Post by chrissie3416 on Aug 29, 2012 8:34:29 GMT -5
Ive been looking for a new job for awhile now. I recently had my resume critiqued which was awesome and so helpful. I feel like I get stuck in starting a cover letter. The body of my letter is great from what Im told but I feel like the intro doesnt work. How do you all, or how would you all, start a cover letter?
Post by chrissie3416 on Aug 29, 2012 9:25:54 GMT -5
I am applying to many jobs. I tailor the body to fit the qualifications of the position and to touch upon how I meet them and what I have to offer. My background is in education/childcare and most of the positions Im applying for are either in higher ed (which I do have background in) or in administrative/clerical work which is what I do now.
Working in the administrative fields, especially for a tech company, often the cover letter falls through the resume search. I would definitely focus on the cover letter for childcare/education listing some of the positives acknowledgments that you may have receive from others.
The cover letter is really your chance to shine and set yourself apart. I think it's especially important to let your personality show. It's also a great place to mention why you're right for THIS JOB, not just list your qualifications. I try to get a little creative with mine, but I'm in the communications field. Still. I'd do it regardless. It'll set you apart.
If you want me to post one that I did relatively recently, let me know, and I will.
Post by chrissie3416 on Aug 29, 2012 10:02:20 GMT -5
Gozf--that would be great! I'm just looking for ideas on how to grab the reader's attention. When I look online they all start with, "I am writing this letter to show interest in such and such position.." and to me that sounds so generic and juvenile.
Sure thing. Ok. This was something I wrote for a job that I knew I wouldn't get, but applied to on a whim.
Upon hearing that DC Comics was searching for a Vice President of Publicity, my heart soared. As a publicist with nearly 12 years experience, I’ve been looking for an opportunity to take my career to the next level – and to return to the publishing industry and New York City, where my life in publicity began, has been a dream of mine.
While many of the characters from the DC canon were certainly a part of my early life, I’m comfortable admitting that I didn’t fall in love with this industry until later, when I reached my early 30s. Nevertheless, I understand this world and have confidence that it’s an environment in which I would flourish. I enjoy comics and the movies on which they’re based, and I truly appreciate the unique sense of community that this industry has cultivated. As a relatively recent convert myself, it would thrill me to have the opportunity to spread the word and keep DC Comics in the forefront of the media.
I’m a quick and compelling writer and an effective communicator. A people person, I have no difficulty motivating others to work to the best of their ability, and I easily forge relationships with members of the press. I have a strong track record in media placements, am a careful editor and a charismatic spokesperson. I’ve been responsible for publications and understand the importance of deadlines and project management. Above all else, I enjoy nothing more than writing, and no project is “just” a press release or bit of copy – I take pride in my work and craft each piece with care and concern for how to best reach my audience.
My resume outlines my qualifications, and I would be happy to provide you with references that can elaborate upon my skills and speak to my character. I truly hope to have the opportunity to speak with you in person, to further discuss why I am an excellent candidate for this position.
The cover letter is really your chance to shine and set yourself apart. I think it's especially important to let your personality show. It's also a great place to mention why you're right for THIS JOB, not just list your qualifications. I try to get a little creative with mine, but I'm in the communications field. Still. I'd do it regardless. It'll set you apart.
If you want me to post one that I did relatively recently, let me know, and I will.
This, totally. Throw in a few examples of projects/tasks you have done that specifically relate to the job you're applying for and related to your skills set needed for the job. Example: I have a proven record of being able to deliver results while managing multiple deadlines with attention to detail and problem solving. I’m currently working on a project that helps create (bla bla bla). Through this project, I have been recognized for my attention to detail, communication and being able to be a part of a greater cross functional team.