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

In the rapidly evolving world of job hunting, it’s easy to wonder if certain traditions still hold value. The cover letter is one such element that many question. With online applications, video pitches, and AI-driven recruitment tools gaining ground, some may ask if a cover letter is still necessary in 2025. The short answer is yes, a cover letter remains an important part of your job application, and here’s why.

Even as the recruitment landscape transforms, the cover letter continues to offer unique benefits that no other document can match. It is your personal introduction, a chance to tell your story, show your personality and explain why you are the best fit for the role beyond the bullet points on your resume. Despite advances in technology and changing hiring practices, the human element in recruitment remains significant. Recruiters and hiring managers still appreciate a well-written cover letter that demonstrates genuine interest and effort.

So, if you’re thinking about skipping the cover letter or wondering how to make it relevant today, this blog will help you understand why it still matters and how to write one that works in 2025.

The Cover Letter Is Your Chance to Stand Out

Resumes often look similar. They tend to list qualifications, job titles, dates and skills in a standard format. While this information is necessary, it can be dry and fail to tell your unique story. That’s where the cover letter steps in.

A cover letter allows you to bring your resume to life by sharing the motivations behind your career choices, the challenges you’ve overcome and what you genuinely care about. This human connection can be powerful. In 2025, where many applications are filtered through automated systems before reaching a person, a strong cover letter can help ensure your application gets noticed.

It is an opportunity to explain why you want the specific role, why you admire the company and how your values align with theirs. It shows recruiters that you have done your research and are serious about contributing to their team.

Personalisation Still Makes a Difference

One of the biggest benefits of a cover letter is that it allows personalisation. While resumes can be adjusted for each application, the cover letter is the ideal place to tailor your message directly to the employer.

In today’s competitive job market, generic applications rarely get a second look. Writing a cover letter that speaks directly to the company’s needs, culture and the particular job description demonstrates that you have taken the time to understand what they want.

Personalisation in your cover letter might include referencing a recent project the company launched, mentioning their core values or responding to the specific skills listed in the job ad. This level of detail helps employers see you as a real person rather than just another candidate.

Cover Letters Are Not Dead Because Hiring Is About People

Even with artificial intelligence and automated screening tools, hiring remains fundamentally about people. Human resources professionals, managers and recruiters want to hire individuals who fit not only the job requirements but also the team culture and company ethos.

A cover letter gives you the chance to communicate your personality, attitude and passion. It can show empathy, resilience and motivation — qualities that a resume cannot easily capture. This human aspect is still very much valued in 2025.

Employers want to know who you are, not just what you have done. A cover letter can convey that and help build a connection before the interview stage.

How to Make Your Cover Letter Relevant in 2025

While cover letters are still important, the way they are written and presented may need to evolve. In 2025, your cover letter should be concise, engaging and tailored. Recruiters often skim applications quickly, so you want to grab attention early and keep their interest.

Focus on the most relevant skills and experiences. Use clear language and avoid jargon. Make your letter easy to read by breaking it into short paragraphs.

Instead of repeating what is on your resume, explain how your experience prepares you for the challenges of the new role. Share your enthusiasm for the company and industry.

Using examples and stories can help demonstrate your fit. But keep it professional and authentic.

Addressing Concerns About Time and Effort

Some candidates skip cover letters because they feel it takes too much time or that they won’t be read. While it’s true that not every employer asks for a cover letter, including one can only enhance your application.

If the job ad specifically says no cover letter is needed, it’s fine to follow those instructions. But if there is any ambiguity, a brief, well-crafted cover letter can give you an edge.

Think of it as an investment in your career. Spending time to write a thoughtful cover letter might open doors that a resume alone won’t.

When Not to Include a Cover Letter

There are a few exceptions where a cover letter may not be necessary. Some large organisations use online forms that replace traditional cover letters with specific questions. In these cases, your answers serve the purpose of a cover letter.

Similarly, some roles in highly technical fields or entry-level positions may not prioritise cover letters. But even then, if you want to stand out, a concise letter explaining your interest and fit won’t hurt.

The key is to always read the application instructions carefully and tailor your approach.

Tips for Writing an Effective Cover Letter in 2025

Start with a clear introduction stating the role you are applying for and how you found it. Show enthusiasm and briefly mention why the company excites you.

Move into your background by focusing on skills and achievements that relate directly to the role. Avoid simply listing tasks from your resume.

Explain how you can add value and help solve problems for the employer. Use language from the job description to show you understand their needs.

Keep paragraphs short and easy to read. Avoid long blocks of text.

Close with a confident statement about your interest in progressing to an interview. Thank the reader for considering your application.

Always proofread for grammar, spelling and tone. Errors can undermine your professionalism.

Cover Letters and Technology

Technology is changing how cover letters are used. Many applications now pass through applicant tracking systems that scan for keywords. Including phrases from the job description can help your application get past these systems.

However, don’t sacrifice natural language for keyword stuffing. Your letter should still feel genuine and readable.

Some candidates are also experimenting with video cover letters or digital portfolios to complement their written letter. These can be powerful but should not replace a strong traditional cover letter unless the employer specifically requests it.

Final Thoughts

In 2025, the cover letter remains a valuable tool in your job application toolkit. It is your chance to speak directly to the employer, show your personality and explain why you are the best fit for the role.

Skipping the cover letter might save time but could also mean missing out on opportunities to connect with recruiters and hiring managers. Taking the time to write a tailored, authentic and concise cover letter can make all the difference.

The job market is competitive, and standing out requires more than a generic resume. Your cover letter is your story, your voice and your first impression. Use it wisely and you will increase your chances of success.

If you’d like help writing or improving your cover letters to make them relevant and compelling in today’s job market, feel free to reach out. I’m here to support you in taking your career to the next level.

If you’d like personalised support—whether it’s professional Resume and Cover Letter writing, FIFO Resume, Employer Sponsorship Resumes and Cover Letters, SEEK and LinkedIn profile optimisation, Selection Criteria for Government Jobs, one-on-one Job Interview Coaching or Other Professional Writing Services —call us on 0423 686 904 or email us at hello@adriennasresumes.com