Are cover letters read / necessary?

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Most companies don’t make attaching a cover letter a compulsory part of the job application, but still have the option to do so.

When given the option, I tend to write tailored cover letters 3/4 of the time. Still getting rejected from first sift, and I just wonder if anyone knows if cover letters actually affect likelihood of being shortlisted. I would have presumed CV / application form is more important.

I worry if you accidentally make a mistake or if recruiter nitpicks your cover letter for another reason you’ll get rejected if your CV was otherwise borderline acceptable. Not writing one is one less thing to be judged on? I genuinely don’t know the etiquette here

I’m applying for corporate roles

I have also previously been invited to interview for jobs where I didn’t bother attaching a cover letter too (large corporate company who presumably weren’t that desperate)

I always read cover letters (am a recruiter in a large organisation). They add a little personality in addition to the work history of a CV. Even if it's very short it's an opportunity to introduce yourself and make an impression, especially when other candidates haven't. It wouldn't be a deal breaker not to send one (unless it specifically asks in the advert).

I don’t write tailor letters anymore.

Little to no point some junior telling you not to bother turning up in jacket and blouse but a company willing you to wait 2 weeks to see the job re advertised that they try and send you an email saying someone was a better match, liked more by team leader sado’s but it flys in the face as different senario, no one actually wants to waste 2 weeks wondering (respect to those companies who decide on day) - why is a job re advertised simply weeks later? Is it because you have a love of interviewing and actually taking no one on. That you enjoy keeping someone waiting 2 weeks when you probably knew 3 minutes of interview they were not right.

I just wish a lot more people had integrity in their bones but it seems not.

I like a cover letter. CVs tend to merge into one after a while but a cover letter can add style and personality. Just make sure yours is eye catching.

I always read the cover letter and will generally make my decision as to whether to progress someone to interview based on it. I will, of course, look at the CV as well but In recruiting for a position that needs strong writing and communication skills and a cover letter gives me a good sense of their abilities. Not saying that an average cover letter will rule you out but a crap one will.

Realise I didn't really answer your question.

I wouldn't judge you on the letter, I'd match your experience to the job spec to shortlist - although mistakes would put me off - more for the carelessness. But it might give you the edge if you were borderline .