Are cover letters still relevant, or have they become a thing of the past? As the job search process evolves, so too does the debate about this traditional application requirement. To get a balanced view on this, we turned to our Flexa community, asking for their thoughts on the arguments for and against cover letters. 

Despite claims of their demise, cover letters still have their champions. A study by Arcadia University revealed some compelling statistics:

• 72% of hiring managers expect a cover letter
• 77% will move your resume up a notch if you submit one
• 83% of recruiters said a cover letter could land an interview even if the CV isn't good enough

The argument for cover letters...

These numbers suggest that cover letters can still play a role in the application process. Supporters argue that a well-crafted cover letter allows candidates to:

1. Showcase personality and enthusiasm: A cover letter provides an opportunity to express genuine interest in the role and company, going beyond the bullet points of a CV.

2. Provide context: For career changers or those with non-traditional backgrounds, a cover letter can explain the story behind the changes.

3. Demonstrate writing skills: Many roles require strong communication abilities, and a cover letter can serve as a writing sample.

The argument against cover letters...

The argument against cover letters

On the flip side, many argue that cover letters are outdated and unnecessary in today's job market. Critics point out several issues:

1. Time-consuming for both parties: Writing tailored cover letters is time-intensive for applicants, and many hiring managers admit to not reading them thoroughly.

2. Potential for bias: Some argue that cover letters can create unconscious bias, disadvantaging candidates from diverse backgrounds.

3. It’s not needed: With the rise of LinkedIn and other professional networking platforms, much of the information traditionally included in a cover letter is readily available online.

4. Generative AI: The emergence of tools like ChatGPT has made it easy to generate generic cover letters, potentially reducing their value as a differentiator.

5. Changing preferences of younger generations: Many Gen Z job seekers view cover letters as unnecessary and even as a form of "begging" for a job.

The middle ground: a new approach to cover letters

As the debate continues, some companies and job seekers are finding a middle ground by reimagining the cover letter for the modern era:

1. Optional cover letters: Some employers now make cover letters optional, allowing enthusiastic candidates to submit one while not penalising those who don't.

2. Video introductions: Short video pitches are gaining popularity as a more personal and engaging alternative to traditional cover letters.

3. Targeted questions: Instead of requesting a general cover letter, some companies ask applicants to answer specific questions related to the role.

4. LinkedIn messages: Many job seekers are opting to send personalised LinkedIn messages to hiring managers in lieu of formal cover letters.

So, cover letter or no cover letter? Here are some tips to help you either way!

Whether you're a job seeker or an employer, here are some tips for approaching cover letters in today's job market:

For Job Seekers:

1. Research the company: If a cover letter is requested, take the time to tailor it to the specific role and organisation.

2. Keep it concise: Aim for no more than one page, focusing on your most relevant experience and skills.

3. Show, don't tell: Use specific examples to demonstrate how your skills align with the job requirements.

4. Consider alternatives: If a cover letter isn't required, explore other ways to make a personal connection, such as a thoughtful LinkedIn message or a well-crafted portfolio.

5. Be authentic: Whether writing a cover letter or exploring alternative formats, let your genuine enthusiasm and personality shine through.

For Employers:

1. Be clear about expectations: Specify in the job posting whether a cover letter is required, optional, or not needed.

2. Consider alternatives: Explore innovative ways to get to know candidates beyond traditional cover letters, such as video introductions or targeted questions.

3. Focus on equity: If using cover letters, be mindful of potential biases and ensure they're not disadvantaging certain groups of candidates.

4. Value quality over quantity: If you do request cover letters, take the time to read them thoughtfully and use them as a tool to identify standout candidates.

The future of cover letters

As the job market continues to evolve, it's likely that the role of cover letters will continue to shift. While they may not disappear entirely, we can expect to see more diverse and creative approaches to introducing candidates to potential employers.

Ultimately, the most effective hiring processes will be those that balance efficiency with the opportunity for candidates to showcase their unique qualities. Whether through reimagined cover letters or innovative alternatives, the goal remains the same: connecting the right talent with the right opportunities in a way that's meaningful for both parties.