Module 25: Creating Persuasive Application / Cover Letters Flashcards
What’s the Point of the Application/Cover Letter?
A well-written application/cover letter captures the recruiter’s interest, so he or she will read your resumé. The letter also shows the specific company what you can offer.
The best letters are customized for their audiences, focusing on
Requirements of the job, using the language in the job posting
Skills and knowledge that differentiate you from other applicants
Language and information that demonstrate your knowledge of the organization and the industry
Experience expressed in transferable, marketable skills
What Kind of Letter Do I Write?
It depends on whether or not the company has asked for applications.
solicited letter
Write this kind when you know that the company is hiring because:
You’ve found a post or an ad
You’ve been advised to apply by a friend or acquaintance
You’ve read online or in a trade publication that the company is expanding
unsolicited or prospecting letter.
will help you tap into the hidden job market. In some cases, your prospecting letter may arrive at a company that has decided to hire but has not yet announced the job. In other cases, companies create positions to get a good person who is on the market.
How Are the Two Letters Different?
They begin and end differently.
When you know the company is hiring
1) State that you’re applying for the job (phrase the job title as your source phrased it)
2) Detail your major qualifications
3) Develop your other qualifications, even if the ad doesn’t ask for them
4) Demonstrate your knowledge of the organization; specify the match between your skills and experience and the organization’s needs
5) Ask for an interview
When you don’t have any evidence that the company is hiring
- Catch the reader’s interest.
- Create a bridge between the attention-getter and your qualifications.
- Develop your strong points in detail
- Ask for an interview and tell when you’ll be available for interviews
The First Paragraph of a Solicited Letter
When you know that the firm is hiring, refer to the specific position in the Subject line or your first sentence.
Identify where you learned about the job
First Paragraphs of Prospecting Letters
use the first paragraph to catch the reader’s interest. Then, in the second paragraph, shift the focus to your skills and experience, showing how the employer can benefit.
Last Paragraphs
indicate when you’d be available for an interview. If you’re free any time, say so
How Are the Two Letters the Same?
The body paragraphs discussing your qualifications are the same.
In both solicited and prospecting email letters, you should follow these guidelines.
Address the email to a specific person.
Refer to the position for which you’re applying.
Be specific about your qualifications.
Show what separates you from other applicants.
Demonstrate knowledge of the company and the position.
Refer to your resumé (which you would attach).
Ask for an interview.
How Long Should My Letter Be?
LO1
Highlight the fit between the position and your qualifications clearly and concisely.
How Do I Create the Right Tone?
Use you-attitude and positive emphasis.
