How to write a cover letter that will get you hired

Published 2 Min Read

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Between updating resumes, submitting applications, scheduling rounds of interviews and assessments, and dealing with rejection emails, it’s safe to say applying for jobs is not an easy journey. But for many job seekers, nothing is more dreaded (or annoying) than writing a cover letter.

According to Glassdoor, 58% of professionals believe cover letters are redundant — only 10% feel that cover letters are necessary. And yet, ResumeLab found that 83% of recruiters, hiring managers and HR specialists consider the cover letter a vital part of their hiring decisions. It seems job seekers won’t be able to avoid writing a cover letter, and ultimately, that’s a good thing, says Toni Frana, lead career expert at Flexjobs, a remote jobs search platform. 

Yes and no, says Frana. She has heard both answers from professionals in the hiring space. However, that doesn’t mean job seekers can just refuse to write a cover letter on the chance someone won’t read it. 

Read more: Ghouls? Ghosts? Layoffs? Employees share their biggest workplace fears

Deanna Cuadra
Senior Reporter

Deanna Cuadra is a senior reporter at Employee Benefit News. Her work covers healthcare, U.S. policy and reform, challenges faced by women and parents in the workplace and innovation in work culture … Read full bio


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