Cover Letters...The Rest of the Story!

Last week I began talking about the value of cover letters.  Today, I want to finish up with some additional basics to help you present yourself in the best light, possible.

First, remember that the cover letter is your introduction to a prospective employer!  It's your 'first impression', so follow these helpful hints to make it a good one!

• Always send a cover letter with your resume.  Whether you are using the mail, faxing, sending an email, or dropping off be sure to include a cover letter.
• Customize the cover letter to include the prospective employer's job opening!  You need to be specific.  One of the things we hear from employers is that people are too vague.  
• Check the date!  If you have a cover letter that you revise and use for other employers within the industry, be sure to use the current date!  It is often overlooked and employers may view it as a reflection of your ability to check your work (quality control is another word for it!).
• Be sure to address your letter to the specific person who is responsible for the hiring.  If you are unsure, call the company and ask the receptionist for the individual's name.  Double check to make sure that you have spelled the name and title correctly!  If you are unable to obtain that information, address the letter to the attention of the president, owner, etc.  Your letter will eventually be routed to the appropriate person.
• Incorporate industry-appropriate language to demonstrate your knowledge of the industry, tools, occupations, product, etc.  
• Include any relevant information in your cover letter that may not be included in your resume.  Highlight measurable accomplishments!  (For example:  "Reduced production waste costs by 17% through making changes in production processes."   "Decreased accounts payable by 45 days through the development and implementation of a time-sensitive follow-up process.")
• Mention that you are enclosing your resume for their review whether you are responding to an employer ad or sending a resume on your own initiative.
• Be sure to request an interview or indicate your plans for following up with the prospective employer.

Now that you have the cover letter ready, tomorrow I'll talk about the important follow up to a prospective employer's return contact...the thank you letter!

Mark your calendars for the following upcoming event available to Job Seekers at Capital Area Michigan Works!:

Practice Your Interview Skills Day (i.e. mock interviews):   
     WHEN:  Monday Nov. 8 from 9am-11am at Capital Area Michigan Works! in Lansing. 
                     No appointment necessary.  There are six interviewers scheduled, including
                     representatives from Dart Bank and Gravity Works Design.  
                     All job seekers are encouraged to participate. 
                     This is a great opportunity to practice that all important skill of presenting your best
                     to a prospective employer.

Financial Aid Workshop:
     WHEN:  Wednesday and Friday, 1:30 - 3:00 p.m. in the Technology Center at CAMW's!
                     Lansing Center.  This workshop provides assistance for those individuals needing
                     to complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Assessment Testing:
     WHEN:  Monday and Thursday, 8:45 a.m. - Noon in the Technology Center at CAMW!
                    This is for new or current Lansing Community College students who need Reading,
                    Writing, and/or Math levels for their classes.



Job Blast:
                   Quest Software:   Call Center Representatives   MTB #2963923 and     
                   #2963922  Spanish Fluent). 
                   NOTE:  Interested candidates can apply at all three Capital Area Michigan Works!
                                 Service Center locations.

Job Search Tip of the Day:
When attending Mock Interviews, be sure to prepare yourself in a professional manner!  Dress as you would for a real interview.  Have copies of your professional resume available, as well.  You never know when the Mock Interview might turn into a real interview!

Learning Tip of the Day:
Don't underestimate the importance of the college course syllabus.   It is an important resource that should be kept all semester as a guide.  While the semester may seem to be winding down, it is also a time when projects, papers, extra credit opportunities, and more may be due.  Don't lose track of where you are in your class.  As well, it will contain the contact information for your professor.