Cover Letters: Sell Your Sizzle Not Your Steak

By Author: Jim DeSantis
Total Articles: 103
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Are you interested in changing careers? If you are, will you soon start examining all open jobs in or around your area, if you haven't already done so. Once you are able to find one or more jobs that meet or exceed your expectations, you will likely start submitting your resume. But, before you do that, you will want to place a focus on creating seperate cover letters for each position you are interested in.

If you already have a cover letter developed, you need to rethink it. If you do not, good. The reason it is good that you do not have a cover letter already written is because you need to carefully craft separate cover letters that speak to the requirements of each position you are applying for. "Cookie-cutter" cover letters just will not do.

Unfortunately, many job seekers do not realize the importance of cover letters and the impact they have so they opt for a one size fits all approach with only minor edits.

Here is why cover letters are so important, as well as some tips on how to make each cover targeted:

You need to understand that you have a choice about whether to use a cover letter. ...
... Cover letters are most commonly used with resumes that will be mailed in. However, when you submit a job application in person, you are able to introduce yourself to the individual who is collecting them so you actually become the cover letter in-the-flesh. This introduction is not possible when you simply mail in a resume. That is mainly what cover letters are used for. They give you the opportunity to quickly introduce yourself on paper before your resume is read.

Resume cover letters also serve as a backup plan. Although resume cover letters come in a number of different formats, you will introduce yourself, outline how you learned about the job, why you would like to have it, and why you are qualified for it. If properly written, a resume cover letter can act as a backup plan in that it likely will be read before your resume. This is important because as well crafted cover letter will entice the prospective employer to read your resume. As we know, not all resumes are perfect. Even if your resume is difficult to read, employers should still be able to use your cover letter to determine whether you should be contacted for a job interview.

So, what constitutes a good cover letter?

A previously stated, cover letters come in a number of different formats but they all have the same goal. That goal is to sell you as the perfect candidate for the job. When an employer reads your cover letter, you want them to turn the page to see your resume with anticipation. You want to sell your "sizzle" not your "steak".

When creating a resume cover letter for yourself, you will want to first introduce yourself and mention the job that you are applying for. You may even want to mention where you learned about the job opening. Many employers like hearing this information, as it gives them reassurance that their marketing tactics are working.

Now comes the "sizzle".

You will want to outline your work experience but state why you feel that experience makes you perfect for the position in which you are applying for. When it comes to listing your qualifications and work experience, it is important to be very brief, as this information can also be found on your resume. The most important statement in your cover letter should tell the prospective employer just how your "sizzle" (experience) will benefit their company. This will take a bit of advanced research so you understand just what the position entails. It may take a telephone call to the Human Resources person and ask a few questions about the position. This will give you an edge over the other applicants.

As mentioned, if you are planning on applying for multiple jobs, you will want to create multiple resume cover letters. This is important, as not all job opportunities are the same. You can create a resume cover letter template, but be sure to customize that template each time before submitting it to prospective employers. Customization and personalization are important, as it can help your resume and cover letter stand apart from all of the rest.

Remember, if you will be mailing your resume in, include a cover letter. If submitting your resume in person, you become the cover letter in-the-flesh. The choice is yours.

Jim DeSantis, a former TV NewsDirector, provides cutting edge employment tactics. For scripted job interview answers see Interviewer and for the latest resume' techniques see Guaranteed Resume'.