Do cover letters still matter?

4 Comments

1. AnonymousMarch 24,2025 at 4:05PM UTC

   I think the general consensus is 'no, unless they do'. If it's marked as required on a job application, I'll spend some time making it actually worth reading; When I was applying for lots of things, I had some generic ones written up to fit specific roles/responsibilities that I'd just tweak slightly to fit the job opportunity. It's not going to hurt, so if you have the time and you find a role that gets you excited, you should include one. I think it also becomes more imperative to include one if you're trying to pivot, or if you're applying for a role that might not look like, on paper, your resume qualifies you for (so you can explain why you are, in fact, a good fit).

2. AnonymousMarch 24,2025 at 8:20PM UTC

   Optional?

   If your job history clearly shows how/why you're qualified, you can skip it.

   If it's a stretch role or your history is sort of chaotic? That's your opportunity to explain why your random background is more relevant than it looks at first glance.

   If it's required, it's risky to skip it.

3. AnonymousMarch 25,2025 at 2:02AM UTC

   In general no, High exec, C Suite, maybe.

4. Megan LeasherMarch 31,2025 at 1:35PM UTC

   I would say, generally, no, but there are some companies that require them. In my experience, non-profits tend to ask for them as they want to make sure you are aligned to their mission before they consider you as a viable candidate. I think it's smart to have a generic one ready to go, if asked. You can always personalize it and tailor it to a job and/or company.