Telling Your Story

For me, the most time consuming aspect of applying for jobs is writing the cover letter. I’m really not a fan of them in general, but I understand why they’re so important for a company. Cover letters give you the chance to tell your story in relation to the aspects you can bring to the position you’re applying for. The most common mistake that students make when writing a cover letter is repeating too much of their resume. Although you want to include important positions or objectives that you’ve achieved, you have to remember that your resume is attached. Use this chance to elaborate a little more on your accomplishments that relate most closely to the position and explain how you would bring value to the company.

When addressing a cover letter, always try to find a specific person to send it to. ‘To whom it may concern’ is generic and boring. If it isn’t listed on the job posting, you could always look online or call the company and ask who is responsible for hiring in this position. You can remain anonymous when you make the call, but then at least it shows that you took the time to find out who is in charge. Always use standard business block format for the company’s address and the recruiter’s information.

Starting off the first paragraph can be difficult, but whatever you do, don’t start with ‘my name is…’ It’s unnecessary because your name is already all over your application. Instead, tell them why you’re writing the cover letter. Make sure to use language specific to the industry and the company you’re applying for. The second sentence should be either something you know about the company (like a current event or what you like about their corporate culture) using any name-dropping that you can. Try to use this paragraph to connect with the recruiter on a more personal level.

The second paragraph is where you should start listing your special abilities. Match your skills to the needs listed in the job listing, and give evidence that you have these skills. This section can be bullet pointed if that fits the company culture. Make sure you’re getting to the point and not being too wordy, but still doing it in a way that allows you to tell your story. Most importantly, make sure you’re not just copying and pasting things from your resume in this section.

Lastly, summarize what you want or even just blatantly ask for the job. Again, this has to match not only your personality but the style of the industry as well. If being bold is valued and a quality that you have, then go for it! Don’t forget to include contact information and the best times to reach you as well. Thank them, and let them know you’ll be excited to hear from them soon… but don’t sound like a stalker.

Proof read the whole thing several times, and then send it! Now that wasn’t so bad… right?