Eeew, Cover Letters..

Eeew, I just lost the presentation I was supposed to handle tomorrow in the conference (had I mentioned anything about that before?!)
(O remind me later, OK?!!!)
(H-E-L-L-O any body listening!!! WILL YA!!)
(I can hear the echo.. :-( already, huh )

Anyhow, so as I am left alone all night to re-write the whole presentation OVER AGAIN!!
I think of making any use of this blogging thingy, and I'll share with some bits and pieces..

Cover letters are not optional. Employers expect them whenever you send, fax or otherwise transmit your resume. Its like your resume, a representation of you. You will want to make the best impression possible.


Types of Cover Letters:
* Letters of Application are the most common type of cover letter. These letters are
sent to apply for a specific position or to respond to a known opportunity.
* Letters of Inquiry are sent when it is not known if there is a position available. Use these letters to request information about the organization, available positions, and application procedures.
* Networking Letters are sent to get information, advice, and suggestions about career
plans and opportunities. Indicate if someone referred you to the reader. Be specific about what information or assistance you are seeking.


Important Tips:
1. Address your cover letter to a named individual. Address the letter to the Human Resources Manager, the Director, or to whoever seems appropriate in the organization to which you are writing.
2. Don’t waste your first paragraph by writing a boring introduction.
3. Do send an original letter to each employer.
4. Project confidence, but DON'T be arrogant, negative, or too humble. Instead of "I know my skills and abilities will fit into what your company needs." Use "I hope to use my skills and abilities to further the goals of your organization."
5. Your letter should answer the question, "Why should I hire this person?"
6. Keep it brief. Three or four paragraphs are sufficient.
7. Use simple, uncomplicated language and sentence structure. Avoid cliches DON'T send a cover letter containing grammatical errors, misspellings, or smudges.
8. Do keep your letter brief. Never, Never more than one page, and it’s best to keep it well under a full page. Each paragraph should have no more than one to three sentences.
9. Don’t depend on the employer to take action. Request action. Request an interview, and tell the employer when you will follow up to arrange it. Then, Do So. It is imperative that you follow up.
10. Be sure the potential employer can reach you.
11. Feel free to write a company a second time if a reasonable amount of time has passed with no response.
12. Inform the employer that you will call to discuss the possibilities of an interview and DEFINITELY follow-up and place that call.
13. Sign your letters, preferably in blue ink.


Follow-up:
Seven to ten days after mailing your cover letter and resume follow up with a phone call to inquire about the status of your candidacy.

Additional Resources:
* High Impact Resumes and Letters by Ronald Krannich and WIlliam Banis
* Dynamic Cover Letters for New Graduates by Katherine Hansen

O dreaming of my sweet lil bed!!!
Tell YOU what… Over..
More of the some PLUS some reviews of GREAT books like: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
And lots more in store ;) ..
Make sure to follow…

Nity Nite


*** Don't Worry, I remembered to back up this time :D ;D