The Light Side and the Dark Side of Cover Letters

The Light Side and the Dark Side of Cover Letters The Significance of Creating “Good” Cover LettersWithout a good cover letter, candidates are relying on their resume to make an impact. That’s asking a lot of prospective employers and drastically reduces the chances of you being called for an interview. From indicating your skills to keeping the follow-up ball in your court, a good cover letter is an indispensable tool for increasing your odds of landing an interview and strengthening your candidacy.However, where a good cover letter can help you stand out from the pack, a bad letter can make even the most promising candidates seem uncreative. Sadly, a majority of cover letters aren’t poorly written, often reading essentially the same, by repeating information. So, without further ado, let’s take a look at the characteristics of good and bad cover letters and a few secrets on how you can make your letter stand out:Good vs. Bad Cover LettersevalGood Cover LettersBad Cover LettersStyle · Omit fluff and needless words · Cont ain concise and crisp sentences · Get to the point early in the first paragraph · Present accomplishments in bulleted format for easy reading · Lack of good vocabulary · Long and tiring-to-read sentences. Too many paragraphs · Hide skills/ accomplishments with needless sentences · Letter filled with useless sentences and wordsContent · Contain relevant keywords for the job position · Highlight the most appropriate qualifications/skills · Focus on how your skills align with recruiters need · Contain information that is not substantiated in the resume · Lack of relevant or appropriate keywords/phrases · Repeat details included in resumeLength · Include substantial space for note-taking and visual appeal · Fit perfectly and neatly into one page · Looks cramped with no room for notes and tine margins · Has a second page with just one or two linesErrors · Free from any spelling or grammatical errors · Has one or more spelling or grammatical errorsConclusion · Define when you will follow up · Emphasize strong interest in desired position · Express thanks to the reader · Doesn’t define when you will follow up · Leave the reader uncertain about your skills · Fail to acknowledge reader’s timeSecrets that can Help Your Cover Letter Stand OutevalIn today’s competitive job market, it is crucial for students to prepare for the job search process via eye-catching and dazzling cover letters. To help students master the process, here are a few secrets that can guarantee an interview:Understand the PurposeWhen it comes to writing a cover letter, it is crucial to understand what it is used for and why you need to write one. Based on the information above, you probably do know that cover letters are essential for creating an engaging personal introduction. Therefore, make it a habit to connect your unique qualifications to the specific requirements of the position.Don’t Repeat Your ResumeMany people write cover letters as if they are a paragraph form of resumes. This is a wrong approach for writing cover letters. Use the cover letter to show your interest, personality, and passion of working in the field you are applying for. So, be a little creative and sprinkle some cool facts and interesting news in your cover letter.Keep it ShortBear in mind that a cover letter is a brief description about why you are the perfect fit for a job. Therefore, avoid writing long sentences with needless words and focus on providing value to the employers. Less is more. So, don’t go beyond three paragraphs or the 1-page limit. Get to your point fast, as no employer has time to read 2 page long letters.Avoid Using Traditional PhrasesevalAvoid using the phrase “My name is ___, and I am applying for the position of ____” as it will only make you look unprofessional. Instead, go for something like “I am writing to apply for the role of (Job title) as advertised in the newspaper”.Last, but not the least, send the cover letter in PDF format. Too many conversions c an result in formatting errors. So, now that you are familiar with the tips mentioned above, creating a “good” cover letter won’t be a problem.

My take on the top 100 workplace list - The Chief Happiness Officer Blog

My take on the top 100 workplace list - The Chief Happiness Officer Blog I took a look at this years list of the 100 best US workplaces, and while I dont know many of the companies on there, many of the usual suspects are certainly included. Google, Container Store, Whole Foods, W.L. Gore, Starbucks, Nordstrom and others are certainly familiar cases from the books Ive read about happiness at work. Im not sure if this validates the top 100 list or the case literature. Or neither :o) However, we should remember that not every company competes here. In fact, only around 500 companies entered the competition, so making the top 100 list is not THAT impressive. Companies with less than 1000 employees can not participate even though many of them are probably better workplaces than the big organizations. Also, a companys score depends not only on what its employees say. Heres some info from the website: Two-thirds of a companys score is based on the survey, which is sent to a minimum of 400 randomly selected employees from each company and asks about things such as attitudes toward management, job satisfaction, and camaraderie. The remaining third of the score comes from our evaluation of each companys responses to the institutes Culture Audit, which includes detailed questions about demographic makeup, pay, and benefits programs, and open-ended questions about the company?s people-management philosophy, internal communications, opportunities, compensation practices, diversity programs, etc. All in all, Im sure that the companies on this list are all good places to work and Im equally sure that there are many even better ones out there that simply didnt compete in this particular contest. (A big thank you to Andrew Ferrier for asking the question that inspired this post). Previously: 10 seeeeeeriously cool workplaces Happiness at work at Google Perks gone wild: SAS Institute Thanks for visiting my blog. If you're new here, you should check out this list of my 10 most popular articles. And if you want more great tips and ideas you should check out our newsletter about happiness at work. It's great and it's free :-)Share this:LinkedInFacebookTwitterRedditPinterest Related

How to Write a Personal Resume

How to Write a Personal ResumeA personal resume, firstly, is a vital document that you have to prepare before seeking a job. Besides the resume being the central part of your job application, it serves as the key to find a suitable job and get hired. Therefore, when you see your personal resume, you should be certain that you have done all that you can to make it correct and convincing.Of course, you should be able to make your resume attractive to the employers who will eventually call you to interview, so that you will not only be successful in your career but also boost your self-esteem. To do that, you should take several things into consideration when writing a personal resume. For example, be sure that you're fully acquainted with the job skills that the company requires and that you're aware of the typical areas where you might excel.So, if you are someone who is good at writing, you will be a good candidate for certain jobs, but on the other hand, if you're terrible at writin g, you won't be capable of finding a job. Once you know what job position you are seeking, be sure to obtain all the information that you will need to apply for it. For example, if you are looking for an administrative assistant job, you must know the types of administrative assistants the company is looking for. This will allow you to give your resume a more professional look.You must include your personal resume in a professional manner. Your resume must contain a list of the job duties that you have completed and the educational accomplishments that you have acquired since you have graduated from school. Additionally, it should also contain the job experience that you have gained since you were employed, along with information on your knowledge on your area of expertise.If you have additional educational degrees, be sure to include them in your resume. The contents of your resume can only show how you think. A lot of employers now prefer to interview people who have a more formal way of presenting themselves; therefore, such information is included.Don't forget to keep in mind that every employer wants to hire people who can find them, so make sure that you put as much importance as possible on this point. Also, don't forget to update your resume at least once every two months. Of course, since this is a job application, you should also expect some questions.These will help you provide an explanation of your abilities and the proof that you're capable of doing the job that you're looking for. You must also be prepared to answer any queries the prospective employer may have.Of course, when your resume has been submitted, you should also be ready to present it to the hiring manager. Then, you will be free to discuss any job offers that may come your way. Moreover, it is highly advisable to take advantage of other benefits that may be offered to you to augment your chances of getting hired.

Administrative Assistant Resume Samples - Who Is This Person?

Administrative Assistant Resume Samples - Who Is This Person?It is not difficult to do a great job as an administrative assistant at an office. People need someone who will manage their time and work with them so that they do not go too fast.The employer does not hire the administrative assistant because of her abilities, but she is there to assist in the company. She needs to have a great attitude and be a person of integrity. To become an administrative assistant, you need to be flexible, not that you are flexible all the time. If you want to excel in your career, you must know how to adapt your mind and work at a pace that is not too fast for you.An administrative assistant can work at any organization, whether it is at a corporation or a small business. The job of an administrative assistant consists of managing the office staffs. For this, you will need to think about what you will need to do. There are many administrative assistant resume samples that show you how to conduct yo urself in an efficient manner so that you can excel in your career.You will have to offer your services to the organization. That means you will need to accept an assignment with the organization so that you can get the experience required to be able to get a promotion to supervisor. In addition, you need to earn your degree in order to be given a job in a very specialized field.Interviewing is just the beginning. You will need to keep in mind what kind of work you will be doing and if you will be using a computer or if you will be using the traditional methods of the office. You should also know the principles in how to conduct oneself when an interview is on the way. Another aspect of the administrative assistant resume samples is how to dress for an interview. This could mean the difference between getting an interview or getting rejected.An administrative assistant is usually considered as an office manager or a secretary. That means you will have to make use of your physical ab ility and that of your clerical skills to perform your duties. An example of how administrative assistant works would be the types of tasks that she could do when it comes to handling customer's complaints. The best administrative assistant resume samples will show you how to do this job so that you can show that you have the characteristics to be successful in this kind of position.Your achievements in the administrative assistant resume samples will vary depending on how far you have gone in your career. It is important that you are not just aspiring for a career but that you are willing to work hard in order to get what you want.

A Secret Weapon for Resume Writing Tips for Changing Careers

A Secret Weapon for Resume Writing Tips for Changing Careers The Downside Risk of Resume Writing Tips for Changing Careers Daily Role The very first thing you have to do when seeking to select the best career is to assess what you would like from a job and what you would like your day-to-day tasks to be. You must carry few resume tips, before applying for any sort of job. Nowadays you have assessed what type of job you're looking for you will need to compose your resume and tailor it to the particular role and attempt to acquire a work interview! Writing a good resume is quite essential for securing work. Why Almost Everything You've Learned About Resume Writing Tips for Changing Careers Is Wrong You've resolved to do it. You should also check at your own personal achievements and career portfolio to observe where you have excelled in the job place. Thus, climbing the corporate ladder isn't any more a simple job. Progression You could be searching for specific career progr ession opportunities. Instead of dwelling on the pluses and disadvantages of a big career shift, you only need to go for it, especially if it's been on your head for quite a while. While changing careers is a huge life move irrespective of your age, there are some smaller steps it is possible to take and ideas you may put into action to secure you where you wish to be. Resume writing isn't a simple job and a great deal of factors have to be considered if you desire a resume that will be effective. In any event, a change of pace in your career can offer an incredible resurgence of electricity and motivation. At the close of the day, it's your life, your career. There aren't necessarily best careers to begin at 40, but there are considerations that you've got to make because you're a bit older, like whether you want to begin school again or if you're contemplating retirement soon. Then it's time to get started thinking career change! If starting a business has at all times be en an objective of yours, it won't take you a lot of time to decide on the following career path. What You Should Do About Resume Writing Tips for Changing Careers Beginning in the Next Ten Minutes With entrepreneurship increasing, millions of American's are finding a way to earn money on their own terms. Perhaps you are trapped in your existing career because of circumstances which are beyond your control. If you would like change badly enough, you will figure it out. You're great for it if you adore animals and communicate well. The Chronicles of Resume Writing Tips for Changing Careers Resume Writing is an art that allows you to get noticed in the work marketplace. Changing careers doesn't need to look like moving from 1 job to another. Changing careers at 40 can be somewhat tough. It may be scary, but it can help you turn the second half of your career into your favorite half.

Job Seeker On The Move 6 Tips For Relocating Effectively - Work It Daily

Job Seeker On The Move 6 Tips For Relocating Effectively - Work It Daily If you know you will be moving, you should consider searching for a job in your new location now. This is not as hard today as it once was because the Internet has made it possible. So, there's not really a good excuse! Related: Moving? 3 Helpful Tips For Your Relocation Job Search If you're a relocating job seeker, check out these six tips that will get your ready for your move: 1. Get on all the networking sites you can. Use LinkedIn, Google+, and industry-specific professional groups. You can do a geographic search within LinkedIn and look for companies close to where you will be living. You can do the same on pretty much any social or job-related network. Check out online job aggregators as they have thousands of jobs in your new location. 2. Build professional relationships with people in your industry. Build relationships with people in your industry and let them know you are relocating. You never know when one of your contacts might know someone who has a job opening in a company near your new locale. 3. Research your new home by looking at local news sites. Also start talking to real estate agents, and visiting forums. Check out local business organizations, community groups, and so on. See when their meetings or lunches are. Make it a point to attend a couple of them. Better yet, visit a Works! agency near your new home (or go online and check it out). Works! agencies are loaded with job search information and are given insight into local company job openings and have access to the ‘hidden’ job market. 4. Work on your resume and make sure it is stellar. Make sure your resume is perfect, and highlights your unique contributions to a position. Does your professional or executive resume have a clear focus of what you want to do? Is it accomplishment-focused? Is it current? Be sure your resume is up-to-date and contains your relevant information. 5. Make sure your cover letter states you are relocating to the area at a certain date. It can be as simple as one line located near the bottom of the cover letter, “I am relocating to the Houston area within the month and can be available for a meeting in three weeks.” 6. Brush up on your video conference skills. You might need video conferencing skills for an online interview. Skype is a way many interviews are taking place these days. If you aren’t familiar with Skype or other voice-over IP services, start researching them now. It can save you thousands in plane fare. Your job search is hindered a bit because you are non-local, but that's not a reason why it can't be successful. Most of the time a company is vetting all the candidates for a position online at first, so the issue of your address is what can cause a problem. This can be addressed by using a temporary PO box in some cases, but it's generally best to just tell them in your cover letter that you are relocating to the area and what you have to offer. Or, if you have a friend or family member already living in your desired location, use their address until you’ve officially moved. Moving to a new place is exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. But, you plan ahead and start your job search now, you’ve just checked off the most major to-do on your list. This post was originally published on an earlier date. Related Posts How To Overcome The ‘Unemployment Stigma’ When Relocating 5 Job Relocation Tips For Changing Cities How To Find An Out-Of-State Job   Photo Credit: Shutterstock Have you joined our career growth club?Join Us Today!

What to Expect From Help on Writing a Resume?

What to Expect From Help on Writing a Resume? The Hidden Treasure of Help on Writing a Resume If you dont supply the info needed for the hiring agency to find out your qualifications, you may not be considered for the job. You are asking for a job thats different from your present or most recent job. If youre attempting to obtain work in accounting or finance you require averystrong resume. Various kinds of work in the food tafelgeschirr industry require resumes with a number of the exact same skills. A simple resume template is going to be your very best bet. Order writing or editing of a resume at this time and the amount of job offers increase enormously. The easy-to-use on-line tool makes it quick and hassle-free to produce your very own personalized perfect resume. Well it is all dependent on whether the job posting instructions specify a specific format. Definitions of Help on Writing a Resume When you employ a professional writer to assist you with the application do cuments, the results will differ. For instance, you may require a resume summary or a resume objective, but you ought not incorporate both. Your resume will be completed in view of the deadline. You can better your likelihood of getting interviews by composing specific resumes for various businesses. Whether youre a recent graduate or a career changer, understanding how to compose a resume whenever you have zero work experience may appear daunting. Contrary to other websites, who have a couple of writers on staff to handle all the orders they take in, our network enables us to provide you resources our competitors cannot. A lot of people dont like their present job or career. The Help on Writing a Resume Pitfall Today, there are dozens and dozens of custom writing services on the net. Writing a strong application is a difficult procedure and we would like to make it simpler. One of the benefits of pursuing a resume service over the web is the simplicity of contact. Shoul d you need assistance on writing and delivering your presentation, consider taking assistance from publications or internet magazines. Definitions of Help on Writing a Resume Ask around and you will discover that its true. When you would like to find the best resume help, it is possible to simply follow our lead. You will need assistance with making a resume. Even when youre not trying to find a new job its advisable to keep your resume updated because you cant ever know when the appropriate opportunity will come up. Understanding how to tailor your resume will obviously provide you an advantage. Writing a resume for employment in the art industry can be difficult. Moreover, taking a resume in the interview also indicates that youre prepared and have put thought into the approach.