Do you still send a cover letter along with your resume when applying for a job? As an employer, do you still request one from applicants? In 2025, cover letters have started to feel passé. However, our IT recruiters in Toronto have found that cover letters can still be a valuable tool to help candidates get a call for an interview.
In this blog, we’ll discuss:
- Why a cover letter is still important
- Provide stats from a recent survey about cover letters
- When and when not to submit a cover letter as part of your candidacy
Why is a cover letter still important?
Yes, cover letters are still important and for several reasons. According to data curated by Harvard Business Review, they play an important role in establishing a good first impression, they are frequently read by hiring managers, and recruiters expect candidates to submit them.
- 83% of hiring managers said they frequently or always read cover letters.
- 73% of the managers whose companies don’t require cover letters still frequently read them.
- Nearly half said they read an applicant’s cover letter before they read their resume.
- 49% of hiring managers said a strong, persuasive cover letter could convince them to interview an otherwise weak candidate.
- 33% said a weak cover letter could hurt an otherwise strong applicant.
- 89% of recruiters said they expect candidates to submit cover letters.
- 81% report rejecting candidates based solely on their cover letters.
- 57% of recruiters preferred that applicants use cover letters to explain employment gaps, beating out the resume (44%) and the job interview (49%).
Based on these stats alone, it’s clear that cover letters are still expected and play a role in securing an interview.
Should I submit a cover letter if it’s not required?
Yes, it’s always good to err on the side of caution. You should submit a cover letter unless an employer asks you not to include one. Submitting a cover letter can help you in many ways:
- Demonstrates initiative: It shows you’re willing to go the extra mile.
- Adds context: You can highlight why you’re a strong fit, especially if your resume doesn’t tell the whole story (e.g., career change, employment gap).
- Personalizes your application: It gives you a chance to show enthusiasm and personalize your message directly to the company and role.
- Sets you apart: Many candidates skip it when it’s optional, so including one can make you stand out.
When and when not to submit a cover letter: 4 scenarios
Here are four situations to consider when deciding to submit a cover letter:
1. You are asked not to submit a cover letter
This is the simplest one. Don’t send a cover letter if you are asked not to send one. If you send one anyway, you could be viewed as someone who doesn’t follow directions.
2. A cover letter is required
If a cover letter is mentioned as part of your application package, you should submit one. Failure to do so will likely cause you to be disqualified from contention.
3. A cover letter is optional
As a general rule, if a cover letter is optional, submit one if you are not sure. Submitting one shows that you are willing to do extra when given the option.
4. A cover letter is not mentioned in the job description
If a cover letter is not mentioned at all, it’s a good idea to submit one just in case. It could give you an advantage over other candidates who chose not to submit one.
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