The honest answer: often no. Many applications skip cover letters entirely, and recruiters skim the ones that arrive.

When to write one anyway:

  • The application requires it. Do it, and do it well.
  • Dream role. Worth the time.
  • Connection-based application. Use the cover letter to reference the connection.
  • Career pivot. Use it to bridge the resume gap.
  • Senior / executive roles. Often expected even when "optional."

When to skip:

  • Application doesn't ask for one.
  • Volume applications where your time is better spent applying to more roles.
  • Highly templated roles (e.g. retail, food service, gig work) where cover letters add no signal.

What recruiters actually do with cover letters

Most read the resume first. The cover letter is read only:

  • When the resume is borderline (cover letter tips the decision).
  • For senior / specialized roles.
  • When the cover letter mentions a connection or specific reference.

A weak cover letter never helps. A strong one occasionally tips a close call.

When the cover letter actually moves the needle

  • Career pivots. Resume looks misaligned; cover letter explains the throughline.
  • Specialized roles where context matters more than checklists.
  • Connection-driven applications where the cover letter cites the connection.
  • Internships and entry-level roles where the resume is thin.

The bigger pattern

The cover letter is a tool, not a ritual. Use it where it helps, skip it where it doesn't. Don't write a generic one for every application — that's worse than skipping.

Sorce auto-generates a tailored cover letter for every application — using the JD and your resume. 40 free swipes a day. Polished enough to pass, tailored to each role, no copy-pasting.

For more: how to make a cover letter, how to end a cover letter, what is the purpose of a cover letter.