should i upload a cover letter if it's optional

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3 times you can skip the cover letter—and the 1 time you absolutely shouldn't

Some job listings will say "cover letter required," while others don't include any mention about it at all. When it comes to the latter, many applicants often wonder, Should I submit one in anyway?

It's a competitive job market out there, and hiring managers and job recruiters today spend about six seconds reviewing each resume . According to Glassdoor , a job search and salary comparison website, approximately 250 resumes are submitted for each corporate job listing, and only five or so candidates will be called for an interview.

So when is it necessary to send a cover letter? Here's the thing: Hiring managers love them — they get you noticed quickly, show you've gone the extra mile and demonstrate how much you really want the job.

A bad cover letter, however, can hinder your objectives .

Don't submit a cover letter if...

1. You have no interest in personalizing the cover letter: Many applicants will Google "cover letter examples," pick one in a rush and model their cover letter after it. By doing so, not only will it be evident that you submitted a cover letter designed for mass distribution, but you might have overlooked some mistakes, like addressing the letter to the wrong person, company or even listing the wrong position you're applying for.

(Trust me, this is something hiring managers see all the time, and it's absolutely cringing. It also takes away from their valuable time that could be spent reviewing your resume.)

2. You don't have anything new to say: Hiring managers expect to read a compelling and impressive cover letter, not an exact replicate of your resume. (Think about how you felt when writing your personal statement for all those college applications; it was a big deal and you knew the admissions office were looking for someone who they'd feel proud to have representing their school).

It's no different with cover letters. Do you have any unusual hobbies that led you to be interested in the field of work you're applying for? Is there a backstory that explains why you admire the company? Whatever you write, just don't elaborate on your job history and skills (that's what the resume is for).

3. You only have ideas on how to improve the company

Save the problem-solving suggestions for the job interview (that is, if you're luck enough to get one), when you'll 100 percent be asked those similar questions (i.e., "what would you improve about [XYZ]?"). A cover letter can be used as an opportunity to demonstrate your job knowledge, but don't use it as an outlet to tell your prospective employer what they are doing wrong and how to fix it.

No one likes hearing negative things about their business from a stranger, even if your feedback has merit. Curiosity, humility and tact will trump a "know-it-all" every time. Focus on the positive aspects and potential solutions for the business.

When to include a cover letter

Notwithstanding the above, the only time you should submit a cover letter is when you have valuable information to share that's not conveyed in your resume.

I've hired many candidates based on something that stood out in their cover letter. Here are some examples:

1. A personal connection or referral: If you were personally introduced to a hiring manager (or someone high up in the company), always acknowledge that relationship in a cover letter. Who made the introduction? How you know them? Why did they think you are a good fit for the role? A personal referral goes a long way, so don't miss out on capturing the advantage.

2. You have a history with the company or hiring team: If you have any link to the organization, it's essential to connect the dots. Did you intern at the company? Did you cross paths when you worked for a supplier, a competitor or even a team member in a previous company? You never want to surprise the recruiter and have them hear about the connection from someone else; getting ahead of it will make you an exciting candidate and demonstrate that you're a transparent and a proactive communicator.

3. It's your dream job: If the position you're applying for indeed is your dream job, write a personal and heartfelt cover letter. Take the opportunity to demonstrate that you've researched the company and workplace culture well. If you're going through the trouble of writing a fantastic personalized cover letter, do everything in your power to email it directly to the hiring manager, so it doesn't get lost alongside hundreds or even thousands of other applicants in the automated applicant tracking system.

Debby Carreau is an entrepreneur, author and founder of Inspired HR . She has been recognized as one of Canada's Top 25 HR Professionals and is a regular contributor on multiple TV shows, Entrepreneur Magazine and many other print and online publications. She is a board member for YPO and Elevation Group as well as an Advisory Board member for FinDev Canada.

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Should You Submit an Optional Cover Letter? The Answer is Yes

The job application process is riddled with uncertainty, and one common dilemma job seekers face is whether to submit a cover letter when it is listed as optional. This article aims to answer that question by shedding light on the importance of cover letters in job applications and the potential drawbacks of not submitting one. We will also provide practical tips for crafting a compelling cover letter and share real-life examples of successful cover letters as well as expert opinions on the topic. So, let's dive in and explore the reasons why submitting an optional cover letter can significantly increase your chances of landing an interview.

The Importance of Cover Letters in Job Applications

Cover letters serve a vital purpose in job applications by showcasing the applicant's dedication and interest in the position. They complement resumes by offering a space to elaborate on one's skills, experiences, and motivations, providing context to the facts listed in a resume. As a result, cover letters can help create a more comprehensive picture of the applicant, ultimately increasing their chances of securing an interview.

Several studies highlight the impact of cover letters on interview chances. For instance, a study by ResumeGo found that job applications with tailored cover letters had a 53% higher callback rate than those without cover letters, emphasizing their significance in the application process. Despite these statistics, misconceptions persist about the importance of cover letters, with some job seekers underestimating their value and opting not to include them in their applications.

Reasons to Submit an Optional Cover Letter

Submitting an optional cover letter can be advantageous for job seekers in various ways:

• Demonstrates interest in the position : A well-crafted cover letter shows that the applicant has put in the effort to understand the job requirements and is genuinely interested in the position.
• Conveys professionalism and commitment : Taking the time to write a cover letter, even when optional, signals a high level of professionalism and dedication to potential employers.
• Helps the applicant stand out from the competition : Including a cover letter can differentiate an applicant from others who chose not to submit one, potentially improving their chances of being noticed by the hiring manager.
• Addresses potential concerns or gaps in the resume : A cover letter offers an opportunity to explain any gaps in employment, career changes, or other concerns that may arise from the resume.
• Personalizes the application : Tailoring a cover letter for the specific job and company demonstrates an understanding of the employer's needs and requirements, which can leave a lasting impression on the hiring manager.

Potential Drawbacks of Not Submitting a Cover Letter

Not submitting a cover letter, even when optional, can have negative consequences for the job seeker:

• Gives the impression of a lack of interest or dedication : Choosing not to include a cover letter may signal to the employer that the applicant is not fully committed to the position or lacks enthusiasm for the role.
• Risk of being overlooked in favor of candidates who submitted cover letters : In a competitive job market, not submitting a cover letter can put an applicant at a disadvantage compared to others who took the time to include one.
• Missed opportunities to address potential concerns : Not providing a cover letter means losing the chance to explain any discrepancies or concerns that may arise from the resume, which could negatively affect an applicant's chances of securing an interview.
• Not maximizing one's chances in the job market : In today's highly competitive job market, it is crucial for job seekers to take every opportunity to stand out and increase their chances of landing an interview. Not submitting a cover letter, even when optional, can hinder those chances.

Tips for Writing an Effective Optional Cover Letter

Crafting a compelling optional cover letter requires following certain best practices and guidelines:

• Personalize the cover letter for the specific job and company : Research the company's values, culture, and recent projects or achievements, and incorporate this information into the cover letter to demonstrate a genuine interest in the organization.
• Address the employer's needs and requirements : Make sure to review the job posting carefully and identify the key skills and qualifications the employer is looking for. Highlight how your experiences and skills align with these requirements and address how you can contribute to the company's success.
• Highlight relevant skills and experiences : Use the cover letter as an opportunity to elaborate on the specific skills and experiences that make you a strong candidate for the position. Provide concrete examples and anecdotes to support your claims.
• Maintain a professional tone and error-free content : Ensure your cover letter is well-written, free of grammatical errors and typos, and maintains a professional tone throughout.
• Make the cover letter engaging and memorable : Start with a strong opening that captures the reader's attention and use storytelling techniques to make your cover letter memorable and engaging.

"As a long-time admirer of XYZ Company's commitment to sustainability, I was thrilled to see the opening for a Project Manager on your team. With my background in environmental engineering and proven track record of managing successful green initiatives, I am confident that I can contribute significantly to your ongoing efforts to reduce the company's environmental footprint."

In conclusion, submitting an optional cover letter is an important step in the job application process that should not be overlooked. A well-crafted cover letter can demonstrate your interest in the position, convey your professionalism and commitment, help you stand out from the competition, address potential concerns, and add value by personalizing your application. By following the tips and insights provided in this article, you can maximize your chances of securing an interview and make a lasting impression on potential employers. So, don't hesitate – start crafting your optional cover letter today and increase your chances of landing that dream job.

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Do You Need a Cover Letter When It's Not Required?

When you do (and don't) need a cover letter to apply for a job

Why Write a Cover Letter?

Reasons to include a cover letter, reasons not to include a cover letter.

• Tips for Writing a Cover Letter

Do you really need a cover letter if a company doesn't ask for one? Writing a lot of cover letters during a job search is often both challenging and time-consuming. Because of this, it's not surprising that applicants often hesitate to include a cover letter when it is not explicitly required by an employer.

If you're wondering if you should include a cover letter, the short answer is yes. That said, there are a few exceptions.

You should  almost always submit a cover letter , even if the company doesn't ask for one. 

Here's what you need to know about the value of cover letters, along with the situations where you can skip a cover letter. 

If you're serious about landing the job, a well-written  cover letter  gives you a chance to sell yourself to the employer in a narrative format, and explain why you are an ideal candidate. Taking the time to  match your qualifications to the job  can help you get selected for an interview.

All of your efforts in the cover letter will help hiring managers do their job of screening applicants, and may get your resume a closer look.

A cover letter also affords you the opportunity to highlight your strongest qualifications.

An effective, well-written, and  customized cover letter  also makes it clear that you are highly interested in the job. That's because it shows the hiring manager that you want the job enough to go the extra distance.

To Share Extra Information

A cover letter gives you an opportunity to include details that your resume does not contain. For example, if you are applying from a distance, your cover letter will enable you to present a rationale for relocation and to mention that you will be in the area shortly for a possible interview. 

To Explain a Gap

Gaps in employment  with reasonable explanations can also be addressed in your letter. A cover letter is also an ideal place to provide specific examples that prove you have the skills and experience listed on your resume.

The Employer May Expect One

Additionally, some employers expect to receive cover letters even though they did not stipulate that a cover letter was required in their job advertisements.

Candidates who don't take the time to compose a letter are often viewed as less motivated for the job.

In many cases, employers won't even look at a job application that doesn't contain a cover letter or letter of interest.

For some jobs, you won't need a cover letter to apply. Some employers don't accept cover letters as part of the application process. For other positions, there may be no way to submit one. If a cover letter is optional, it's better to skip it if you don't have the time to compose a well-written one.

When the Employer Doesn't Want One

If the job application instructs that you should not include a cover letter, then it's definitely best to follow directions so as not to annoy your potential employer.

When You Don't Have Time

No letter is much better than a poorly written one. A well-composed cover letter serves as a sample of your writing ability, but the opposite is also true. If you don't have time to write a well-crafted cover letter that pitches your skills and positions you for the job, forego the effort.

When There's No Way to Submit One

Also, if the company asks you to submit your application through an online platform, and there is no place for you to submit a cover letter, don't worry about it. 

Tips for Writing a Cover Letter That Will Impress

When you do include a cover letter with your resume, it's important to make it a good one. Here are tips for writing a cover letter that will make the best impression and add value to your application.

Kelly Miller. / The Balance

• Make it targeted.  Be sure to compose a  targeted letter  that is written with the job listing in mind. Focus on the skills and abilities you possess that make you a strong fit for the specific job.
• Keep it short.  Make sure that your  letters are concise  (no more than one page topping out at five paragraphs) and that every statement you make conveys something significant about your qualifications for the candidacy.
• Go beyond your resume.  Avoid simply repeating your resume. Provide examples not listed in your resume, and expand upon things mentioned only briefly in your resume. Your cover letter should have a distinct purpose regarding your application.
• Edit, edit, edit.  Errors in your cover letter  can hurt your chances of getting an interview. Errors make you look sloppy, or worse, not educated. Be sure to thoroughly read your letter before submitting it. Consider asking a friend or colleague to read it as well to check for typos, grammatical errors, and confusing language.

Key Takeaways

• Writing a cover letter makes the hiring manager's job easier, by highlighting exactly why you're the right match for the role. That gives your application an edge. 
• Even if the company doesn't specifically request a cover letter, it's a good idea to write one if you're interested in the role at hand. 
• Skip a cover letter if the employer says not to write one, or if there isn't a place to include one in an online application form. 

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The Optional Cover Letter: Do You Still Need to Add One?

We all want to put our best face forward when we are applying for a job. This includes supplying a top-notch resume and an engaging cover letter . But what if the job ad states “cover letter optional”? Do I still need to provide one or not? Will I lose some potential brownie points in the eyes of the employer? 

Career experts have done some research around optional cover letters and how you should treat such requests. Let’s take a closer look at this hot topic.

Should You Write a Cover Letter if It is Optional?

Yes, it’s best to provide a cover letter even if it’s stated as optional. Why? Because it’s another “touchpoint” between you and the potential employer. Use it to draw more attention to your resume (and skill set respectively) and give a preview of your personality. Candidates who provide a professionally written cover letter are usually viewed as more professional and interested in the position than those who don’t.

Also, actually taking the time to write a cover letter can set you apart from the competition. One small-scale study, done by a recruiter, suggests that 73% of applicants don’t bother filing a cover letter or even write a short introduction in an email. So doing the courtesy of writing a formal or more informal email cover letter can be pretty refreshing for some employers.

OK, But Why State ‘Optional Cover Letter’ At All?

If data suggests that employers prefer cover letters, why some companies state that the “cover letter is optional”? That’s totally confusing. Yeah, we get that. 

But there are two possible reasons for that:

• By “cover letter optional”, some companies mean that you should write a less formal letter of introduction (email), rather than attach a “traditional” cover letter. They still expect more than a resume, sent without any further notice. 
• Others treat the “optional” thing as a quick applicant test. Many large companies, receiving hundreds of submissions, may want to easily weed out those candidates that don’t put in any extra effort. A company may begin its candidate analysis process by eliminating those who are not interested in the job enough to submit a cover letter. In some cases that could be potentially hundreds of letters or emails that they don’t need to waste time on.

The bottom line: If a cover letter is optional, it’s not an excuse to skip it altogether. 

Are cover letters necessary when you are applying via an on-site hiring form? It depends. Some job application forms, however, provide extra questions that allow you to talk about your personality, skills, and reasons for applying. But even in such cases, it’s best to add a quick introductory letter if you feel like you’ve got a few more things to say. 

Does The Cover Letter Content Matter?

So, if we have already established that most employers want you to provide a cover letter, along with your resume. But do you need to bother making the cover letter content relevant to the position?

Oh yes, you do! The purpose of a cover letter is not simply to “check a box” with the employer – it’s a sales tool to persuade them to meet with you for an interview . For that to happen, your letter has to be personalized to the job. 

• Research the hiring person’s name and add it to the letter 
• Specify if you have a “shared connection” (even on LinkedIn)
• Reference a recent company event or accomplishment 
• Explain how the company values align with yours

To personalize your cover letter, do some company research in advance. 

Also, treat your cover letter as an opportunity to explain why you are interested in taking on the position – something that you cannot really do with your resume. When your cover letter is done well it may be the deciding factor for you landing an interview with the company.

What Else Should Be Included In An Optional Cover Letter?

Optional or not, a cover letter should do two things well:

• Communicate your interest in the role 
• Highlight your “fit” for the opportunity 

To convey the above, the lengths of the resume may not be enough. 

In essence, a cover letter is an opportunity to showcase how you use your core competencies (listed as skills on your resume)  in your day-to-day work. For example, if the job on offer is to support a certain area, such as product development, then you can use your cover letter to mention how you would be able to fit in with their plans. Mention how you previously led product development within your current company, what results you’ve achieved and how you plan to replicate this success if given a chance. You can check cover letter examples on your website to get a better sense of how to convey your skills via extra context. 

Apart from the above, a good cover letter should include:

• A strong opening
• Two-three paragraph, centered around your skills
• Closing statement with a call-to-action

What If You Don’t Send In An Optional Cover Letter?

You might not have enough time to write a decent cover letter to go with your job application. Or you are facing the worst writer’s block of all time. What happens if you don’t end that optional cover letter after all? 

If you are short on time, focus on your resume instead. Put your available time into making sure it is perfect and send it in. Also, prioritize answering other questions on the job application platform. 

Finally, instead of a full-length letter, provide a quick personalized note that briefly introduces you and expresses your interest. You can re-use a variation of your personal statement . For example, as a recent graduate applying for a business analyst job you may write something like this:

“Good day, [Name], I’m looking forward to becoming part of the XYZ BA Office and applying my skills in process analysis, requirements gathering, quantitative and qualitative research, to help XYZ maintain its position as a leader in industry X”. 

Also, for the next time around, prepare a generic cover letter — a pre-written cover letter template you can quickly personalize to different job offers. Having one will say you heaps of time (and stress)!  

Conclusion 

When a cover letter is optional, a lot of job applicants may be tempted to skip it. Don’t be one of them! A cover letter is a great means to convey your interest in the job and provide a quick “preview” of your personality and work abilities. Given that a lot of employers now seek out “cultural fits”, rather than applicants who tick all the job requirement boxes, a well-written cover letter can majorly increase your chances of landing a job with a prestigious employer!

Elena runs content operations at Freesumes since 2017. She works closely with copywriters, designers, and invited career experts to ensure that all content meets our highest editorial standards. Up to date, she wrote over 200 career-related pieces around resume writing, career advice... more

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UCL Careers

Find Your Future

Optional Cover Letters: Are They Worth it?

By skye.aitken, on 15 July 2020

Read time: 4 minutes

Written by Emily Oliphant, Recruitment & Selection Advisor at UCL Careers.

A question that I’ve heard time and time again in Application Advice appointments is ‘So, the company have stated the cover letter is optional – do you really think it’s worth writing one?’.

I understand it can sometimes be a difficult dilemma.  Cover letters take time, that’s a given.  Especially when you’re applying to multiple roles, it can be a seriously time-consuming endeavour to write a tailored cover letter for each of them.  However, in my opinion and from experience, the purpose of a cover letter is often misunderstood and the value of them disregarded .  With that in mind I believe that, if possible, an optional cover letter should always be an option you decide to make most use of.  Here’s why.

1.The purpose of a cover letter is to highlight your relevance

When you think about it, it doesn’t matter how much you tailor a CV to a job description, your CV will always be an entirely separate document to the job description.  Your CV is entirely focused on you – your education, your experience, your skills – from top to bottom everything on that CV is about you.  Turning the tables, you’ll recognise that the job description is really all about the employer.  Their company, their job, the skills they deem essential.  Therefore, without a cover letter there will always be a gap in how exactly your skills are relevant to the position you’re applying for.

A cover letter acts like a bridge.  It is a connecting document that provides you with a platform to connect your CV to the job description because it offers the opportunity for you to explicitly explain how your skills will allow you to perform the responsibilities of the job.

Explaining the skills you have, how you developed them and how you can apply them to the responsibilities of the role is a three-step process that can’t really be achieved through a CV.  By embracing this structure, you are painting a vision for the recruiter of you hitting the ground running and being able to perform the duties they want you to.  This positive psychology is always worth taking the time to get across.

2. Further Detail

CVs can be crammed with skills and experiences but sometimes you’ll find that there just isn’t enough space for you to unpack some of your examples enough to highlight exactly how they put you in good stead to undertake the responsibilities.

Cover letters allow you to incorporate the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action and Result) to your examples – for more information on this topic you can watch our CareersLab episode on the STAR method or have a read of our recent blog post on it .  Being able to go into more detail on relevant points will enhance your argument of your suitability and encourage the recruiter to believe that you are a good match to their person specification.

3. Commitment

Finally, taking the time to write a cover letter (where potentially others haven’t) will only ever display a positive quality – commitment.  Having worked in recruitment for two and half years before joining UCL Careers, I can say with certainty that if you have taken the time to show you have researched the company , explained why you are attracted to the role and why your skills are suitable for the position, you will positively demonstrate that you are indeed driven to succeed in the application.  This level of interest and dedication will rarely go unrecognised.

Therefore, in short, if you have the capacity – I undoubtedly believe that choosing to write a cover letter when given the option will only improve your application as a whole and should definitely be covered!

If you would like further information on cover letter writing please watch our CareersLab episode on Cover Letters .  Furthermore, please feel to free to book a Applications Advice appointment to discuss a particular cover letter you have written in depth with an advisor.

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A simple guide for writing the perfect cover letter

No one loves writing cover letters.

They can seem awkward or even boring when you’ve written many. And they are time-consuming.

So when a job posting includes the words “cover letter optional,” it can seem like a relief. With those three words, you are blissfully let off the hook on that arduous but tedious task. Right?

The bad news is that the cover letter is never really “optional.”

The only time you don’t need one is when the job description specifies: “No cover letters, please.”

For many years, I’ve advised professionals as they navigate their career searches. As the director of MBA Career Coaching at the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business, I help candidates get jobs in consulting and professional services, among other fields. Before this job, I spent several years as a recruiter for PricewaterhouseCoopers.

Today, in the wake of the “Great Resignation,” a lot of companies are scrambling to fill record numbers of employment vacancies. It’s a great time to be looking for work. And it may seem reasonable in this environment to assume that, as a jobseeker, you’re in the driver’s seat and don’t need to write those “optional” cover letters.

But a cover letter — a good cover letter — is worth the time and energy when you want the job. It introduces who you are in a way that goes beyond the resume, it demonstrates your interest in the position and the organization, and it inspires the reader to take action. The cover letter can be the difference between getting the offer or not.

A large percentage of today’s job postings either require a cover letter or make it optional. Only a small percentage will indicate no cover letters. That means you should be prepared to submit a cover letter as part of your application 80% to 90% of the time.

As a former recruiter, I know there are times when two candidates end up closely ranked in the hiring team’s estimation. In those times, a cover letter can make the difference and help you inch ahead of the competition.

Here’s my advice for writing a good one, without a ton of effort each time.

Create a boilerplate. This part does take time and effort. For the first paragraph: Write an introductory paragraph that you’ll adapt for each new role and each new company. For the second paragraph: Write out several of your skills, or competencies, in a skimmable, bulleted format. Each competency will be in bold type, with a sentence or two that tells a short story of how you have used this skill and what outcome it produced. Focus here on direct evidence — facts, not judgments. For the third paragraph, describe what drives you and what you’re like to work with. That is your value proposition. For that final, closing paragraph, restate your interest, thank the hiring team for its consideration and look ahead to next steps.

Customize, customize. That boilerplate is going to do so much heavy lifting. Using it, you’ll modify the introductory paragraph, asserting your interest in the role and the company. Then, you’ll select two or three of the bullet points from your boilerplate list to specifically highlight the skills mentioned in the job posting. The third and fourth paragraphs can likely remain just as they are. That’s the beauty of this strategy. It’s far less daunting to modify an old cover letter than to start from scratch each time.

Find an editor. It should go without saying, but a good cover letter is well-written and free of grammatical errors and other silly mistakes — like accidentally leaving in a reference to the last company you applied to. Achieving that requires a second pair of eyes or even a third. Enlist a friend or loved one who will be your editor, and be prepared to return the favor someday.

One final tip: Always re-read the job description once or twice. Make sure you know what the posting is asking for, so the cover letter speaks directly to that. And remember, it’s not about what you want the hiring team to know — it’s about what they need to know.

Dori Jamison is the director of MBA Career Coaching at the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business. Prior to coming to Maryland Smith, she worked for eight years as a recruiter for PricewaterhouseCoopers.

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Ask a Resume Writer: Should I Submit a Cover Letter if It’s Optional?

Does anyone really like writing cover letters? After spending hours on your resume and filling in countless fields in an online application, summoning the energy to write a cover letter can feel impossible – especially if you’ve heard that recruiters rarely even read them.

Furthermore, when searching for jobs, you may come across an ad that either doesn’t mention cover letters or says, “cover letter optional.” In that case, it’s fine to skip the cover letter altogether, right?

In our What Candidates Want: 2023 Job Seeker Report , a surprising 25% of candidates who answered our survey said they “always” include a cover letter, even if the job posting said it is optional. Should you follow suit and take the time to write a cover letter if it’s not required? We asked Jenna Sylvester, Certified Resume Writer at iHire, to weigh in with their thoughts.

Should I Send a Cover Letter if It’s Not Required?

“Yes! I realize it takes time to write a cover letter, but it’s worth it if you really want the job,” advised Sylvester. “If you have an opportunity outside of your resume to further promote yourself as the right fit, you should take it. Plus, you can showcase more of your personality in your cover letter.”

You can also include certain types of information in your cover letter that wouldn’t normally go on your resume, such as your willingness to relocate, if you were referred by someone who works at the company, or a memorable personal anecdote.

When you take the time to write a tailored cover letter, you also show that you’re genuinely interested in the job and not mass-applying to openings without much thought. In your cover letter, you can zero in on your specific skills and experience that align with the job and make that information the core focus.

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“When you see ‘cover letter optional’ in a job ad, consider it an opportunity to shine , not an excuse to skip it entirely,” added Sylvester. “If you send in a cover letter and no one else does, you’ll stand out. The employer may have made cover letters optional as a way to gauge how serious their applicants are about the open position, too.”

If the job ad doesn’t mention anything about cover letters, it’s safe to assume they are optional, and you should include one. If the job ad explicitly says not to include a cover letter, be sure to follow directions (otherwise, you may stand out for the wrong reasons).

Providing a Cover Letter When Optional

If a cover letter is optional, is there a certain way you should go about writing it?

“ Follow best practices when submitting an optional cover letter, just as you would if it were required. Tailor it to the job you’re applying for, highlight your most relevant skills and experience, and most importantly, keep it brief!” Sylvester recommended. “Three short paragraphs should do the trick.”

Don’t simply copy and paste parts of your resume into your cover letter, either. Again, this is an additional opportunity to promote yourself and tell employers why they should hire you for the job.

Ready to write a cover letter that impresses hiring managers? Get even more expert advice in our Resource Center , or let our team of certified resume writers create one for you .

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How to Approach a ‘Cover Letter Optional’ Job Listing

Published: Apr 09, 2019

Have you ever been invited to a friend's birthday party and been told you shouldn't feel pressure to bring a gift? How often do you take this at face value? Do you assume your friend really doesn't want a present? Or do you think, "I'll just play it safe and get her something small to show I've thought of her?" 

Job seekers faced a similar dilemma when greeted with the words "cover letter optional" in a job posting. If you've been in this position, you've likely wondered, "Are they just testing me? Do they really want me to submit a cover letter, or are they genuinely fine with not receiving one? And what will it say about me if I don't attach one?" 

Read "optional" as "essential"

There is, of course, the chance that an employer has used the line "cover letter optional" because they honestly don't see much value in you attaching this document. But it's also entirely possible that recruiters give you the choice to submit or not to submit because they want to find out how keen you really are on the position.

Since you never know whether you're dealing with the first or second scenario, it's always safest to send a letter—even when doing so is not required and even when the job ad says nothing about it at all. The only time you wouldn't attach this invaluable document is if the posting explicitly requests that you don't.

Set yourself apart from the competition

First and foremost, submitting a cover letter when you don't have to shows that you really, truly want the job. If you're not willing to set aside an hour or two to craft a letter, recruiters might question whether you're really that motivated at all, and that won't reflect well on you.

Choosing to send a letter also offers hiring managers a preview of what's to come if they hire you—it shows that you're the sort of employee who’s prepared to go above and beyond and do more than the bare minimum. If you're being compared to similarly qualified candidates who didn't submit a letter, then this testament to your work ethic should give you an advantage over them. If a cover letter is potentially going to be the one thing that differentiates you from others, why wouldn't you attach one?

Demonstrate your soft skills

A cover letter also presents various other opportunities you don't want to miss out on. It's a chance to demonstrate strong communication skills, which are highly valued in almost every industry, and to say what you can't in your resume . In a letter, you can capture what it is about the role and the company that most appeals to you, showcase your unique personality, and make specific links between your skills and experience and the requirements of the position. Your resume offers a summary of your career history and qualifications; a cover letter acts as a bridge, showing how these details would translate to success in this particular job.

Make your cover letter work extra hard

If hiring managers include the line "cover letter optional" in a job posting, it might be because they don't want to be inundated with a heap of extra reading that doesn't add value. So, if you're going to give them something they haven't requested, make sure it's worth their time to engage with it. Compile a document that's customized, original, and attention-grabbing, and avoid making all the common cover letter mistakes . Never start with "To Whom It May Concern" (personalize the greeting with the hiring manager's name instead), stay away from clichés and tired buzzwords , and don't just repeat what's in your resume.

It's also best to keep the emphasis on the company's needs and how you can add value, rather than on what the job would bring to your life. And, of course, you should make sure your letter is free of any errors and is as concise as possible—the leaner, the better, especially if it's only optional.

A final note

If you're not sure where to start, it's a good idea to use one of the many cover letter templates available online to assist you. Cover letter templates are especially helpful in that they typically offer step-by-step guidance and even suggest job-specific keywords to include to beat applicant tracking systems that screen for certain phrases.

Since 2005, LiveCareer has been helping job seekers create resumes and cover letters via its free  resume builder  and  cover letter builder  tools. Also available are collections of free, professionally written  resume templates  and  resume samples , all of which are organized by industry and job title.

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Cover Letter Optional: Should I Submit One Anyway

April 5, 2016

You’re applying to a great job for college students on WayUp, and you see that the employer has made submitting a cover letter optional. Do you write one or just ignore it and apply anyway?

The answer is if you really want the job, then yes, you should absolutely submit a cover letter. “Students shouldn’t waste their time otherwise,” admits Liane Hadjuch, a former campus recruiter for RBC Capital Markets. “Cover letters tend to hurt you because so many people have mistakes or a generic template where they just change the name of the company.”

“If you’re going to do it, it should be a value add,” she suggests. “Something that hasn’t already been said in your application otherwise.”

So if you decide to submit, here’s how you can make sure that your cover letter really adds to your application and gives you a competitive edge.

Tell a story that speaks to qualifications in the job description.

Many times, interviewers will ask questions like, “Tell me about an accomplishment you’re most proud of” or “ Why should we hire you ?” These questions are meant to conjure a specific scenario that can help the employer determine how great of a fit you are for the role (and how you’ll perform in the job). Your cover letter is a great way to answer these questions right off the bat. Find a few of the job qualifications that match your own, and tell a story about a time when you solved a problem under pressure or found a mistake that everyone else missed.

For more cover letter tips, check out this simple guide to an impressive cover letter .

Strive to be original.

If you want to be a competitive candidate, don’t do what everyone else does. That means you shouldn’t be writing a generic, one-size-fits-all cover letter and sending it off to your first or second choice jobs. There are two key ways you can ensure that your cover letter stands out. First, make sure you’re addressing your cover letter to a real person instead of writing, “To Whom It May Concern.” This will show that you’ve done your homework on the company and will help to personalize your cover letter. Check out a few other overused phrases to delete from your cover letter .

Secondly, talk about what attracted you to the company and why you’re excited by the opportunity to join this particular team. Remember that you shouldn’t kiss up to the employer, but you should show that you’re eager to hear back from a company that has impacted you as a job seeker.

Explain something that needs more clarification.

Whether it’s a gap in employment, a change in career paths or the fact that your major and your career choice don’t match , you can explain yourself and your motivations through your cover letter. This can help employers to better understand your idea of your career path and why you want this particular job. Remember that as you’re clarifying, you shouldn’t make it seem like you’re apologizing or making excuses. Don’t spend too much time explaining yourself, just explain why you’re interested in the position, what led you to it and how your alternative background can be an advantage–then quickly move on. For example, if you’re a Psychology major applying for a Customer Support role, you can say something like, “I was first introduced to customer support during my junior year internship, where I discovered that my Psychology background helped me to go a step further in collecting and analyzing data, optimizing the company’s understanding of user behavior.”

Remember that you should only be putting in this much effort if you truly want this job! If that’s the case, follow these tips, double check that your cover letter is error-free and send it off! Employers will be impressed that you went the extra mile to submit a great cover letter.

It’s important to note however that most jobs on WayUp don’t require a cover letter, so if you’d rather skip the more traditional application process, we’ve got your back!

Top Photo Credit: blog.greatvectors.com

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Should You Write a Cover Letter if it is Not Required?

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When applying for jobs, writing cover letters can seem like a hassle, especially when you are applying to as many jobs as you can. Sometimes, you may come across an application where it says “optional” next to the cover letter. In this case, should you write a cover letter? The answer is yes because writing a cover letter even when it is optional shows that you are hardworking, care about the position, and take initiative. There are lots of other reasons why writing a cover letter can set you apart from other job applicants.

Writing a cover letter shows that you care

A lot of job postings nowadays are Easy Apply. What this means is that all you must do is click a button and submit your resume. As a result, companies are getting a ton of job applications. One way to make your application stand out is by writing a cover letter. Writing one shows that you took the time to research the company and are really interested in the position. Showing employers that you care and are willing to take the time to submit a cover letter may very well be the reason you get an interview or not.

Allows you to highlight your personality

Resumes only highlight your accomplishments and skills. By reading a resume, an employer won’t get a feel of who you are as a person in terms of personality. To combat this, you can write a cover letter. A well-written cover letter can convey the type of person you are and show the employer how you would fit in on the team. Soft skills are just as important as technical skills and one way to highlight your soft skills is through a cover letter.

You can mention something that doesn’t fit on your resume

Resumes are only supposed to be one page long, so you might not be able to fit everything on it. As a result, you can use a cover letter to talk about experiences that you couldn’t highlight on your resume. For instance, maybe you’re involved with a club on campus but because of your professional experiences, you cannot highlight it on your resume. Writing cover letters allows you to show off other experiences and activities that you are not able to do on your resume.

Overall, it is ultimately your decision if you want to write a cover letter if it is optional. However, writing one does show that you care, allows you to highlight who you are as a person, and lets you show off experiences that you otherwise would not be able to on your resume. While applying for jobs, keep these thoughts in your mind when you see the word “optional” next to a cover letter!

Insights gathered from: https://www.themuse.com/advice/cover-letter-optional

Many job announcements on USAJOBS state: Optional Cover Letter. I’ve asked my federal clients if they have ever submitted one with their application and most all of them said, “No. It was an option on the job announcement so I didn’t submit one.”

It’s true, it is optional, but is NOT submitting one the best strategy?

Has your career been so perfect that nothing needs further explanation in a cover letter? (Kudos, if the answer is yes!)

So, what if the cover letter could give you the edge over someone who didn’t submit a cover letter?

And, what if you could showcase your personality and your soft skills to stand out above your competition?

Additionally, what if you could demonstrate your writing abilities and skills using a cover letter?

…and there could be many reasons to include a cover letter with your application.

Yes, it’s going to require a little more time and effort. But if it’s done right, it could really pay off.

One of my clients posted in our Facebook group: “If a cover letter is optional, in what situation should I devote time to one?”

Another client asked, “What is the purpose of the cover letter?”

These are great questions.

First, the purpose of the cover letter is to introduce the résumé. It’s the headliner for the star of the show.

In the private sector, the cover letter is most often the first impression given by a job applicant. In the federal hiring process, it isn’t always the cover letter that is read first. However, if you write one and upload it into the proper location, it will be seen.

MAGNETIC TIP: Match the format of your cover letter to your résumé and don’t be hesitant to add some conservative colors and line enhancements to make it visually appealing.

What is the difference between a Federal Cover Letter vs Private Sector Cover Letter?

Nothing major, but I’ll address some nuances to each one. Both cover letters should follow a similar format.

1. Applicant Information

For private sector, include your name, address, email, daytime phone number, and LinkedIn URL.

For a federal cover letter, you should add an evening phone number if the job announcement asks for both day and evening phone numbers. If you use a mobile for both, list the number and write “Day/Evening” before or after it. And, this is a great place to list your citizenship.

I think this one is self-explanatory. However, for a federal application, it’s fine to use the closing date on the job announcement—unless the close date is one year away. In that case, use the date you submit your application.  

3. Inside Address

The inside address includes the contact’s name on the job announcement which is typically a representative from Human Resources. Then, the company, address, city, state, and zip code.   Sometimes in the larger private sector companies, you won’t find the name of the Human Resources representative on the job announcements, e.g., on Indeed.   Here’s an example for private sector:   Hiring Team Microsoft 1 Microsoft Way Redmond, WA 98052   For the inside address on a federal cover letter, it should include the contact’s name on the job announcement which is typically the representative from Human Resources. Then, the agency, address, city, state, and zip code.   Here’s an example for federal:   Mr. John Parker Department of Justice Executive Resources 145 North Street NE Washington, DC 20002

4. Subject Line

For both private sector and Federal Government, you should include the title of the job announcement and the job announcement number. This is really helpful to Human Resources.   Here’s an example for private sector: LOGISTICS SPECIALIST – Winston-Salem, North Carolina   Here’s an example for federal: LOGISTICS MANAGEMENT SPECIALIST – Job Announcement Number NCFL20600046998S

5. Salutation

For both federal and private sector, the following is most appropriate:   Dear Mr. Crowson:   For business writing, use a colon behind the name. If you are writing to the “Hiring Team,” you would write:   Dear Hiring Team:

6. Paragraph 1 – The Introduction

Thank them for the opportunity and introduce why you are applying to the position. Then introduce your résumé. Remember, the purpose of the cover letter is to introduce the résumé. For example: Attached is my résumé where you will see that my qualifications align with every requirement on your job announcement.

7. Paragraph 2 – The Body

This is where you can reference your resume and summarize your knowledge, skills, and abilities. This section could actually be 3-4 lines of text and 2-4 short bullet points.

8. Paragraph 3 – The Conclusion

This paragraph is super important to get right. This is where you reiterate what you can do for them and when they invite you to the interview, you can demonstrate your knowledge and expertise further. You don’t need to waste cover letter real estate by adding your email and phone number again. Instead, tell them what they can expect from you and thank them for their time and consideration.

In my opinion, a good way to close is to say “Sincerely” then your name:   Sincerely, Your Name Your Name   Sincerely is more of a neutral gesture, whereas “Very truly yours” is…not so much.   It is acceptable to type your name using a different font because it’s generally submitted electronically.

10. Attachment

Remember, in Paragraph 1, you introduced the résumé. Be sure to reference the attachment at the bottom of your letter—your résumé! For example: Attachment: As Stated   Or   Attachment: Résumé

When you are applying for a federal job, it’s important to address your cover letter and federal resume to the Six Audiences ™ so you can land interviews that lead to lucrative job offers!

MAGNETIC TIP: Double-check your cover letter with Grammarly to ensure it sounds friendly and professional. You can also ask our eagle-eyed proofreading team to help. It’s very important to ensure there are no grammar, spelling, punctuation, or formatting errors and that it is aligned to the job announcement.

Do you have any questions about how to write a cover letter that makes the Six Audiences™ want to ‘turn the page’ to your résumé? We’d love to hear from you!

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