Cover Letters in 2025: How to Get Yours Read

Cover Letters in 2025: How to Get Yours Read

📌 This article is part of our Quick Wins & ATS Mastery series. If you’re just joining us, start with The 10-Minute ATS Fix: Simple CV Tweaks That Boost Interviews, followed by Keywords That Matter: How to Mirror Job Descriptions Without Keyword Stuffing, Formatting That Survives ATS Parsing (Without Looking Ugly to Humans), How Recruiters Skim: 6-Second Test for Your Executive CV, and Applicant Tracking Systems in 2025: What Changed and What Hasn’t. This post is number six of seven, looking at building ATS Mastery.

In the age of applicant tracking systems (ATS), many candidates wonder: do cover letters even get read anymore? The answer is yes — but only if you approach them strategically.

While CVs are often scanned by ATS first, cover letters still matter. They’re your chance to add personality, context, and motivation, elements software can’t always capture. In fact, for executive roles, a strong cover letter can be the difference between landing an interview and being overlooked.

Do Cover Letters Still Matter in 2025?

Yes. Many recruiters admit they only read cover letters after shortlisting candidates, but they still serve a crucial purpose:

  • Explaining gaps or pivots — returning from a career break, changing industries, or moving internationally.
  • Showing alignment — highlighting motivation and cultural fit.
  • Adding context — giving a voice to achievements that a CV lists but doesn’t explain.

👉 FAQ: Do employers still ask for cover letters?
Yes. While some ATS platforms make them optional, many employers — particularly at executive level — expect one.

How ATS Handles Cover Letters

ATS systems don’t typically score cover letters the way they score CVs, but they do scan them for keywords and relevance. If your cover letter is attached in a format the ATS can read (Word or PDF), the text will be stored in the candidate profile for recruiters to review.

👉 FAQ: Should I optimise cover letters with keywords?
Yes, but naturally. Mention the job title and weave in a few role-specific terms without making it look forced.

What Makes a Cover Letter Stand Out

1. Personalisation Wins

Always address the hiring manager by name if possible. Avoid “To Whom It May Concern” — it feels outdated.

2. Keep It Concise

One page is enough. Recruiters don’t want essays. Focus on why you’re applying, why you’re a fit, and the impact you can bring.

3. Make It Complement the CV

Your cover letter shouldn’t repeat your CV. Instead, use it to explain motivations, highlight 1–2 key achievements, or clarify details that might raise questions.

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4. Structure It Clearly

Use three parts:

  • Introduction: Why you’re applying.
  • Body: Why you’re the right candidate.
  • Close: A confident call to action.

👉 FAQ: How long should a cover letter be?
Aim for 3–4 short paragraphs, no more than one page.

5. Match Tone to Seniority

Executives should write with gravitas — confident, clear, and professional. Avoid clichés like “team player” or “hard worker.”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Copy-pasting the same letter for multiple roles.
  • Repeating your CV word-for-word.
  • Overly casual or overly formal tone.
  • Forgetting to proofread.

👉 FAQ: Should I always include a cover letter, even if optional?
Yes. Including one shows initiative and attention to detail, giving you an edge over candidates who skip it.

Final Thought

In 2025, cover letters may no longer be the main event — but they remain an important supporting act. When written well, they show recruiters you’re more than just a list of skills and achievements. They tell the story behind your CV.

✅ Next Step: Unsure if your cover letter adds value or just repeats your CV? At CV Pilots, we provide tailored reviews and templates that show you how to tell your story with impact.

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📌 This article is part of our Quick Wins & ATS Mastery series. If you’re just joining us, start with The 10-Minute ATS Fix: Simple CV Tweaks That Boost Interviews, followed by Keywords That Matter: How to Mirror Job Descriptions Without Keyword Stuffing, Formatting That Survives ATS Parsing (Without Looking Ugly to Humans), How Recruiters Skim: 6-Second Test for Your Executive CV, and Applicant Tracking Systems in 2025: What Changed and What Hasn’t. This post is number six of seven, looking at building ATS Mastery.