Should I Submit a Cover Letter? The Complete Guide for Job Seekers
In today’s competitive job market, candidates constantly ask one critical question: Should I submit a cover letter? While resumes remain the backbone of job applications, cover letters often determine whether your application stands out or gets ignored.
A well-crafted cover letter gives context to your resume, highlights your personality, and demonstrates your motivation. However, not all employers require one—and in some cases, submitting a poor cover letter can actually hurt your chances.
This comprehensive guide will help you understand when you should submit a cover letter, when you can skip it, and how to write one that actually gets results. Whether you're applying through job boards, freelance platforms, or international markets, we’ll cover everything you need to know.
Our specialists can also help you create a professional, high-converting cover letter—just register on our website to get started.
Table of Contents
- What Is a Cover Letter and Why It Matters
- When You Should Always Submit a Cover Letter
- When You Can Skip the Cover Letter
- How to Write a Winning Cover Letter
- Common Mistakes Job Seekers Make
- Expert Tips to Boost Your Success
- Examples and Use Cases
- FAQ
What Is a Cover Letter and Why It Matters
A cover letter is a personalized document that accompanies your resume. It explains why you're applying, what makes you a strong candidate, and how your experience aligns with the role.
Key Functions of a Cover Letter
- Provides context for your resume
- Demonstrates communication skills
- Shows enthusiasm for the role
- Explains career changes or gaps
Unlike a resume, which is factual and structured, a cover letter allows for storytelling. This is especially useful if you're transitioning careers—such as teachers moving into new industries (see our guide on resume tips for teachers leaving education).
Cover Letter vs Resume
| Feature | Resume | Cover Letter |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Structured | Narrative |
| Purpose | Show experience | Explain fit |
| Length | 1–2 pages | 3–5 paragraphs |
If you're unsure how to structure your documents globally, check out our guide on how resumes work in Japan.
A cover letter is your chance to answer the employer’s silent question: “Why should we hire you?” Don’t repeat your resume—interpret it.
Need help writing one? Our specialists can guide you—just register here.
When You Should Always Submit a Cover Letter
In many situations, submitting a cover letter is not optional—it’s essential.
Situations Where Cover Letters Are Required
- Job posting explicitly asks for it
- Applying for competitive or senior roles
- Career change or employment gap
- International applications
- Freelance platforms (like Upwork)
For example, when applying for freelance jobs, a tailored proposal acts as a cover letter. Learn more in our guide on writing an effective cover letter for Upwork.
Why It Matters in These Cases
| Scenario | Impact of Cover Letter |
|---|---|
| Career change | Explains transferable skills |
| Senior roles | Shows leadership thinking |
| Freelance | Acts as proposal pitch |
Submitting a generic cover letter for every job. Employers can spot this instantly—and it reduces your chances significantly.
Checklist: When You MUST Include a Cover Letter
- ☑ The job description requests it
- ☑ You need to explain something unusual
- ☑ The role is highly competitive
- ☑ You want to stand out
Still unsure? Our specialists can evaluate your case—just register on our website.
When You Can Skip the Cover Letter
Although cover letters are valuable, there are cases where they are unnecessary.
Situations Where It’s Optional
- Quick-apply platforms (e.g., LinkedIn Easy Apply)
- Internal job applications
- When no upload option exists
- High-volume entry-level roles
But Should You Skip It?
Even if optional, submitting a cover letter can give you an edge—especially if competition is high.
If there’s an option to upload a cover letter, do it—even if it’s not required. It signals effort and professionalism.
Checklist: When You Can Skip It
- ☑ No place to upload
- ☑ Job posting says “optional” AND time is limited
- ☑ You’re applying to dozens of similar roles
Skipping the cover letter for dream jobs. This is where it matters most.
If you're applying through unconventional platforms like classifieds, read our guide on posting a resume on Craigslist.
Need help deciding? Our specialists can assist—just sign up here.
How to Write a Winning Cover Letter
A great cover letter follows a clear structure and delivers value quickly.
Basic Structure
- Opening: Hook the reader
- Body: Show your value
- Closing: Call to action
Example Template
| Section | Content |
|---|---|
| Opening | Why you're applying |
| Middle | Key achievements |
| Closing | Request interview |
Need templates? Explore our free cover letter templates.
Practical Tips
- Customize every letter
- Use keywords from the job description
- Keep it under one page
- Focus on achievements, not duties
- Address the hiring manager if possible
Start with a strong first sentence—avoid “I am writing to apply.” Instead, show enthusiasm or results immediately.
Repeating the resume word-for-word instead of adding new insights.
If you need a professional touch, our specialists can help—just register now.
Common Mistakes Job Seekers Make
Top Errors
- Generic content
- Too long or too short
- Grammar mistakes
- No personalization
Using one cover letter for 50 jobs. This drastically reduces effectiveness.
How to Avoid Them
- Research the company
- Tailor your message
- Proofread carefully
- Use a clear structure
Use metrics and results—numbers make your achievements more credible.
If you’re applying internationally, formatting matters—see how to create a CV properly.
Our specialists can review your cover letter—just create an account.
Examples and Use Cases
Example 1: Career Change
"Although my background is in education, I have developed strong project management skills that directly apply to this role."
Example 2: Entry-Level
"During my internship, I increased social media engagement by 40%..."
Example 3: Freelance
"I can deliver your project within 5 days with guaranteed quality..."
Each example shows how a cover letter adapts to context.
Need personalized examples? Our specialists can create them—just register here.
FAQ
1. Is a cover letter always necessary?
No, but it is highly recommended in most cases.
2. What if the job says “optional”?
Submit one anyway to stand out.
3. How long should it be?
3–5 paragraphs, under one page.
4. Can I use the same cover letter?
No—always customize.
5. Should I include salary expectations?
Only if requested.
6. What tone should I use?
Professional but conversational.
7. Can beginners write strong cover letters?
Yes—focus on skills and motivation.
8. Where can I get help?
Our specialists are ready to assist—just register on our platform.
Final Thoughts
So, should you submit a cover letter? In most cases—yes. It’s your opportunity to stand out, explain your value, and connect with employers on a deeper level.
When done right, a cover letter can be the difference between getting ignored and landing an interview.
And if you want to maximize your chances, our specialists are here to help—just register today and take your job applications to the next level.
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