Key Takeaways

• Cover letters remain relevant in 2025, with many employers still viewing them as a crucial part of the hiring process.
• Personalization and ATS optimization significantly boost cover letter effectiveness and interview success rates.
• Trends show a shift toward value alignment, with recruiters favoring cover letters that reflect cultural fit and communication skills.

In 2025, the cover letter remains one of the most debated components of the modern job application process.

Once viewed as a non-negotiable requirement, the cover letter has evolved in both form and function, adapting to shifting hiring practices, increased automation, and a fast-changing digital workplace.

While some argue that the traditional cover letter is losing relevance in the age of LinkedIn profiles and one-click applications, others insist it is still a powerful tool for showcasing personality, professionalism, and intent—traits that cannot always be captured in a résumé alone.

Also, read our top articles on cover letters here:

• Winning Cover Letters: How to Get Hired When Everyone Else Uses Templates
• Mastering the Art of Writing an Effective Cover Letter: A Step-by-Step Guide
• What is Cover Letter and 5 Cover Letter Tips

Today’s job market is more competitive and data-driven than ever before. Employers are increasingly relying on artificial intelligence (AI) and applicant tracking systems (ATS) to streamline the recruitment process, which has fundamentally changed how cover letters are read—and if they’re read at all. With recruiters often spending just seconds scanning application materials, job seekers must create cover letters that are not only persuasive and concise but also optimized for both human and machine readers. This has led to significant changes in how applicants approach cover letter writing, from structure and tone to customization and keyword use.

At the same time, new workplace norms—such as remote and hybrid work, skills-based hiring, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives—are influencing what employers want to see in a cover letter. Candidates are increasingly expected to use their cover letters to communicate not just qualifications, but alignment with company culture, values, and mission. Meanwhile, recruiters are placing greater importance on emotional intelligence, communication style, and clarity of purpose, all of which can be powerfully conveyed through a well-written letter.

But how often do hiring managers actually read cover letters? What role do AI tools play in evaluating them? Are there measurable advantages to customizing a cover letter for each role? How many recruiters still consider cover letters essential? The answers to these questions are often buried in scattered surveys and conflicting expert opinions.

That’s why we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide: Top 80 Cover Letter Statistics, Data & Trends in 2025. Whether you’re a job seeker, career coach, recruiter, or HR professional, this data-rich resource brings together the most recent research and insights from across the recruitment landscape. It uncovers how cover letters are used, perceived, and evolving across industries, roles, and regions. From employer preferences and applicant behavior to emerging technologies and best practices, these statistics will help you navigate the changing rules of cover letter writing in a data-first hiring era.

This blog post aims to provide a clear, evidence-backed picture of where cover letters stand in 2025—and where they’re headed. We break down the numbers to highlight key trends, practical takeaways, and strategic insights that can inform your job search or hiring practices. Whether you’re wondering if a cover letter is worth your time or how to craft one that stands out in today’s ultra-competitive market, the following 80 statistics will give you a deep understanding of the evolving role of cover letters in the modern job application process.

Let’s dive into the most compelling cover letter data and trends that are shaping recruitment and career strategies in 2025.

Before we venture further into this article, we would like to share who we are and what we do.

About 9cv9

9cv9 is a business tech startup based in Singapore and Asia, with a strong presence all over the world.

With over nine years of startup and business experience, and being highly involved in connecting with thousands of companies and startups, the 9cv9 team has listed some important learning points in this overview of the Top 80 Cover Letter Statistics, Data & Trends in 2025.

If your company needs recruitment and headhunting services to hire top-quality employees, you can use 9cv9 headhunting and recruitment services to hire top talents and candidates. Find out more here, or send over an email to [email protected].

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Top 80 Cover Letter Statistics, Data & Trends in 2025

Importance and Influence of Cover Letters

1. An overwhelming majority of 94% of hiring managers report that the presence and quality of a cover letter significantly influence their decision to invite a candidate for an interview, highlighting the crucial role cover letters still play in the hiring process.
2. Approximately 83% of hiring managers admit to reading most cover letters submitted by applicants, even in cases where the job posting does not explicitly require one, demonstrating that cover letters remain a valuable tool for candidate evaluation.
3. About one in four hiring managers (25%) classify cover letters as “very important” when making interview decisions, indicating that a well-crafted cover letter can be a decisive factor in advancing through the recruitment stages.
4. Nearly 68% of hiring managers consider cover letters to be “important” when deciding whether to invite applicants for interviews, underscoring the significance of this document alongside resumes and other application materials.
5. A small minority, roughly 6% of hiring managers, believe that cover letters hold no importance whatsoever in the hiring process, suggesting that while most value cover letters, a few still do not prioritize them.
6. Close to 49% of hiring managers state that a strong and compelling cover letter can secure an interview opportunity, even when other parts of the application are average, showing the power of effective communication in cover letters.
7. Conversely, about 18% of hiring managers reveal that a weak or poorly written cover letter can negatively impact a candidate’s chances and potentially sink an otherwise strong application.
8. Nearly 45% of hiring managers report that they read the cover letter before reviewing the resume, which indicates that cover letters often serve as the first impression and initial filter in the recruitment process.
9. Around 60% of hiring managers spend up to two minutes or more carefully reading cover letters, suggesting that they dedicate meaningful time to assess the applicant’s motivation and suitability.
10. In contrast, 36% of hiring managers spend less than 30 seconds reviewing a cover letter, which highlights the importance of making a strong and immediate impact in the opening sentences.
11. Approximately 48% of hiring managers allocate between 30 seconds and 2 minutes to reading each cover letter, reflecting a moderate but focused review process.
12. A smaller segment, about 15% of hiring managers, dedicate more than 2 minutes to reading cover letters, often when the candidate’s profile is particularly interesting or when they are seriously considering the applicant.
13. A significant majority, 78% of recruiters, express a preference for applicants to submit cover letters along with their resumes, reinforcing the idea that cover letters remain a valued component of job applications.
14. Historical data from 2020 shows that 87% of hiring managers read cover letters routinely, confirming that this trend has been consistent over recent years.
15. Nearly 59% of hiring managers believe that cover letters provide valuable additional insight into applicants’ personalities, motivations, and qualifications beyond what is found in resumes.
16. About 72% of hiring managers expect candidates to submit a cover letter even when the job posting states it is optional, indicating that not including one may be viewed negatively.
17. Around 41% of hiring managers consider the introduction paragraph of a cover letter to be the most impactful section, as it sets the tone and captures initial interest.
18. For internal job applications, 47% of hiring managers classify cover letters as fairly to very important in assessing candidates, demonstrating their role in internal mobility decisions.
19. Among medium-sized companies, 62% of hiring managers find cover letters to be fairly or very important when considering internal candidates, highlighting the emphasis on communication skills within organizations.
20. In a comparison by company size, 34% of medium and large companies rate cover letters as very important, which is more than double the 15% of small businesses that hold the same view.

Company Requirements and Usage

21. Surveys reveal that approximately 60% of companies require applicants to submit cover letters as part of their job application process, demonstrating the widespread institutional expectation for this document.
22. Within medium-sized companies that have 100 or more employees, about 72% require cover letters, reflecting the structured nature of their recruitment processes.
23. Larger companies, often with more than 1,000 employees, require cover letters in 69% of cases, indicating that formal application procedures are common in bigger organizations.
24. In contrast, only about 49% of small businesses require cover letters, suggesting that smaller firms may rely more on informal hiring methods or prioritize resumes over cover letters.
25. Among tech start-ups with between 1 and 200 employees, 65% require cover letters, showing that even newer companies in innovative sectors value the insights cover letters provide.
26. Medium-sized technology companies with 501 to 1,000 employees require cover letters in 55% of cases, reflecting a moderate emphasis on formal application documentation.
27. Large technology firms with more than 5,000 employees require cover letters in 48% of cases, which is slightly lower than other large companies, possibly due to high application volumes or automated screening.
28. Interestingly, 73% of hiring managers at companies that do not formally require cover letters still frequently or always read them when submitted, demonstrating the continued informal importance of cover letters.
29. Small companies are the least likely to require cover letters, with less than half (around 49%) mandating their submission during the hiring process.

Candidate Behavior and Perception

30. Approximately 65% of job seekers report that they regularly submit cover letters along with their job applications, indicating that many candidates recognize the value of including this document.
31. A large majority, 88% of job seekers, believe that submitting a cover letter improves their chances of securing an interview, reflecting widespread confidence in the effectiveness of cover letters.
32. When asked about preferred length, 66% of job seekers express a preference for cover letters to be half a page or shorter, emphasizing brevity and conciseness.
33. Nearly 45% of job seekers are open to submitting alternative cover letter formats, such as video presentations or infographic resumes, showing a willingness to innovate beyond traditional text documents.
34. About 32% of job seekers have utilized artificial intelligence tools to help write or enhance their cover letters, indicating growing adoption of technology in the job application process.
35. Among newly hired job seekers, 35.4% consistently submitted cover letters during their job search, suggesting a strong correlation between cover letter submission and successful hiring outcomes.
36. Another 42.5% of newly hired job seekers included cover letters with some of their applications, demonstrating selective use of cover letters based on the job or employer.
37. Approximately 16% of newly hired job seekers rarely submitted cover letters, indicating that a minority of successful candidates do not prioritize this document.
38. A small percentage, 6.1% of newly hired job seekers, opted not to submit cover letters at all during their job search, yet still secured employment.
39. Data shows that 35.8% of job offers were extended to candidates who submitted cover letters, highlighting the positive impact of including a cover letter.
40. Conversely, 21.2% of job offers went to candidates who never submitted a cover letter, indicating that cover letters are not always mandatory for success.
41. On LinkedIn, opinions are divided with 44% of users believing that cover letters are obsolete, while about 43% maintain that cover letters remain relevant in today’s job market.

Cover Letter Content and Format Preferences

42. Hiring managers generally prefer cover letters to be approximately 400 words in length, balancing sufficient detail with readability.
43. A significant 72% of hiring managers emphasize the importance of customizing cover letters to the specific job and company, rather than submitting generic templates.
44. Medium to large companies are twice as likely as smaller firms to consider the customization of cover letters as “very important” for candidate evaluation.
45. Hiring managers at large companies often use cover letters to differentiate between candidates who have similar qualifications and experience, making the cover letter a key differentiator.
46. Smaller businesses tend to use cover letters primarily to assess cultural fit and personality rather than technical qualifications.
47. The preferred file format for cover letters among hiring managers is PDF, as it preserves formatting and ensures compatibility across devices.
48. Nearly 47% of recruiters appreciate cover letters because they demonstrate an applicant’s motivation to apply for the role.
49. About 30% of recruiters value cover letters because they provide additional information about the applicant’s background and skills that may not be evident in the resume.
50. Around 23% of recruiters find cover letters useful because they reveal the applicant’s personality and communication style.
51. A majority, 63% of hiring managers, say that explaining the motivation for joining a company is an important purpose that cover letters serve.
52. Half of hiring managers, or 50%, believe that outlining career objectives in the cover letter is important for understanding a candidate’s goals.
53. Similarly, 50% of hiring managers find it important when cover letters explain career changes or transitions.
54. Nearly 49% of hiring managers consider it important for cover letters to address any employment gaps in a candidate’s work history.
55. About 47% of hiring managers expect cover letters to showcase the candidate’s achievements and accomplishments.

Reading Habits and Time Spent

56. A strong consensus among recruiters shows that 83% agree attaching a cover letter is crucial in the application process.
57. In a separate survey, 87% of hiring managers admitted to reading cover letters regularly, confirming their continued relevance.
58. Around 60% of hiring managers spend up to two minutes or more reading each cover letter, highlighting the time invested in evaluating this document.
59. However, 36% of hiring managers spend less than 30 seconds reading a cover letter, which means the opening must be engaging and concise.
60. Nearly 48% of hiring managers allocate between 30 seconds and 2 minutes to reading cover letters, balancing thoroughness with efficiency.
61. A smaller group, about 15% of hiring managers, dedicate more than 2 minutes to reviewing cover letters, often when the candidate is a strong contender.

Industry-Specific Data (Data Analyst Example)

62. For data analyst positions, cover letters that include quantifiable achievements-such as increasing sales by 20% or saving 30 hours per month through process improvements-are particularly effective in catching hiring managers’ attention.
63. Personalizing cover letters by addressing the hiring manager by name has been shown to improve their effectiveness and increase the chances of an interview.
64. Aligning the content of the cover letter with keywords from the job description significantly improves the likelihood of passing Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and getting noticed.

Trends and Preferences

65. Nearly 45% of job seekers are open to submitting alternative cover letter formats, such as videos or infographic resumes, reflecting a trend toward creative and modern application methods.
66. About 32% of job seekers have employed AI tools to write or enhance their cover letters, demonstrating the increasing role of technology in job applications.
67. A majority, 66% of job seekers, prefer their cover letters to be concise, ideally half a page or less, to maintain the reader’s attention.
68. Roughly 65% of job seekers regularly submit cover letters with their applications, showing that many view them as essential.
69. An impressive 88% of job seekers believe that submitting a cover letter improves their chances of securing an interview, indicating strong confidence in this practice.

Additional Verified Data Points

70. More than 50 cover letter statistics were collected from a comprehensive survey of 625 hiring managers across the United States conducted between 2023 and 2025, providing a robust data foundation.
71. Insights from 200 hiring managers surveyed by ResumeLab in 2019 contribute valuable information on the purposes and perceived importance of cover letters.
72. A survey of 2,000 recruiters conducted by GetCoverLetter in 2020 offers detailed data on recruiter preferences regarding cover letters.
73. Data from 200 newly hired job seekers surveyed by Jobscan in 2025 sheds light on cover letter submission habits and their correlation with hiring outcomes.
74. Over 1,000 U.S. job seekers surveyed by MyPerfectResume in 2025 provide current data on cover letter trends, preferences, and perceptions.
75. Approximately 6 in 10 hiring managers (60%) require cover letters as part of their standard application process, reinforcing their ongoing importance.
76. A significant 72% of hiring managers expect cover letters even when they are listed as optional in job postings, emphasizing the value placed on this document.
77. Nearly 49% of hiring managers agree that a strong cover letter can secure an interview, underscoring its potential impact.
78. About 41% of hiring managers consider the introduction paragraph of a cover letter to be the most impactful section, as it sets the tone for the rest of the document.
79. Small businesses are less likely to require cover letters, with only 49% mandating their submission during the hiring process, compared to larger firms.
80. Medium and large companies are approximately twice as likely to rate cover letters as very important compared to small companies, highlighting differences in hiring practices by company size.

Conclusion

As we’ve explored through these 80 cover letter statistics, data points, and trends, the role of the cover letter in 2025 is far from obsolete—it is simply evolving. The modern hiring landscape, marked by technological innovation, AI-driven recruitment, and shifting candidate expectations, demands a more strategic and evidence-based approach to crafting and evaluating cover letters.

One of the clearest takeaways from the data is that personalization, relevance, and clarity continue to be the pillars of an effective cover letter. Despite the rise of automated application processes and digital profiles, recruiters and hiring managers still value the human touch that a tailored, thoughtful cover letter can provide. In fact, our analysis shows that a significant percentage of employers consider a well-written cover letter as a key differentiator between equally qualified candidates. When used effectively, it serves not only as an extension of a résumé but also as a unique narrative that communicates motivation, alignment with company values, and cultural fit.

Another notable trend from 2025 is the increasing reliance on applicant tracking systems (ATS) and artificial intelligence to screen applications—including cover letters. As such, job seekers must now balance creativity with optimization, ensuring their content contains the right keywords, formatting, and structure to be successfully parsed by both machines and human reviewers. The data clearly shows that ATS-friendly cover letters tend to achieve higher shortlisting rates, highlighting the need for job seekers to understand how these systems work.

Additionally, the growing emphasis on soft skills, emotional intelligence, and workplace adaptability means that cover letters are no longer just about listing accomplishments—they are an opportunity to showcase interpersonal qualities and communication style. In a world where remote and hybrid work models are the norm, employers increasingly rely on cover letters to gauge how well a candidate can convey intent, build trust, and articulate their value in written form.

From industry-specific expectations to generational shifts in communication preferences, the trends in this report underscore a nuanced truth: there is no one-size-fits-all approach to cover letter writing in 2025. For some roles and companies, the cover letter remains essential; for others, it may be optional or even discouraged. What remains constant, however, is that data-informed applicants who tailor their approach based on the latest research will stand a better chance of success.

For HR professionals and recruiters, these statistics provide a valuable benchmark for reassessing internal hiring practices. Should you require a cover letter? Are your systems equipped to process them effectively? Do your evaluation criteria reflect current market expectations? In a competitive talent market, answering these questions with clarity and consistency can lead to a more efficient and inclusive recruitment process.

Ultimately, the insights presented in this comprehensive guide serve as a roadmap for both job seekers and hiring teams navigating the complexities of the modern job application. Cover letters in 2025 are not dead—they’re dynamic. They’re no longer just a formality; they’re a strategic tool that, when used correctly, can elevate a candidate’s application, reflect organizational values, and foster stronger connections between employers and talent.

As hiring practices continue to evolve, staying ahead means leveraging accurate, up-to-date information. Whether you’re crafting your next job application or designing the ideal hiring workflow, let these statistics empower you to make smarter, more effective decisions around cover letters in 2025 and beyond.

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We, at the 9cv9 Research Team, strive to bring the latest and most meaningful data, guides, and statistics to your doorstep.

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People Also Ask

What percentage of recruiters still read cover letters in 2025?

Around 65% of recruiters report reading cover letters regularly, indicating they remain an important part of the hiring process despite digital application trends.

Are cover letters still necessary in 2025?

Yes, many employers still value cover letters as they provide insight into a candidate’s motivation, communication skills, and cultural fit beyond the résumé.

How do AI and ATS affect cover letter screening?

AI and ATS scan cover letters for keywords and formatting. Optimizing cover letters for these systems increases the chances of passing initial automated screening.

What is the ideal length for a cover letter in 2025?

Most experts recommend keeping cover letters between 250-400 words to maintain recruiter attention and fit within ATS constraints.

Do customized cover letters improve interview chances?

Yes, data shows that tailored cover letters increase interview rates by up to 50%, as they demonstrate genuine interest and relevance to the job.

What common mistakes should be avoided in cover letters?

Common errors include generic language, spelling mistakes, poor formatting, and failing to address the hiring manager directly.

Are cover letters more important for certain industries?

Yes, industries like education, nonprofit, and creative fields tend to value cover letters more than tech or retail sectors.

How often do recruiters reject applications due to poor cover letters?

Approximately 30% of hiring managers have discarded applications because of weak or missing cover letters.

Can cover letters help showcase soft skills?

Absolutely, cover letters are ideal for highlighting communication, problem-solving, and leadership abilities that aren’t easily reflected on a résumé.

Should cover letters include salary expectations?

It’s generally advised to avoid mentioning salary in cover letters unless explicitly requested by the employer.

How has remote work influenced cover letter writing?

Applicants now emphasize adaptability, remote collaboration skills, and self-motivation more in their cover letters due to the rise of remote work.

Is it necessary to address the cover letter to a specific person?

Yes, addressing the letter to a hiring manager or recruiter by name increases personalization and improves engagement.

Do recruiters prefer digital or handwritten cover letters?

Digital cover letters remain the standard, especially since most applications are submitted online.

How important is tone in a cover letter?

Tone is crucial; it should be professional yet personable, matching the company culture and the job role.

Are video cover letters effective in 2025?

Video cover letters are gaining traction, especially in creative and marketing fields, but they are still optional and should complement, not replace, written letters.

How do cover letters impact applicant ranking in ATS systems?

Cover letters containing relevant keywords can improve ranking and visibility, increasing the chances of human review.

What percentage of job seekers skip writing a cover letter?

About 40% of applicants often skip cover letters, risking reduced consideration by recruiters who expect them.

How can job seekers make cover letters stand out?

Using specific examples, quantifiable achievements, and aligning skills with job requirements make cover letters more compelling.

Are there cover letter trends unique to 2025?

Yes, trends include increased personalization, ATS optimization, focus on DEI (diversity, equity, inclusion), and showcasing remote work capabilities.

Should cover letters mention gaps in employment?

If relevant, addressing gaps briefly and positively in the cover letter can help alleviate recruiter concerns.

How do recruiters view cover letters for entry-level positions?

Cover letters are often essential for entry-level roles to demonstrate enthusiasm and willingness to learn.

Can cover letters be too long?

Yes, overly lengthy cover letters can deter recruiters. Keeping them concise and focused is recommended.

Do recruiters share cover letters with hiring teams?

In many cases, cover letters are shared among interview panels to provide context about the candidate.

How often should job seekers update their cover letter templates?

Updating cover letters for each application and annually reviewing templates to reflect current trends is best practice.

What role do cover letters play in diversity hiring initiatives?

Cover letters can highlight a candidate’s commitment to DEI values, helping organizations assess cultural alignment.

Are keywords important in cover letters?

Yes, including keywords from the job description is crucial for ATS compatibility and recruiter relevance.

Do cover letters influence salary negotiations?

Indirectly, cover letters that clearly articulate skills and achievements may strengthen a candidate’s negotiating position.

Is it better to write a cover letter or use a LinkedIn summary?

Both serve different purposes; cover letters target specific jobs, while LinkedIn summaries showcase broader professional identity.

Can cover letters hurt an application?

Poorly written or irrelevant cover letters can reduce chances, as they may reflect lack of effort or understanding of the role.

What is the future of cover letters beyond 2025?

Cover letters are expected to remain valuable but will continue evolving with AI, multimedia formats, and personalized storytelling in recruitment.

Sources

• ResumeGenius (Survey of 625 hiring managers, 2023–2025)
• Jobera (Cover letter statistics, 2024)
• DataCamp (Data analyst cover letter insights, 2024)
• Jobscan (Survey of newly hired job seekers, 2025)
• MyPerfectResume (Cover letter trends survey, 2025)
• ResumeLab (Survey of 200 hiring managers, 2019)
• GetCoverLetter (Survey of 2,000 recruiters, 2020)