The Death of the Cover Letter: What Hiring Managers Actually Read
Still writing cover letters? Here’s what actually matters in 2025.
Let’s be honest - when’s the last time a hiring manager read your cover letter before your resume?
Exactly.
The traditional cover letter is on life support, and for good reason. In a hiring world that’s faster, more digital, and increasingly driven by AI, the old “Dear Sir or Madam” isn’t doing you any favors.
So... Are Cover Letters Dead?
Not exactly. But their role has changed dramatically.
What hiring managers actually want today isn’t a regurgitated version of your resume in paragraph form. They want quick context, real enthusiasm, and a signal that you get it. The wall of text? Skipped. The fluff? Deleted.
Here’s what they do pay attention to:
What Actually Gets Read in 2025
1. Your Resume — But Not All of It
The top third matters most. Make sure your title, relevant experience, and results are right there. Think: “Increased email conversions by 47%” not “responsible for sending emails.”
2. LinkedIn Profile
Your banner image, headline, and most recent role are scanned in under 15 seconds. Bonus if you have mutual connections or content that shows your personality.
3. Portfolio or Work Samples (If Applicable)
Real work beats nice words, every time.
4. Short, Custom Notes (Instead of Cover Letters)
When candidates attach a short message in the application or InMail that clearly states:
Why they’re excited about this role
How they can make an impact
A quick personal connection (if any)
…it does get read. Especially when it’s concise (think 4–6 sentences) and doesn’t scream “copy/paste.”
What’s Getting Ignored
Paragraphs that start with “I’m writing to express my interest…”
Every job you’ve ever had in narrative form
Buzzword salads: “Passionate, self-starter, synergistic team player with a growth mindset”
Generic templates that don’t mention the company or role
What to Do Instead
If the application requires a cover letter, treat it like a direct message:
Lead with a hook: “Your recent rebrand caught my eye—here’s how I can help keep that momentum.”
Add one achievement relevant to the role
End with a line that shows you’re human: “Happy to chat even if the role is still evolving—I know how that goes.”
If it’s optional, skip it and focus on optimizing your resume, LinkedIn, or portfolio. Reach out directly if you can. Real relationships > formal attachments.
Be Brief, Be Real, Be Relevant
Cover letters aren’t dead. But boring, bloated ones are. In 2025, the best candidates communicate like real people who understand the company’s needs—and show how they’ll meet them.
So go ahead—ditch the “To Whom It May Concern.” Instead, write like you’d talk to a smart, busy human.
Because that’s exactly who’s reading.