In today’s competitive job market, standing out from the crowd is more critical than ever, and one of the key tools at your disposal is your cover letter. As we move into 2025, the importance of a well-crafted cover letter remains, but the expectations of employers and the ways to approach this document are constantly evolving. Whether you’re applying for your first job or looking to make a career change, understanding the current trends and best practices in cover letter writing is essential.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about cover letters in 2025, including the latest trends, key dos and don’ts, and tips for tailoring your letter to give you the best chance of landing an interview.
1. The Role of the Cover Letter in 2025
Cover letters have long been a staple in job applications. But in 2025, do they still hold the same weight as before? In a world where many applications are now digital, automated, or handled by AI-driven platforms, it can feel like the cover letter is on the decline. However, this is far from the truth. In fact, a strong cover letter can be a deciding factor in whether your CV is even looked at.
A well-written cover letter allows you to:
- Personalise your application: It helps you stand out by showcasing your personality and enthusiasm, something a CV or LinkedIn profile can’t do on their own.
- Explain your motivations: You can explain why you’re applying for the position, your interest in the company, and how your values align with their mission.
- Address any gaps: If there are any gaps in your CV, a cover letter gives you the opportunity to explain them in a positive light.
In 2025, while many recruiters rely on automated tools to shortlist candidates, a well-crafted cover letter can still make the difference, particularly when it’s tailored to the specific role and company.
2. Key Trends in Cover Letters for 2025
The landscape of job applications and hiring practices has evolved over the years, and the expectations for cover letters have shifted as well. Below are some of the key trends that you should be aware of in 2025.
a. AI-Powered Hiring Tools
AI is increasingly being used by employers to streamline the recruitment process. This includes scanning cover letters and CVs to shortlist candidates. As a result, it’s vital to ensure that your cover letter is optimised for AI-based systems, particularly with the use of relevant keywords.
Some tips for optimising your cover letter for AI systems include:
- Researching the company and job description: Use relevant keywords from the job listing, as AI tools often scan for these terms.
- Avoiding overly creative formatting: Stick to simple, easy-to-read fonts and layouts, as complex formatting can confuse AI systems.
- Incorporating specific skills: Make sure your cover letter includes industry-relevant skills that match the job posting.
b. Shorter, More Impactful Cover Letters
Gone are the days when cover letters were long and verbose. In 2025, recruiters are increasingly looking for concise, impactful cover letters that get to the point quickly. You only have a few seconds to grab the recruiter’s attention, so make sure your letter is focused and highlights your most relevant skills.
A good rule of thumb is to keep your cover letter to a maximum of one page, using short paragraphs and bullet points to make it easier to skim-read. Focus on the core elements: who you are, why you’re a good fit for the role, and why you want to work for the company.
c. Emphasis on Company Research
Employers want to know that you’re genuinely interested in the company and the role. In 2025, personalising your cover letter is more important than ever. This means conducting thorough research on the company’s culture, values, and recent projects, and weaving this information into your cover letter.
By showing that you’ve taken the time to learn about the company, you can demonstrate your genuine interest and enthusiasm, which can give you an edge over other candidates.
d. Video Cover Letters Are on the Rise
While written cover letters are still the standard, video cover letters are becoming an increasingly popular option in 2025. These provide an opportunity for you to showcase your personality, communication skills, and passion for the role in a way that a written letter simply can’t.
If you decide to submit a video cover letter, remember that it should still follow the same principles as a written one:
- Be concise: Keep the video between 60 and 90 seconds.
- Dress professionally: Present yourself in a polished manner.
- Prepare your script: While a video allows for more flexibility, it’s important to have a clear structure in mind.
3. Essential Tips for Crafting a Cover Letter in 2025
Whether you’re writing a traditional written cover letter or creating a video, there are some essential best practices that can help you craft a document that stands out.
a. Tailor Each Cover Letter to the Specific Role
One of the biggest mistakes candidates make is sending out the same generic cover letter for every application. While this may save time, it’s far less effective than personalising your letter to the specific job. Hiring managers can tell when a letter is generic, and it’s much less likely to grab their attention.
- Customise your introduction: Begin with a strong introduction that grabs attention, mentioning the specific role you’re applying for and why you’re excited about it.
- Highlight relevant skills and experiences: Use examples from your CV or portfolio to show how your skills match the requirements of the job.
- Discuss the company: Mention specific details about the company that attracted you to the role, whether it’s their mission, recent achievements, or projects.
b. Be Professional but Also Show Personality
While your cover letter should be professional, it’s also an opportunity to show a bit of your personality. This can help you connect with the reader and demonstrate your cultural fit for the company.
For example, if you’re applying to a company known for its innovative approach or creative culture, you can infuse your letter with a more dynamic tone. Conversely, if you’re applying to a more traditional or corporate company, keep your language formal and focused.
c. Keep It Error-Free
No matter how compelling your content is, a cover letter full of spelling or grammar mistakes will quickly lose a recruiter’s interest. Always proofread your letter and, if possible, have someone else review it as well. You might be tempted to rely on spell checkers, but these tools can miss subtle errors, so a second set of eyes is invaluable.
4. Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your cover letter makes the best possible impression, be sure to avoid these common mistakes:
- Sending a generic cover letter: Always customise your letter for each application.
- Writing a long-winded cover letter: Keep it concise, focusing on the most relevant information.
- Being too casual: While personality is important, remember to maintain a level of professionalism.
- Focusing only on your skills: While it’s essential to talk about your qualifications, also make sure to address why you’re interested in the company and how your values align.
- Using clichés: Avoid overused phrases like “I’m a hard worker” or “I’m passionate about my work.” Instead, provide specific examples of your skills and achievements.
As we enter 2025, cover letters remain an essential part of the job application process. While the landscape has evolved with advancements in AI and new trends like video cover letters, the fundamental purpose of a cover letter has not changed: it’s a tool to showcase your skills, personality, and genuine interest in a role.
By tailoring your cover letter to each job, keeping it concise and impactful, and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll greatly improve your chances of standing out in a crowded job market. Remember, your cover letter is your opportunity to shine and show employers that you’re the right fit for their company.
At Redwolf + Rosch, we understand the challenges candidates face in today’s job market. If you need assistance with your job application or cover letter, our team of experts is here to help you succeed. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your career journey in 2025.
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