Should You Send a Cover Letter When It Is Not Required?

Most application portals include a cover letter field but make it optional. Many candidates skip it, treating "optional" as "irrelevant." The question is whether sending one actually helps — and the answer depends on context.

When an Optional Cover Letter Is Worth Writing

Smaller employers and direct applications: At smaller organisations, the hiring manager often reads every application personally. A well-written cover letter in this context can genuinely differentiate you and signal that you have taken the application seriously.

When your CV does not tell the full story: If you are a career changer, have an employment gap, are applying for a stretch role, or have a background that does not obviously match the job description — a cover letter provides context your CV cannot. In this situation, not writing one is a missed opportunity.

When you have a strong, specific reason for applying: If you have a genuine, specific connection to the organisation or role — you have used the product, know the team, have been following the company — a brief cover letter lets you say so. This stands out.

For senior and specialist roles: At this level, leaving the cover letter blank when an option exists can read as either arrogance or indifference. A strong cover letter reinforces an already strong CV.

When you have a referral: If someone has referred you, a cover letter is the natural place to mention this.

When You Can Skip the Cover Letter

High-volume entry-level or graduate roles at large companies: At scale, cover letters are often not read in the initial screening phase. Your energy is better spent tailoring your CV and ensuring a strong ATS match.

Easy Apply on LinkedIn: Most Easy Apply applications do not have a cover letter component. If it is not part of the application flow, it is not expected.

When you have nothing specific to add: A generic cover letter with no tailored content is worse than no cover letter at all. If you do not have something specific to say, do not write one.

The Default Recommendation

If you can write a genuinely good, specific cover letter in fifteen minutes — do it. If you would be writing something generic just to have something in the box — leave it blank or invest the time in a better CV tailoring session instead.

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