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Cover Letter and Resume

Discussion in 'Coming Out Advice' started by Romi, Jan 27, 2013.

  1. Romi

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    So there is an lgbt-oriented job that I'm currently applying to. It's for a Development Specialist.

    I cannot even begin to tell you all how excited I am just for applying. The possibility, no matter how miniscule, of having the chance to get this job...it makes my body quake with excitement. As I mentioned to another ECer earlier...my heart is pounding so fast because I want this so much.

    For this position there is no application. Only a Resume and Cover Letter. Sounds easy, right? The problem is...I've never actually had to write a cover letter. So even though I'm writing all these things...I'm not sure I'm doing anything that will better my chances here.

    I was hoping to see if you guys could provide me with good examples of what I should and shouldn't include. Formats, important bits of information. Anything. Sample cover letters would be great as well.

    As for my Resume...as mentioned by said ECer....my previous work experience wouldn't hurt to add even though it's just retail and food related. But having a management position is noteworthy, yes?


    I suppose I'm just asking for some massive pointers and tips here, guys.

    And mind you. I have a time limit. I'm trying to submit this by tonight or tomorrow at the latest.

    I just...my life...I can't tell you all how much this job would truly mean to me.

    Thanks in advance!
     
  2. I don't have the most experience with job applications, but some things to write on a cover letter that are standard include the following:
    • Introduction to who you are
    • Why the position is great for you
    • Why you are great for the position
    • Anything special that applies and can draw interest to your file

    Other than that, I can't really think of any particular hints that stick out. I suppose just express some passion in your cover letter, being professional and succinct. I'm under the impression that most employers like shorter cover letters (saves time, right?). But don't compromise content just to make it short.

    Indeed, I agree that any work experience shouldn't hurt, and management positions are noteworthy. Sometimes putting less relevant information on a resume isn't the best, but if you're just starting out in a career and don't have a lot of experience there, it's fine to include experience from other fields.

    Good luck :slight_smile: it sounds like you're really passionate about the job when you're telling us about it, so put some of that passion on your cover letter.

    Also, resume examples are available online just by searching. As a general rule I've heard, less empty space on a page is better.
     
  3. musikk021

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    You can write your cover letter in one of two formats:

    One format is where everything is written in block letter format. In the first paragraph, mention the job/position that you are seeking and applying for. The rest of your paragraphs will highlight your best accomplishments, most relevant/significant job experiences (preferably experiences that pertain to the job you are applying for), and state qualifications and skills you have that make you a good candidate for the position. You can also state why this job would be a good opportunity for you and why you would be an asset for their company. In the closing paragraph, thank them for their time in reviewing your resume and cover letter, state when you are available for an interview, and provide your contact information. This type of cover letter works best for those who have a good amount of work experience. (You can look up "block letter format cover letter" in google, and I'm sure you will find some generic examples to at least show you what I'm talking about.)

    Another format is the bullet format. The first and last paragraphs follow the same idea as above and are written in block letter format still. However, this type of cover letter is more concise and straightforward because the bulk of the body content is structured in bullet format. For each bullet, you would create a bolded “subtitle” that states your more notable qualifications or job experiences. Following that, you would provide elaboration for each point, explaining in more detail about those aspects of yourself. This type of cover letter works best for people who don’t have any or much work experience. You focus on discussing your skills instead of prior work experience. (You can look up "bullet format cover letter" in google for this).

    In both formats, it is okay to repeat items that are already listed in your resume. The cover letter gives you a chance to elaborate on the most important points from your resume.


    Hope this helps somewhat. I would send you a couple examples, but I don't know where I can attach word/pdf files. Anyways, good luck!
     
  4. Romi

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    Thanks so much!
    I have to admit, with my cover letter, I'm caught between being to the point and showing how much this job and my life intertwine.

    ---------- Post added 27th Jan 2013 at 04:32 PM ----------

    As additional information, I don't have any work experience in the field I'm applying for, but I have tons of experience in the field....if that makes any sense. I'm confident about my skills.
     
  5. ForceAndVerve

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    Development Specialist eh? Sounds pretty BIG! :grin:

    And I don't think you should be afraid to go into detail about your experiences within the field. Just make sure that you're tailoring what you write to the requirements of the job description. Think of it as "This is what they want, and I can prove I can do that beacuse I have done THIS."

    I do think it's a fine line though between disclosing the right amount of information and just going overboard and making it a snooze fest. Too much info and they will just go "TLDR", too little info and they will just go "what a joke".

    GOOD LUCK though Romi! :grin:
     
  6. Romi

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    Thanks for the vote of confidence! I'm working really hard on it. You'd think as a writer, this would come easy to me. But it's so hard not to go into loads of detail. Hahaha.
     
  7. Rexmond

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    Sounds big! Sounds similar to writing a CV - which is what we use to apply to jobs here in England. What has been mentioned already sounds top-notch. Let us know the response you get... Best of luck! :slight_smile: