Here's how you can effectively address feedback on your cover letter from a hiring manager.

Brutal truth? I'm not a fan girl of cover letters OR feedback from hiring managers that are NOT hiring you. #1, cover letters-OMG when is the last time you read one? Most recruiters even say they don't look at them. Which is kinda crazy as many times they are still required. They are ancient and I'm sticking to that. Do we still need them sometimes, yes. My advice-keep em' simple-don't overthink on them. For the feedback on them-say thanks and disregard. #2 Feedback from people NOT hiring you is not helpful... I know many want this...but typically this feedback is generic and not helpful in anyway. Unless someone who is very likely to hire you says- hey can you add this bit in here so I can present you...ignore advice and keep moving on.

Although this guidance probably doesn't align with the topic of this article, the honest truth is that cover letters don't offer as much value in the selection process as they used to. Two areas that matter more than a cover letter are: 1) Having an impactful, value-focused resume 2) Effectively networking to land a referral or internal contact that will help you get noticed These two things offer more ROI for your time than a cover letter. Nevertheless, it's not a bad idea to have a template ready to use if an application requires a cover letter to be attached. Make sure your template focused on quantified achievements rather than a summary of previous job tasks.

Something that I've found helpful is to see feedback as a gift. When a hiring manager takes the time to provide input, it's a sign they're interested in you. Here's how I approach it: ? Thank them genuinely: Show appreciation for their time and insights. ? Stay open-minded: Remember, it's about improving your chances. ? Reflect on the advice: Think about how their suggestions can align your cover letter more closely with the job and company. ? Express willingness to learn: Let them know you value their feedback and will incorporate it. Approaching feedback this way turns it into a valuable learning experience rather than a discouragement.

After receiving feedback, I always make sure to: ? Read carefully: Understand every point the hiring manager made. ? Identify patterns: Look for common themes or recurring suggestions. ? Prioritize changes: Determine which areas need immediate attention based on the feedback. ? Ask clarifying questions if needed: If something isn't clear, don't hesitate to seek further clarification. By dissecting the feedback, I ensure my revisions are precise and align perfectly with what the hiring manager is looking for.

For an effective compelling cover letter use this format. 1. Who are you relevant to the role. E.g. I’m a Snr Project Manager with 8 years experience delivering digital projects in banking 2. How are you a fit for the role and what’s the biggest problem you’ll solve for them in relation to the JD 3. Why Are you interested in this specific company? What do they do that piqued your interest directly linked to your experiences Following this format you’ll avoid wasting the readers time with a generic cover letter filled with subjective adjectives. Keep it short and punchy!

When it's time to revise, a strategic approach is crucial: ? Focus on specifics: If feedback mentions vagueness, add clear examples of achievements. ? Align with job description: Make sure every change ties back to the job requirements. ? Be concise: Address length issues by being succinct yet comprehensive. ? Reflect company culture: Tailor the tone and content to match the company's values. This methodical revision process shows that I can follow directions and adapt, making my cover letter stronger and more relevant.

Feedback is a golden opportunity to highlight your adaptability: ? Implement changes: Show you can take constructive criticism and improve. ? Highlight growth: Mention in your follow-up how the feedback has enhanced your cover letter. ? Be proactive: Demonstrate that you are eager to grow and learn. Employers appreciate candidates who can adjust and evolve based on feedback, proving you are coachable and resilient.

A thoughtful follow-up can make a significant impact: ? Acknowledge feedback: Send a thank-you note appreciating their time and insights. ? Detail changes: Briefly mention the revisions you made in response to their feedback. ? Reaffirm interest: Express your continued enthusiasm for the role. ? Keep it brief: Ensure your follow-up is concise and to the point. This keeps you top of mind and shows your proactive attitude, further solidifying your candidacy.

Throughout the process, keeping a positive outlook is essential: ? View feedback as growth: Each piece of advice is a step towards improvement. ? Stay resilient: Even if you don’t get this job, the experience is invaluable. ? Build confidence: Use feedback to fine-tune your job search strategies for future opportunities. By maintaining positivity, you turn every piece of feedback into a stepping stone for your career, making you a more attractive candidate in the long run.