Do You Still Need a Cover Letter in 2025?

(Spoiler: Yes, But Not Always — Here’s When It Still Matters)

In the age of AI resumes, ATS filters, and one-click job applications — is the humble cover letter dead?

It’s a fair question. Job seekers in 2025 are using AI tools to whip up professional resumes in minutes. Recruiters are flooded with applications. Some platforms (like Indeed or LinkedIn) don’t even ask for cover letters anymore.

So… should you still write one?

Let’s break it down.

Are Cover Letters Obsolete in 2025?

No — but they’re evolving.

Hiring managers in 2025 still read cover letters, especially when:

You’re applying for competitive roles
The job requires strong communication skills
You’re switching industries or roles
You want to stand out beyond your resume

📊 A 2024 CareerBuilder survey found that 56% of recruiters said a tailored cover letter improves a candidate’s chances.

🚩 When You Might Not Need a Cover Letter

Skip the cover letter if:

The application doesn’t request one
You’re applying via Easy Apply with 100+ other candidates
You’re sending bulk applications (not recommended!)

But if the job is high-value?
✅ Always attach a short, sharp cover letter.

🧠 What Makes a Cover Letter Work in 2025?

Here’s the modern checklist:

Hook fast: 2 sentences max to grab attention
Personalize: Mention the company, role, and why you align
Add insight: Show what you’ll do for them, not just who you are
Keep it short: 150–200 words
Use AI (ethically): Start with tools like ResumeCore’s AI Cover Letter Generator, then tweak for impact

✍️ Cover Letter vs AI Resume — What Matters More?

Both.

Your resume gets you in the door.
Your cover letter can win the interview — especially for roles that value communication, persuasion, or creativity.

✅ Think of your resume as your pitch deck.
✅ Your cover letter is the elevator pitch.

In 2025, you need both — just smarter, shorter, and AI-assisted.

🚀 TL;DR: Do You Still Need a Cover Letter in 2025?

Startup role or small team |✅ Yes
Corporate job with many layers |✅ Yes
Bulk job board app (Easy Apply) |❌ Not always
Freelance gigs |❌ Rarely
C-suite or executive roles | ✅ Definitely

✨ Bonus: Generate Your Cover Letter in Seconds

Struggling to write one?

⚡ Try our AI-Powered Cover Letter Generator — tailored to your job title, resume, and goals.

Create your Cover Letter →

No blank pages. Just results.