If you’ve ever wondered whether writing a cover letter is worth the time, you’re not alone. With online applications and one-click “Easy Apply” buttons, many job seekers skip them altogether.
But research shows that a well-crafted cover letter can significantly increase your chances of landing an interview—especially in competitive fields and remote work applications.
What the Research Says
- A survey by ResumeLab (2020) found that 83% of hiring managers said a strong cover letter can secure you an interview—even if your resume isn’t a perfect match.
- 77% of recruiters said they’d prefer candidates who submit a cover letter, even if it’s optional.
- According to Jobvite’s Recruiting Benchmark Report, applicants with tailored cover letters are more likely to advance to the interview stage compared to those who skip them.
When a Cover Letter Makes the Most Impact
A cover letter is especially valuable when:
- The job description asks for one (ignoring this can disqualify you).
- You’re making a career change and need to explain transferable skills.
- You have a unique story, skill, or accomplishment that sets you apart.
- You’re applying to remote jobs, where employers want to know how you’ll communicate, stay motivated, and collaborate online.
What Makes a Cover Letter Effective?
- Address the hiring manager by name if possible.
- Mention the specific role and company.
- Highlight how your skills solve the company’s problems.
- Use quantifiable achievements (“Increased sales by 30% in 6 months”).
- Showcase skills like self-management, digital communication, and remote collaboration tools (Zoom, Slack, Trello, etc.).
- Keep it to 3–4 short paragraphs—no more than one page
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using a generic, copy-paste letter (“Dear Hiring Manager, I am writing to apply for…”).
- Repeating your resume line-for-line.
- Making it all about you instead of what you can bring to the company.
- Overly formal or outdated phrases (“To whom it may concern”).
Bottom Line
Even if it’s not required, sending a thoughtful cover letter signals effort, professionalism, and genuine interest—qualities every employer is looking for.
We recommend treating cover letters as an opportunity, not an obligation. Use them to tell your story and show why you’re the right fit.
This is why Premium Remote Job Matching users can now use our AI-powered cover letter generator to create a cover letter in seconds.