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A large majority of respondents receive cover letters. Thirty-seven percent of executives say it is a very common practice and 43 percent say it is somewhat common. Only 18 percent of executives say cover letters aren’t common at all, and 2 percent are unsure. “Submitting a resume without a cover letter is like not shaking hands when meeting someone for the first time,” says Dave Willmer, executive director. “Those who aren’t including cover letters with their resumes are missing an opportunity to make a good impression and set themselves apart from other job applicants.” OfficeTeam suggests guidelines to assist job candidates in creating influential cover letters: — Write down names. Address your letter to a certain hiring manager rather than a general greeting. If you aren’t sure of the name, call the company to ask. — Do your research. Find out information about the business in order to include how your skills can benefit the company. — Add additional information. Provide professional development courses or volunteer programs that demonstrate your willingness to keep your skills up-to-date. — Keep the letter to a page. Save the rest of the information for your resume. — Create a plan. Show your excitement for the job, and discuss the possibility of meeting in person to talk more about the position. — Check for grammar. Review for typos and errors. Give to a friend or mentor for a second opinion. “A cover letter should demonstrate the applicant’s knowledge of the company, highlight applicable skills and work experience, and explain any resume anomalies, such as extended employment gaps,” Willmer adds. For more information, visit www.officeteam.com. To find out more about Amy Winter and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com. COPYRIGHT 2008 CREATORS SYNDICATE INC. |
