Cover Letters Are a Waste of Time (Except When They’re Not)

One of the top 3 questions I get from jobseekers is “Do I need a cover letter?”.  The honest answer is: “It Depends.” As a hiring manager, generally, I HATE cover letters, but only when they reiterate exactly what’s on your resume. 

Generally, I won’t even read them, UNLESS the resume doesn’t match the role skills wise, then I WANT a cover letter to they fill in gaps and give context to why you’re applying and demonstrating transferable skills that show your value.I don’t want to read a cover letter that sounds like AI (because it likely is) or reads like a template. 

If you’re committing to this, do it well and tailor it to the role.Here is who I recommend cover letters to:

1) First timers – if this is your first job ever or if you’ve only held jobs while at school that don’t translate to your long-term goals.  It will allow you to talk about things you did in small positions or internships you’ve held and/or projects you’ve worked on to demonstrate your skills.

2) Career Changers – If you are completely trying to change your field, you need to use a cover letter to explain that as well as demonstrating your transferable skills from your prior career.  By doing this, you’re easing the mind of the recruiter or hiring manager reading your cover letter and resume to show that you’ve got what it takes to be given a chance.

3) New Veterans Transitioning to Civilian Roles – Veterans, I thank you for your service.  What you’ve done is amazing, but transitioning back into the civilian world can be difficult.  The jobs you held while serving may not seem transferable, but they absolutely are.  Focus on the impact you had and the skills that relate to the roles that you’re applying to.

4) Parents/Caregivers Transitioning Back into The Workforce – So you’ve had a hiatus due to caring for children or other family members.  That doesn’t mean that you weren’t “working”.  You were busy managing the day-to-day operations of life, a skill you can flex.  Budgeting, managing third-party vendors, scheduling; all transferable skills.  Highlight any upskilling you’ve been doing without making it personal and do NOT explain what you were doing directly.

5) Gaps of 3+ Years: If you have a gap in working not explained by caregiving or further education, then you’re going to need to explain what you were doing and how you improved your skills.  A cover letter is where you do this.

6) It’s Required – This is where you choose.  Is writing a cover letter for this job really worth it?  If yes, do so.  If not, exit the application and go back to your search.

So for the TL;DR version – cover letters are only useful in certain occasions. The quality of your resume absolutely matters and should be focused on your knowledge, skills, abilities, impact and transferable skills.

Happy Job Hunting and if you need additional help or a FREE resume review, email Stephanie@vasthr.com