Job Search January Challenge #7
“I apologize for my total lack of appropriate experience and worry that it may concern those considering me for employment.”
–Actual Cover Letter Quote
The role of the Cover Letter
Let’s define the role of the cover letter: It is an introduction, probably perused before a hiring manager even looks at your resume. It can demonstrate that you are a viable job candidate and, if written well, might ensure that your resume avoids the elimination pile.
Your cover letter is an opportunity to set you apart from the competition, to present a taste of your personality and how it might benefit your target company’s culture, and to highlight elements of your experience, skills, or characteristics that are especially relevant to your target position. More on what your cover letter can do for you.
What it is NOT
The cover letter is not a place for your life story. It is no place for a confession. It is not a place to make demands or to list your wish list of perks and benefits.
How to write a Cover Letter
1. Use the same header as your resume
2. Address it to a person if possible—if not, To Whom It Maybe Concern or Dear Hiring Manager
3. Be clear about which position you are applying for, and show your enthusiasm!
4. Choose 2-4 characteristics, skills, or work highlights that are especially relevant to the position and which set you apart from your competition—these don’t have to be limited to work experience, but could include volunteer work or a personal connection, but don’t be too personal
5. Speak only in positive terms, no matter how tempted your are to apologize for your lack of experience or to blame your former employer for anything
6. Conclude by expressing your appreciation for their time and consideration and volunteer to make yourself available or any information that might help in their decision.
Be prepared to modify your cover letter for each position
Write a basic cover letter now, even if you don’t have a particular position to which you are applying. It will be especially helpful to start thinking about #4, which of your traits or experiences might be most beneficial to an employer.
Then, when you are actually applying, modify the language to specifically address each target company and position. You may well change which of your characteristics to highlight, too, but you probably won’t need to rewrite the entire letter.
Challenge #7: Create Your Cover Letter
Your cover letter is an excellent opportunity to make a great first impression, to set yourself apart from your competition by demonstrating your knowledge of the company and its culture and how you might be the perfect complement to both.
Like your resume, the cover letter is another area of your job search preparation that is of critical importance. Enlist someone to look it over, continue to revise and polish it, or hire an expert to help present you in your most positive light!