We’re officially declaring it: cover letters are dead. Rest in peace, dear format—you were a pain in the butt for everyone involved.
Even after this not-so-tragic demise, some companies still insist upon the cover letter. Let’s explore why it’s time to move on and how to modernize the application process in ways that actually help recruiters spot and hire great talent.
Candidate Expectations Today
Job seekers now shop, bank, and connect online in seconds. Long, repetitive applications (especially those with mandatory cover letters) often deter top talent. As a recruiter, you need to keep the candidate journey smooth and appealing.
Does Anyone Read Cover Letters?
Let’s be honest: many of us skim—or skip—cover letters. Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) frequently filter or summarize them automatically. And in high-volume recruiting, you’re juggling so many applicants that the formal letter is rarely a priority, especially if it repeats the résumé.
Emphasizing Real Skills
Modern hiring focuses on results, not long paragraphs. Skill-based assessments, short Q&A prompts, and online portfolios usually reveal more about a candidate than a page of formalities ever can. Ask yourself, does a cover letter really help a candidate stand out?
Streamlining the Application
- Ask Targeted Questions: Replace the traditional letter with a few direct questions that yield real insights.
- Use Skill Tests: Evaluate practical abilities to save time and reduce guesswork.
- Encourage Portfolio or Video Submissions: A short video or portfolio link offers a more genuine look at a candidate’s strengths.
- Adopt Digital-First Tools: Simplify your application process with mobile-friendly forms and quick apply options.
Other Outdated Practices
- Excessive Interview Rounds: Out with the old, in with the new. Quick, well-structured interviews are best as they respect both your time and the candidate’s.
- Unclear Job Descriptions: Straightforward postings attract better matches and reduce wasted effort.
- Rigid Resume Requirements: Many top applicants use creative CVs or digital profiles—don’t penalize innovation.
Where We Go from Here
Ultimately, the goal is to find the right talent, fast. If cover letters aren’t helping you do that, it’s time to drop them. Adapting to modern candidate preferences and showcasing an efficient, forward-thinking process will strengthen your employer brand and help you stand out in a competitive market.
Ready to shake up your hiring approach? Update your process to focus on practical insights and genuine engagement, and let this archaic tradition rest peacefully. Contact us for help with modernizing your recruitment approach!
