A cover letter isn’t required for every job, but when it’s done well, it can absolutely help. Here’s why it’s still worth the effort.
- It shows you took the time
A thoughtful cover letter signals that you actually reviewed the job description and didn’t just click “apply” and move on. That alone separates you from a large portion of applicants.
- It helps the hiring manager see the fit
Resumes show what you’ve done. Cover letters explain why it matters for this role. You can connect your experience directly to the needs of the position instead of leaving the interpretation up to the reader.
- It gives you space to add context
A cover letter lets you address things that don’t fit cleanly on a resume, such as:
- Relocation or travel availability
- Interest in the company’s location
- Enthusiasm for the role
- Examples of similar work you’ve done and how you approached it
- It doesn’t have to be long
Less than one page is more than enough. Bullet points improve readability. And don’t just repeat your resume, add detail, color, and explanation.
- Yes, they usually get read
Most hiring managers do read cover letters, especially when they’re concise and relevant. The extra effort often makes an impression and can be enough to move a candidate from a “maybe” to an interview.