XP: Cover Letter

Steph0871

Ok, seriously. How do I write a cover letter? I'm a pro at resumes, but cover letters? not so much.

Especially hard, because I'm applying for a promotion at work; everyone who will be reviewing my resume/CL are current coworkers.

How do I intro it? Close it?

J&K10910

Do you want a sample?

jasmineh7777

I'd open it by addressing the position you are applying for.
 "I am writing to express my interest in the ________ position." Then list the qualities and experience you think makes you an awesome candidate.

 Conclude with something like "If given the postion of _______ I hope to continue providing kick ass service to _____ company."

I'm not in HR though, so this really just my opinion.

J&K10910

(granted none of mine are for internal promotion positions, but I think I've got the basic idea down pretty damn well at this point)

Steph0871

yes please J! steph0871 (at) gmail.

orrr if anyone wants to help me review mine

Steph0871

at some point in college, I had been told you should do like a paragraph explaining why you want the job.  Then a paragraph explaining why they should want you for the job.  

Was that at all accurate? I mean, I have all of my experience (7 years with the department) detailed on my resume, of course.  I feel like cover letters are stupid sometimes.

J&K10910

YGM!

J&K10910

I think it's important to highlight specific skills that you've gained FROM your experience that is listed on your resume that is pertinent to the job in the cover letter, not just say "ok, so I did this.  And this.  And this.  So hire me."  You know? 

jasmineh7777

I think I remember Cew saying she often doesn't read them. I don't know if that is good or bad in your situation.

Steph0871

In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/wedding-boards_snarky-brides_xp-cover-letter?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Wedding%20BoardsForum:17Discussion:2c04a6da-5b0d-42a2-a0c4-be8a3166c5f9Post:c1b3d154-70f5-49d6-b38b-cc8b0c101c14">Re: XP: Cover Letter</a>:
[QUOTE]I think I remember Cew saying she often doesn't read them. I don't know if that is good or bad in your situation.
Posted by jasmineh7777[/QUOTE]

<div>oh. They will read it.  On one hand, I think being the internal candidate will help. If i blow the interview, at least I've proved myself as hard working and competent for the last 7 years.  BUT, I think people will also be especially critical, because I am an internal candidate, ya know?</div><div>
</div><div>oh, and higher education just LOVES interviews. Seriously.</div>

Night_Sprite

Steph, if you have more questions or want input on things, you can email me.  I have been a resume and cover letter fiend for the last 6 months and recently had a major revamp with the help of an education advisor person.

Steph0871

NS! I was hoping you'd pop in for this thread.  I miss you

But yes, I will take you up on your offer! Thanks!