______________________________Chapter 2: Write Your Own 15-Minute Cover Letter
create this format.) You might include a brief explanation below your signature: “My resume is attached in a Word file, but I have also pasted the text version below for your convenience.”
Step 8: Send and Follow Up Now it’s time to hit “send,” post your letter, arrange for delivery, or in some other way get it on its way to your recipient. As soon as you send your letter, mark your calendar to follow up within the time frame you’ve specified. If you have not been specific, then mark your calendar for two days after an e-mail or hand delivery and four or five days after mailing a letter. It is extremely important that you follow up! Otherwise, you will damage your credibility. Not only that, but following up while your material is fresh at hand will make the conversation more productive. Even employers who are anxious to hire find that their intended phone calls and interviews are often delayed because of the press of other priorities. Don’t let your recipient forget about you—give them a call and ask if you can schedule a meeting. Keep your job search moving forward!
Tip: In formal and informal polls of hiring authorities, we have been told over and over how few people call to follow up after sending a cover letter and resume. Most people just don’t do it. Making this kind of call can be intimidating— you feel like your career is on the line— and it’s natural to avoid things we don’t like. But we urge you to overcome these concerns and pick up the phone. You will make better progress in your job search, and you will immediately set yourself apart from the vast majority of job seekers who do not take this initiative.
Key Points: Chapter 2 Follow these eight simple steps to create and send cover letters quickly and efficiently: ●
Step 1: Create Your Format: Design a page layout that you can use for all of your job-search correspondence. Keep it simple, easy to create, easy to read, and coordinated with your resume.
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Step 2: Add the Basics: Start each letter with a date, inside address, and salutation. Double-check all names and spelling.
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