Jobseekers are often surprised to learn that I don’t read cover letters.

Many recruiters don’t.

Recruiters are inundated with applications and don’t have the time to read cover letters. We typically just rely on resumes and (maybe) LinkedIn profiles to make initial screening decisions.

If you’re applying directly to an organization, a cover letter may have some value in explaining why you are interested in this particular company.

But if you’re applying to a job posting from a professional search firm, don’t waste your time.

What’s your opinion on cover letters? Am I the only one who doesn’t read them? Let me know in the comments.