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Do Hiring Managers Still Read Cover Letters?

Workbox Staffing

Cover letters have long been a staple of the job application process, but in an era dominated by digital resumes and online applications, many job seekers wonder if writing a cover letter is still worth the effort. So, do hiring managers read cover letters, or are they just another outdated formality? 



Let’s look into whether cover letters are relevant or not, explore their benefits, and share tips for crafting an effective one that sets you apart in today’s competitive job market.


The Reality of Cover Letter Relevance

When asking if hiring managers still read cover letters, the answer isn’t a straightforward yes or no — it’s a bit more complex. Some sources report that about half of hiring managers consider them to be a valuable part of the application, while others say less or more. Perhaps the best answer is that it depends on the hiring manager.


It’s also important to consider the variability across industries and companies. In fields like communications, public relations, and other roles that emphasize written communication, cover letters are often seen as critical (and can even be deal-breakers if not included). 


On the other hand, in tech and some fast-paced sectors, hiring managers may prioritize skills over supplementary documents, like a cover letter. Understanding the expectations within your industry can help guide your decision to invest the time to craft one or not.


There is more agreement that when hiring managers read cover letters, they often skim rather than thoroughly review them. However, done right, a well-crafted one can capture attention and make a strong impact, offering insights that resumes alone cannot provide.


Understanding Why Some Are Overlooked

Although cover letters can be valuable, some hiring managers may overlook them for a few reasons. Time constraints can push hiring managers to prioritize resumes, especially during high-volume hiring periods. The widespread use of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) also plays a role here, as these systems screen resumes based on keywords and qualifications, often making cover letters a secondary consideration. Additionally, the sheer volume of applications, particularly in competitive fields, means hiring managers may not have time to review every one that comes across their desk.


However, that doesn’t mean this is wasted effort! Even if your letter doesn’t receive full attention, a compelling opening or standout phrase can still certainly catch a hiring manager’s eye during a quick skim. When you put effort into crafting a targeted cover letter, it can serve as an additional layer of persuasion that tips the scale in your favor, especially if you’re on the cusp of being shortlisted.


Why Writing a Cover Letter Is Still Worth Your Time

Despite the reality that not every hiring manager reads them, cover letters remain an essential tool for job seekers. It sets you apart from other candidates by showing that you go the extra mile. In a sea of applications, this is an opportunity to showcase your personality and soft skills — traits that are often hard to convey through a resume alone. 


Cover letters also demonstrate genuine interest in the role, as they reflect your knowledge of the company and its needs, which goes a long way in establishing you as a serious candidate. Plus, they allow you to address unique situations, like employment gaps or career transitions, in a way that resumes cannot.


A well-written cover letter can also highlight your cultural fit within the company, which is increasingly important as companies look for candidates who align with their values and work environment. By illustrating your enthusiasm and aligning your goals with the company's mission, you can create a connection that may not be immediately apparent from your resume alone. This personalized touch can be the difference between getting an interview or being overlooked.


Best Practices for Crafting an Effective Cover Letter

To maximize the impact of your cover letter, it’s important to follow a few best practices, such as:


  • Tailor each one to the specific job. Mentioning the company’s name and how your skills specifically align with the job description shows that you’ve done your research. 
  • Keep it concise. Hiring managers are busy, so focus on relevant experiences without reiterating your entire resume. 
  • Start strong with a compelling opening statement that grabs attention and highlights key achievements directly relating to the job. 
  • Maintain a professional tone throughout your cover letter and pay close attention to formatting, ensuring that it is polished and error-free. 
  • End with a call-to-action that expresses your enthusiasm and invites the hiring manager to connect.


Also, remember to inject a bit of your personality. While maintaining professionalism, a hint of humor, enthusiasm, or a personal touch can make your application memorable and separate you from the crowd. Crafting a narrative around your career journey, rather than just listing qualifications, helps your cover letter really stand out and adds depth to your candidacy.


Avoid These Common Mistakes

Even the best intentions can fall flat if your cover letter includes some common pitfalls. For example, using a generic template can be a red flag for hiring managers who are looking for personalized, thoughtful applications. A better practice is to customize your letter for each job to make a genuine connection with the company and hiring manager. 


Try not to simply repeat what’s already on your resume. Instead, use this as an opportunity to add context, provide insights, and share examples that aren’t evident in the resume. 


Remember that the focus should be on the company’s needs, and not only on showcasing yourself. A strong cover letter emphasizes how your skills and experience can solve the company’s problems or enhance its success.


Proofreading is another crucial step. Spelling and grammar mistakes can undermine your professionalism and leave a negative impression. Always double-check your letter for errors. And it’s also a good idea to consider asking a friend or mentor to review it before submission.


When It’s Okay to Skip the Cover Letter

While cover letters are generally beneficial, there are times when it’s acceptable to skip them. For example, if an employer explicitly states that one is not required, it might save you time in your job search to simply submit a resume or fill out an application form. But it’s also worth considering that just because the employer is not requiring one, you might have an opportunity to position yourself even better by still submitting a cover letter.


In some instances, online application systems may not offer a field to upload a cover letter, in which case you should incorporate key points that would otherwise be in your letter into the application itself. Always pay close attention to the requirements in the job posting and adjust accordingly!


Skipping the cover letter can be justified if you’re applying for roles where portfolios or specific work samples are more critical than narrative content. In creative industries, for example, showcasing your work might carry more weight.


Depending on the specific circumstances, it’s probably unnecessary to write a cover letter if you are applying for entry-level positions in manufacturing, retail, or warehousing sectors.


Position Yourself as the Right Candidate with a Cover Letter

In today’s competitive job market, a well-crafted cover letter can still be a game-changer, even if they aren’t always read by every hiring manager. It sets you apart, allows your personality to shine, and provides an additional layer of context to your application. 


By understanding when and how to use cover letters effectively, you can enhance your job search and make a positive impression on potential employers. So, the next time you apply, don’t see a cover letter as just another task — view it as a valuable opportunity to connect with the people who might shape the next step in your career!


December 5, 2024
Hiring new employees is one of the biggest challenges for HR teams and business leaders. Between the costs of recruitment, time spent on screening and interviewing, productivity lost from vacant roles, and added strain on existing employees covering the gap, hiring can quickly become a drain on resources. Making matters worse, a rushed or mismanaged hiring process often leads to costly bad hires that create even more disruption. As labor and production demand respond to unpredictable markets, many industrial companies are returning to staffing agencies for flexible staffing options that ease the hiring burden. With specialized recruiting expertise, recruiting agencies can streamline the hiring process, save time, reduce costs, and lower the risk of hiring mistakes. Basically, they can play an integral role in alleviating hiring stress. Let’s take a look at reasons why staffing agencies are valuable partners in recruitment, the types of roles they can help fill, and tips for selecting the right agency to meet your needs. Key Reasons Companies Use Staffing Agencies For companies of all sizes, staffing agencies provide essential support that can significantly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their hiring processes. Staffing partners are equipped with tools, networks, and industry knowledge that many HR teams don’t have, enabling them to find candidates faster, reduce turnover, and minimize the financial risks associated with hiring. By working with an agency, your company can focus on core business goals while the agency takes care of finding the right candidates. Three primary benefits often lead companies to work with recruiting agencies – increased access to specialized talent, significant time and cost savings, and reduced hiring risks. Here’s a deeper look at how each of these factors contributes to a smoother hiring experience: Access to Specialized Talent and Deeper Talent Networks Staffing agencies build and maintain extensive talent networks that make it easier to reach qualified candidates. Unlike in-house HR teams, agencies focus solely on recruitment and develop strong connections with skilled professionals, allowing them to source talent that companies might not find through traditional job boards or networks. This is especially valuable for companies seeking candidates with specialized skills or backgrounds, as agencies are often more adept at locating these high-demand candidates. Time Savings for Hiring Managers The hiring process can take weeks or even months if managed internally. Staffing agencies streamline the process by pre-screening candidates, conducting interviews, and managing applications, presenting only the most qualified candidates to the hiring manager. This enables companies to hire faster without sacrificing quality, helping to maintain productivity and reduce strain on HR teams. Cost Efficiency and Reduced Overhead Recruiting comes with direct and indirect costs, from job postings and overtime pay to the loss of productivity while a role remains unfilled. Staffing agencies offset these costs by managing the recruitment process end-to-end, reducing the time-to-hire, and even covering payroll taxes and benefits for temporary roles. This allows companies to save on hiring expenses and limit their financial exposure. Lower Hiring Risks and Flexibility in Hiring Staffing agencies reduce the risks associated with hiring mistakes. Through rigorous screening processes and the option for temp-to-hire arrangements, companies can "test" candidates before committing to a full-time role. This flexibility allows companies to evaluate a candidate's fit and performance in real-time, further reducing hiring risks. To sum all that up, recruiting agencies serve as valuable partners for companies seeking to improve their recruitment processes. By leveraging the agency’s expertise, HR teams can access a broader talent pool, save time and money, and make more confident hiring decisions. These benefits not only support immediate staffing needs but also contribute to the long-term success of the organization. Types of Staffing Services Provided Staffing agencies offer several types of recruitment services tailored to meet various hiring needs. Companies may need short-term assistance for temporary roles, a trial period for new employees, or even a full-scale search for a long-term hire. The flexibility in service offerings allows staffing agencies to adapt to the specific demands of each client, making them an invaluable resource across many different hiring scenarios. For short-term or seasonal roles, agencies provide contract staffing . This service lets companies bring on temporary workers to meet immediate needs, such as covering for an employee on leave or handling additional work during peak seasons. Contract workers are fully vetted and selected to match the specific skills and availability required, helping companies scale up their workforce without long-term commitments. Another option is temp-to-hire , which is ideal for companies seeking to lower hiring risks by testing a candidate’s fit within the company. During the contract period, the staffing agency manages payroll, benefits, and other administrative tasks. This arrangement allows the company to assess the candidate’s performance and cultural fit before offering a permanent position. Finally, many staffing agencies also offer direct hire services. This service is geared toward filling permanent roles within an organization. Using their extensive networks, agencies can source candidates with specialized skills or industry knowledge, and present a shortlist of high-quality candidates. By handling initial screenings and interviews, the agency helps ensure only the best fits reach the hiring manager’s desk. Pros and Cons of Using a Staffing Agency While staffing agencies bring many advantages, they can also come with considerations. Companies should be aware of both the pros and cons before deciding to partner with an agency. When it comes to pros, we are talking about advantages such as: Access to a Larger Talent Pool. Staffing agencies maintain networks that give them access to a wider array of candidates, including those with specialized skills. Increased Hiring Speed. Agencies expedite the hiring process, reducing the time-to-hire and filling roles faster to minimize productivity gaps. Expertise in Recruitment. With a focus solely on recruitment, staffing agencies offer valuable industry insights and know-how that improve the quality of hires and lower the likelihood of costly hiring mistakes. On the other hand, it’s worth keeping in mind that some staffing agencies may leave you with:  Reduced Control Over Screening. Companies may not see every application, relying instead on the agency’s judgment and screening processes. Potential Service Fees. Fees for staffing agency services can add up, although they’re often offset by the time and cost savings gained. Training Limitations. For temporary or contract hires, the reduced time frame may limit training opportunities, requiring candidates to adapt quickly. Ultimately, the decision to use a staffing agency depends on a company’s unique hiring needs and resources. While agencies provide clear benefits—such as access to skilled talent, reduced time-to-hire, and recruitment expertise—companies must also weigh the associated costs and any limitations in control over the process. A careful consideration of these pros and cons can help HR teams determine if a staffing agency partnership aligns with their hiring objectives and organizational goals. Are Staffing Agencies Worth It? Determining whether a staffing agency is worth the investment depends on several factors unique to each company’s hiring needs and capacity. When asking yourself, “Are staffing agencies really worth it?” consider the following as you evaluate if a staffing agency is the right choice: Is time-to-hire a critical factor? If you’re struggling to fill roles quickly, a staffing agency can streamline the process by providing pre-screened, high-quality candidates. Do you require specialized or hard-to-find skills? For niche roles, staffing agencies often have broader networks and deeper knowledge that can help source candidates more effectively than internal teams alone. Are you dealing with seasonal fluctuations? For short-term, seasonal, or project-based needs, temporary staffing allows you to scale your workforce without long-term commitments. Is flexibility important? Contract-to-hire arrangements offer a “trial period” to evaluate a candidate’s fit before committing to a full-time role, lowering risks associated with hiring mistakes. Is hiring risk a top concern? Recruiting agencies reduce hiring risks through their vetting processes, helping to avoid costly hiring mistakes and increase retention. By considering these factors, HR teams can make an informed decision on whether working with a staffing agency aligns with their recruitment goals and challenges. How to Choose the Right Staffing Agency Selecting the right staffing agency is crucial to achieving your hiring goals. Not all agencies offer the same services or have expertise in your industry, so it’s important to find an agency that aligns with your needs and can offer reliable results. A great staffing agency will act as an extension of your HR team, working closely to understand your company’s unique culture and specific hiring challenges. This partnership approach not only improves hiring success but also helps build a strong, long-term relationship that supports ongoing hiring needs. To ensure you select the right partner, look for an agency that has a proven track record in your industry, strong client reviews, and a commitment to understanding your company’s goals and culture. The right agency will provide open communication, regular updates, and a streamlined process that takes the burden off your HR team and delivers quality candidates. Unlocking Recruitment Success with Workbox Staffing Staffing agencies bring significant advantages to the hiring process, from providing access to skilled candidates to saving time and reducing costs. By outsourcing the recruitment process to an agency, companies can maintain productivity, avoid the pitfalls of rushed hires, and focus on strategic HR initiatives. If you’re ready to experience the benefits of a staffing agency, consider reaching out to one with proven expertise in your industry. A trusted partner like Workbox Staffing can make all the difference in recruiting top talent quickly, efficiently, and effectively.
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The industrial job market is facing nearly unprecedented worker shortages, but that doesn’t mean you can simply send out a generic resume and expect to get hired. To land your dream role, you will still need to stand out from the crowd. Here are a few ways to take your resume to the next level. Do Your Research The days of creating a single resume and distributing it to every potential employer are long gone. Most organizations today use automated resume screening software to reject candidates before a human ever starts reviewing. To get through the filters, you’ll need to know a bit about the company and exactly what they’re looking for. You will also need to study the job description and tailor your wording to what’s written. Automated software looks for exact keyword matches, so be careful about abbreviations or acronyms that aren’t in the job description. Focus on Your Achievements Hiring managers don’t just want a list of what you did all day at your previous jobs. They want to know what you accomplished. How did you solve problems, demonstrate leadership, or achieve specific business goals? Use numbers or percentages whenever possible. Highlight Your Skills Create a separate Skills section on your resume. List 5-10 skills that are specifically relevant to the job for which you are applying. Briefly describe your specific area of expertise or talk about your level of proficiency. Keep it short and meaningful. Get Some Help from AI Artificial intelligence (AI) can be a great resume-writing assistant. Feed it the important facts about your background and experience, and see what it comes up with. But don’t rely on AI to do the work for you. Carefully review each AI-written section to figure out how you can improve it. Rewrite anything that isn’t entirely factual, contains grammatical errors, or uses awkward phrasing. AI can provide you with a rough draft and a place to start, but it cannot deliver a polished, professional resume on its own. Need Some New Employees? Workbox Staffing partners with light industrial companies to provide temporary, temp-to-hire, or permanent employees in more than 30 locations across the Midwest, Midatlantic, and Southeast. If you’re ready to grow your workforce, get in touch with us today!
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Are you familiar with the Internet of Things (IoT)? If you have skills and experience in this area, you can stand out from the crowd when searching for your next light industrial role. But what exactly is IoT, what specific skills are involved, and how can you improve? The Internet of Things The Internet of Things, or IoT, refers to a network of connected smart devices, from personal medical devices to smart thermostats to autonomous vehicles. These devices are found in both consumer and industrial applications. They utilize data collected from sensors to automate common tasks while also running real-time analytics on usage patterns and other information. Common IoT Skills Working with the Internet of Things requires a unique skill set. Commonly used skills include, but are not limited to: Artificial intelligence Machine learning Cloud computing Python and other programming languages Big data analytics Note that you don’t necessarily need these skills to work in manufacturing or distribution, even when the main product is IoT devices. But many facilities are now relying on IoT technologies to improve processes and streamline logistics. Taking the time to learn and refine your IoT skills now can help to future-proof your career. Gaining IoT Expertise Both in-person and online courses in these and similar skills are readily available. But if you don’t want to take a formal class, you can build a reasonable amount of expertise on your own. One-off seminars at networking events, conversations with tech-minded friends or coworkers, and even YouTube videos can help you figure out how to get started. Once you understand the basics of a new technology, create some sample projects on your own and play with them regularly. The goal is to become as proficient and comfortable as possible with each skill. Highlighting Your New Skills Both in-person and online courses in these and similar skills are readily available. But if you don’t want to take a formal class, you can build a reasonable amount of expertise on your own. One-off seminars at networking events, conversations with tech-minded friends or coworkers, and even YouTube videos can help you figure out how to get started. Once you understand the basics of a new technology, create some sample projects on your own and play with them regularly. The goal is to become as proficient and comfortable as possible with each skill. Looking for a New Role? Workbox Staffing offers light industrial jobs in more than 30 locations across the Midwest, Mid-Atlantic, and Southeast. If you’re ready to jumpstart your light industrial career, take a look at our open positions or simply send us your resume today!
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