It’s easy to assume the cover letter has gone the way of fax machines and three-page resumes, but it really hasn’t. In 2025, this addendum to a job application is still very much alive albeit evolved.
Think of the modern cover letter as less of a formality and more of a personal introduction before the interview happens. The good ones sound like a future colleague pulling up a seat to say, “Here’s why I’d be great for this team.”
Getting the basics right
Bullet points and jargon have their time and place in the spotlight. Rarely these days does that spotlight occur in a cover letter. Too many people get caught up in trying to sound impressive, thinking this will win them favor. However, writing a cover letter in 2025 means shifting your mindset.
This is your opportunity to create a moment of clarity and connection. It’s your space to demonstrate that you’ve done your homework on the brand and understand the company’s mission. Even more important, it’s your chance to show how you can help to move it forward.
In an age of applicant tracking systems and AI resume scanners, a well-crafted cover letter gives you back your voice. Show a little heart, self-awareness, and just enough specificity to make someone want to meet you.
It’s who you are that makes the difference
Thunderbird School of Global Management states that more than expertise—which should be a given—hiring managers look for soft skills when considering a pool of applicants. These are the qualities that often distinguish one strong candidate from another.
Communication style, adaptability, and your approach to problem-solving are some of the characteristics that matter. Those hiring want to know what kind of person they’re bringing into the team. Are you collaborative? Curious? Calm under pressure?
These traits don’t need a bullet list, but should come through naturally in how you tell your story.
The structure that works
There’s no single formula for a great cover letter, but there is a flow that helps your story land:
Start with a hook
This doesn’t have to be overly flashy. A simple line about why you’re drawn to the role or company is enough. The goal is to make it feel personal right from the start.
The middle is your moment
Highlight one or two achievements, but frame them around context and impact. Don’t rely on lists. If you led a project, mention how your leadership influenced performance and outcome.
Weave in soft skills
And always place them within context. Instead of saying you’re adaptable, talk about the time you had to pivot mid-project and what that looked like.
Close with confidence
Show appreciation and excitement for the opportunity to join the team. There’s no need for an essay. Keep it short, share a natural tone of warmth, and stick to the point.
Remember: Your cover letter is meant to start a conversation, not be a one-sided speech.
Skip the templates and AI
Those in the business of hiring can spot a template and AI intervention a mile away. They’ve read hundreds if not thousands of “I’m excited to apply for this position” and “I believe I’m a good fit for the role”.
Stand out by spending extra time on the effort it takes to come across as personable, sincere… and human.
Look at the company’s current projects and talk about that in relation to what you’ll bring to the team. Read recent press or social media posts for an idea of the company’s tone and culture.
Many times, applicants lose out on job opportunities because they’re not considered a good culture fit. Mirror what they value and use your cover letter to plant the seed that you already belong.
What not to include
These are a few things you’ll want to keep out of your cover letter in 2025:
Vague or generic statements: Saying you’re a hard worker means nothing without context. Also, it’s nothing different from what every other applicant will be saying.
Stiff formality: Avoid phrases that make you sound like a machine instead of a person. Examples include, “To whom it may concern” and “Enclosed please find…”.
Don’t repeat your resume: This is probably the biggest “No” for a cover letter. They have your resume, they don’t need another run-through.
In the end, the best cover letters this year will be those that actually feel like someone real sat down to write them. Try hard to connect instead of impress, and you’re sure to enhance the end result.
Be clear, be kind, and above all, be yourself. The right team will instantly recognize the value in that.
