Does Your Cover Letter Matter to ATS? What You Should Know

Do cover letters matter in the age of ATS systems? Short answer: Not to ATS, but possibly to the recruiter who eventually reads it. Understanding this distinction changes your strategy.

The Truth: ATS Doesn't Read Your Cover Letter

ATS systems are designed to parse resumes, not cover letters. When you submit an application, the ATS extracts text from your resume and scores it. Cover letters are typically stored separately, if at all. Most ATS systems don't even open them. So a brilliant cover letter won't help your ATS score. Only your resume determines if you get past the automated filter.

But Here's the Catch

If your resume passes ATS (which it will if you optimize it), the recruiter then reads both your resume AND your cover letter. At this point, your cover letter absolutely matters. A personalized cover letter that explains why you want the job and how you'd add value can differentiate you from other qualified candidates. A generic or missing cover letter might not hurt, but a strong one helps.

When to Write a Cover Letter

• Job posting explicitly requests one: Write it. It's required for consideration.
• Job posting says it's optional: Skip it unless you have something specific to say. A generic cover letter wastes time.
• You're changing careers or have employment gaps: Write one to explain the transition. Your resume alone might raise questions.
• You know someone at the company: Write one that mentions the referral. Personal connections matter.
• You're applying to a startup or creative role: A thoughtful cover letter stands out. Larger orgs care less.

How to Write an ATS-Friendly Cover Letter

Even though ATS doesn't parse cover letters, some systems might try. Keep it simple: (1) Plain text or standard formatting, (2) No images or graphics, (3) Address the hiring manager by name if possible, (4) Keep it under 250 words, (5) Mirror keywords from the job posting naturally.

The Cover Letter Strategy

Prioritize your resume 100%—get that ATS score to 85%+. If a cover letter is required or you're applying to a role where you'd stand out with one, spend 10 minutes writing something personalized. Otherwise, don't stress about it. Focus your energy on resume optimization, which directly impacts your ATS score and interview chances.

The Bottom Line

Cover letters don't affect your ATS score. Your resume does. Optimize your resume first, get past ATS, and then worry about cover letters if they're requested or strategically important. A strong resume can't be saved by a great cover letter, but a weak resume won't be saved by one either. Put your effort where it matters most: resume optimization.