Writing a cover letter used to take an hour. Now an AI tool can produce one in seconds. So should you use it? The honest answer is yes, but not in the way most people do. Hiring managers have clear opinions about the AI cover letter, and ignoring them can cost you the job.
What hiring managers really think
A 2025 report by TopResume surveyed 600 U.S. hiring managers about AI in job applications. The results send a mixed message.
On one hand, nearly 20% said they would reject a candidate who used an AI-generated resume or cover letter. In addition, about one-third claimed they could spot an AI-written resume within 20 seconds.
On the other hand, most did not reject AI completely. In fact, 52% said AI is fine for proofreading, as long as a person finalizes the document. In other words, the problem is not the tool itself. Instead, the problem is letting the tool do all the work.
Why AI cover letters often fail
Generic AI cover letters tend to sound the same. They praise the company in broad terms and list skills without proof. As a result, they blend into a pile of similar letters.
This matters more than ever. A Hays survey from late 2025 found that 55% of job seekers who use AI rely on it to tailor their resumes to specific roles. So when everyone uses the same tools, the letters start to look alike. Recruiters notice.
How to use AI the right way
Start with your own story
Before you open any AI tool, write down two or three real examples from your work. For instance, describe a problem you solved, a project you led or a result you are proud of. These details are what no AI can invent for you.
Use AI as an editor
Next, write a rough draft yourself. Then ask the AI to check it. Good questions include: “Is this clear?”, “Is it too long?” and “Which skills from the job ad am I missing?” This way, the letter stays yours, while the AI helps you polish it.
Cut the clichés
AI drafts often include phrases like “I am excited to apply” or “I am a passionate team player”. These say very little. So replace them with something specific, such as why this company’s product matters to you.
Match the job, honestly
Read the job ad and mention the two or three requirements that fit you best. Then back each one with a short example. Never claim skills you do not have, because the interview will reveal the truth.
Read it out loud
Finally, read your letter aloud. If a sentence sounds like something you would never say, rewrite it. A cover letter should sound like a confident version of you.
A simple structure that works
- Opening: name the role and give one specific reason you want it.
- Middle: share one or two concrete achievements that match the job.
- Closing: explain briefly what you would bring to the team, then thank the reader.
Keep it short. Most hiring managers prefer a letter they can read in under a minute.
Apply less, write better
Writing a strong letter takes time, so you cannot do it for hundreds of jobs. That is a good thing. Focus on fewer roles that truly fit you. Our guide on building an ethical AI job scout shows how to let AI find those roles while you focus on writing.
The bottom line
An AI cover letter is not automatically a bad idea. Still, a letter written entirely by AI usually reads like one. Use AI to edit, check and improve, but keep the stories and the voice your own. That combination is what gets noticed.