There is no doubt about it, job hunting is becoming more technologically advanced.
Employers use parsing technologies to extract resume data in an intelligent way. Job seekers expand their networks online and may never meet their new “friends” face to face.
This is good news for many professionals. Things move quickly. Globally. Think about it. In recent years, job hunting has become rather intriguing. Almost sexy.
And yet, every few months I find myself praising the old-fashioned cover letter. I can’t help myself. There is nothing more pleasing than a personal letter. When they’re skillfully written and sent to the right person, they’re extremely effective. I think of cover letters as hellos. Handshakes. Keys that unlock hard-to-open doors.
Compared to the allure of social networking and undeniable sexiness of strategically placed keywords, standard cover letters might seem a bit dull. You won’t upload your document to LinkedIn or send the introductory paragraph to employers via text message. But if you decide to contact companies directly (a tactic that I strongly recommend), your cover letter will slip into the boss’s office, say your name, show off your attributes and hopefully inspire a one-on-one meeting. There’s nothing dull or old-fashioned about that.
There are many kinds of cover letters. Broadcast letters, executive briefings, letters that mirror professional biographies (sent to hiring managers in lieu of full-length resumes). My personal favorite is written to a possible employer for a very simple reason: You like the company. The brand or reputation of the business appeals to you. You anticipate stability or growth in the company’s future.
But before you type up a slapdash letter and send it off to the top company on your list, take a moment to get organized. What do you want to say? How do you want to say it?
If you pretend to like a company, the hiring manager will see right through you. Do your homework first. Learn about the business. Then, prepare a letter that expresses your enthusiasm for the organization and highlights some impressive achievements from your career.
Like this: “I recently learned that XYZ Inc. is opening an additional location in Lynnwood – a perfect spot to attract eager shoppers to your latest product line. I offer 11 years in retail management and a history of doubling sales for a local business. Plus, I have a positive, go-getter personality that seems like a great match your company culture.”
Now, let’s shift gears and discuss another kind of cover letter for a moment. A response to a published job posting. Here’s some advice. Don’t say this: “I am writing about your ABC position. Please find my resume enclosed.” No wonder people believe cover letters are boring! Instead, tell the employer how you will exceed expectations, cut costs and drive revenue (profits, market share or efficiency – whichever is appropriate for the role). Throw in a few examples from your career to prove that you’re worth a conversation. Then request an interview and sign off.
It’s wise to take advantage of social networks. It’s smart to revitalize your resume to meet the demands of emerging technologies. Just don’t forget this important fact: Jobs are filled by people; not computers. Write a good letter. See what happens.
Contact Eve at Eve.GetaJob@gmail.com.
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