For entry-level job seekers, a cover letter can be a powerful tool to demonstrate motivation and potential, even without prior work experience. In 2025, where competition is fierce and hiring managers look for more than just qualifications, a compelling cover letter can set a candidate apart.
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A well-crafted cover letter allows job seekers to showcase their enthusiasm, soft skills, and readiness to learn. According to Indeed, cover letters provide a space to highlight attributes that may not be evident from a resume alone (Indeed). Here’s why they are crucial for candidates with no prior experience:
Demonstrating Passion and Drive – Employers value enthusiasm and willingness to grow. A cover letter is an opportunity to express genuine interest in the role and company.
Highlighting Transferable Skills – Even without direct work experience, candidates can showcase skills gained through internships, volunteering, or academic projects.
Resume Genius asked hiring managers what they think are the main functions of a cover letter. Here’s what our survey findings show:
The top 5 purposes of a cover letter according to a Resume Genius survey of hiring managers:
Across companies of all sizes, hiring managers report that the top purpose of a cover letter is to provide additional information and context about why a person is applying for the position. This finding is especially true at large companies (1000+ employees).
At small companies (less than 100 employees), the top reason hiring managers read cover letters is to determine whether a candidate is a good fit for the position.
At medium-sized companies (101-1000 employees), hiring managers say the top purpose of a cover letter is for the applicant to show their personality.
According to our 2023 survey of U.S. hiring managers:
72% of hiring managers say customizing a cover letter is “important” or “very important.”
Medium and large companies (100+ employees) are about twice as likely as small companies to consider tailoring your cover letter as very important.
Writing a custom cover letter for each job can be time-consuming. That’s where AI-powered tools like CoverLetterGenerator.ai come in, helping you craft tailored, high-impact cover letters in seconds. Our AI analyzes job descriptions, highlights key skills, and adapts the tone to fit each role, ensuring that your application stands out effortlessly.
As hiring practices evolve, will cover letters still be necessary for first-time job seekers? The answer is yes—but they will need to be increasingly personalized and strategic. Employers are looking for candidates who can clearly express their value beyond what’s listed on a resume.
By investing time in crafting a strong cover letter, candidates without experience can make a lasting impression and significantly increase their chances of landing their first job. In 2025, a thoughtful cover letter remains a crucial step in jumpstarting a successful career.