Cover lettersOct 13, 2025·5 min read
Do cover letters still matter?
Often optional, occasionally decisive. When they're read, a specific one still moves the needle.
Optional, not obsolete
Many applications skip the cover letter entirely. But for smaller companies, mission-driven roles, and hiring managers who read them, a good one still tips close calls.
When it's worth writing
Write one when it's required, when you're a non-obvious fit that needs explaining, or when you genuinely care about this specific company. Otherwise, spend the time tailoring the resume.
Specific beats polished
A letter that names the actual company, role and problem beats a beautifully written template. Genericness is the only real failure mode.
Never repeat the resume
The letter adds context the bullets can't — why you, why them, why now. If it just restates the resume, it's wasting the reader's time.