A cover letter is like a calling card. It's the hiring manager's first impression of you—before you walk into his or her office. In fact, you're not likely to get your foot in the door unless you first introduce yourself through a cover letter that delivers the goods—your name, background, skills, education, and work experience, as well as your interest in competing for the available job.
Keep in mind that in today's job search market, interviews are hard to land, and jobs are scarce in many industries. But that doesn't have to count you out unless you let it. You'll be noticed if you create a professional, eye-POPPING cover letter that nabs the hiring manager's attention, showing clearly the person you are—someone eager to work hard, get the job done, communicate clearly with fellow employees, foster the company's mission, and promote its goals.
Making a Difference—in a Different Kind of Way…
Imagine the response of a hiring manager to someone who can communicate clearly in writing and in person what he or she can accomplish if hired. Such an individual is rare in today's world where many people are more concerned with being taken care of than of taking care.
If you can show that you're willing to align with the company values, come alongside fellow workers, deliver leadership when called upon to do so, and offer creative solutions to problems, you will be snapped up. Hiring managers are looking for people with a strong character and human emotion—individuals who express a team spirit, family values, and a high work ethic.
Therefore, draft a cover letter that will stand up and deliver—your talent, your job skills, and your personality traits, as well as your earnest desire to fulfill the requirements of the position you're competing for.
Example: "I'm eager to join your team and am dedicated to serving your clients, increasing company profits by providing the best possible service, and living up to your impressive mission statement—"to serve and satisfy our clients with honesty and integrity." I've worked in this industry for five years, have had successful relationships with customers and fellow CPA's, and have been acknowledged for increasing the company's profile and profits in a way that reflected well on everyone concerned. May I come in for an interview to discuss how I can add my time and talent to your firm and learn from those of you already in practice?
When a hiring manager reads a professional cover letter of this quality, he or she will take a second look for sure. In fact, such a "stand up and deliver" cover letter will greatly increase the odds of a phone call for the job interview.
It takes extra effort to land jobs in these tough times. Your cover letter can work for you and with you, delivering a compelling reason why YOU should go to the front of the queue for an upcoming interview. And when you do, be ready to stand up and deliver what you promised!
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Author: Jimmy Sweeney
Amazing Cover Letters