Do You Still Need a Cover Letter, or Just a Tailored Resume

The honest answer: it depends on the application

Most engineering job postings do not require a cover letter, and most recruiters skim resumes before letters. But some applications explicitly ask for one, and a strong letter can still tip a close decision.

When a cover letter earns its place

• The posting explicitly requests one
• You are changing industries or roles and need to explain the connection
• You have a direct, specific reason for wanting that company, not a generic one
• You have a referral or connection worth naming up front

When a tailored resume already does the job

If your resume already leads with the two or three bullets that match this role's core requirements, a cover letter mostly repeats what the resume shows in a slower format.

Recruiters scanning dozens of applications get more value from a resume that proves fit in seconds than from a letter that explains it in a paragraph.

If you do write one, make it specific

Avoid restating your resume. Use the letter to connect one or two of your strongest, most relevant achievements directly to a problem the company is trying to solve.