26 Dec 08 Effective Guideline no.2: Write in your own words

So many cover letters sound as if they were written by one person.  Don’t make it sound as if it came fresh out of a book.  If you insist on using these standard formats and any other clichés – then you will make good of producing run of the mill types of cover letters. 

This is good though if your intention is to keep your application letter to the mere standards  and blend with all the rest – but this should not be the case.  You want your cover letters to stand out – in its own way, in your own words. 

Use simple words and don’t force in awkward and complicated ones.  You definitely don’t want the reader to get the idea that you are trying to impress them with your use of fancy words. This really won’t be of any value to your application other than amuse the reader of your qualification to perhaps write poetry or other literary arts.  You may succeed though in getting a smirk or a chuckle.

Again, keep your cover letters natural – and in your own persuasive words.

Tags: application, Application Letter, Cover Letters, covering letter, cv, Fancy Words, Intention, job, new, own words, Persuasive Words, Poetry, Resume, Smirk

24 Dec 08 Effective Guideline no.1: Address the letter to the right person

Do not use:  “Dear Sir / Madam” or worst “To Whom It May Concern” – This is plain sloppy and would just go to show how haphazardly you have prepared your cover letter.

Make some effort and do some research.  You may call the company and ask who receives their application letters – and address your letter accordingly. 

The one who will receive it will appreciate your initiative.  And who knows, yours may be the only one out of the many with his or her name on it.  Isn’t this a better way to grab the reader’s attention?  You will already earn plus points here.

Tags: Address, Application Letter, Application Letters, applying, career, Cover Letter, covering letter, cv, Initiative, job, job application, Madam, new