Do Recruiters Read Cover Letters?

Most Nigerian recruiters do not read cover letters during the initial screening phase. They scan your CV first. However, if your CV passes the ATS and the 6-second human scan, a strong cover letter can be the tie-breaker between you and another candidate.

“Please find attached my CV and cover letter…”

Let me be brutally honest with you. 80% of the time, I do not open your cover letter. I simply don’t have the time. I go straight to the CV.

When Does a Cover Letter Matter?

So, should you stop writing them? No.

You need a cover letter in three specific scenarios:

  1. The job application explicitly asks for one. (If you don’t include it, you fail the instruction test).
  2. You are changing careers. Your CV won’t make sense immediately, so you need the cover letter to explain your transition.
  3. You have a massive employment gap. Use the letter to explain why you haven’t worked in two years.

How to Write a Good One

If you must write one, keep it short. Three paragraphs maximum.

Don’t just summarize your CV. Use the space to show enthusiasm for the specific company (e.g., “I admire Stanbic IBTC’s recent push into digital retail…”). Show that you did your research.

And please, address it to the hiring manager if you know their name. “Dear Sir/Madam” is tired.