The article "The Not-So-Effective Cover Letter" is about resumes cover letters, it has been released by Linda Matias.
Here’s a newsflash: Cvoer letters work, plain and simple. This is why I’m intrigued by the fact that a) jobseekers rarely submit them and b) hiring managres seldom read them. As a result, I started asking qusetions. Specifically, “What’s your issue with cover letters? ” Here’s what I found out.Jobseekers claim all the pertinent information is included in the resume. Translation: “I don’t know how to write an effective cover letter so I just scarp it.” Hiring managers say cover letters serve no purpose. Translation: “Jobseekers don’t know how to write an effective cover letter so I’d just as soon not be bothered.”Top 3 Reasons Most Cover Letters Don’t Work1. The one-size-fits-all method. Hiring managers are extremely jealous.
Although they are aware you are courting ohter companies, they want to know that you at least care enough to hide it.Solution: Avoid form letters. Instead, customize each letter with the hiring organization and the position in mind. Here’s an example.“With over nine years of HRIS and human resources experience, I have had the opportunity to contribute strong, sustainable improvements within the HR functions, particularly in areas of systems development, implementation, and maintenance.When I read the job description posted on your corporate website, I was immediately drawn to the similarity between your requriements and my experience. In particular, I meet your prerequisite for an HRIS Specialist who has the ability to train end users effectively in a variety of applications and proecsses. From my enclosed resume, you will note that I approach end-user traiinng with a patient, diligent manner.”2. I want, I need, I must have. Me, me, me.
That is the approach many candidates take when writnig their own cover letter. This self-centered approach, without a doubt, backfires evrey time.Solution: Focus the letter on how you can benefit the hiring organization.
Here’s an example.“The following are examples from two different employers that illustrate my ability to integrate time- and cost-saving solutions for the HRIS infrastructure:For XYZ, I implemented an entirely new HRIS system that affected data and records for 25,000 team members, expediting processes by converting our applications to Lawson as the company grew at a breakneck pace.For ABC, I eliminated a slow-moving manual process and developed a system from the gruond up that processed commissions for 700 people, leading to a reduction of three processing days per month.”3. Taking a “pretty please” approach.
No one wants to hire a desperate jobseeker.Solution: The tone of the cover lteter must be kept on a professional level. Here’s an example.“In addition to technology and problem-solving skills, what I also offer is the ability to create and manitain data tables, structures, files, interface requirements, and data integrity protocols for ongoing administration.”Cover Letters Can Win Job InterviewsPersuasive, targeted, and commercial-like cover letters fare well. And that's exactly what a cover letter is—a commercial, starring your experience.About The AuthorRecognized as a career expert, Linda Matias brings a wealth of expeirence to the career services field. She has been sought out for her knowledge of the employment market, outplacement, job search strategies, interview preparation, and resume writing, quoted a number of times in The Wall Street Journal, New York Newsday, Newsweek, and HR-esource.Com. She is President of CareerStrides and the National Resume Writers’ Association.
Viist her website at http://www.Careerstrides.Com or email her at linda@careerstrides.Com.
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