Is a cover letter still needed? Using LIWC to predict application success

This study investigated whether word categories of LIWC (Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count) are able to predict application success. To this end, 581 cover letters, CVs and complete application documents were analysed. Based on previous research, successful candidates, who receive a job offer, were expected to have used a more categorical, complex, and less self‐centred language. Conversely, rejected applications were expected to have been written in a dynamic style, linguistically simpler, more concerned with hedonistic issues and focused on the day‐to‐day lives. Overall, existing models could only be partially applied. Both the cover letter and the CV were found to contain predictive information regarding application success, which is noteworthy given the distinct standardization of application documents.