[jterrys]

>If I get an applicant that writes a competent cover letter they stand out significantly from others (who often don't even bother!).

I'm really sorry to say this but you are an exception to the norm when it comes to cover letters. Most hiring managers really don't give a shit and from an applicant's perspective it becomes a waste of time, hence why you get some 'fuck it I'll submit it without a letter anyway' types.

Many places don't even have the decency to send out a nice rejection email, which feels all the more antagonistic when you get ghosted after spending significant (non-transferable) effort drafting the letter.