Do Recruiters Actually Read Cover Letters?
Short answer:
Sometimes. But not first.
Here’s what really happens in New Zealand recruitment:
A recruiter receives 50–200 applications for one role.
They don’t start with your cover letter.
They look at:
Your subject line
Your CV (quick scan — 5–10 seconds)
Only if you pass this stage…
they might open your cover letter.
So if your email doesn’t get opened?
Your cover letter doesn’t exist.
The Most Common Mistakes
These subject lines are very common — and very weak:
“Job”
“Application”
“CV attached”
“Looking for job”
(or no subject line at all)
From a recruiter’s perspective:
- Who are you?
- What job are you applying for?
- Why should I open this?
If it’s not clear in 2 seconds…
👉 they move on.
What a Strong Subject Line Looks Like
Your subject line must quickly show:
Your trade or profession
Your experience
Your value or readiness
Simple. Clear. Professional.
Good Subject Line Examples
Here are strong, real-life examples your candidates can copy:
Electricians
Experienced Electrician – 8 Years Industrial – Available in NZ
Registered Electrician – Solar & Residential – Auckland
Industrial Electrician – High Voltage Experience – Open to Relocation
Carpenters
Qualified Carpenter – 6 Years Experience – Interior Fit-Out
Finishing Carpenter – Doors & Windows Specialist – Available Now
Carpenter – Residential & Renovation – Ready for NZ Roles
Diesel Mechanics
Diesel Mechanic – Trucks & Heavy Equipment – 10 Years Experience
Heavy Diesel Technician – Fleet Maintenance – Immediate Start
Diesel Mechanic – Marine & Truck Experience – Open to Work
General Construction
Excavator Operator – 8 Years Civil Projects – MRT & Infrastructure
Construction Worker – Skilled in Formwork & Concrete – Available Now
Site Worker – Trenching, Backfilling & Safety Focused
Even Better: Add a Small Advantage
If possible, add one more detail:
Visa status
Location
Availability
Examples:
Carpenter – 5 Years Experience – Already in Auckland
Diesel Mechanic – AEWV Holder – Immediate Start
Electrician – Available from June – Open to Relocation
This makes your email even easier to act on.
Think of It This Way
Your subject line is your first impression.
Not your CV.
Not your cover letter.
Your subject line.
If it’s weak — you get ignored.
If it’s clear — you get opened.
Final Thought
Many candidates believe they are not getting jobs because of their experience.
But often…
it’s just the way they present themselves.
Small detail. Big impact.
Want Help?
If you want me to check your CV and your email message,
send it to me or write “CHECK” in the comments.
Sometimes one small correction
👉 can completely change your results
