Posts Tagged ‘cover letters’

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Job Search Tips: There is no excuse for not selling yourself. Two areas in which you must succeed

January 19th, 2012

By Bob McIntosh, Certified Professional Resume Writer

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard, “I can’t sell myself. I just can’t brag.” This coming from jobseekers in my workshops, I understand their consternation yet can’t feign empathy. This would be a disservice to them, to all jobseekers.

There are two undeniable truths. First, if you don’t sell yourself, no one will. It’s like waiting for Prince Charming to arrive or waiting for a job to jump in your lap, none of which are going to happen.

Second, no one is asking you to brag, not even the employer. He’s asking you to promote your accomplishments and relate your skills to the job at hand. No one likes a braggart.

So how do you sell yourself? Selling yourself is going to involve developing a campaign that requires you to use your verbal and written communication skills. » Read more: Job Search Tips: There is no excuse for not selling yourself. Two areas in which you must succeed

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Resumes: Post-Grad Guide– Writing Your First Cover Letter

November 16th, 2011

By Caitlin Sahm

A cover letter is your first impression on a potential employer. A good cover letter will have them scanning your resume with interest, while a bad cover letter could get your application tossed in the trash before page two. Writing a cover letter can feel daunting for a new graduate because it’s a kind of writing a student has never really had to do before. When writing papers you knew what was required—the appropriate tone to take, what needed to be covered, and the basic format. A cover letter, on the other hand, is uncharted territory. Your cover letter will be pitched to a variety of people, not all of whom will share the same tastes (just look up “how to write a cover letter” and see all the conflicting advice), but I’ve outlined some tips below that, when infused with your personal experience and style, will help you to come off as professional and results-driven to any employer.

Get typing!

The first thing you’ll want to do is to create your header. Every cover letter, even those sent over e-mail, should have your full contact information at the upper-right corner (like the return address on an envelope) with the date beneath it. The name of the person you’re addressing should come just below the date. To know whose name » Read more: Resumes: Post-Grad Guide– Writing Your First Cover Letter

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Career Tips: The Riley Guide

June 17th, 2010

The Riley Guide

The Riley Guide is one of the oldest directories of career and employment resources available online. Provided for free to all users, it guides users through all aspects of a job search — not just where the jobs are listed online but also where to look for employers, how to avoid scams, and what other options exist for you when your current job or career field is on the decline.

Individual sections cover topics such as Networking, Resumes & Cover Letters, Career Options, and what to do before you search for a job. Some highlights from the site (click on the section title):

Sites with Job Listings:
The entry to 50 pages of job sites, from Monster and CareerBuilder to SnagAJob… from TurboTAP to AgCareers … from Iowa to American Samoa and beyond. These pages divide hundreds of listings into categories like the big boards to Local US Jobs and International Resources, and even cover internships, apprenticeships, and self-employment. Looking for something specific? Try the Google Search Bar, which covers the entire site, or check the A to Z Keyword Index.

Scams and Schemes in Work and Employment Services:
A resource identifying many scams directed toward job seekers, particularly persons who are desperate to find new sources of income. Most recently added was a notice regarding “employers” requesting job seekers submit credit reports with their resumes.

Veterans & Transitioning Military Personnel:
Resources and links to services to aid veterans and transitioning military personnel in finding new jobs. This page also links to services for wounded warriors, military spouses and dependents, and veterans who need to verify pay and employment status. » Read more: Career Tips: The Riley Guide

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