GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Electronic Cover Letter Length Statistics

The average length of an electronic cover letter is typically between 250 to 400 words.

Last Updated: June 23, 2024

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In this post, we explore the significance of electronic cover letter length in the job application process. Several statistics shed light on the importance of crafting a concise and impactful cover letter for potential employers. From the percentage of hiring managers who value cover letters to the preferred word count range, these findings offer key insights for job seekers looking to make a strong impression.

Statistic 1

"A survey found that 50% of employers consider a cover letter to be as important as the resume itself."

Statistic 2

"40% of job seekers do not submit a cover letter, which can be a missed opportunity."

Statistic 3

"Cover letters should not exceed one page or 300-500 words in length, as less than 17% of hiring managers read cover letters in their entirety."

Statistic 4

"According to a Saddleback College Resume Survey, 53% of employers prefer a cover letter to be one page in length."

Statistic 5

"According to Career Explorer, the optimal length for a cover letter is between 250 and 400 words."

Statistic 6

"In a survey by ResumeLab, 83% of recruiters, hiring managers, and HR staff called cover letters important for their hiring decisions."

Statistic 7

"According to Pongo Resume, an electronic cover letter should ideally be about 150-200 words per paragraph; too much longer and it’s likely to be skipped over."

Statistic 8

"Gallup found that only 14% of job candidates even submitted a cover letter with their resume."

In conclusion, the statistics presented highlight the varying opinions and practices surrounding cover letters in the job application process. While a significant portion of employers value cover letters as equally important as resumes, there is a notable discrepancy between the preferences of hiring managers regarding the ideal length of a cover letter. Job seekers should aim to strike a balance between providing enough relevant information within the recommended length guidelines, as exceeding these limits could lead to reduced engagement from hiring professionals. Despite the differing viewpoints, it is evident that cover letters continue to hold relevance in the recruitment process, with a majority of recruiters, hiring managers, and HR staff emphasizing their importance in making hiring decisions.

Jannik Lindner

Jannik is the Co-Founder of Gitnux and has been working in the digital space since 2016. He is specialized in content and tech.

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