Do you really need a cover letter in 2025?

If you’re applying for jobs in 2025, you’ve probably asked yourself if a cover letter is really necessary.

With online applications, automated recruitment systems, and AI-driven screening tools becoming increasingly common, many candidates assume the cover letter has become outdated. While not every employer requires one, a well-written cover letter can still make the difference between being shortlisted and being overlooked.

What Is a Cover Letter For?

A cover letter is a personalised introduction that accompanies your CV. Where your CV lists your experience, skills, and qualifications, a cover letter explains:

• Why you’re interested in the role
• How your background makes you the right fit
• What value you can bring to the employer

Think of it as a bridge between your CV and the job description. Employers don’t just want to know what you’ve done, they want to understand why you’re applying and how you can contribute to their organisation.

83% of hiring managers read most cover letters, even if it is a company that doesn’t require them. This shows that they are still important, especially in competitive sectors like healthcare, legal, and criminal justice.

How to Write a Cover Letter

When writing a cover letter, you might not even know where to start, but once you know the structure, it becomes much easier. Here’s a simple framework:

1. Introduction – Mention the job you’re applying for and where you found it. Add a line to show genuine enthusiasm.

Example: I’m excited to apply for the role of Support Worker at Service Care Solutions, as it perfectly matches my experience in community care and my passion for supporting vulnerable adults.

2. Middle paragraphs – Highlight your key achievements and skills that align with the role. Use specific examples, rather than repeating your CV.

Example: In my current role, I support 15 service users weekly, creating care plans and collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams to improve outcomes. Last year, I was recognised with an “Employee of the Month” award for going above and beyond.

3. Closing – Reaffirm your interest and politely express your willingness to discuss your application further.

A good cover letter should be professional, but also let your personality come through. Employers want to hire someone with the right skills but also with the right attitude.

How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?

Recruiters will often read through applications and cover letters fairly quickly due to high volumes, so your cover letter should be concise.

• Ideal length: Half a page to one full page (250–400 words).
• Format: 3–4 short paragraphs, with plenty of white space for easy reading.
• Focus: Make every sentence earn its place — avoid clichés like “I’m a hard worker” and instead provide evidence.

Remember, your goal is not to rewrite your CV, but to highlight the key reasons why you’re the right fit for this specific role.

How to End a Cover Letter

The ending of a cover letter is your final chance to leave an impression. Avoid vague phrases like “Thanks for your time”. Instead, be polite, confident, and proactive.

Strong closing examples include:

• “I’d welcome the opportunity to discuss how my experience in mental health support could benefit your team at Service Care Solutions.”
• “Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your organisation and would be delighted to provide further details in an interview.”

End with a professional sign-off such as “Yours sincerely” (if you addressed the letter to a named person) or “Yours faithfully” (if you used “Dear Hiring Manager”).

Do You Really Need a Cover Letter in 2025?

Here’s the honest answer: not always — but it’s usually worth writing one.

• Some employers still make a cover letter mandatory, especially in professional and public sector roles.
• Even when optional, a tailored cover letter can demonstrate initiative and enthusiasm, giving you an edge over candidates who skip it.
• In highly competitive markets, it’s often the deciding factor. A CV shows what you’ve done — a cover letter shows why it matters to this role.

It’s true that some high-volume recruitment processes rely heavily on automated CV screening. But if your application lands on a human recruiter’s desk, a well-crafted cover letter can create a personal connection that a CV alone simply can’t.

Ready to put these tips into action? Explore our latest job opportunities and take the next step in your career with Service Care Solutions.

Or, upload your CV and our team of expert consultants will be in touch!

Upload CV