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The Craft of a Cover Letter

Resumes & Cover Letters

A common challenge for many job applicants is writing a cover letter, as many applicants hesitate about what to say and how to say it. I have a few tips that might help.

  1. Stick to the script of the play. Employers and recruiters know what they want from an employee and your job is to give them that. Read the job description and tailor your cover letter to what they ask. Certainly, you may have many more skills, abilities, and experience to share, but don't bother the reader. Avoid redundancy and just sell the product, that is yourself. Tell them what they want to hear.

    • Use key words from the job description
    • Research the company you are applying for, and
    • Learn about the employees and bosses whenever possible
  2. Use powerful but believable language

    • Use verbs in present tense
    • Show competence but don't be overly confident
    • Keep it short and to the point. People don't have time to read much these days
  3. Remember that you are applying for a job, so be formal but approachable
    • Edit your letter. Typos and misspellings show lack of attention to detail. You want to start on your best foot and the cover letter is your first foot in the door.
    • Get someone to read your letter. If a reader can guess the company and job you are applying for then you know you did a good job.
    • Cover the essentials of a job description and add what you bring to the position that will make you excel

The cover letter shows who you are and what experiences you have gathered to do a great job. Present what is exceptional about you so you can be selected, and leave the rest for the interview.

I hope these simple tips can help!
Dr.Gomez

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