Presentation Transcript

1. Cover Letters

2. Cover letter: A cover letter is a document sent with your resume to provide additional information on your skills and experience. A cover letter is often your earliest written contact with a potential employer, creating a critical first impression. A cover letter for McDonald’s? Cover letters
3. If you think all you need to find a job is a resume, not! You also need a cover letter. A well-written cover letter, backed by a resume is your chance to introduce yourself. Cover letters
4. Never send your resume to a potential employer without a cover letter. A well written cover letter is your way to set your resume apart from the competition. In many cases, employers place more stock in a cover letter than in a resume. Cover letters
5. Use plain text. Use a contact name. Phone the company and try to get that information. Include a subject line. Avoid using “Dear Sir/Madam” Cover letters
6. Body of the message should be like a letter. Opening statement should say why you are writing Do not repeat what is in your resume, but explain how you would bring value to the company/what are your character strengths. Leave a whole line between paragraphs. Cover letters
7. Don’t rely on your spell-checker! A cover letter that is really going to impress somebody is one that shows some thoughtfulness about that particular company. Cover letters
8. 10 Cover Letter Don’ts
9. Mistake No. 1: Overusing 'I‘ Minimizing your use of the word "I," especially at the beginning of your sentences. Mistake No. 2: Using a Weak Opening Grab the reader's interest. Consider this example: Weak: Please consider me for your sales representative opening. Better: Your need for a top-performing sales representative is an excellent match to my three-year history as a #1-ranked, multimillion-dollar producer. Mistake No. 3: Omitting Your Top Selling Points A cover letter is a sales letter that sells you as a candidate. Just like the resume, it should be compelling and give the main reasons you should be called for an interview. If the Ad Specifies: Communication skillsI Offer: Five years of public speaking experience and an extensive background in executive-level report. If the Ad Specifies: The need for a strong computer background.I Offer: Proficiency in all MS Office applications with additional expertise in Web site development and design.
10. Mistake No. 4: Making It Too Long If your cover letter exceeds one page. Mistake No. 5: Repeating Your Resume Word for Word Your cover letter shouldn't regurgitate what's on your resume. Mistake No. 6: Being Vague Make sure all the content in your letter supports how you will meet the employer's specific needs. Mistake No. 7: Forgetting to Customize Customize each letter. Don't forget to update the company, job and contact information -- if Mr. Jones is addressed as Mrs. Smith, he won't be impressed.
11. Mistake No. 8: Ending on a Passive Note When possible, put your future in your own hands with a promise to follow up. Instead of asking readers to call you, try a statement like this: I will follow up with you in a few days to answer any preliminary questions you may have. In the meantime, you may reach me at (555) 555-5555. Mistake No. 9: Being Rude Your cover letter should thank the reader for his time and consideration. Mistake No. 10: Forgetting to Sign the Letter It is proper business etiquette (and shows attention to detail) to sign your letter. However, if you are sending your cover letter and resume via email or the Web, a signature isn't necessary. www.monster.com