Generic Cover Letters Don't Cut It

By Jennifer Anthony, Professional Resume Writer The internet makes it possible for jobseekers to apply for several job openings in a click of the mouse. Consequently, the competition is fierce in many job markets because the internet has opened doors to candidates that before might not have otherwise even known about the position. Due to the ease of applying to several positions at one time, many jobseekers are tempted to use a generic cover letter for each position they apply for. If you're one of them...STOP! They do not work and they will not get you noticed. What is more likely to happen is that it will be obvious that you did not take the time to sit down and really think about the position and how you can bring something worthwhile to it. Employers see so many cover letters that they can instantly tell the difference between one that has some thought put into it and one that has been created for multiple jobs. When creating your cover letter, visualize what the hiring individual will see. Put yourself in their shoes and stay there the entire time. Keep in mind what they go through during the hiring process. Imagine a stack of cover letters and resumes on your desk that you need to review and narrow down to only a handful. Now imagine if nearly every cover letter that you read says nothing about the job and simply gives an overview of what is already on the resume. It doesn't tell you how the applicant plans to use those experiences for the benefit of the company. It just summarizes the information in the resume...BORING! Are you asleep yet? Suddenly, you pick up a cover letter that sparks your interest and lists position specific information and portrays a sense of excitement from the candidate. You are more apt to continue reading this one right? When applying for any job opening you must sell yourself. The first chance you have to grab their attention and let them know your resume is worth reading is with your cover letter. First impressions play a big part in the hiring process and that impression might be the only chance you have. Take the time necessary to really consider what your cover letter should reveal about you and the position you are applying to. Research the company and combine any information you find fitting with your experiences and qualifications to fill your cover letter with relevant information. By doing your research, you are showing the hiring manager that you are willing to take the steps necessary to go the extra mile. The fact that most people never do this will put you one-step ahead of your competition. © Jennifer Anthony - www.jennwrites.com License: Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 3.0 (United States)