Cover Letters: Do They Still Matter?
- Admin
- 5 minutes ago
- 7 min read
For years, job seekers have been told that every application should include a cover letter.
At the same time, many applicants today wonder whether anyone actually reads them. With online applications becoming faster and more automated, it can feel like writing an additional page is unnecessary.
Cover letters are no longer required for every job application, and many employers may not review them for every position. Often if a cover letter is required, it will be explicitly stated in the job application instructions. However, a well-written cover letter can still provide value when it adds information that a resume cannot.
A resume shows what you have done. A cover letter explains why it matters.
What Is the Purpose of a Cover Letter?
A cover letter is a short professional message that introduces you to an employer and explains your interest in a specific position.
Unlike a resume, which is structured around your qualifications, a cover letter gives you space to provide context. It often expands on your experience and is written in a standard letter format, as if you were addressing someone directly.
It can help answer questions such as:
Why are you interested in this company?
Why are you applying for this type of role?
How does your background connect to this position?
What makes you a strong candidate?
A cover letter can be especially useful when you need to provide additional explanation or make a stronger connection between your background and the position.
Examples include:
Changing careers
If your previous experience is in a different industry, a cover letter allows you to explain how your existing skills transfer into your new career path.
Applying without direct experience
For entry-level applicants, a cover letter can highlight motivation, relevant education, volunteer experience, or transferable skills that may not immediately stand out on a resume.
Explaining employment gaps
A cover letter can provide brief context for a gap in employment without forcing the employer to make assumptions.
Applying for competitive positions
For roles that receive many qualified applicants, a thoughtful cover letter can demonstrate genuine interest and attention to detail.
Think of it as your "advertisement". Cover letters are often used to explain why you are a good fit, or why unfavorable circumstances on your resume should not be the primary focus.
Some employers specifically state that they do not want additional documents, or do not have an option to include a cover letter. In these circumstances, it is usually preferred by the employer to not submit one. Often this will be found in high-volume hiring positions, such as some retail, seasonal, or entry-level roles. Employers may prioritize a quick review of basic qualifications rather than a detailed letter.
If a job posting does not request a cover letter, you are typically not expected to submit one.
Avoid Writing a Generic Cover Letter
One of the biggest mistakes applicants make is submitting the same cover letter for every job. Employers can often recognize when a letter was copied and only had the company name changed. A strong cover letter should show that you understand the position and have a genuine reason for applying.
If the company is asking for a cover letter, there is a much larger chance an actual person is reviewing them.
Focus on the connection between your skills and the employer's needs.
Instead of saying:
"I have worked in customer service for 3 years and believe I would be a good fit."
For example:
"My experience supporting customers in fast-paced environments has helped me develop strong communication and problem-solving skills, which I believe align well with your commitment to providing excellent client service."
The difference is that the second example demonstrates why the applicant fits the role.
How to Write a Cover Letter
A cover letter should generally be brief. Hiring managers are often reviewing many applications, so the goal is not to write a personal essay. The goal is to provide useful information that encourages them to continue reviewing your application.
They are typically one page, fit within the page margins, and are usually a standard 12pt easy-to-read font like Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri.
A strong cover letter usually includes:
A clear introduction explaining the position you are applying for.
A connection between your skills and the role (using the key terms from the job description).
A brief explanation of why you are interested in the employer.
A professional closing.
Here are a few examples:
Customer Service Representative
Customer Service Representative
BrightPath Communications
Location: Jacksonville, FL
Schedule: Full-time, Monday-Friday
Salary: $18-$22/hour
About Us
BrightPath Communications provides customer support services for regional healthcare providers. We are seeking a Customer Service Representative who enjoys helping others, solving problems, and working in a fast-paced environment.
Responsibilities
Answer inbound customer calls.
Resolve billing and account questions.
Document interactions accurately.
Escalate complex concerns when necessary.
Meet quality and productivity standards.
Maintain professionalism during difficult conversations.
Qualifications
Required:
High school diploma or GED.
Strong communication skills.
Basic computer knowledge.
Ability to multitask.
Preferred:
Customer service experience.
Call center experience.
Experience using Microsoft Office.
Jane Applicant 123 Generic Address St Town, State, 89900 Dear Hiring Manager, I am excited to apply for the Customer Service Representative position with BrightPath Communications. Helping people solve problems while providing excellent service is something I genuinely enjoy, and I believe my communication skills and ability to remain calm under pressure would allow me to contribute positively to your team. In previous customer-facing roles, I learned the importance of listening carefully, asking thoughtful questions, and finding solutions efficiently. I understand that every interaction represents your company, and I strive to ensure customers feel heard, respected, and supported, even during difficult conversations. Your posting emphasizes professionalism, accurate documentation, and strong communication. These are qualities I have developed through experience handling multiple priorities, learning new systems quickly, and maintaining attention to detail while working in fast-paced environments. I would welcome the opportunity to bring my customer service skills, positive attitude, and strong work ethic to BrightPath Communications. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your team. Sincerely, Jane Applicant |
Claims Specialist
Claims Specialist
Guardian Mutual Insurance
Location: Hybrid
Salary: $53,000-$66,000
Responsibilities
Investigate auto insurance claims.
Review documentation.
Explain policy coverage.
Negotiate settlements.
Maintain detailed claim notes.
Ensure compliance with company procedures.
Qualifications
Required:
Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience.
Excellent analytical skills.
Customer service experience.
Ability to manage multiple deadlines.
Preferred:
Insurance background.
Claims handling experience.
State insurance license.
Jane Applicant 123 Generic Address St City, State, 89900 Dear Hiring Manager, I am writing to express my interest in the Claims Specialist position with Guardian Mutual Insurance. My background in customer service, conflict resolution, and insurance has prepared me to communicate effectively with customers while making thoughtful, well-supported decisions. Throughout my career, I have learned the importance of balancing empathy with objectivity. Customers often contact insurance companies during stressful situations, and I understand the value of explaining complex information clearly while maintaining professionalism and accuracy. I am comfortable reviewing documentation, managing competing priorities, and following established procedures to ensure consistent outcomes. I am particularly drawn to Guardian Mutual because of your emphasis on thorough investigations, customer communication, and quality claim handling. I enjoy work that combines problem-solving with helping people understand their options, and I believe those strengths align well with this position. Thank you for considering my application. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss how my experience and dedication to customer service can benefit your claims team. Sincerely, Jane Applicant Phone: 123-456-7890 Email: jane.applicant@generic.com |
Project Coordinator
Project Coordinator
NorthPoint Healthcare Solutions
Location: Remote
Salary: $65,000-$78,000
Responsibilities
Coordinate multiple projects simultaneously.
Schedule meetings and maintain timelines.
Communicate with internal departments.
Track project progress.
Prepare reports for leadership.
Identify project risks.
Qualifications
Required:
Three years of administrative or project support experience.
Strong organizational skills.
Excellent written communication.
Experience with Microsoft Office.
Preferred:
Project management software experience.
Bachelor's degree.
Healthcare experience.
Jane Applicant P: 123-456-7890 Dear Hiring Manager, I am excited to apply for the Project Coordinator position with NorthPoint Healthcare Solutions. I enjoy bringing structure to complex projects, coordinating multiple priorities, and helping teams stay organized and focused on achieving shared goals. Throughout my professional experience, I have managed competing deadlines, maintained detailed documentation, coordinated communication between stakeholders, and ensured that important tasks remained on schedule. My organizational skills, attention to detail, and proactive approach allow me to anticipate challenges before they become larger problems. Your description highlights collaboration, communication, and accountability, all of which are areas where I have consistently demonstrated success. I enjoy working behind the scenes to keep projects moving efficiently while supporting team members with accurate information and dependable follow-through. I would welcome the opportunity to contribute my organizational skills and commitment to excellence to NorthPoint Healthcare Solutions. Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to speaking with you about how I can contribute to your organization. Sincerely, Jane Applicant |
As you can see with these examples, the main trend is highlighting skills that match the job description, with some elaboration on what makes you stand out. They are short, to the point, and fit on one page. Your resume shows the relevant job history; the cover letter advertises your skills.
Final Thoughts
Cover letters are not the automatic requirement they once were, but they are not obsolete either.
The value of a cover letter depends on the position, industry, and situation. A poorly written generic letter will likely not help your application, but a thoughtful letter that explains your connection to the role can make you more memorable.
Before writing one, ask yourself:
"Does this give the employer information they would not get from my resume alone?"
If the answer is yes, a cover letter may be worth the effort.
Up Next: A strong resume is not only about the information you include. How that information is organized and presented can affect whether employers continue reading. In the next article, we will discuss What is the 'Best' Resume Template? including what makes a template effective, what to avoid, and how to choose a format that gets viewed.
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