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Part - II
Cover Letter Outline
A cover letter consists of four key sections. These
are areas where you:
-
Introduce yourself. Explain who you are
and why you are writing. Mention who referred you if someone did.
Ask for an informational interview if that's the reason why you are
writing or say that you are interested in X job if that's the case.
Examples:
When applying for a specific job:
I am interested in discussing your opportunity for Senior Product
Manager in the New Product Development Group. Having launched
numerous new brands over the past 12 years with two leading consumer
products companies, I would be enthusiastic about discussing how my
background and strengths can contribute to your team.
When requesting an informational interview:
Lisa Smith, a colleague from UCLA, gave me your name as someone who
is very knowledgeable about the entertainment industry. I am trying
to learn as much I can about the industry and would greatly
appreciate 15-20 minutes of your time. Your insights would be
extremely valuable.
-
Connect with the recruiter. Tell why you
are interested in the industry/company/job and how it is a good fit
with your background/ strengths.
Examples:
Your accomplishments in manufacturing, particularly supply chain
management, have been a focus of interest in my studies at Columbia.
My background is manufacturing-focused. Before business school, I
was an engineer with Ford and this year, I served as co-chair of the
Global Manufacturing Conference �
OR
I have been an entrepreneur for seven years in Boston. One of my
greatest accomplishments was building an effective team and leading
the group through chaos. These valuable lessons are relevant to what
your new company is going through. I feel confident that I could
make an impact on your business and its strategic growth.
OR
As a math teacher and part-time musician, I have successfully
combined my problem solving, analytical, creativity, and
communication skills-the qualifications you list as most important
in what you are looking for.
-
Make it real. Give some concrete,
compelling examples that describe what you can offer.
Examples:
As a product manager, I grew market share by X percent over a
three-year period, launched our products in seven new countries, and
was selected to team lead our college recruiting efforts.
OR
As a management consultant, I worked extensively within the health
care industry. Engagements produced major cost-cutting initiatives,
a successful national systems overhaul, and client service
improvements.
OR
As a sales representative for NIKETOWN, I learned firsthand customer
service, merchandising, organization, and prioritization skills. As
top 10 percent in sales in my region, I was selected to train and
mentor new staff. Through my initiative, I co-developed an employee
recognition program. My experience and abilities seem like a strong
fit for your culture and X job.
-
Follow up with a call to action. Describe
clearly how and when you will follow up.
Examples:
I will call your office next week to arrange an interview (or a time
to talk).
OR
I know you will be on campus to speak at for the Women in Management
Club's event next week. I would love to meet you for coffee and to
talk before or after the event. If you need a ride to the airport, I
could provide that, too.
A Worksheet to Help You Get
Started
-
Who: "Who am I?" Try to capture your
answer in one sentence.
-
Why: "Why am I writing and why should who
is reading my letter be interested in me?"
-
What: "What do I have to offer that they'd
be interested in?" From my research or what I know about this
company, industry, or person I'm sending this to, what would make me
attractive as a candidate? What compelling strengths, experience, or
knowledge do I have?
-
When: "When will my letter be read-in what
kind of context-in what kind of times?" Is this a hot company
experiencing fast growth, a declining company fighting to survive, a
start-up, a traditional company trying to do something new, a
company whose reputation has taken a beating and is trying for a
comeback �
-
How: "How do I do my best to make sure my
letter is unique, compelling, and intriguing?" How can I give it my
best shot in getting this person to read my resume and take the next
step towards an interview?
Concluded. |
