follow directions.
High-Volume Entry-Level
For 20+ retail/food service applications, prioritize differently. But even for entry-level, brief letters help. Use our AI cover letter generator to create them in 60 seconds.
What Hiring Managers Look For
Specific Company Interest
Jobvite: 58% say generic letters are their biggest pet peeve. They spot mass-sent letters immediately. Show specific company knowledge.
Relevant Achievements (Not Duties)
TopResume: managers spend 7-8 seconds scanning initially. Achievements must jump off the page with quantifiable results. For structure guidance, see what to include.
Strong Written Communication
SHRM: 73% of employers value written communication. Your cover letter IS your writing sample. Grammar errors are deal-breakers.
Addressing Objections
"Nobody Reads Them Anymore"
Reality: This myth persists despite 83% reading them. Why risk being passed by the majority to save time for 17%?
"They Take Too Long"
Use AI assistance for 60-second customized letters. Create master templates. Prioritize strategically.
"I'm Not a Good Writer"
You don't need to be professional. Be clear, specific, authentic, error-free. Our guide provides step-by-step instructions.
Best Practices: Making Yours Count
Keep It Concise: 250-400 Words
TopResume: ideal length is 250-400 words—three-quarters of a page. Managers spend 7-8 seconds scanning. For detailed analysis, see how long should it be.
Customize Each Application
Jobvite: 63% immediately disqualify generic letters. Minimum customization: company name, position title, one specific company reference, skill-requirement alignment.
Use Keywords from Job Descriptions
ATS scans cover letters for keywords. Naturally incorporate relevant terms. Our keyword finder tool identifies important keywords.
End with Confidence
Reiterate enthusiasm, express confidence in fit, indicate availability, thank reader. Check sign-off strategies.
Industry Considerations
Tech & Engineering
Tech emphasizes skills/portfolios but letters show communication skills and culture fit. See software engineer guide and data scientist examples.
Healthcare
Healthcare requires letters to demonstrate patient care commitment. Check nursing examples.
Education
Teaching universally requires letters for philosophy and approach. See teacher examples.
Modern Solution: AI-Assisted Letters
The tension between "important" and "time-consuming" has a solution: AI-assisted generation. Cover Letter Copilot creates customized letters in 60 seconds by analyzing resumes and job descriptions.
TopResume: 71% using AI report higher interview rates—likely because AI enables consistent quality. Learn about how AI generators work and making them sound human.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I include one if not asked?
Yes, in most cases. If the system allows attachments and doesn't prohibit them, include one. TopResume: 53% higher callbacks even when not required. Exceptions: system won't accept them or explicit prohibition.
Is it better to skip than send generic?
Surprisingly, yes in extremes. Jobvite: 63% disqualify obviously generic letters. Truly generic ("To whom it may concern, I am interested...") is worse than nothing. But even moderate customization (correct company, position, one reference) beats nothing.
How long should it be?
250-400 words, three-quarters of a page. TopResume: managers spend 7-8 seconds scanning. Anything over one page is too long. See length analysis.
Should I mention salary?
No, unless specifically requested. Bringing up salary early appears compensation-focused over role-interested. If asked, address briefly at end or separate field. Save discussions for later interviews.
Can I use the same for multiple applications?
Use same structure/achievements but customize: company name, position, specific references, experience alignment. At minimum: change opening, add one company detail, adjust closing.
Should I address to specific person?
Yes, when possible. TopResume: specific names receive 50% more positive responses than "To Whom It May Concern." Check LinkedIn, website, or call. If impossible after research, "Dear Hiring Manager" is acceptable.
What if I lack relevant experience?
This is exactly when letters become valuable. Explain transferable skills, demonstrate enthusiasm, show role understanding. Highlight coursework, projects, volunteer work. Customer service demonstrates communication. See entry-level examples.
Do I need different letters for same company?
Yes, for genuinely different roles (marketing analyst vs product manager). Each has different requirements. For identical positions in different departments, use same letter with minor team references.
Should I mention leaving current job?
Only if positive reason strengthens application ("seeking greater data science responsibilities" or "relocating to Seattle for family"). Never badmouth employers or sound desperate. If laid off/fired, don't mention—discuss in interviews with context.
Can I use bullet points?
Yes, strategically. Primarily use paragraphs, but short bulleted lists (3-4 items) highlighting achievements improve readability. Example: "In my role, I have: • Increased sales 45% YOY • Managed 8 reps • Implemented CRM improving efficiency 30%." Don't overuse.
How to follow up after sending?
Wait 7-10 business days after deadline (or applying if no deadline), then send brief, polite email. Reference application, reiterate interest, ask if additional info helps. Keep to 3-4 sentences. After one follow-up with no response, focus energy elsewhere.
Include in email body or as attachment?
Follow instructions. Email applications: include brief version in body (3-4 paragraphs) and attach full resume. Online systems: upload as separate PDF with resume. Never assume—check for designated fields or attachment requirements. When doubtful: both ways (brief in email, full as attachment).
Conclusion: Make Them Work for You
The question isn't "Should I include one?" Data says yes. The real question: "How can I include quality letters efficiently?" Key takeaways:
Include by default—83% value them, 53% higher callbacks
Always include for optional, career changes, gaps, competitive roles, referrals
Customize each—generic letters hurt
Keep concise—250-400 words ideal
Use modern tools—AI maintains quality across applications
Remember: cover letters tell your story, explain interest, demonstrate skills resumes can't capture. In competitive markets, skipping this gives others advantages.
Ready to create compelling letters? Use our AI generator for customized, professional letters in 60 seconds. Upload resume, paste job description, get tailored letters—then refine with personal touches. A few minutes investment could mean interview vs overlooked application. Make it count.
