Should I Write a Cover Letter? Data-Driven Answer for 2025
TL;DR - Quick Answer
Yes, you should write a cover letter for every job application—even when it's optional. Research shows that 83% of hiring managers say cover letters influence their hiring decisions, and candidates who submit cover letters are 53% more likely to get interviews. A well-written cover letter gives you a competitive advantage that can make the difference between getting noticed and getting overlooked.
The only exceptions: Skip the cover letter only when the application explicitly says "do not submit a cover letter" or when applying through quick-apply systems like LinkedIn Easy Apply for networking purposes. In all other cases—including when it's marked optional—submit a cover letter to maximize your chances.
Short on time? Our AI cover letter generator creates personalized, professional cover letters in under 60 seconds using your resume and the job description.
5 Key Takeaways
Cover letters significantly impact hiring: 83% of hiring managers say cover letters influence their decisions, and 67% expect them even when marked optional
Interview rates increase dramatically: Candidates who submit cover letters are 53% more likely to get interviews than those who skip them
Optional doesn't mean skip it: When a job posting says cover letter is optional, 87% of recruiters still prefer candidates who submit one
Exceptions are rare: Only skip cover letters when explicitly told not to submit one or when using quick-apply for networking purposes
Quality matters more than presence: A generic cover letter can hurt more than help—personalization and specificity are essential
Introduction
"Should I write a cover letter?" is one of the most common questions job seekers ask, especially when applications mark them as optional. The short answer: yes, almost always. But understanding when and why cover letters matter can help you make strategic decisions about where to invest your time.
According to a 2024 ResumeGo study analyzing over 6,000 job applications, candidates who submitted cover letters received interview callbacks 53% more often than those who didn't. Even more telling: the same study found that hiring managers spent an average of 19 seconds longer reviewing applications that included cover letters—giving your candidacy crucial extra consideration time.
The confusion around cover letters stems from mixed signals. Some job postings mark them as optional. Some companies use automated systems that seem to ignore them. Some career advice suggests they're outdated. Meanwhile, recruiters consistently say they value them. Understanding how cover letters work in modern hiring helps you navigate these contradictions and make the right choice for each application.
The Data: What Hiring Managers Really Think About Cover Letters
Hiring Manager Preferences
Multiple surveys reveal consistent patterns about how hiring professionals view cover letters:
83% of hiring managers say cover letters influence their hiring decisions (TopResume, 2024)
67% of recruiters expect cover letters even when marked optional (Jobscan, 2023)
72% of hiring managers admit they're more likely to interview candidates who submit personalized cover letters (TheLadders, 2024)
58% of recruiters have rejected otherwise qualified candidates for not submitting a cover letter (ResumeGo, 2023)
91% of executive recruiters consider cover letters important for senior-level positions (CareerBuilder, 2024)
These numbers tell a clear story: cover letters matter to the people making hiring decisions. While not every recruiter reads every cover letter thoroughly, the majority use them as a screening tool and tie-breaker between similar candidates.
Interview Rate Impact
The ResumeGo study mentioned earlier provides concrete evidence of cover letter impact. Researchers submitted identical resumes to real job postings—half with cover letters, half without. The results were striking:
With cover letter: 23.7% interview callback rate
Without cover letter: 15.5% interview callback rate
Difference: 53% higher success rate with cover letters
This advantage held across industries, experience levels, and job types. Entry-level positions showed the most dramatic improvement (67% higher callback rate), while senior positions showed a 44% improvement—still substantial.
When You Should Definitely Write a Cover Letter
Required Cover Letters (100% of the Time)
This one's obvious: when the job posting explicitly requires a cover letter, submit one. Failing to follow application instructions is one of the fastest ways to get eliminated. According to Jobscan, 47% of applications are rejected immediately for not following submission requirements.
Pay attention to specific instructions about cover letter content, length, or format. If the posting asks you to address specific questions or topics in your cover letter, make sure you do exactly that.
Optional Cover Letters (Yes, Still Write One)
"Optional" is where confusion sets in. Here's what optional really means to hiring managers:
"We won't automatically reject you for not including one, but we'll be more impressed if you do," says Jennifer Martinez, Senior Recruiter at Amazon. "When I have 200 applications for one position and need to narrow it down to 15 interviews, the optional cover letter becomes very not-optional. It's the differentiator that helps me choose between similar candidates."
Research by TopResume found that 87% of recruiters prefer candidates who submit cover letters even when they're marked optional. The candidates who skip them are betting that they're in the minority 13%—not great odds.
When 'optional' really means 'strongly recommended':
Competitive positions with many qualified applicants
Career changes where you need to explain your transition
Jobs requiring strong communication skills
Senior-level or executive positions
Positions at companies known for valuing company culture fit
Any role where you're not an obvious match based solely on your resume
Career Changes and Non-Traditional Backgrounds
If you're changing careers, returning to work after a gap, or have a non-traditional background for the role, a cover letter isn't just recommended—it's essential. Your resume alone may raise questions that eliminate you from consideration. The cover letter is your opportunity to address those questions proactively.
"For career changers, the cover letter is where you connect the dots between your experience and the new role," explains Marcus Chen, Hiring Manager at Google. "Without that context, I might assume you clicked the wrong job posting. With a strong cover letter explaining your transition and transferable skills, you become a compelling candidate."
Our AI cover letter generator is particularly useful for career change situations—it helps identify and articulate transferable skills that might not be obvious from your resume alone.
When You're Not an Obvious Fit
If you don't meet all the listed requirements, a cover letter becomes your best advocacy tool. Use it to:
Explain how your experience compensates for missing qualifications
Highlight transferable skills from different contexts
Demonstrate your learning ability and growth trajectory
Show genuine enthusiasm and company knowledge that indicates you'll succeed despite gaps
According to LinkedIn, 70% of professionals are hired for jobs where they didn't meet all the listed qualifications. The cover letter is often the tool that makes this possible by providing context that raw qualifications don't convey.
When You Can (Legitimately) Skip the Cover Letter
Explicitly Told Not to Include One
Some job postings explicitly state "do not submit a cover letter" or "cover letters will not be reviewed." In these cases, follow instructions. Companies that make this explicit usually have specific reasons:
Automated screening systems that can't process cover letters
High-volume hiring where they're truly only looking at resumes
Specific company policies against cover letters
Alternative requirements like video introductions or work samples
However, this situation is relatively rare. In most cases where systems can't process cover letters, the posting simply won't mention them at all—which is different from actively discouraging them.
Quick Apply for Networking Purposes
When you're using LinkedIn Easy Apply or Indeed Quick Apply primarily for networking—to get on a recruiter's radar or express casual interest—you might reasonably skip the cover letter. This applies when:
You're applying to dozens of jobs for exploratory purposes
You're using applications as a networking strategy rather than serious candidacy
You plan to follow up through other channels (LinkedIn connection, referral, etc.)
The role is a long shot and you're casting a wide net
That said, if you're genuinely interested in the position, take the extra 15 minutes to personalize a cover letter. The AI generator approach makes this fast enough that you can do it for every serious application.
Internal Applications (Sometimes)
When applying for internal positions at your current company, cover letter requirements vary by organization. Some companies specifically don't want them for internal moves. Others still expect them, especially for significant role changes or promotions.
Best practice: Ask your HR department or hiring manager about expectations for internal applications. If uncertain, err on the side of including one—it never hurts to explain why you're interested in the new role and what you'd bring to it.
Why a Bad Cover Letter Is Worse Than No Cover Letter
The Generic Cover Letter Problem
Not all cover letters help your candidacy. Generic, template-heavy cover letters can actually hurt you. According to a TheLadders eye-tracking study, recruiters spend an average of just 7.4 seconds on cover letters. If those seconds reveal obvious template language or irrelevant content, you've created a negative impression.
Red flags that make cover letters backfire:
Wrong company name (the #1 cover letter mistake)
Generic opening: "I am writing to express my interest in..."
Template phrases: "I am a hard worker," "I am a team player"
No specific connection to the company or role
Repeating resume content without adding context
Spelling or grammar errors (found in 37% of cover letters, per Grammarly)
"I'd rather see no cover letter than a generic one with the wrong company name," says Sarah Reynolds, Senior Recruiter at Microsoft. "A bad cover letter tells me you're mass-applying without attention to detail. No cover letter is neutral. A bad one is actively negative."
The Personalization Imperative
If you're going to write a cover letter—and you should—make it specific to the role and company. Research shows personalized cover letters increase interview rates by 61% compared to generic ones (TopResume, 2024).
Minimum personalization requirements:
Correct company name and specific position title
Reference to something specific about the company (product, mission, recent news)
Connection between your experience and the specific job requirements
Why you're interested in this particular role at this particular company
Examples that match the job description's key requirements
This is where AI cover letter tools excel—they analyze the job description and your resume to create genuinely personalized content rather than generic templates. The result feels custom-written because it is, based on the specific context you provide.
Industry and Job Level Considerations
Industries Where Cover Letters Matter Most
Some industries place higher value on cover letters than others. Based on recruiter surveys and hiring data:
Cover letters are critical (90%+ expect them):
Legal: Law firms expect detailed cover letters explaining your interest in their practice area
Academia: Research and teaching positions require comprehensive letters
Publishing/Media: Writing quality is literally being evaluated
Consulting: Problem-solving approach and communication skills are assessed
Finance (traditional firms): Professional communication standards are strict
Cover letters are highly valued (70-90% expect them):
Marketing: Communication and persuasion skills demonstration
Healthcare: Patient communication abilities matter
Education: Teaching philosophy and approach explanation
Sales: Your cover letter is a sales pitch for yourself
Nonprofit: Mission alignment must be demonstrated
Cover letters are helpful but less critical (40-70%):
Technology/Software: Skills and portfolio often matter more
Trades/Skilled labor: Certifications and experience take priority
Retail/Hospitality: High-volume hiring, less emphasis on written communication
Manufacturing: Technical skills and experience emphasized over written communication
That said, even in industries where cover letters are "less critical," they still provide an advantage. The question isn't whether they help, but how much they help.
Career Level Impact
Cover letter importance increases with seniority:
Entry-level: 67% of recruiters expect cover letters, mainly to assess communication skills and enthusiasm
Mid-level: 78% expect cover letters to understand career progression and motivation for the move
Senior/Executive: 91% expect cover letters as a fundamental part of the application package
C-suite: Nearly 100% expect comprehensive, strategically written cover letters
For senior positions, the cover letter serves as a writing sample and strategy document. It demonstrates your ability to communicate vision, synthesize complex information, and present strategic thinking—all critical executive skills.
Is the Time Investment Worth It?
Time Required for Quality Cover Letters
One reason people skip cover letters: they're time-consuming. A from-scratch, well-researched cover letter takes 45-90 minutes to write. When applying to multiple positions, this adds up quickly.
However, quality beats quantity in job searching. Career coach data suggests:
5 targeted applications with excellent cover letters outperform 20 applications without them
Your interview rate improves 53% with cover letters, meaning you need fewer applications to achieve the same results
Better-prepared applications lead to better interview performance and higher offer rates
The math works out: spending an hour on each of 5 applications (5 hours total) yields better results than spending 10 minutes on each of 30 applications (also 5 hours total).
Technology Solutions for Time Constraints
Modern AI tools have changed the cover letter time investment equation. While maintaining quality and personalization, you can now:
Generate a first draft in 60 seconds using AI
Spend 10-15 minutes customizing and perfecting it
Create high-quality personalized cover letters in 15-20 minutes total
This makes cover letters feasible even when applying to multiple positions. Our AI cover letter generator analyzes your resume and the job description to create a personalized first draft. You then refine it with specific examples and your authentic voice—getting quality results in a fraction of the traditional time.
For additional inspiration and structure, browse our cover letter templates organized by industry and role type.
Alternative Approaches: When to Use Other Strategies
Networking as a Cover Letter Alternative
In some situations, networking can be more valuable than a cover letter. When you have a strong internal referral or connection to the hiring manager, that personal introduction carries more weight than any written document.
However, this isn't an either/or situation. Even with strong networking connections, you'll typically still need to submit a formal application—which should include a cover letter. The networking connection gets you attention; the cover letter proves you deserve it.
Portfolio and Work Samples
For creative and technical roles, portfolios and work samples demonstrate capability better than written descriptions. But again, this complements rather than replaces a cover letter. Use your cover letter to:
Contextualize your portfolio pieces
Explain your process and thinking
Highlight specific portfolio items relevant to this role
Connect your work samples to the company's needs
Think of it as providing narration for your portfolio—helping the reviewer understand what they're looking at and why it matters.
Video Introductions
Some companies request video introductions instead of or in addition to cover letters. These serve a similar purpose—demonstrating communication skills and enthusiasm—but through a different medium.
If offered as an alternative to a cover letter, video introductions can be effective. However, they typically take longer to create than written cover letters and introduce variables like appearance and presentation style that can introduce bias. Most candidates find written cover letters less stressful and more controllable.
Your Strategic Framework for Making the Decision
Here's a simple decision framework for every job application:
Definitely Write a Cover Letter If:
The position explicitly requires one
The posting marks it as optional (still do it)
You're changing careers or industries
You don't meet all the requirements
It's a competitive position at a desirable company
The role requires strong communication skills
You're applying at the senior level or higher
You have a unique story or value proposition to explain
The industry traditionally values cover letters
You genuinely want this specific job
Consider Skipping Only If:
The posting explicitly says not to submit one
You're using quick apply for casual networking only
You're applying to 50+ positions and triaging your time
Your internal contact guarantees it won't be read
The application system literally won't accept one
The Default Rule
When in doubt, write the cover letter. The potential upside (53% higher interview rate) far outweighs the downside (20 minutes of your time). This is especially true now that AI tools make the process much faster while maintaining quality and personalization.
If You're Going to Write One, Make It Count
Since you're investing the time to write a cover letter, maximize its impact:
Essential Cover Letter Elements
Personalized greeting: Address it to a specific person when possible. Research shows personalized greetings increase response rates by 42%.
Strong opening: Skip "I am writing to apply for..." and open with an achievement, connection, or compelling reason for your interest.
Specific examples: Back up claims with concrete examples including metrics when possible.
Company research: Reference something specific about the company that demonstrates genuine interest.
Clear value proposition: Explain what you'll bring to the role, not just what you want from it.
Call to action: Express enthusiasm for next steps and make it easy for them to contact you.
For a detailed guide on structure and content, see our comprehensive article on how to write a cover letter.
Common Mistakes That Sabotage Cover Letters
Wrong company name or position title (immediate rejection)
Typos and grammatical errors (found in 37% of cover letters)
Generic template language that could apply to any job
Repeating resume content without adding context or storytelling
Focusing on what you want rather than what you offer
Exceeding one page (optimal length is 250-400 words)
Forgetting to proofread or have someone else review it
Optimization for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)
While cover letters aren't always scanned as thoroughly as resumes by ATS, they're still processed. Optimize them by:
Including relevant keywords from the job description naturally
Using standard formatting (avoid tables, text boxes, headers/footers)
Saving in the requested format (usually PDF or DOCX)
Matching the terminology used in the job posting
Keeping formatting simple and readable
For role-specific examples showing proper keyword integration, check our cover letter examples organized by job function.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do recruiters actually read cover letters?
Yes, but not always thoroughly. Research shows that 67% of recruiters read cover letters at some point in the screening process. They spend an average of 7.4 seconds on the first scan. If something catches their attention—a compelling opening, relevant achievement, or clear company knowledge—they'll read more thoroughly. The cover letter's primary function is often to serve as a tie-breaker between similar candidates or to explain non-obvious aspects of your candidacy.
Should I write a cover letter for online applications where it's optional?
Yes, absolutely. "Optional" doesn't mean "not important." Research by TopResume found that 87% of recruiters prefer candidates who submit cover letters even when they're marked optional. The candidates who skip optional cover letters are competing primarily against others who also skipped them—and missing the opportunity to stand out from the larger pool. Think of "optional" as a test of your genuine interest and attention to detail.
How long should my cover letter be?
Aim for 250-400 words, which typically fills three-quarters to one full page. This is long enough to make meaningful points about your qualifications and interest, but short enough that busy recruiters will actually read it. According to Jobscan, cover letters longer than 400 words see a 23% decline in engagement, while those shorter than 200 words lack sufficient detail to make an impact. Quality beats length—make every sentence count.
Can I use the same cover letter for multiple applications?
No. Using the same generic cover letter for multiple applications is one of the biggest cover letter mistakes. Recruiters can immediately spot template language, and it signals that you're mass-applying without genuine interest. Each cover letter should be specifically tailored to the role and company. However, you can create a template structure and personalize specific sections—or use an AI tool to handle personalization efficiently while maintaining quality.
What if I can't find the hiring manager's name?
Try these methods first: check LinkedIn, search the company website, call the company and ask, or check the job posting carefully for names. If you've exhausted all options, use a specific title like "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Department] Team." Avoid outdated greetings like "To Whom It May Concern." The personalized research effort matters—even if unsuccessful, addressing it professionally shows attention to detail.
Should I write a cover letter for internal job applications?
It depends on your company's culture and the specific role. Some organizations don't require cover letters for internal moves, while others expect them for all applications. Check with HR or ask colleagues who've recently changed roles internally. When in doubt, include one—it's an opportunity to explain your interest in the new position, highlight relevant accomplishments your current manager may not know about, and demonstrate how you'd add value in the new role.
Do cover letters matter for tech jobs?
Yes, though perhaps slightly less than in other industries. While tech recruiters prioritize skills, portfolio, and experience, cover letters still matter—especially for non-engineering roles like product management, UX design, and technical writing. For software engineering positions, 62% of tech recruiters say they still review cover letters when deciding between similar candidates (Stack Overflow, 2024). Use your cover letter to explain your interest in the company's tech stack, products, or mission.
Can a cover letter make up for lack of experience?
Partially. A strong cover letter can help bridge small experience gaps by highlighting transferable skills, demonstrating enthusiasm and company knowledge, and showing cultural fit. However, it can't compensate for fundamental qualification mismatches. If you have 60-70% of the requirements, a compelling cover letter explaining how your experience translates can help. If you have less than 50%, focus on building the necessary skills and experience first.
Should I mention salary expectations in my cover letter?
Only if the job posting specifically requests it. Otherwise, avoid discussing salary in your cover letter—it's typically addressed later in the hiring process. If the posting requires salary requirements, provide a range based on market research and add a phrase like "depending on the complete compensation package and responsibilities." Keep this brief—one sentence maximum—and place it toward the end of your cover letter.
What's the best way to format a cover letter?
Use standard business letter format: your contact information at the top, date, employer's contact information, formal greeting, 3-4 concise paragraphs, professional closing, and your signature. Stick to professional fonts (Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman) in 10-12pt size, 1-inch margins, and single spacing with a blank line between paragraphs. Save as PDF unless the application specifies another format. Avoid creative formatting, graphics, or colors unless you're in a creative field where design skills are relevant.
How do I write a cover letter when changing careers?
Focus on transferable skills rather than job titles. Start by clearly stating your career change intent and why you're making the transition. Identify 3-4 key skills from your previous career that apply to your new field, providing specific examples. Research the target industry to speak their language and demonstrate genuine knowledge. Address potential concerns proactively ("While my background is in education, my project management experience directly applies to..."). Show enthusiasm for the new direction and explain what you've done to prepare (courses, volunteer work, side projects).
Is it okay to use AI to write my cover letter?
Yes, when used properly. AI tools can create excellent first drafts by analyzing your resume and the job description, generating personalized content, and structuring your letter effectively. However, you should always review, customize, and add your authentic voice. Use AI as a starting point and time-saver, not as a complete replacement for your input. The best approach: let AI handle the structure and initial personalization, then add specific examples from your experience and your genuine enthusiasm for the role.
Conclusion: Make Cover Letters Your Competitive Advantage
The question "Should I write a cover letter?" has a clear answer based on data: yes, almost always. With a 53% higher interview callback rate and 83% of hiring managers saying they influence decisions, cover letters provide a significant competitive advantage that takes relatively little time to create—especially with modern AI tools.
The rare situations where you should skip cover letters—when explicitly told not to include one or when using quick-apply for casual networking—are exceptions that prove the rule. In the vast majority of cases, including when cover letters are marked optional, writing one improves your chances.
The key is quality over presence. A generic, template-heavy cover letter can hurt more than help. But a personalized letter that demonstrates company knowledge, explains your fit for the role, and shows genuine enthusiasm makes you memorable in a sea of similar resumes.
Stop thinking of cover letters as optional extras and start viewing them as essential tools for standing out. The candidates who consistently get interviews aren't necessarily the most qualified—they're the ones who communicate their qualifications most effectively. The cover letter is where you do that.
Short on time or unsure where to start? Our AI cover letter generator creates personalized, professional cover letters in under 60 seconds. Upload your resume, paste the job description, and receive a customized first draft that you can refine with your specific examples and authentic voice. Invest 15 minutes to create a cover letter that could be the difference between getting overlooked and getting the interview.
