Writing a compelling job cover letter can feel time-consuming, especially when employers don’t explicitly ask for one. So, do you always need to submit a cover letter? In most cases, the answer is yes.

Even if the job listing doesn’t mention it, including a job cover letter can increase your chances of standing out. It offers an opportunity to go beyond your resume and tell your story in a more personalized way. However, there are a few exceptions where skipping it might be acceptable.

Why a Job Cover Letter Still Matters

A job cover letter allows you to:

• Showcase your communication and writing skills
• Customize your application to the role
• Express genuine interest in the company and position
• Highlight key achievements or explain things not listed on your resume

For instance, if you have employment gaps or are relocating, the cover letter provides space to explain those circumstances professionally. It’s also a way to demonstrate that you’ve taken the time to tailor your message—something employers often value.

Recruiters may not always require a cover letter, but many expect to see one. Submitting a personalized letter can reflect positively on your initiative and motivation.

When You Might Skip the Job Cover Letter

Although it’s usually best to include one, there are a few situations where a cover letter may not be necessary:

• The job application explicitly states not to submit a cover letter
• The online application platform does not allow file uploads or text input for cover letters
• You’re unable to write a quality cover letter due to time constraints or lack of relevant content

In these cases, submitting a poorly written or generic letter can be worse than submitting none at all. Quality always matters more than quantity.

Conclusion

A thoughtful job cover letter can be the deciding factor that lands you an interview. Unless the employer instructs otherwise or technology limits your options, it’s always a smart move to include one. Use it to strengthen your case, personalize your pitch, and show you’re serious about the opportunity. Done right, it can give you an edge over applicants who don’t go the extra mile.