Do you know them well enough?

I just reread Levit's recent post on cover letters and thought about the following comment, which generated opposing responses from several readers (note emphasis added):

Basically, I think they’re a waste, because if you aren’t submitting your
resume to someone you know well enough to include a
more informal e-mail instead, you’re probably just going to end up in the black
hole that is the general HR inbox.

For those of you just about to graduate, especially if you are on or about to be on spring break, this is something important to think about. Is there someone you know well enough that simply passing a resume may get you an interview or position? Have you built contacts and relationships with those in the professions you are most passionate about that you feel comfortable talking to them about an internship, apprenticeship, or shadowing that will help you take that next step in a journey of professional achievement?

For some, job searching in our desired careers requires a lot of "cold calling" and looking up ads. Identifying contacts with the resources to get you a foot in the door makes the process far easier.