Do I need to write a cover letter?
I will be brutally honest, here. Personally, I never read them and in my opinion they can do more harm than good if you don't put in an honest effort. If the job posting requires one, make it professional, keep it brief and tailor it to the job you are applying for--yes, that means writing a new one every time. This is an opportunity to demonstrate that you are an effective writer, that you understand the skills and experience the position requires and how your background matches that criteria. And if you conclude with a promise to follow up by phone later in the week, you want to make sure you actually do that. Obvious form letters, letters that have absolutely nothing to do with the position for which you are applying, letters with spelling and grammatical errors, addressing the letter to the wrong person, referencing the wrong company or wrong position are absolute dealbreakers. As my mother would say, do it right or don't do it all. And keep it brief; you don't get extra points for length. A letter that's too long or too dense (bullet points are your friend) is an immediate turn off and a green light to skip straight to the resume. If you don't want to go to the trouble of writing a letter, that's fine--but don't go the opposite extreme and send a practially anonymous application. Write something, even if it's no more than:
Dear Sir or Madam,
Attached, please find my resume. I wish to be considered for your Sales Manager position posted on CareerBuilder (position #: 12345). Please don't hesitate to contact me with any questions.
Thanks in advance,
Jane Jobseeker
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