Originally Posted by
Mover
I don't know about negative points, but I have a feeling it would either go straight to the shredder or not even be looked at.
If they don't ask for it, don't do it. It's pretty simple. Remember, your app is screened by a computer and an HR company first. They are sifting through thousands of applicants. You will get the call if your app meets whatever wickets they've set up. It is not like a corporate gig where a chief pilot is manually scoring each app.
I think you guys are all over thinking it. Does it help? Probably not, does it hurt? Probably not.
I'm old school, I've written a cover letter for every job I've ever applied to. I also refuse to use a resume longer than 1 page. With the airlines, I didn't submit the letter with my app, but had a custom letter for every airline at the job fairs I attended. I also printed one up to turn in with the rest of my stuff at US Airways. It was not required. The guy I gave it to, read it, and it sparked a conversation for what that's worth. I'm not familiar with AA's hiring though.