Topic:

Cover Letters

Why I Won’t Be Reading Your Cover Letter

June 15, 2010 /

We recently had an open position we were trying to fill and I was amazed—or should I say appalled—at the blanket responses we received from job seekers.  Potential candidates sent us cover letters describing experience they possessed that was completely irrelevant to our opening; it was the same as someone having a degree in veterinary…

Addressing Salary Requirements in a Cover Letter

June 1, 2010 /

Job advertisements sometimes ask you to specify salary requirements when submitting your application.  But many job seekers feel uncomfortable revealing their desired salary before they’ve even scheduled an interview.  If you’re one of those people, don’t worry—there are some ways to comply with the employer’s request while avoiding having to immediately provide a specific answer.…

Cover Letters: Does Anybody Read Those Anymore?

May 31, 2010 /

In a world where many job applications seem to disappear into a “black hole”, job seekers often wonder if there is any point in sending a cover letter with their application.  The answer is absolutely yes!  An effective cover letter communicates to an employer why you’re specifically interested in the open position.  With so many…

Cover Letter is Not Synonymous With Share Everything!

May 27, 2010 /

This week we’re exploring strategies and best practices for writing cover letters.  So take out your cover letter, dust it off, and let’s go. The purpose of your cover letter is not to bore the hiring manager with your entire life story, explain and justify every gap in employment, account for your career path, and…

How to Ensure Your Cover Letter is Read by the Hiring Manager

May 26, 2010 /

I could complicate this blog article and make it ten times longer than it needs to be.  But I know you’re busy trying to find a job, so I’ll keep it short and sweet.  If you want to make sure the hiring manager reads your cover letter, don’t attach it to the e-mail—just copy and…

Using a Digital Signature to Spruce Up Your Cover Letters

May 20, 2010 /

Most job applications are submitted through the Internet today, either through an online application system or by e-mailing cover letters and resumes as attachments.   Sending electronic cover letters is very convenient, but it precludes the applicant’s ability to sign the letter.  Unless you want to print out, sign, scan, and then e-mail every single cover…