Do You Really Need a Cover Letter in 2025?

With the rise of digital applications and automated hiring tools, many job seekers wonder whether cover letters still hold value in 2025. Candidates often ask: Do I really need a cover letter in 2025? With online applications, streamlined hiring platforms, and AI-based resume scanning, the humble cover letter might seem outdated. But is it really?

At Professional Alternatives, we work with candidates across industries—legal, mortgage, finance, and more—and we can tell you: cover letters still matter. In fact, in many cases, they can give you a crucial edge. This post explores what a cover letter is, why it’s still relevant, how to write a cover letter that stands out, and when to use one. Plus, we’ve included three cover letter examples as a jumping off point to get you started. Ultimately your cover letter should reflect your unique experiences, but it’s always beneficial to have a great outline to work with.

What Is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a one-page document that accompanies your resume during a job application. Unlike a resume, which outlines your experience and credentials, a cover letter gives you the opportunity to introduce yourself more personally, shed some light on the experiences that have made you the professional that you are today, and explain why you’re an ideal fit for the specific position.

Think of it as your first conversation with a potential employer—a place where you can explain your interest in the role, highlight your most relevant accomplishments, and show enthusiasm for the company.

Why Cover Letters Still Matter

Even in an increasingly digital hiring landscape, cover letters remain an important tool in the job search process. Why? Because they allow you to:

• Tell your story beyond bullet points

• Explain career transitions or gaps

• Show your personality and communication skills

• Demonstrate your understanding of the company and role

Recruiters and hiring managers don’t just want to know what you’ve done—they want to know why you’re interested and how you’ll bring value to their team. This is also an opportunity to explain your experience beyond just your resume, and control the narrative of what they understand about you before you ever meet with a hiring manager.

Do You Really Need a Cover Letter in 2025? Yes—Here’s Why

Yes, you still need a cover letter in 2025, especially if you want to stand out in a competitive job market. While not every job posting will require one, submitting a thoughtful, tailored letter can increase your chances of landing an interview.

Recruiters often receive hundreds of resumes. A well-written cover letter helps yours rise to the top by giving context and personality to your qualifications. It’s especially useful when applying for competitive positions, leadership roles, jobs requiring strong communication skills, and career changes or industry transitions.

What a Cover Letter Can Do That a Resume Can’t

Resumes are static—they list your credentials, experience, and achievements. A cover letter, on the other hand, connects the dots between your background and the specific job you’re applying for.

Here’s what a cover letter does that a resume can’t:

• Show your passion for the industry or company

• Explain why you’re applying for this specific position and organization

• Highlight a specific project or success story

• Speak directly to the employer’s needs

• Customize your message for each opportunity

Think of it as your personal elevator pitch tailored to that one job. If you had thirty seconds to convince a hiring manager why you are the right fit for the job, this is your opportunity to do so.

Standing Out to Recruiters and Hiring Managers

With so many applicants per role, standing out is everything. A cover letter gives you that chance for recruiters and hiring managers to understand the human behind the resume.

Your cover letter helps us—and the hiring managers we represent—quickly see:

• How your experience aligns with the job description

• Your communication skills

• Your motivation and cultural fit

When thoughtfully written, a cover letter creates an immediate connection between your resume and the hiring team’s needs.

When Should You Submit a Cover Letter?

The short answer? Whenever possible.

Unless the job posting explicitly states not to include one, we recommend always submitting a cover letter with your application. You should especially include one if:

• The job is highly competitive or senior-level

• The job description mentions communication or writing skills

• You’re switching industries or roles

• You were referred by someone

• You’re applying through a staffing agency (like us)

How to Write a Great Cover Letter in 2025

The key to writing an effective cover letter is customization. Avoid generic templates. Instead, tailor each letter to the job description and company.

Tips for Crafting a Strong Cover Letter:

1. Keep it concise – Aim for 3–4 short paragraphs. Wondering how long should a cover letter be? A good rule of thumb is around 300–400 words.

2. Address it personally – Use the hiring manager’s name if you can find it. It reflects extra care and personalization when writing a cover letter.

3. Open strong – Your first sentence should grab attention and show enthusiasm. This is your chance to stand out amongst the other letters submitted.

4. Connect your skills – Match your experience to the specific job requirements. Recruiters can tell when you have created a standard cover letter for a large umbrella of roles, and it isn’t as tailored to this specific position.

5. End with purpose – Thank them for their time and express interest in an interview, and would like to get the chance to answer any follow up questions they may have.

Cover Letter Examples

To help you get started, here are three sample cover letter examples tailored to specific industries we specialize in.

The Value of a Cover Letter in Today’s Job Market

In a market that values speed and efficiency, it’s tempting to skip the cover letter. But doing so can mean missing out on your chance to stand out. A thoughtful, personalized cover letter shows initiative, professionalism, and the soft skills hiring teams want in a candidate.

It’s not just a formality—it’s a strategic tool that helps you stand out in a crowded hiring environment.

Looking for Your Next Career Move? We’re Here to Help

If you’re exploring new job opportunities, making a career shift, or just starting out in your industry, don’t go it alone. At Professional Alternatives, we connect top talent with leading employers in Houston and beyond.

Our recruiters can guide you through every step of the job search process—from perfecting your resume and writing a great cover letter, to preparing for interviews and negotiating offers. Check out our currently open jobs or submit your resume to be automatically considered for positions that meet your skillset or career goals.

Ready to make your next move? Connect with our recruiting team today and let’s build your future together.