Do you really need a Cover Letter?

Do you really need a cover letter?

Short answer is… it depends

It’s true that some hiring managers read cover letters, but others flip right to your resume like I did when I was a hiring manager.

I say always write a cover letter if you have to explain why you align with that job or you are truly excited about that opportunity.

Cover Letter

Let the employer know about you and your expertise – keep it short please.

Argue why you’re the best match.

Express things not shown on your resume, like personality and or soft skills.

Share how you’ll create value for the company and its stakeholders.

Less is more… again, keep it brief.

Share additional bullet points not on your resume – Metrics, Accomplishments, and or Achievements.

The cover letter will normally be scanned along with the resume – improving the likelihood of your resume getting past those evil resume bots. (ATS)

Make sure to address your cover letter to the recruiter and or hiring manager if you have that contact info.

I do always suggest sending a follow-up letter after an interview.

DM me on LinkedIn and I will provide a sample Cover Letter and Follow-up Letter Free of charge for subscribers only.

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LinkedIn Tip #8: About Section ?

The reason people visit your LinkedIn profile is to learn more “About” you.

In this section think about writing it as if you are having coffee with a new colleague at your favorite coffee shop. What would you tell them “About” you?

It’s perfectly OK to write in first person in this section.

Tell the work what it is you have done, what you’re doing now, and why you do it. Give people a reason to reach out to you.

Use this strategy when writing your About section:

I want you to think of what you do and what you solve. Example:

Is your organization in need of a marketing influencer? Someone to ask the right questions and help you formulate a winning marketing strategy? I have helped business create compelling brand identities and ROI-generating marketing campaigns for over 20 years.

Now someone will understand that you solve and how you solve it.

They would normally never find this out unless they got you on the phone for an interview.

Making you someone they just might want to reach out to. (Trophy Icon)

Resume Tip #8: How many references do I need to have on my resume?

Good news… The answer is none.

We have not needed to add references on a resume in a very very very long time.

And you do not have to write: “References Available Upon Request” either.?

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