Fake It 'Till You Make It: Creating a Passionate Cover Letter

Are you applying for a new job but are not thrilled about the work it might entail? You may be seeking an entry-level position and don’t want to be someone’s assistant, yet you know it’s a necessary step to getting your foot in the door. If you feel this way, don’t be discouraged as you are not the first to experience this sentiment. However, in order to avoid expressing disinterest in the job before you’re ever interviewed you might want to redirect these feelings. One way to do this is by creating a passionate cover letter that can help you develop enthusiasm that doesn’t yet exist. Let’s look at some ways to get started … Know Why You’re Applying One way to get started is by exploring the reasons you’re applying for the job. In reality you might be applying because you really need the money, or because you want to move up the corporate ladder. However, try not to focus on these ideas and instead dig a little deeper to find your passion. For example, if you’re applying for a clerical job with a company that you really want to work for – yet you hate clerical work – think of some specifics you might enjoy about the position. You might love working on a computer and working with people. Or you might simply enjoy learning something new. Whatever those specifics are, try to focus your energy on them in a positive way so that your feelings can shine through in your words. Find Out What the Company Wants in an Employee Another way to bring out the passion in your cover letter is by studying the company’s job posting and visiting their corporate mission for more information on their goals. By doing this, you can wrap your mind around what they’re looking for in an employee, which is a great way to better align your goals and interests with theirs. Of course, you don’t want to take their message word-for-word, making it obvious that you’re using their ideas as your own. Instead, you can simply take their concepts and, in your own words, define how you will fit into their corporate structure. Taking this step can help you speak directly to their heart in language they understand while helping you better determine whether you and the company are truly a match. Maintain Professionalism While you’re divulging your enthusiasm for the position, it is a good idea to make sure that your passionate cover letter remains as professional as possible. For example, saying “I have waited my entire life for a job like this!” might sound disingenuous or naive to a prospective employer who knows the job will be tough. So instead, try writing, “This position perfectly rounds out my goals in the marketing profession and will offer me an excellent opportunity to serve a wider client base efficiently.” In doing so, you sound enthusiastic about the job opportunity while maintaining a professional tone. By taking on one or more of the above suggestions, you can create a passionate cover letter that expresses your desire to make a difference in the company – even if you’re not yet excited about it. So dig for that passion, express it well, and let your cover letter guide you to your next great job opportunity.