There’s been a flurry of discussion lately in the architecture world about whether cover letters are still relevant. Archinect published a thoughtful series that captured a range of perspectives — from those ready to declare the cover letter extinct, to those still clinging to its formalities.
Here’s the thing: this cover letter debate misses the point entirely.
As someone who recruits for architecture and engineering firms every day, I’ve seen what hiring actually looks like, from both sides. Cover letters aren’t dying because AI is replacing them. They’re dying because they were never the deciding factor in the first place.
Most Firms Don’t Read Cover Letters
Let’s be honest. Most hiring managers don’t read cover letters unless the resume and portfolio already look promising. And even then, it’s usually a quick skim, if they’re read at all.
If your resume doesn’t align with the role, your cover letter won’t rescue you. If your portfolio lacks clarity, no amount of personal storytelling will fill in the gaps.
What Candidates Think a Cover Letter Does
Many job seekers believe the cover letter is where they’re supposed to “show who they are.” The reality is: A cover letter isn’t a stand-in for thoughtfulness or authenticity, and trying to make it one usually backfires.
Here’s what candidates often don’t realize: the first thing a hiring manager reads is the email or message that comes with your resume. That’s your opening move — not the attachment.
Forget four paragraphs of carefully crafted letter writing. Focus on two sentences that say something real.
Some examples:
- “When I left Buffalo to expand my horizons after graduating from UB, my goal was to get experience that would make your company want to hire me. I hope my design work at XYZ in Atlanta is enough to bring me home!”
- “I saw that your firm recently won the Riverbend Civic project — I worked on a similar adaptive reuse plan at LMN. Would love to be considered as someone who understands the rhythm of that kind of work.”
- “I’m not local (yet), but I’m moving to Boston in January to be closer to family — I’m hoping to join a firm like yours that blends public-facing design with strong technical execution.”
- “I’m attaching my resume and portfolio — my experience in mass timber detailing might be especially relevant to your work with education facilities.”
These short messages:
- Get read before your resume
- Set context fast
- Show you’re paying attention
- Convey intention, not just availability
That’s the kind of communication that makes someone pause and click your attachment.
AI and the Illusion of Better Letters
Archinect made another good point: AI might now be better at writing cover letters than many humans. But what does “better” even mean?
AI can write in clean, inoffensive language. It can imitate enthusiasm. But it can’t fake insight or the human details that make a hiring manager want to know more.
If you’re using AI to smooth your grammar or tighten up a short note? Great. But don’t outsource your personality. It shows.
So What Actually Matters?
- A resume tailored to the job (not a generic template)
- A portfolio that’s clear, relevant, and easy to navigate
- A direct, thoughtful note that shows why you’re reaching out
- A candidate who’s responsive, professional, and prepared
And when working with a recruiter? It’s not about how you market yourself. It’s about how honestly you communicate what you want, and what you can do.
What I Tell My Candidates Instead
I rarely encourage anyone to write a formal cover letter unless the firm specifically asks for it. Instead, I suggest:
- Write a 2-sentence note that adds context or energy
- Avoid clichés. Don’t “express your passion” or say you’re a “team player
- Be specific. Be clear. Be human.
If you don’t know what to write, answer one of these:
- Why are you applying to this firm?
- What’s one project or skill that connects you to the work they do?
- What’s the one thing you want them to know about your background?
That’s it. If your work is solid, your note doesn’t need to sell — it just needs to open the
door.
Let the Work Speak, Then Follow Up
The AEC industry is changing. Portfolios are more interactive. Hiring timelines are faster. Job descriptions are less rigid. But many candidates are still clinging to old-school application rituals.
Cover letters aren’t dying because they’ve been replaced. They’re dying because they were never the most important part.
If your resume is strong, your portfolio clear, and your note thoughtful — that’s enough. The rest of the conversation will take care of itself.