NYC Jobs
7 Steps to Writing an Amazing Cover Letter
Written By Jimmy Sweeney, President of CareerJimmy and Author of the new Amazing Cover Letter Creator.
Today's hiring managers are being bombarded with job applications, resumes, and cover letters. Some have a mile-high pile of paper on their desks and not nearly enough time to read and respond to it. So what is a dedicated job seeker to do in this tight economy when employers are overworked and overwhelmed?
Cover letters, like cakes, come in different flavors. Some are as predictable as plain vanilla. Others catch the hiring manager by surprise-like fresh strawberries under a layer of fudge frosting.
If you'd like to surprise the employer ready to fill the job you want, learn to write a cover letter that brings a smile and a nod of recognition that you're the one he or she has been waiting for.
Here's a no-fail recipe that will give your cover letter the edge.
Express yourself in a clear and friendly manner, using words that draw in the reader and compel him or her to read from top to bottom without a pause.
Write as though you were sitting together over a cup of coffee.
- Greet the hiring manager by name whenever possible (not Dear Sir or Madam).
- Create an attention-getting headline, such as: "Available Immediately: A Sales Manager Who Manages--And Cares"
- Write one or two sentences about your work experience. Pick something unique. "I expanded my sales territory by 30% without leaving my office." He or she can read more in your resume.
- Request an interview, providing a selection of available dates and times.
- Include your contact information--especially your cell phone number so you can be reached around the clock. Make sure your voice mail message is professional.
- Thank the hiring manager for reading your letter, making it clear that you understand he has many to choose from.
- Sign your name and then add a P.S. in a positive tone. Example: "Looking forward to shaking your hand in person."
A well-written cover letter that commands attention may bring you a quick reply--offering you an interview and perhaps the job itself.
Jimmy Sweeney is the president of CareerJimmy and author of the brand new Amazing Cover Letter Creator. Jimmy is also the author of several career related books and writes a monthly article titled, "Job Search Secrets."
Visit our friends at Amazing Cover Letters for your "instant" cover letter today. "In just 3 1/2 minutes you will have an amazing cover letter guaranteed to cut through YOUR competition like a hot knife through butter!"
Resource
- NYC Temp Jobs Mailing List -- Have you considered getting a temp job or part-time job while you go for training?