The Case for Cover Letters – Why Some Recruiters Still Value Them

Despite the changing landscape, many recruiters and hiring managers continue to request—and read—cover letters. Here’s why:

  1. Context Matters: Cover letters can explain career changes, employment gaps, or non-traditional paths.

  2. Communication Skills: Writing style, tone, and structure can reveal a candidate’s clarity, professionalism, and personality.

  3. Demonstrated Interest: A tailored cover letter shows the candidate took time to research and align themselves with the company’s mission.

  4. Role-Specific Value: In fields like communications, marketing, or education, writing quality is part of the job itself.

When well-written and relevant, a cover letter can help a candidate stand out. Especially in competitive or senior roles, it remains a useful signal of intent and alignment.

Tomorrow, we’ll flip the script and look at why cover letters might be outdated—and even exclusionary.

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The Role of the Cover Letter – Tradition or Necessity?