Many job seekers wonder whether a cover letter still matters when most applications are submitted online through automated systems. The honest answer is that it depends heavily on the type of job and the size of the company you are applying to.
When a Cover Letter Still Matters
For roles at smaller companies, nonprofits, or positions that involve a lot of writing or client communication, a cover letter can genuinely make a difference. Hiring managers at these organizations often read every application by hand, and a well written cover letter shows that you took the time to understand the role.
Bryan always says that a short, honest cover letter beats a long, generic one every time.
When It Matters Less
Large corporations that rely on Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter resumes often skip the cover letter entirely during the first round. In these cases, keywords on your resume matter far more than a separate letter.
The Practical Takeaway
If the job posting says a cover letter is optional, write one anyway when you are especially interested in the role, and skip it when you are applying broadly. Quality over quantity tends to win in the long run.
Work in progress.