Resume Cover Letters

Ring in the New Year With More Job Interviews!

2014-01-21T14:26:00.000+08:00

Happy New Year! Decide now that this New Year will not be more of the same old, same old. The year is new. You're new. Opportunities are new—and you're going to take advantage of all of them. That means brushing up on your interviewing skills, learning something you didn't know before, and incorporating what you learn into your new job interview.

After a good night's sleep, ask yourself the following questions—questions that require honest answers if you're going to land the job you want and are qualified for.

1. What job do I really want?

2. What company do I want to work for?

3. What are my qualifications based on my training, education, and experience?

4. What skills and traits can I bring to the company?

5. What do I expect from the company I work for?

A Great Interview Depends on You

Hiring managers today are interested in your professional accomplishments. But even more so they want to find out what kind of individual you are. Could they count on you to be dependable, trustworthy, honest, kind, and professional in every situation? Will you be a leader when called upon, a person with a vision when asked about the future, and a caring co-worker when a fellow employee is in trouble? This is a tall order but one worth thinking about because it is these subtle traits that will come through during the interview.

Give Up Fear in the New Year

Become your own best friend. Picture yourself in that role day after day. If it feels good and right, then be ready to share specific details with the interviewer on how you handled day-to-day operations, fielded customer service requests, or made important decisions. Weave your stories into the conversation and in response to questions asked.

Finally, check your emotions. If you're feeling excited about this opportunity, then you're ready for the interview. If you're unsure, choose a different position to respond to. You'll be living in this job for a long time, so you want it to be a good fit—one that will make you happy and make a difference in those around you.

Happy New Year and Happy New Job Interview opportunities—that just might lead to the job of your dreams.

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 3½ minutes you will have an amazing cover letter guaranteed to cut through YOUR competition like a hot knife through butter!"

New Cover Letter 2014

2014-01-03T20:23:00.000+08:00

A New Year and a Brand-Spankin' New Cover Letter!

10 . . . 9 . . . 8 . . .! The hours tick away one by one till they run down and out and a brand new year dawns. What will you do with this bright New Year ahead? Simply count down till it too is over, or make it count for you and your career starting now ?

This is the hour. This is the day to create a new cover letter that will lead to a new interview for a new job—the one you've wanted for so long. That may take some doing, some thinking and planning, and some wanting—wanting enough to make it happen.

Following are five key ingredients to insure a new and compelling cover letter—one you can write.

1. A smashing headline—a carefully written phrase that will grab the hiring manager's attention and make him or her want to read more. Place the headline right below the greeting in your cover letter. Example:

Why I believe I'm the most qualified person to fill the position of

[Insert job opening title here].

Just say the words, "You're hired for [Insert job title here]" and you

won't be disappointed.

2. Short sentences with simple words. Stay away from long-winded writing that drives the reader away, wondering what you really meant to say. Examples:

For ten years I led a sales team at ABC Corporation that exceeded all stated goals.

I will do the job right—right away.

3. One page--tops. Put it all on a single page—not one and a half or two. Just one! Get right to the point of why you're qualified. Leave the details for your resume.

4. Appreciation. Regardless of the outcome, say 'thank you' in writing for being considered. Everyone deserves gratitude. Examples:

Thank you for reading and considering my letter.

May we meet in person to discuss this job in detail?

I am grateful for the opportunity to contact you with this cover letter.

I'd welcome meeting in person to talk specifics.

5. A cheery P.S. below your signature line. Here is a polite and light-hearted way to remind the hiring manager of your next step. Examples:

P.S. I'll phone you on January 5 when you return to the office. I welcome a chance to meet and speak in person about (insert job title here). If you have any questions, please call me at 333-333-3333. Thank you in advance.

P.S. I'm eager to assume the position of (insert job title here). Are you free to meet to talk over the details? Please call me at 333-333-3333. Thank you again.

If you write a cover letter with these outstanding ingredients, you'll be among the very few job seekers that know how to reach a hiring manager in a personal and professional manner. He or she will be motivated to seriously consider you as a candidate for the job opening. What a great new year you could have—all because you took time to create a great new cover letter. Then it will be just a matter of counting down the hours till you're hired.

Avoid These "Big Bad" Words In Your Cover Letter

2013-09-29T18:42:00.000+08:00

Avoid These "Big Bad" Words In Your Cover Letter

Be aware! The Big Bad Word virus can attack your cover letters when you least expect it, knocking out your message and destroying every sentence. And worst of all, if your letter reaches a hiring manager before you've caught the culprit, you could lose your opportunity for a job interview. So the best thing to do is be on guard ahead of time so this nasty virus never touches any of your cover letters.

What are the Signs?

As you write your cover letters, such words as pursuant, heretofore, credence, and others like them will suddenly pop onto the page. That will be your first clue. Delete them without hesitation and vow never again to give them access to your writing.

Keep in mind that hiring managers are regular people–just like you and me. Most don't have a big fat dictionary at their fingertips in order to wade through what should be a clear and concisely worded job search cover letter. They want to pick up one to two pages that communicate a simple message about why you are interested in the job they want to fill and why you are qualified to do so.

Everyday conversational language with a light touch and some specific details about what you can do for the company and why you're the one for the job will make the difference between being noticed and being overlooked. Remember your letter is a handshake, a how do you do, a greeting that introduces yourself and your skills and experience for the hiring manager to consider and act upon.

Try this:

I was very pleased to see your job post for a position as assistant sales

manager at ABC Publishing Company. I've been in the publishing

industry for seven years and wouldn't trade it for any other. I especially

like presenting products to bookstore buyers, letting them know about

the great books that will enhance the lives of their customers.

I'd welcome meeting you in person to share a list of ideas that I'd like to

put in place so we can build up the sales force and exceed quarterly goals.

I look forward to hearing from you, and setting a date for an interview.

Toss this:

Pursuant to said resume attached, I have compiled a list of my personal and professional characteristics, and carefully analyzed those necessary to extrapolate my purpose and penchant for the kind of work you articulated in your description of the job opening you are hoping to fill with a person of high quality, extreme integrity and willingness to meet expectations. That said, I ask your kind permission to schedule a private meeting with you so I might further explore . . .

At this point, if the employer even reads that far, he or she will likely shred the letter as well as any thought of calling you for an interview.

Before printing your letter read it out loud—to another person, if possible. The moment you or your friend or colleague hear a word or phrase that twists your tongue and turns your mind to mush, take it out. Rewrite until the words and sentences flow. If you feel yourself smile, you'll know you are conversing like a real human being. Mention your passion for the job and then ask for an interview.

Clear concise language is so rare in the business world today, that those who can master it will land the interview of their dreams–and the job that's behind it!

Less is More Cover Letter

2013-09-07T17:44:00.000+08:00

Hot Cover Letter Tip: "Less is MORE!"

You've probably heard the catchy phrase, "less is more." Less meat, more heart health. Less stress, more peace of mind. Less work, more play.

But you may not have heard that less is more in a job search cover letter. In fact, just the opposite might make sense. Wouldn't the job hunter want to tell the hiring manager as much as possible so there won't be any room for doubt that he or she is the right person for the job? It would seem that the more information the employer has the easier it would be to determine the best man or woman for the job.

Avoid Overkill!

At first glance that might seem like the way to go—but actually there is real wisdom in delivering the wheat and leaving out the chaff. In other words, why clutter a cover letter with information the employer does not need or want?

Generally there is an avalanche of mail on a hiring manager's desk each morning. Imagine how daunting it is to go through all the cover letters the first time and then perhaps a second or even third round in order to choose the most promising candidates for the jobs that need filling.

Some job hunters make the mistake of writing three- and four-page letters and also include family photos. Grandma or Aunt Martha might enjoy such hearty content but the busy hiring manager does not.

Rather, give just the right amount of detail in order to motivate him or her to invite you in for an interview where you can talk in person. At that point the employer might actually want to hear about your family and your pastimes. But you're not there yet.

Here are the items to include in your initial cover letter:

1. Your name and contact information.

Provide your contact phone or email.

2. Your interest in the job you're competing for.

Show your passion for the work, your excitement about sales or management or whatever.

3. Your qualifications and experience.

Mention your talents and skills and provide an example of a way you resolved a conflict or averted a disaster or increased the bottom line.

4. Your knowledge of the company.

Mention the company mission and your desire to help carry it out.

5. Your availability for starting the job.

Can you begin immediately or within a certain number of weeks?

6. Your request for an in-person interview.

Be sure to ask to meet with the hiring manager so you can speak in more detail about his or her expectations and your willingness to match them.

Here are the items to leave out of your cover letter:

1. Your hobbies.

2. Your family details.

3. Your history.

4. Your vacation plans.

5. . . . and any other personal information that does not apply to the job.

If you land an interview you may then have an opportunity to talk informally so you and the employer can get to know one another, but keep in mind that it's not appropriate at the cover letter stage of the relationship.

At this first stage––less is more! You can count on that.

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2013-02-02T17:10:00.000+08:00

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Bring on the New Year—With a Brand New Cover Letter

2013-01-06T15:25:00.000+08:00

Here it is—2013––the new year we've been waiting for over the past couple of months. It's the perfect time to put your goals in order with a sizzlin' new cover letter at the top of your list.

Employers are setting their goals as well. They're in the market for qualified job-hunters, people who are ready and willing to fill responsible and good-paying positions in their companies. You can be one of those individuals. Introduce yourself with a well-written cover letter that catches their eye and compels them to select you for an interview.

More Job Interviews in the New Year!

What does it take to create a cover letter that shines with friendly language and practical information? Four simple ingredients:

1. A warm greeting.

Dear Ms. Smith:

Happy New Year! I was excited to see your ad for a qualified person to fill the position of general manager of the ABC Corporation. It seems you were writing directly to me, as I have had managerial experience over the past five years . . .

2. A clear point.

In fact, all of the duties I've performed as assistant manager of XYZ Company have prepared me for the next level. I am ready and eager to assume the full responsibilities of general manager. I'm known for my leadership as well as my ability to handle a crisis with a level head . . .

3. A tangible goal.

My objective for the next twelve months is to encourage my peers and subordinates and to increase the bottom line of the company I work for. Customer service and satisfying employee relations are my primary goals . . .

4. A future plan.

May we meet in person to discuss this job? I'd welcome the opportunity to hear your objectives for the man or woman you hire and to provide you with examples of why I believe I'm the person to fill the position and to help promote the company's vision and mission. Please call me at 555-555-5555 at your convenience.

Glad Tidings To You!

Finish writing your cover letter and then take a long and honest look at it. Does it include the four ingredients listed above? Does it sound friendly yet professional? Does it reflect you at your best? If your answer to any of these questions is 'no' then go back and rework that section until it feels just right. Cut, chop, slice, and dice any words or phrases that don't match your personality. Keep in mind the most important thing you can do on paper and in person is to be yourself.

Raise Your Glass to A Fruitful New Year!

Add a splash of kindness, a sprinkling of facts, and a dollop of personality. Mix with an attitude of gratitude. Then raise your glass to the New Year—the year that will lead you to new employment and new opportunities––the result of a great cover letter that presents your unique self.

Happy New Year and happy job hunting!

Visit our friends at AmazingCover Letters for your "instant" cover letter today. "In just 3½ minutes you will have an amazing cover letter guaranteed to cut through YOUR competition like a hot knife through butter!"

Gift Yourself an AMAZING Cover Letter for the Holidays…

2012-12-16T12:20:00.000+08:00

Do you look forward to the holidays––and dread them at the same time? November and December often blur together as we move from Thanksgiving to the December Holidays. And the next thing you know it's time to celebrate the next twelve months on New Year's Eve!

If this sounds familiar, you, like many people, may be caught in a holi-daze. Cooking, shopping, entertaining, cleaning, and organizing take over. If you're in the market for a new job you may be tempted to put off writing that cover letter till all the celebrations are over.

Don't Give In

Tempting as it might be to glide through the next month, avoid it if you can. The holiday season is actually a great time to keep moving along with your job-search goal. You'll get a jump on all the job seekers who are waiting until January.

While the kids are playing with their holiday toys and games, and visitors are resting or sightseeing, sneak off to another room and spend time drafting a brand new cover letter. Set your sights on what is ahead. Look forward to all the good that will come your way in 2012.

A well-written job-search cover letter is a gift to give yourself—one that will give back to you all through the new year.

Such a letter will:

· Put you in touch with hiring managers

· Plant your name in the mind of those who read your cover letter

· Place you in the running for an interview for a specific job

· Promote your work experience and skills to decision-makers

Get Started Now

Here are four steps you can take immediately to write the kind of cover letter that will capture a hiring manager's attention, one that will compel him or her to contact you for a job interview by phone or in person.

Step 1. Meet the hiring manager's needs. Show him or her how you, the job seeker, can benefit his or her company––if you're hired to fill the open position.

Example:

I'm aware through my friend Rich Lewis, your company CPA,that you're interested in hiring someone to expand your sales territory in the southwest . . . I'd like to accept this challenge. I have a master's degree in Sales and Marketing . . . I opened six new accounts in less than six months while employed by Fenwick and Bolton Textile Company in North Carolina.

Step 2. Ask for what you want.

Example:

May we get together in person to talk about how your expectations for the person you hire and my job expertise can benefit your company.

Step 3. State your goal.

Example:

I'll phone you by the end of the week to schedule an appointment that works for you. If you prefer to speak before then, please call or email me using the contact info above.

Step 4. Show your appreciation.

Example:

Thank you for the opportunity to introduce myself. I'm enthusiastic about meeting in person to see how I might help fill the opening and enhance the vision of your company.

Keep in mind that hiring managers need you to do their job. They must hire people to fill the available positions. Make them look good by showing the benefits you can bring.

Let your cover letter work for you, not against you. Focus on the hiring manager's needs and in turn, he or she will give you what you want—an interview for the job of your dreams.

Celebrate the Holidays With a Job-Winning Interview!

2012-11-11T16:25:00.000+08:00

Celebrate the Holidays With a Job-Winning Interview!

This year, however, you may want to consider taking the following three steps to achieve a happy and restful season:

Slow down. You don't have to do it all yourself. Enlist the help of family and friends with cooking, gift-wrapping, and mailing.

Simplify. Let go of some of the time-consuming rituals so you can relax and enjoy the celebrations. Order gifts online. Set up a potluck. Pay a teen to clean up.

Stop! Take a breather—and while you're resting, make a list (and check it twice!) of where you are now and where you want to be a year from now.

If being employed in a new position is on that list, remember that every great job starts with a terrific interview. Start thinking about what you'll bring to this meeting: your appearance, your ability to speak with confidence, and your skills and work experience that will grab a hiring manager's attention. Use some of the spare time you have during the holidays to make a plan so that when you're called for an interview you'll be ready.

Take Charge

Keep in mind that today's hiring manager is more interested in who you are as a person than who you are as a professional. Behavior-based interviewing is now the norm. Employers are looking at a candidate's previous performance as an indicator of future behavior. They're not only interested in your resume, but also in the way you interact with others and how you respond when part of a team. They want to know what they can expect if they hire you and how you'll handle tricky situations that call for calm and confident leadership. It will be up to you to convince them that you're the one for this job.

Tell the Truth

Following are some of the hard-edged questions and directives you could face in a behavior-based interview. Answer each one honestly to the best of your ability.

1. Tell me about a time you took charge of a situation that was out of control.

2. Give an example of a goal you set at work and how you achieved it.

3. Have you performed beyond the requirement of the job you held? If so, how?

4. If you made a mistake in judgment how would you handle it with management?

5. How have you dealt with difficult co-workers or customers?

Be prepared to provide details, dialogue, and a description of what occurred and how you resolved it.

Trust in Yourself—A Three-Point Review

1. Recognize your good qualities and review them often in your mind.

2. Jot down a few experiences that illustrate situations and times when you successfully resolved conflict, stood up for the truth despite criticism, or used your creativity to negotiate a challenging relationship.

3. Take your emotional pulse. If you're smiling and feeling comfortable and well suited to the job in question, go for it. If you feel stressful, confused, or overwhelmed, consider setting this opportunity aside and looking for a job more appropriate to your skills and experience.

Once you're clear in your mind that this is the job you want, you'll be able to walk into any interview and establish a good rapport with the hiring manager. Following that,

all that's left is the question only you can ask and answer for yourself. "Is this the job for me?"

Happy holidays! May you land the interview that will lead to the job you really want.

President of CareerJimmy and Author of the new,

Job Interview "Secret"

How To Use A "Thanksgiving" Cover Letter

2012-10-30T20:25:00.000+08:00

President of CareerJimmy.com

Author of the brand new, AmazingCover Letter Creator

Hungry job seekers focus their cover letters on what they want, what they expect, and what they can do. Then they wait for the phone to ring to book an interview. That's one way to approach the job search market.

Essential as these points are, however, they're not nearly as effective as opening and closing a cover letter with two simple words—THANK YOU.

Why say thank you when you don't know the hiring manager and you don't have the job yet? Here's why. Behind every desk in every company sits a human being just like you, a person with hopes and dreams, plans and challenges, and a desire to be acknowledged and appreciated.

One day your cover letter will land on his or her desk. Will you jump off the page as a person ideal for the job, a team player, someone who'll be a great addition to the staff? I hope so, but more important, will you come across as someone who has a humble and grateful attitude, an individual who recognizes the value of an opportunity, the privilege of holding a job and working with others toward a common goal? That profile is what every hiring manager is looking for.

Giving Thanks Could Land You a Job!

Thank you. These two simple words seem to be in hiding because they so rarely appear in public! But they are golden, even more so than your resume, skills, and qualifications—because they set the stage for what is to come. What man or woman wouldn't respond to someone who is polite, personal, and professional?

Following are examples of how to express your thanks at the beginning of your cover letter and at the end.

Example #1:

Dear Mr. Hiring Manager:

(beginning)

Thank you for taking a moment to read my cover letter. I'm pleased to meet you here and hope to do so in person. I was happy to see on careerjimmy.com your listing for an administrative assistant—a position for which I feel qualified and eager to fill.

(ending)

Thank you again for reading my letter and resume and for considering me for the job. May I come in for an interview so I can hear your perspective on this position and the qualities you're looking for in the person you hire? I can be available any time that works for you. I appreciate this opportunity very much.

Example #2:

Dear Mr. Hiring Manager:

(beginning)

Thank you for posting on careerjimmy.com such a clear description of the opening for an administrative assistant now available at your company. I was able to tell at a glance that this job is just what I've been looking for and feel qualified to fill.

(ending)

You must receive hundreds of cover letters every week––all the more reason for me to thank you again for taking time to read mine and for considering me for the position of executive secretary on your administrative staff. I'd welcome the opportunity to meet with you in person for an interview so we can discuss what I can bring to the job and what you expect from the person you hire.

After sending off your cover letter, take a moment to expand your thanks silently.

· For the job that is waiting for you, even if you haven't landed it yet

· For the person who will hire you when the time comes

· For the experience, talent, and skill you have to earn a living

· For the people in your life who love and support you

Thanksgiving Day is not the only time to give thanks. Move gratitude to the top of your list at home, at work, and in the community and you will find what you're looking for in the job market and in your relationships.

Visit our friends at AmazingCover Letters for your "instant" cover letter today. "In just 3½ minutes you will have an amazing cover letter guaranteed to cut through YOUR competition like a hot knife through butter!"

Job Interview Questions To Ask And Avoid

2012-05-06T22:11:00.001+08:00

No job interview is easy. You need to be smart in answering as well as asking questions. Knowing what questions to ask and avoid is one of your keys to success. Although asking intelligent questions won’t guarantee an offer, but asking bad or inappropriate questions will definitely kill. I’ve recently read an article from Jimmy Sweeny which contains valuable tips about what to ask and avoid over a job interview. Here’s the article.

Questions to ASK and AVOID during your next job interview…

The phone call you've waited for has finally come! You've been invited in for a job interview. Now your nerves are on edge. You know what to wear but you may not know what questions to ask or avoid, or if you'll even have an opportunity to speak up other than to answer questions fired at you.

Don't worry. There will be time for you to voice your concerns and inquiries. The important thing is to know what questions to ask and which ones to set aside—for now. Keep in mind that interviewers want to speak with job seekers who are sharp, confident, and professional. This is no time to be passive and overly polite, though courtesy is always appropriate. Remember, you're vying for the job you want. Take an active role in asking questions by being prepared ahead of time.

Consider These:

· What factors about this company are attractive to you?

· What makes this firm a great place to build a career?

· How do you see the future of this company?

· What is the most challenging aspect of working for this organization?

· In your opinion, what would be the biggest adjustment for someone new?

Answers to these questions can help you decide whether or not this is the place you want to work. They will also help you respond to the questions you're asked. You'll be ready to answer in a way that will show you were listening, paying attention, and taking note of management's vision and objectives for the company.

Questions to Avoid

Steer clear of questions that you can answer yourself by doing a bit of basic research online—such as the kind of work you'd be doing, or the level of leadership that would be expected of you or the focus of the company. Walk into the interview armed with as much information as possible and then ask only those questions that will help you decide whether to accept or decline the job offer if it is presented.

Also avoid asking questions related to salary, benefits, vacation, sick days and so on. At this point you have not yet been offered the position. You are being 'screened.'

There will come a time and place to discuss pay and benefits, but the interview is not that place.

Use What You Learn

The most important thing you can do during an interview is to show yourself as someone the hiring manager wants. Focus on displaying your skills and experience and how you can fit the profile of the person the interviewer is looking for. This gives you leverage for negotiating salary and benefits when the job offer comes through.

Be aware of the impression you'd make if you ask questions that have nothing to do with the job opportunity. An interview is not a social visit or a time to talk about sports and hobbies. It's a business meeting that has one purpose: to determine if you are the right person to fill the opening. If the interviewer asks a few questions about your interests, it's fine to answer them honestly. He or she wants to get to know you—but avoid getting off-track with long-winded responses that take the focus off the job.

Common sense is your best ally. Be yourself. Do your homework. Show up neatly dressed. Arrive on time. Know the right questions to ask, and the ones to avoid. And bring enthusiasm, a smile, and a firm handshake.

President of CareerJimmy and Author of the new, Amazing Cover Letter and Secret Career Document

Ring in the New Year With a Brand New Cover Letter

2012-01-05T16:37:00.000+08:00

With the turn of a page or the click of an app you'll be looking at January 2012 on your calendar—a perfect time to start fresh with a brand new cover letter to help you land the job you've been dreaming about.

Employers are ready for a new beginning, as well. They want to match qualified job-hunters with quality jobs. You can be one of the people they're looking for. Get started now with a top-notch cover letter that catches their attention and compels them to call you in for an interview.

Raise Your Glass!

Imagine yourself chatting with a friend over a Coke or coffee. You'd speak in everyday English with a relaxed and easy tone. No clutter. No camouflage. No confusion. You'd talk and smile, toast the new year, and end with a handshake or a hug.

Think of a winning cover letter in the same way. It's a friendly, yet professional form of communication that does the job clearly and succinctly so each party understands what's important, necessary, and useful. To reach this goal, here are five tips for writing a brand new cover letter that will bring you face-to-face with a hiring manager who wants to hire—you!

Be friendly. Start you letter with a warm greeting.
Example: Thank you for listing your description of the position of store manager now open at your company.

Be focused. Stick to the point of your cover letter.
Example: My experience as an assistant store manager has motivated me to move to a new level of leadership. I feel ready to assume the full responsibilities of store manager.

Be forthright. State your goal.
Example: May we meet in person to talk over this job? I'd welcome an opportunity to hear what you're looking for in the man or woman you hire and to share more fully why I believe I'm qualified to fill this position.

Be far-sighted. See what's ahead.
Example: I plan to invest myself in the company for the long run and to do my best to promote its mission and vision.

Be firm. Say what you mean.
Example: I've played sports all my life and know the value of performing and leading with integrity, enthusiasm, and commitment to reach the team's objective.

Kick the Clutter!

Read your cover letter aloud. Take a hard look. Does any of your writing sound like this?

"Regarding your listing for a job in administration on jobsaplenty.com I am taking time today to respond to that post in high hopes that you will take some time to consider me for the job of administrative assistant, given that I have six years of doing this type of work for the employer I used to work for before I saw your listing. It would be great if you decided to interview me, although I realize there are other people hoping to win this job but if you meet me in person I think you'll agree I'm a good candidate. If you want I can provide you with more information about my qualifications. Just ask. Please consider me for this job. I have been unemployed for the past six months and need to get to work soon so I can pay my bills and keep my family going."

Now's the time to cut, slice, and chop any words that give the impression you're desperate, discouraged, or disappointed. Follow the suggestions in the list above and you'll create a cover letter that will catch any hiring manager's attention.

Tip Your Hat!

Add a dash of personality, a pinch of humility, and a bit of gratitude. Then tip your hat to the new year—the year that will change your life and your employment because of a great cover letter that is uniquely yours.

Happy New Year and happy job hunting!

Celebrate the Holidays With a Job-Winning Interview

2011-12-08T21:46:00.000+08:00

Whether you light a pine tree for Christmas, a Menorah for Hanukkah, or kinara candles for Kwanzaa, the holiday season for each of us can be a bit overwhelming. Shopping, decorating, gift-wrapping, cooking, baking, and entertaining consume our time and thoughts.
This year, however, you may want to consider taking the following three steps to achieve a happy and restful season:

Slow down. You don't have to do it all yourself. Enlist the help of family and friends with cooking, gift-wrapping, and mailing.

Simplify. Let go of some of the time-consuming rituals so you can relax and enjoy the celebrations. Order gifts online. Set up a potluck. Pay a teen to clean up.

Stop! Take a breather—and while you're resting, make a list (and check it twice!) of where you are now and where you want to be a year from now.

If being employed in a new position is on that list, remember that every great job starts with a terrific interview. Start thinking about what you'll bring to this meeting: your appearance, your ability to speak with confidence, and your skills and work experience that will grab a hiring manager's attention. Use some of the spare time you have during the holidays to make a plan so that when you're called for an interview you'll be ready.

Take Charge

Tell the Truth

Following are some of the hard-edged questions and directives you could face in a behavior-based interview. Answer each one honestly to the best of your ability.
1. Tell me about a time you took charge of a situation that was out of control.
2. Give an example of a goal you set at work and how you achieved it.
3. Have you performed beyond the requirement of the job you held? If so, how?
4. If you made a mistake in judgment how would you handle it with management?
5. How have you dealt with difficult co-workers or customers?
Be prepared to provide details, dialogue, and a description of what occurred and how you resolved it.

Trust in Yourself—A Three-Point Review

1. Recognize your good qualities and review them often in your mind.
2. Jot down a few experiences that illustrate situations and times when you successfully resolved conflict, stood up for the truth despite criticism, or used your creativity to negotiate a challenging relationship.
3. Take your emotional pulse. If you're smiling and feeling comfortable and well suited to the job in question, go for it. If you feel stressful, confused, or overwhelmed, consider setting this opportunity aside and looking for a job more appropriate to your skills and experience.

Once you're clear in your mind that this is the job you want, you'll be able to walk into any interview and establish a good rapport with the hiring manager. Following that,
all that's left is the question only you can ask and answer for yourself. "Is this the job for me?"

Happy holidays! May you land the interview that will lead to the job you really want.

Jimmy Sweeney is the president of CareerJimmy and author of the brand new "Secret Career Document" job landing system. Jimmy is also the author of several career related books and writes a monthly article titled, "Job Search Secrets."

Visit our friends at Job Interview "Secret" and discover Jimmy Sweeney's breakthrough strategy that will have you standing out from the competition like a Harvard graduate at a local job fair… DURING your next job interview.

AMAZING Cover Letter for the Holidays

2011-12-01T10:52:00.000+08:00

Give Yourself an AMAZING Cover Letter for the Holidays

Do you look forward to the holidays––and dread them at the same time? November and December often blur together as we move from Thanksgiving to the December Holidays. And the next thing you know it's time to celebrate the next twelve months on New Year's Eve!

If this sounds familiar, you, like many people, may be caught in a holi-daze. Cooking, shopping, entertaining, cleaning, and organizing take over. If you're in the market for a new job you may be tempted to put off writing that cover letter till all the celebrations are over.

Don't Give In

Tempting as it might be to glide through the next month, avoid it if you can. The holiday season is actually a great time to keep moving along with your job-search goal. You'll get a jump on all the job seekers who are waiting until January.

While the kids are playing with their holiday toys and games, and visitors are resting or sightseeing, sneak off to another room and spend time drafting a brand new cover letter. Set your sights on what is ahead. Look forward to all the good that will come your way in 2012.

A well-written job-search cover letter is a gift to give yourself—one that will give back to you all through the new year.

Such a letter will:
• Put you in touch with hiring managers
• Plant your name in the mind of those who read your cover letter
• Place you in the running for an interview for a specific job
• Promote your work experience and skills to decision-makers

Get Started Now

Here are four steps you can take immediately to write the kind of cover letter that will capture a hiring manager's attention, one that will compel him or her to contact you for a job interview by phone or in person.

Step 1. Meet the hiring manager's needs. Show him or her how you, the job seeker, can benefit his or her company––if you're hired to fill the open position.

Example:
I'm aware through my friend Rich Lewis, your company CPA,
that you're interested in hiring someone to expand your sales
territory in the southwest . . . I'd like to accept this challenge.
I have a master's degree in Sales and Marketing . . . I opened six
new accounts in less than six months while employed by Fenwick
and Bolton Textile Company in North Carolina.

Step 2. Ask for what you want.

Example:
May we get together in person to talk about how your expectations
for the person you hire and my job expertise can benefit your company.

Step 3. State your goal.

Example:
I'll phone you by the end of the week to schedule an appoint-
ment that works for you. If you prefer to speak before
then, please call or email me using the contact info above.

Step 4. Show your appreciation.

Example:
Thank you for the opportunity to introduce myself. I'm
enthusiastic about meeting in person to see how I might help
fill the opening and enhance the vision of your company.

Keep in mind that hiring managers need you to do their job. They must hire people to fill the available positions. Make them look good by showing the benefits you can bring.

Let your cover letter work for you, not against you. Focus on the hiring manager's needs and in turn, he or she will give you what you want—an interview for the job of your dreams.

Article source: Jimmy Sweeney. Jimmy 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."

Tips for Resume Writing and Layout

2011-08-08T20:50:00.000+08:00

Here are some tips for resume writing and layout from McKinsey, one of the world's most admired employers by other employers. Let's read some tips from an empoyer's perspective before we we talk about the hands-on skills to write an impressive resume.

Your resume/CV should be neatly typed and clearly laid out.
Use a reasonably sized font (e.g., size 10 or larger) and allow some margin around the text for reviewer’s notes.
Do not be overly creative with the formatting—it will only distract from the real focus of the document, which is you.
Write clearly and don’t forget to check your grammar and spelling.
Include your name and contact details at the top, with daytime and evening phone numbers and an e-mail address.
Lay out your prior jobs (if any) in reverse chronological order, with your most recent role at the top.
It is best to list dates on the left hand side. You should be able to explain any gaps in your career or educational history.
The length of your resume/CV will depend on you and your achievements—but don’t pad it out! The trick is to be concise, but not incomplete.

Remember, the person reading your resume/CV may not be familiar with your specific credentials. Avoid using any jargon. Ask friends from different backgrounds to read it for you. If they're impressed without being confused, you're looking good.

The first part of the candidate screening process at McKinsey is a resume review. We use a resume to help us determine whom to invite to our interviewing process. Therefore, it is important for your resume to be the best possible reflection of you and of your achievements to date.

Your resume should not only accurately reflect your achievements to date, but also provide some sense of the scale of those achievements. A successful resume will also give the reader a sense for who you are as a person, as reflected in the activities and achievements you view as important in your life.

Source: Mckinsey Tips for Resume Writing and Layout

Cover Letter Blog - Resume Writing and Layout

How To Write A Resume

2011-08-01T21:57:00.000+08:00

Learn how to write a resume that earns you interviews

Google and Apple always dominate the first positions when employees vote for the most admired employers. Do you know who the most admired employers are in the eyes of other employers?

Well, you may not have thought about this. It is McKinsey. How do I know? Because I’m a headhunter. I’m not here to advertise for McKinsey. Nor is there a public poll on the topic. It is from my personal experience as a headhunter. Many employers had their pupils dilated when they found the word McKinsey on a resume; some even specifically require candidates with McKinsey experience. Of course we won’t tell candidates about this in order not to violate any discrimination law.

McKinsey is one of the world’s top consulting firms with major rivals being Bain and BCG.

My topic today is “How to Write A Resume”. So what has McKinsey to do with this? There is one big good reason I pick McKinsey to kick start my resume writing section in this blog. Because if you know how McKinsey reviews your resume or what they expect from your resume, there is a great chance that other employers are looking for the same.

In fact, McKinsey sets very clear and informative guidance in resume writing in their website. One of the most comprehensive and well written among many of the world’s top employers’ websites. If you want to write a compelling resume that earns you interviews, begin with McKinsey’s resume guidance on Education, Experience, Skills and Achievements and Languages.

Click here to learn How To Write A Resume with McKinsey Guidance

"Be Yourself" Cover Letter

2011-07-03T14:54:00.001+08:00

Introducing the "Be Yourself" Cover Letter…

When you're nervous about speaking to a stranger at a party or reluctant to ask a hiring manager for a job interview, consider the age-old advice, "Be Yourself." We've all heard that phrase over and over and yet few apply it. Why? Because most don't believe they're good enough or smart enough or talented enough just as they are. They seem to think that if they add a bit of pizzazz or comedy they can overshadow their weaknesses. But the opposite is true. The other person can see right through the performance, whether in person at a cocktail party, or on paper in a job search cover letter. When they feel 'snowed' by such verbiage, they will likely move on to the next candidate.

Therefore, the best way to get what you want—an interview for the job you're suited for an excited about—is to be who you are right now.

1. Write in conversational English.

Dear Mr. Hiring Manager:

I saw your listing asking for experienced administrative assistants to contact you about a new position at your company. I got excited when I realized that what you are looking for in the person you hire are the very traits and skills I can bring to this job. If possible, I'd like to meet with you in person to talk over specifics and to show you that I understand and can apply your company's mission statement to the work I perform . . .

2. Mention your unique abilities.

While working at ABC Corporation for the past six years I had many

opportunities to contact clients directly, answering their questions and helping them make decisions about which of our products and services to use. I was acknowledged for going the extra mile that resulted in increased sales and revenue for the company. I can do the same for you.

3. Conclude your letter with personal words of thanks.

Thank you very much for reading my cover letter and resume. I appreciate it and look forward to meeting you in person for an interview.

The truer you are to your personality the more likely you are to land an interview for the job you want.

Visit Jimmy on the web at Amazing Cover Letters.com for your 'instant' cover letter today. In just 3 ½ minutes you will have an amazing cover letter guaranteed to cut through YOUR competition like a hot knife through butter!

Cover Letter Example - Executive Assistant

2011-06-09T12:59:00.003+08:00

Here is a live cover letter example for an executive assistant role, which I write recently. The candidate has been interviewed and hired. I've been recruiting ibankers, you may wonder why I write this. In fact, I write this as a career doctor for my patient. If you want to find out the background of this letter, click on the 'Career ICU' button at the top bar of this blog.

Thanks so much for posting your need for an executive assistant on xxx.com. I've had 10 years of experience assisting my previous employers in a similar role and I know I can contribute to your company the skills I've developed in these jobs––organization, dependability, multi-tasking, and positive problem-solving.

Could we meet for an interview? I'm eager to find out your expectations for the person you hire and to show you how I will work hard to meet them. Please name a date and time that is right for you and I'll be there, ready to get right down to business.

Why is this a good cover letter example?

- It is short

- It answers the employer's needs

- It tells the employer the source of advertisement

- It asks for an interview

- It shows confidence and eagerness to work well

Click on the 'Career ICU' button and find out why this candidate failed in 20 months job searching and succeeded in 2 weeks with this cover letter.

Cover Letter Blog - Cover Letter Example Executive Assistant

"Less is More" Cover Letter

2011-06-02T21:23:00.000+08:00

Win More Interviews with the "Less is More" Strategy

"Less is more", as the old adage says, and it's never truer than when writing a job search cover letter. Many job seekers bombard the hiring manager with a slew of words that runs two or three pages. But you don't have to. You can get to the point quickly and precisely. This may take some practice, but it will be worth it. You'll want the reader to sit up and take notice of how different your cover letter is from those in the stack he's already rejected. How can you do this? It's as easy as 1, 2, and 3.

1. Be CONCISE

Keep your letter to one page and include only what matters. This is not the time to talk about your personal life or your hobbies. State your enthusiasm for the job you hope to land, your skills and experience, and your willingness to come in for a personal interview. End with a polite 'thank you' for reading your cover letter and enclosed resume.

2. Be PRECISE

Speak up in language that clearly spells out your desire to bid for this job. Refer to the company's mission statement and that you believe you are qualified to live by it and you will commit to being a loyal employee, doing your best to perform the required tasks and to working harmoniously with your colleagues.

3. Be NICE

Convey your respect for the hiring manager and for the company by using words that show that you are a polite and considerate individual who has more than self-interest at heart. Clearly and directly ASK for an interview… one of the most overlooked interview-landing secrets of all time. And do so in a manner that shows you are a nice, caring, confident and competent person.

Not all cover letters are the same. In these tough economic times, it is essential to be concise, precise, and nice if you hope to grab a hiring manager's attention and move from just one more person in a long list to one the employer is eager to hire.

By Jimmy Sweeney, author of the new, Amazing Cover Letter Creator. Jimmy is also the author of several career-related books and writes a monthly article titled, "Tough Times Jobs Tips."

Cover Letter Blog - The "Less is More" Cover Letter

What EVERY Cover Letters Needs

2011-05-14T12:29:00.000+08:00

Cover Letter Tip: Put The "Secret 7" To Work For You!

Many hiring managers face a pile of cover letters each and every day from job seekers. If you want yours to stand out from the crowd, make it short, succinct, and snappy! In other words, grab the reader's attention and hold it. The last thing you want to do is bog down the employer with a multi-page letter filled with ponderous prose. Instead incorporate the following seven secrets—the ones every cover letter should include:

Secret #1 Write a one-page cover letter. Period.
Secret #2 Leave lots of 'white space' in your letter so it's easy to read.
Secret #3 Create three paragraphs maximum or the cover letter will overwhelm.
Secret #4 Number or 'bullet' your lists when this technique fits. It catches interest.
Secret #5 Bold face the first sentence of each paragraph to highlight your point.
Secret #6 Write only three sentences per paragraph for quick scanning.
Secret #7 Print out your letter and read it yourself. Is it a good example of the secrets on the list above? If not, edit where needed.

Effort = Effectiveness!

The time you spend now will come back to you a hundredfold when the hiring manager selects the most promising job seekers to call for interviews. Your cover letter is the first step. Make it count by using the seven secrets above. Bonus Cover Letter Tip: Don't be afraid to ASK for the opportunity to be interviewed. Ask and you shall receive.

Writer: Jimmy Sweeney, president of CareerJimmy and author of the new, Amazing Cover Letter Creator.

A Cover Letter That Can NET You a Job!

2011-04-26T18:29:00.000+08:00

Have you heard of the idea that A Cover Letter That Can NET You a Job?

Indeed, there is such kind of a cover letter that works well.

As you know, I’m a headhunter. When I need to do a search, apart from going through my company’s database, I also contact my sources in the market and ask them for referrals. As a matter of fact, many of my successful candidates were generated that way. So why don’t you make use of the same strategy to land a job? Trust me, ‘networking’ is such a powerful job search tool.

Here is how to write a Networking Cover Letter.

A Cover Letter That Can NET You a Job!

Job-search cover letters introduce you and your skills to a hiring manager. You know that fact if you've been writing them to potential employers. But do you know there is another cover letter type that can do even more for you? It's called the networking cover letter.

This document goes out to your circle of human resources––family members, friends, neighbors, associates, and professional men and women––for one purpose––to ask for help as you look for work. These people can lend a hand by giving you names and contact information of individuals they know, as well as employment leads, referrals, advice, knowledge, and introductions. Imagine the wealth of assistance you can gather by simply casting your net toward these men and women.

To get started, create a master list of everyone you can think of. Refer to business cards you've collected, association and club rosters, church directories, your e-mail address book, and any other pertinent means of gathering names of people you mingle with. Then send a networking cover letter (based on the tips below) to each person on your master list. Invest some time doing this task—knowing it will pay big dividends over the next several weeks.

Writing the Networking Cover Letter Letter

Keep it short (one page only) and focus on what you want—help in your job search.
Put your job skills and employment interests in a list for easy reading.
Ask for leads and referrals directly and politely.
Attach a copy of your current resume.
Send a thank you note to everyone who responds—even if they weren't able to help.

Then get to work on the leads you do receive, sending to each person a cover letter that introduces you and your employment experience. Cast your net and be patient. It will bring in a catch worth waiting for.

Written by Jimmy Sweeney

Jimmy Sweeney is the president of CareerJimmy and author of the new, Amazing Cover Letter Creator. Jimmy is also the author of several career-related books and writes monthly articles titled, "Job Search Secrets" and "Tough Times Job Tips."

Amazing Cover Letter – Your Unique Job Landing Tool

2011-04-09T12:33:00.000+08:00

Amazing Cover Letter - Do You Really Need It?

Have you notice Jimmy Sweeney and his Amazing Cover Letter Creator appear quite often in my blog? I think I should tell you a little more about this.

To be honest upfront, I’m an affiliate of Jimmy’s Amazing Cover Letter creator. I’m making a decent income from my headhunting job, why am I selling this software?

If you’ve been reading my i-banking resumes blog, you will know that I blog to help young graduates to go into one of the toughest job markets - investment banking. I-banking is really tough and candidates are facing keen competitions. While some readers ask me to write cover letters for them, I refer them to Jimmy’s software for two reasons. One I don’t have the time to do it. Two Jimmy’s software program does the job of a professional cover letter writer but at a much lower fee. For many candidates, this did sound like a dream come true!

Amazing Cover Letter Creator has an extremely high product rating. If you ever do any research over the internet, you must aware of this. But the important thing I want to let you know is its low refund rate of 0.19% (meaning that out of every 500 people who purchase this product, 1 returns it, and 499 keep it!). This has been my personal statistics since I started selling this product in the past four years in my i-banking blog. I’m pretty confident that this is a product worth my recommendation. So what is Amazing Cover Letter all about?

You can visit its official website or continue reading my introduction.

The creator and author of the Amazing Cover Letter Creator is Jimmy Sweeney. Jimmy is a professional copywriter and the President and CEO of a California based marketing company. Jimmy decided to put some of his copywriting skills to work in the job seekers market by writing cover letters for prospective employees. The end result of his experiment was the job seekers got significantly more phone calls as a result of Jimmy's cover letters.

The program is very easy to use. Once you downloaded it to your computer, the first thing you do is to open it and choose the kind of cover letter you want. After this you have to choose the size of the applicant job pool and here you can choose among large, small or medium.

Then you would be asked to say whether or not you have experience in the field you are applying for, after you have done this, the program automatically chooses a cover letter template for you which you can then personalize or customize using most common word processing programs like Microsoft word.

This software is extremely powerful in a way that it generates very well-worded cover letters. The only challenging part is to make modifications to make the letter specific for the job you are looking to apply to. However, the software has a section where you can see samples of each section to give you ideas on how to modify the letter for your specific situation.

In summary, here are the greatest advantages to this software:

(1) Attention Getting Ingredients - These are specifically designed to help you get calls for interview requests.

(2) Along with three free stuff*, the cost of $39.95 is only a fraction of what you would pay a professional cover letter writer and the quality of letter that the software generates is on par with what a professional would write for you. You simply aren't going to find a better bargain elsewhere.

PS: * Amazing Cover Letter Free Stuff includes:

Top 3 Award-Winning Cover Letter Templates

Amazing Job Interview Success

The 'BIG 3' Salary Negotiation Secrets!

Visit Jimmy Sweeney’s Amazing Cover Letter Official Website

Cover Letter Blog - Amazing Cover Letter Review

The Elements of an Outstanding Cover Letter

2011-04-02T11:38:00.000+08:00

Regarding the elements of an outstanding cover letter, you should have mastered them all if you've gone through the 7-day mini course in this blog. However you must blend in one more important ingredient. My friend Jimmy Sweeney has written an outstanding article on this and I'm happy to share with you.

Your Cover Letter Must Have THIS Ingredient

Written by Jimmy Sweeney, author of The Amazing Cover Letter Creator

Focus, vivid language, clear request for an in-person interview, proper format with plenty of white space? Yes to all of these essentials of a job search cover letter. But one ingredient that is often overlooked is tone. Many job seekers give too much attention to their work experience and skills, important as they are, and neglect to reveal their personality and character through the manner in which they express themselves.

Tone of Voice Matters

As you sit down to write your cover letter, consider how you want to come across and then match your wording to that objective. Do you want to convey enthusiasm and sincerity or are you willing to settle for lackluster language that leaves the hiring manager wondering who you are as a person? Here are two examples.

Example A: Thanks so much for posting your need for an administrative assistant on AnytownJobs.com. I've been looking for such a position since I moved to AnyTown last month. When I discovered that your organization is hiring, I jumped on the opportunity to contact you. I've had five years of experience assisting my previous employer and I know I can contribute to your company the skills I've developed in this job––organization, dependability, crisis management, and positive problem-solving.

Example B: I read your advertisement for an administrative assistant on AnytownJobs.com. This is the kind of work I wish to do. Therefore, I am writing this cover letter to let you know that I would like to meet for an interview so I can talk over what you need and how I can provide it. I have experience and skills related to this type of work. You can consult my enclosed resume for more details.

Please let me know if you would like to interview me. I am available weekday afternoons. I hope to hear from you soon.

Review and Study

If you were the hiring manager, which cover letter would you respond to? Take a moment to review each example and then jot down some notes on why you prefer the one you chose.

· What makes it stand out?

· What character trait shines through?

· Would the person behind this letter be someone you'd like to work with?

· What might you expect from that individual if faced with a crisis?

Save your comments and these examples to study while planning your next cover letter for the position you're seeking. Then let your personality and character guide you as you write, including job-related details in a tone that will compel the hiring manager to call you for an interview.

The Elements of an Outstanding Cover Letter

What EVERY Cover Letter Needs

2011-03-23T12:17:00.002+08:00

If you've completed my 7-day Resume Cover Letter Mini Course, you should have mastered the 7 basic elements of a highly effective cover letter. Now let's see what Jimmy Sweeney says. Here are the "Secret 7" from him. You'll find addtional insights comparing his 7 and mine. Try to incorporate them into your next job search letter.

Cover Letter Tip: Put The "Secret 7" To Work For You!
President of CareerJimmy and Author of the new,© Written By Jimmy Sweeney

Amazing Cover Letter Creator

Write a one-page cover letter. Period.
Leave lots of 'white space' in your letter so it's easy to read.
Create three paragraphs maximum or the cover letter will overwhelm.
Number or 'bullet' your lists when this technique fits. It catches interest.
Bold face the first sentence of each paragraph to highlight your point.
Write only three sentences per paragraph for quick scanning.
Print out your letter and read it yourself. Is it a good example of the secrets on the list above? If not, edit where needed.

Effort = Effectiveness!

Jimmy Sweeney is the president of CareerJimmy and author of the 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 Jimmy on the web at Amazing Cover Letters.com for your ‘instant’ cover letter today. In just 3 ½ minutes you will have an amazing cover letter guaranteed to cut through YOUR competition like a hot knife through butter!

Cover Letter Blog - What EVERY Cover Letter Needs

Resume Cover Letter - Mini Course Day 7

2011-03-17T16:10:00.003+08:00

A Powerful Wrap-up Sentence At The P.S. (Postscript) Location

Here’s the greatest cover letter secret ever revealed...few job seekers have the chance to read this. You are one of the lucky ones.

Add a P.S. (postscript) to the bottom of your resume cover letter!

I’ve actually borrowed this idea from Jimmy Sweeney, author of Amazing Cover Letter Creator.

I’ve made this suggestion to many job seekers and received feedbacks that they experienced dramatic increase in job interviews and job offers! So I know this little secret works like magic.

As you may know, Jimmy has a marketing and advertising background. He has made use of this P.S. strategy on numerous sales letters to restate exactly what action he would like the reader to take and achieved his desired results.

Job-seekers would like to be called for more job interviews and the P.S. is the perfect opportunity to stamp this fact on the reader’s brain. It’s your best shot for a ‘direct hit’ that can increase the chances of producing the desired result… the job interview.

The P.S. is virtually impossible NOT to read! Think about it. When you read any type of letter and your eyes notice a P.S. at the end, you are practically ‘forced’ to read it! Use this P.S. power in your cover letter is going to boost your number of job interviews.

You can use the P.S. to ask for the interview the second time; or to restate why you believe you’re such a strong candidate for the job opening.

TWO examples of the P.S. being used in a resume cover letter

P.S. I would like to restate my desire to interview for the position of (job title). {Company name} is number one on my list of companies I’d like to work for. I am available immediately and can be reached directly on my mobile phone at 1234-5678. Thank you so much!

P.S. I would love the opportunity to meet in person and to explain why I may be the right match for the position of (job title). I can be reached right away at 1234-5678. Thank you in advance.

Conclusion: Take advantage of the fact that people are trained to read the P.S. and make sure to include one in your next cover letter.

Resume Cover Letters - Mini Course Day 7

Resume Cover Letter - Mini Course Day 6

2011-03-16T16:35:00.000+08:00

Effective Ways To Ask For The Job Interview

A resume cover letter should effectively ASK for the job interview.

Did you do this well in every one of your job search letter? If you don’t, you’ll be beaten by your competitors who do!

Where And How To Effectively Ask For A Job Interview In Your Next Cover Letter

While job seekers generally ask for an interview at the end of the letter, there is no reason why you can’t place this request directly at the very beginning of the letter.

A very effective way of doing it is to write this headline:

I would love the opportunity to interview in person for the position

of (job title). Then continue your letter with “Dear Mr Smith…” Of course you’ll make the same request in your last paragraph.

THREE More Effective Ways

To ASK For An Interview

If you want to attract quality job interviews like a magnet, you need to write a powerful message to achieve your desired result – job interviews. Write messages that shine with your personality, desire and passion in the job being offered. Here are three best examples.

I have researched (company name) and am excited about this opportunity. I would love the chance to interview for this position and am available at your earliest convenience. If possible, can we schedule a meeting in the next two weeks?

I would like the chance in person, to discuss the specific reasons why I believe I am the applicant you are looking for. If you will grant me an interview for (job title), I can be reached at 1234-5678.

I am excited about the possibility of a personal interview to further discuss my qualifications with you. I am immediately available and can be reached at 5555-5555. I will follow up with a phone call as well to make sure you have received my application.

Be sure to add one of these paragraphs at the end of your next cover letter. You’re going to motivate more and more hiring managers to call you up for interviews. Imagine your letter without such interview requests, you’ll be just waiting for your phone to ring, day after day.

CONCLUSION: Write a POWERFUL message to ASK for the interview will motivate the hiring manager to give you a call.

Resume Cover Letters - Mini Course Day 6