Do You Need a Cover Letter in 2026? When to Write One (and When to Skip It)

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The Quick Answer

Bottom line: If you *can* include a cover letter, you *should* - unless you're applying to 50+ jobs per week and need to prioritise volume.

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Why Cover Letters Still Matter in 2026

Despite predictions of their death, cover letters remain relevant for specific reasons:

1. They Differentiate You

When 250+ people apply for the same role, most submit just a CV. A well-written cover letter immediately puts you in a smaller pool of candidates who made the effort.

2. They Show Communication Skills

For roles involving writing, client communication, or stakeholder management, your cover letter IS a work sample. A poor cover letter signals poor communication skills.

3. They Address the "Why"

Your CV shows what you've done. Your cover letter explains:

4. Hiring Managers Read Them

A [2025 ResumeLab survey](https://resumelab.com/) found that 83% of hiring managers read cover letters when included. Many said a good cover letter can tip the scales in close decisions.

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When You Can Skip the Cover Letter

There are legitimate situations where skipping makes sense:

1. LinkedIn Easy Apply (No Attachment Option)

Many LinkedIn Easy Apply jobs only accept your CV. In this case:

2. High-Volume Application Strategy

If you're applying to 30+ jobs per week (entry-level or high-demand skills), you may prioritise:

3. Referral With Strong Advocate

If a senior person is personally vouching for you and handing your CV to the hiring manager, a cover letter adds less value - but still include one if you can.

4. Internal Moves

For internal applications, the hiring manager often already knows you. A short email expressing interest may be more appropriate than a formal cover letter.

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When Cover Letters Are Essential

Senior or Leadership Roles

At senior levels, cover letters demonstrate:

Skipping one signals you're not serious or not detail-oriented.

Career Changes

If your CV doesn't obviously match the role, your cover letter is your only chance to explain:

Competitive Industries

In fields like consulting, publishing, law, and creative industries, cover letters are expected and scrutinised. Skipping one is disqualifying.

When Explicitly Optional

When a job says "cover letter optional," treat it as a test. The candidates who include one are the ones who put in extra effort. That signals commitment.

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Cover Letter Decision Flowchart

Ask yourself:

1. Is it required? → Yes → Write one

2. Is it optional? → Write one (competitive advantage)

3. Is the application form just a CV upload? → Check for "additional information" or "supporting statement" field

4. Is it LinkedIn Easy Apply with no attachment? → Use the note field, max impact

5. Am I applying to 20+ jobs/week? → Tiered approach: full letter for top 5, template for rest

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What About AI Cover Letters?

If time is the issue, AI can help:

The AI + Human approach:

Total: 5 minutes - still faster than skipping and losing a potential interview.

ApplyArc's AI Career Coach can also advise whether a particular role warrants a full cover letter or a shorter note, based on the industry, seniority level, and application method.

[Try ApplyArc's AI Cover Letter Generator](/ai-cover-letter-generator) - Generate drafts in 30 seconds.

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The Data on Cover Letters

*Note: These stats vary by industry and role level. Tech startups may care less; law firms care more.*

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Alternative to Cover Letters

If you genuinely can't write a cover letter, invest that time in:

1. LinkedIn profile optimisation - Especially your headline and About section

2. Portfolio or work samples - For creative/technical roles

3. Networking outreach - A message to the hiring manager or team member

4. Referrals - Ask connections at the company

These alternatives can be more effective than a generic cover letter - but less effective than a *good* cover letter.

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Final Recommendation

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*Sources: ResumeLab (2025), JobVite Hiring Survey, TopResume Career Report. Updated January 2026.*