{"id":314,"date":"2014-07-25T20:09:56","date_gmt":"2014-07-25T20:09:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/courses.candelalearning.com\/writershandbook\/?post_type=chapter&#038;p=314"},"modified":"2017-01-02T19:36:39","modified_gmt":"2017-01-02T19:36:39","slug":"12-2-writing-to-apply-for-jobs","status":"publish","type":"chapter","link":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/chapter\/12-2-writing-to-apply-for-jobs\/","title":{"raw":"12.2 Writing to Apply for Jobs","rendered":"12.2 Writing to Apply for Jobs"},"content":{"raw":"&nbsp;\r\n<div class=\"im_section\">\r\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\"><span class=\"im_title-prefix\">12.2<\/span> Writing to Apply for Jobs<\/h2>\r\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_n01\" class=\"im_learning_objectives im_editable im_block\">\r\n<h3 class=\"im_title\">Learning Objectives<\/h3>\r\n<ol id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_l01\" class=\"im_orderedlist\">\r\n \t<li>Recognize visual features of a r\u00e9sum\u00e9.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Recognize content components of a r\u00e9sum\u00e9.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Understand how to target a cover letter.<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<\/div>\r\nAs part of the process of applying for any job in any profession beyond the entry level, you are likely to have to produce two main written documents: a r\u00e9sum\u00e9 and a cover letter or letter of application. Writing these documents well is often a key determiner in whether you get the job. To illustrate, we\u2019ll follow a student, Joey Williams, through these two key professional writing challenges. Joey is a recent graduate of a master\u2019s degree program in public relations who is seeking a position at a graphic design firm.\r\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s01\" class=\"im_section\">\r\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Creating Solid R\u00e9sum\u00e9s<\/h2>\r\nCommon r\u00e9sum\u00e9 formats vary with types of jobs and with the times, but regardless of the type of position you are seeking, your r\u00e9sum\u00e9 should include some key features and some key information.\r\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s01_s01\" class=\"im_section\">\r\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Key R\u00e9sum\u00e9 Features<\/h2>\r\nEffective r\u00e9sum\u00e9s have the following features:\r\n<ul id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s01_s01_l01\" class=\"im_itemizedlist im_editable im_block\">\r\n \t<li>They are meticulously edited (absolutely no errors).<\/li>\r\n \t<li>The subheadings stand out and are short enough to be read at a glance (one or two words).<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Ample white space is used.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Lists are parallel.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Bolding is used sparingly.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>One easy-to-read font is uniformly used throughout.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>The font is size 12.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>The r\u00e9sum\u00e9 is available both in digital and hard-copy form.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Formatting on a digital r\u00e9sum\u00e9 holds when it is opened in others\u2019 computers. This formatting should be straight type without tabbing, tables, italics, bolding, columns, or indenting. If it\u2019s included as an attachment, it should be in a Microsoft Word file. A second option is to visually create the r\u00e9sum\u00e9 as desired and then capture it in a PDF file.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>The r\u00e9sum\u00e9 is confined to one page unless you are in a profession that requires additional pages or unless you are at a more advanced professional level that requires a more extensive r\u00e9sum\u00e9.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>The most recent information is presented first within each category.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Standard r\u00e9sum\u00e9 paper is used unless the specific profession calls for something different.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Accomplishments are presented in nonwordy formats.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Action verbs are used to describe accomplishments.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Contact information is clearly visible at the top of the r\u00e9sum\u00e9.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Key words that searchers in your professional field are likely to use are included in r\u00e9sum\u00e9s that are posted online. (After your contact information, include a \u201ckey words\u201d section or weave the keywords into your accomplishments.)<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s01_s02\" class=\"im_section\">\r\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Key R\u00e9sum\u00e9 Information<\/h2>\r\nEvery r\u00e9sum\u00e9 should include the following information:\r\n<ul id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s01_s02_l01\" class=\"im_itemizedlist im_editable im_block\">\r\n \t<li>professional name<\/li>\r\n \t<li>address<\/li>\r\n \t<li>phone number<\/li>\r\n \t<li>e-mail address<\/li>\r\n \t<li>work experience (i.e., places of employment)<\/li>\r\n \t<li>accomplishments at each place of employment<\/li>\r\n \t<li>education<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nThese r\u00e9sum\u00e9 components are optional:\r\n<ul id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s01_s02_l02\" class=\"im_itemizedlist im_editable im_block\">\r\n \t<li>personal interests<\/li>\r\n \t<li>references<\/li>\r\n \t<li>dates of education and work experience<\/li>\r\n \t<li>address for personal website<\/li>\r\n \t<li>employment objective (a good strategy if you want to tailor your r\u00e9sum\u00e9 for a certain job description)<\/li>\r\n \t<li>fax number<\/li>\r\n \t<li>awards and honors<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nTo ensure that your r\u00e9sum\u00e9 is both current and appropriate for the position, you should search online for similar sample r\u00e9sum\u00e9s. You should also run your r\u00e9sum\u00e9 past the career placement services at your college and any people you know who are working in your field of interest. Here\u2019s Joey\u2019s generic r\u00e9sum\u00e9:\r\n<div class=\"im_informalfigure im_large im_block\"><a href=\"https:\/\/textimgs.s3.amazonaws.com\/writershandbook\/section_16\/42707e8e0c7b770e08f0fde07a9c552e.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3922\/2014\/07\/sm_42707e8e0c7b770e08f0fde07a9c552e1.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/a><\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02\" class=\"im_section\">\r\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Writing Targeted Cover Letters<\/h2>\r\nAlong with sending a r\u00e9sum\u00e9 when applying for a job, you will almost always want to send a cover letter. This suggestion holds true in both hard-copy and digital situations. A hard-copy cover letter should be formatted as a standard, typed business letter (for a sample, see Chapter 12 \"Professional Writing,\" Section 12.1 \"Writing Business Letters\"). A digital cover letter should be either typed directly into a given window or copied and pasted into the window. If you copy and paste, check to make sure that the formatting holds.\r\n\r\nWhen the job market is tight, just getting an interview is a major hurdle. Facing dozens and sometimes even hundreds of applicants, employers are looking for reasons to cut down their pool of potential interviewees. Don\u2019t give them a reason <strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">not<\/strong> to interview you by writing a vaguely worded, overly general letter of application or r\u00e9sum\u00e9, especially when you can easily revise and tailor your approach to each position for which you are applying.\r\n\r\nTo <em class=\"im_emphasis\">target<\/em> a cover letter means to write it specifically for an identified job. You can gather information to target your cover letter by looking carefully at the job description and by studying the company\u2019s website. Let\u2019s look at an example of an online job description that has caught Joey\u2019s attention:\r\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02_n01\" class=\"im_callout im_block\">\r\n<h3 class=\"im_title\">Video Game PR\u2014Assistant Account Executive<\/h3>\r\nAbout the Job\r\n\r\n<strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">GolinHarris<\/strong> is a leading international public relations firm and winner of <em class=\"im_emphasis\">PRWeek<\/em>\u2019s Large PR Agency of the Year 2010, 2010 Best Places to Work by the <em class=\"im_emphasis\">Los Angeles Business Journal<\/em>, and numerous industry awards.\r\n\r\nOur western region headquarters, based in <strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Los Angeles<\/strong>, is currently seeking an ambitious and motivated PR professional to join our team as an <strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Assistant Account Executive<\/strong>. The successful candidate will play an integral role and receive valuable hands-on experience by working on our <strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Nintendo<\/strong> account. We are launching exciting programs in the next few weeks and this opportunity will not last long. Avid gamers are encouraged to apply now.\r\n\r\nThe candidate we seek will perform fundamental PR tasks such as aiding in production of media-related materials, pitching program highlights to the media, monitoring for quality and quantity of media coverage and managing client publications and resources materials.\r\n\r\nWhat Do You Need to Be Considered?\r\n<ul id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02_l01\" class=\"im_itemizedlist\">\r\n \t<li>2 years of work experience in PR required, agency and video game background is preferred<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Applicants with only internship experience will not be considered<\/li>\r\n \t<li>A passion for communications and consumer issues<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Stellar AP-style writing abilities<\/li>\r\n \t<li>A Bachelor\u2019s degree<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Social media experience<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Local applicants preferred<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nAbout Us\r\n\r\nAs a member of the Interpublic Group (IPG), GolinHarris partners with a network of the communication industry\u2019s best strategists across a variety of disciplines, including sports marketing, consumer research, branding, special events and advertising. We collaborate with these partners to continually advance our clients\u2019 businesses.\r\n\r\nAt GolinHarris we recognize that there is much more to life than just work. Our benefits program has been designed to help GolinHarris employees and their families stay healthy, balance personal and career priorities, and build a solid and secure future. We offer a great workplace, culture, competitive salary, health care benefits (medical, dental and vision insurance), 401k and more.\r\n\r\nGolinHarris is an Equal Opportunity Employer. EEO\/AA.M\/F\/D\/V.\r\n<div class=\"im_copyright\">\r\n\r\nSource: GolinHarris\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\nAs Joey prepares his cover letter, he\u2019ll need to include, in three or four paragraphs, information about himself and his fitness for the position that complement what his r\u00e9sum\u00e9 already reveals. Typical contents of the paragraphs of his cover letter might include the following:\r\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02_s01\" class=\"im_section\">\r\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">First Paragraph<\/h2>\r\n<ul id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02_s01_l01\" class=\"im_itemizedlist im_editable im_block\">\r\n \t<li>The job for which he is applying<\/li>\r\n \t<li>How he learned of the job<\/li>\r\n \t<li>A statement clearly and succinctly indicating why he is well suited for the job<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02_s02\" class=\"im_section\">\r\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Second Paragraph<\/h2>\r\n<ul id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02_s02_l01\" class=\"im_itemizedlist im_editable im_block\">\r\n \t<li>Some current, relevant experiences that show he has a good background for the job. This should be where he places the most significant points he has to offer.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02_s03\" class=\"im_section\">\r\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Third Paragraph<\/h2>\r\n<ul id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02_s03_l01\" class=\"im_itemizedlist im_editable im_block\">\r\n \t<li>Other relevant job experiences or education. This is where he puts what might be considered his \u201csecond level\u201d of important points.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02_s04\" class=\"im_section\">\r\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Fourth Paragraph<\/h2>\r\n<ul id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02_s04_l01\" class=\"im_itemizedlist im_editable im_block\">\r\n \t<li>A statement about wanting to have an opportunity to discuss the job<\/li>\r\n \t<li>An offer to send references as needed<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Request to be contacted and a reiteration of his main contact information (most likely a phone number or an e-mail address or both)<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nKeep in mind that your cover letter is the first chance to present yourself and often the only chance. Besides being sure to include the most pertinent and valuable information you have to offer, be very careful that your letter is grammatically correct with no punctuation or spelling errors. Proofread it carefully yourself, and then, even if you think the letter is perfect, ask a trusted acquaintance to proofread it. Errors in this kind of high-stakes writing situation can be fatal to your chances of achieving your desired goal: getting your foot in the door professionally.\r\n\r\nAs he is planning his cover letter, Joey decides to apply what he has learned in his academic writing career to this all-important professional challenge. Thus, before writing, he fills out the statement of purpose he used six years before when he was a first-year college student:\r\n<div class=\"im_informaltable im_block\">\r\n<table cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\">\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Voice<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">I am writing as<\/strong> a young, eager, well-educated, and flexible individual who wants to be a part of the GolinHarris team.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Message<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">I want to convey the message that<\/strong> I will bring extensive gaming, graphic design, and public relations experience and credentials to the position.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Audience<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">I want to write to<\/strong> the human resources department or hiring manager at GolinHarris.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Attitude<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">My attitude toward the subject is<\/strong> positive and confident, but also somewhat deferential, humble, and respectful of authority.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Reception<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">I want my audience to<\/strong> give me an interview because they realize they\u2019ve got a hot local prospect who\u2019s perfect for the job.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Tone<\/strong><\/td>\r\n<td><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">My tone toward my readers is<\/strong> professional, but creative, enthusiastic, and cutting-edge.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n<\/div>\r\nArmed with his statement of purpose, Joey writes the following cover letter:\r\n<div class=\"im_informalfigure im_full im_block\"><a href=\"https:\/\/textimgs.s3.amazonaws.com\/writershandbook\/section_16\/82ea6823caa9d1381410e1b57b332062.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3922\/2014\/07\/sm_82ea6823caa9d1381410e1b57b3320621.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02_s04_n01\" class=\"im_key_takeaways im_editable im_block\">\r\n<h3 class=\"im_title\">Key Takeaways<\/h3>\r\n<ul id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02_s04_l02\" class=\"im_itemizedlist\">\r\n \t<li>The visual elements of r\u00e9sum\u00e9s are important, including subheadings, white space, paper choice, font choice, and limited use of font features.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Your r\u00e9sum\u00e9 should be available in both print format and digital format. Digital r\u00e9sum\u00e9s must have very little formatting. A PDF version can sometimes be used instead of a nonformatted option.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>All r\u00e9sum\u00e9s should include your professional name, address, phone number, e-mail address, work experience, and education. You might also choose to include your personal interests, references, website address, objective, fax number, and awards and honors.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>You should always include a paper or digital cover letter with your r\u00e9sum\u00e9. Your cover letter should include three or four paragraphs that include the position for which you are applying, the most relevant experiences you have had that make you a good candidate for the job, a request to discuss the job, and your contact information.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Of all the types of writing you do, perhaps none requires more meticulous attention to detail and editing than r\u00e9sum\u00e9s and cover letters.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02_s04_n02\" class=\"im_exercises im_editable im_block\">\r\n<h3 class=\"im_title\">Exercises<\/h3>\r\n<ol id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02_s04_l03\" class=\"im_orderedlist\">\r\n \t<li>Create a r\u00e9sum\u00e9 that you could use when applying for a specific position. Generate both a paper version and a digital version.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Find a position description for a job that interests you and fits your current or prospective skills. Write a cover letter that you could send with your r\u00e9sum\u00e9 to apply for that job. Before you write your cover letter, use the job description as a guide for filling out a statement of purpose.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Working with your writing group, search online for a collection of job descriptions. Using an agreed-on selection from your sample, assign each member of your writing group the task of designing a r\u00e9sum\u00e9 and cover letter to meet the needs of that description (with each group member \u201capplying\u201d under an assumed name). Then compare the submissions and determine which two applicants should be interviewed as finalists. Explain the reason for your choices.<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n&nbsp;","rendered":"<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div class=\"im_section\">\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\"><span class=\"im_title-prefix\">12.2<\/span> Writing to Apply for Jobs<\/h2>\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_n01\" class=\"im_learning_objectives im_editable im_block\">\n<h3 class=\"im_title\">Learning Objectives<\/h3>\n<ol id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_l01\" class=\"im_orderedlist\">\n<li>Recognize visual features of a r\u00e9sum\u00e9.<\/li>\n<li>Recognize content components of a r\u00e9sum\u00e9.<\/li>\n<li>Understand how to target a cover letter.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<p>As part of the process of applying for any job in any profession beyond the entry level, you are likely to have to produce two main written documents: a r\u00e9sum\u00e9 and a cover letter or letter of application. Writing these documents well is often a key determiner in whether you get the job. To illustrate, we\u2019ll follow a student, Joey Williams, through these two key professional writing challenges. Joey is a recent graduate of a master\u2019s degree program in public relations who is seeking a position at a graphic design firm.<\/p>\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s01\" class=\"im_section\">\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Creating Solid R\u00e9sum\u00e9s<\/h2>\n<p>Common r\u00e9sum\u00e9 formats vary with types of jobs and with the times, but regardless of the type of position you are seeking, your r\u00e9sum\u00e9 should include some key features and some key information.<\/p>\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s01_s01\" class=\"im_section\">\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Key R\u00e9sum\u00e9 Features<\/h2>\n<p>Effective r\u00e9sum\u00e9s have the following features:<\/p>\n<ul id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s01_s01_l01\" class=\"im_itemizedlist im_editable im_block\">\n<li>They are meticulously edited (absolutely no errors).<\/li>\n<li>The subheadings stand out and are short enough to be read at a glance (one or two words).<\/li>\n<li>Ample white space is used.<\/li>\n<li>Lists are parallel.<\/li>\n<li>Bolding is used sparingly.<\/li>\n<li>One easy-to-read font is uniformly used throughout.<\/li>\n<li>The font is size 12.<\/li>\n<li>The r\u00e9sum\u00e9 is available both in digital and hard-copy form.<\/li>\n<li>Formatting on a digital r\u00e9sum\u00e9 holds when it is opened in others\u2019 computers. This formatting should be straight type without tabbing, tables, italics, bolding, columns, or indenting. If it\u2019s included as an attachment, it should be in a Microsoft Word file. A second option is to visually create the r\u00e9sum\u00e9 as desired and then capture it in a PDF file.<\/li>\n<li>The r\u00e9sum\u00e9 is confined to one page unless you are in a profession that requires additional pages or unless you are at a more advanced professional level that requires a more extensive r\u00e9sum\u00e9.<\/li>\n<li>The most recent information is presented first within each category.<\/li>\n<li>Standard r\u00e9sum\u00e9 paper is used unless the specific profession calls for something different.<\/li>\n<li>Accomplishments are presented in nonwordy formats.<\/li>\n<li>Action verbs are used to describe accomplishments.<\/li>\n<li>Contact information is clearly visible at the top of the r\u00e9sum\u00e9.<\/li>\n<li>Key words that searchers in your professional field are likely to use are included in r\u00e9sum\u00e9s that are posted online. (After your contact information, include a \u201ckey words\u201d section or weave the keywords into your accomplishments.)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s01_s02\" class=\"im_section\">\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Key R\u00e9sum\u00e9 Information<\/h2>\n<p>Every r\u00e9sum\u00e9 should include the following information:<\/p>\n<ul id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s01_s02_l01\" class=\"im_itemizedlist im_editable im_block\">\n<li>professional name<\/li>\n<li>address<\/li>\n<li>phone number<\/li>\n<li>e-mail address<\/li>\n<li>work experience (i.e., places of employment)<\/li>\n<li>accomplishments at each place of employment<\/li>\n<li>education<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These r\u00e9sum\u00e9 components are optional:<\/p>\n<ul id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s01_s02_l02\" class=\"im_itemizedlist im_editable im_block\">\n<li>personal interests<\/li>\n<li>references<\/li>\n<li>dates of education and work experience<\/li>\n<li>address for personal website<\/li>\n<li>employment objective (a good strategy if you want to tailor your r\u00e9sum\u00e9 for a certain job description)<\/li>\n<li>fax number<\/li>\n<li>awards and honors<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>To ensure that your r\u00e9sum\u00e9 is both current and appropriate for the position, you should search online for similar sample r\u00e9sum\u00e9s. You should also run your r\u00e9sum\u00e9 past the career placement services at your college and any people you know who are working in your field of interest. Here\u2019s Joey\u2019s generic r\u00e9sum\u00e9:<\/p>\n<div class=\"im_informalfigure im_large im_block\"><a href=\"https:\/\/textimgs.s3.amazonaws.com\/writershandbook\/section_16\/42707e8e0c7b770e08f0fde07a9c552e.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3922\/2014\/07\/sm_42707e8e0c7b770e08f0fde07a9c552e1.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02\" class=\"im_section\">\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Writing Targeted Cover Letters<\/h2>\n<p>Along with sending a r\u00e9sum\u00e9 when applying for a job, you will almost always want to send a cover letter. This suggestion holds true in both hard-copy and digital situations. A hard-copy cover letter should be formatted as a standard, typed business letter (for a sample, see Chapter 12 &#8220;Professional Writing,&#8221; Section 12.1 &#8220;Writing Business Letters&#8221;). A digital cover letter should be either typed directly into a given window or copied and pasted into the window. If you copy and paste, check to make sure that the formatting holds.<\/p>\n<p>When the job market is tight, just getting an interview is a major hurdle. Facing dozens and sometimes even hundreds of applicants, employers are looking for reasons to cut down their pool of potential interviewees. Don\u2019t give them a reason <strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">not<\/strong> to interview you by writing a vaguely worded, overly general letter of application or r\u00e9sum\u00e9, especially when you can easily revise and tailor your approach to each position for which you are applying.<\/p>\n<p>To <em class=\"im_emphasis\">target<\/em> a cover letter means to write it specifically for an identified job. You can gather information to target your cover letter by looking carefully at the job description and by studying the company\u2019s website. Let\u2019s look at an example of an online job description that has caught Joey\u2019s attention:<\/p>\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02_n01\" class=\"im_callout im_block\">\n<h3 class=\"im_title\">Video Game PR\u2014Assistant Account Executive<\/h3>\n<p>About the Job<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">GolinHarris<\/strong> is a leading international public relations firm and winner of <em class=\"im_emphasis\">PRWeek<\/em>\u2019s Large PR Agency of the Year 2010, 2010 Best Places to Work by the <em class=\"im_emphasis\">Los Angeles Business Journal<\/em>, and numerous industry awards.<\/p>\n<p>Our western region headquarters, based in <strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Los Angeles<\/strong>, is currently seeking an ambitious and motivated PR professional to join our team as an <strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Assistant Account Executive<\/strong>. The successful candidate will play an integral role and receive valuable hands-on experience by working on our <strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Nintendo<\/strong> account. We are launching exciting programs in the next few weeks and this opportunity will not last long. Avid gamers are encouraged to apply now.<\/p>\n<p>The candidate we seek will perform fundamental PR tasks such as aiding in production of media-related materials, pitching program highlights to the media, monitoring for quality and quantity of media coverage and managing client publications and resources materials.<\/p>\n<p>What Do You Need to Be Considered?<\/p>\n<ul id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02_l01\" class=\"im_itemizedlist\">\n<li>2 years of work experience in PR required, agency and video game background is preferred<\/li>\n<li>Applicants with only internship experience will not be considered<\/li>\n<li>A passion for communications and consumer issues<\/li>\n<li>Stellar AP-style writing abilities<\/li>\n<li>A Bachelor\u2019s degree<\/li>\n<li>Social media experience<\/li>\n<li>Local applicants preferred<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>About Us<\/p>\n<p>As a member of the Interpublic Group (IPG), GolinHarris partners with a network of the communication industry\u2019s best strategists across a variety of disciplines, including sports marketing, consumer research, branding, special events and advertising. We collaborate with these partners to continually advance our clients\u2019 businesses.<\/p>\n<p>At GolinHarris we recognize that there is much more to life than just work. Our benefits program has been designed to help GolinHarris employees and their families stay healthy, balance personal and career priorities, and build a solid and secure future. We offer a great workplace, culture, competitive salary, health care benefits (medical, dental and vision insurance), 401k and more.<\/p>\n<p>GolinHarris is an Equal Opportunity Employer. EEO\/AA.M\/F\/D\/V.<\/p>\n<div class=\"im_copyright\">\n<p>Source: GolinHarris<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>As Joey prepares his cover letter, he\u2019ll need to include, in three or four paragraphs, information about himself and his fitness for the position that complement what his r\u00e9sum\u00e9 already reveals. Typical contents of the paragraphs of his cover letter might include the following:<\/p>\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02_s01\" class=\"im_section\">\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">First Paragraph<\/h2>\n<ul id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02_s01_l01\" class=\"im_itemizedlist im_editable im_block\">\n<li>The job for which he is applying<\/li>\n<li>How he learned of the job<\/li>\n<li>A statement clearly and succinctly indicating why he is well suited for the job<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02_s02\" class=\"im_section\">\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Second Paragraph<\/h2>\n<ul id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02_s02_l01\" class=\"im_itemizedlist im_editable im_block\">\n<li>Some current, relevant experiences that show he has a good background for the job. This should be where he places the most significant points he has to offer.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02_s03\" class=\"im_section\">\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Third Paragraph<\/h2>\n<ul id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02_s03_l01\" class=\"im_itemizedlist im_editable im_block\">\n<li>Other relevant job experiences or education. This is where he puts what might be considered his \u201csecond level\u201d of important points.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02_s04\" class=\"im_section\">\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Fourth Paragraph<\/h2>\n<ul id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02_s04_l01\" class=\"im_itemizedlist im_editable im_block\">\n<li>A statement about wanting to have an opportunity to discuss the job<\/li>\n<li>An offer to send references as needed<\/li>\n<li>Request to be contacted and a reiteration of his main contact information (most likely a phone number or an e-mail address or both)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Keep in mind that your cover letter is the first chance to present yourself and often the only chance. Besides being sure to include the most pertinent and valuable information you have to offer, be very careful that your letter is grammatically correct with no punctuation or spelling errors. Proofread it carefully yourself, and then, even if you think the letter is perfect, ask a trusted acquaintance to proofread it. Errors in this kind of high-stakes writing situation can be fatal to your chances of achieving your desired goal: getting your foot in the door professionally.<\/p>\n<p>As he is planning his cover letter, Joey decides to apply what he has learned in his academic writing career to this all-important professional challenge. Thus, before writing, he fills out the statement of purpose he used six years before when he was a first-year college student:<\/p>\n<div class=\"im_informaltable im_block\">\n<table cellpadding=\"0\" style=\"border-spacing: 0px;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Voice<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">I am writing as<\/strong> a young, eager, well-educated, and flexible individual who wants to be a part of the GolinHarris team.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Message<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">I want to convey the message that<\/strong> I will bring extensive gaming, graphic design, and public relations experience and credentials to the position.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Audience<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">I want to write to<\/strong> the human resources department or hiring manager at GolinHarris.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Attitude<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">My attitude toward the subject is<\/strong> positive and confident, but also somewhat deferential, humble, and respectful of authority.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Reception<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">I want my audience to<\/strong> give me an interview because they realize they\u2019ve got a hot local prospect who\u2019s perfect for the job.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Tone<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">My tone toward my readers is<\/strong> professional, but creative, enthusiastic, and cutting-edge.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<p>Armed with his statement of purpose, Joey writes the following cover letter:<\/p>\n<div class=\"im_informalfigure im_full im_block\"><a href=\"https:\/\/textimgs.s3.amazonaws.com\/writershandbook\/section_16\/82ea6823caa9d1381410e1b57b332062.jpg\" target=\"_blank\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3922\/2014\/07\/sm_82ea6823caa9d1381410e1b57b3320621.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02_s04_n01\" class=\"im_key_takeaways im_editable im_block\">\n<h3 class=\"im_title\">Key Takeaways<\/h3>\n<ul id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02_s04_l02\" class=\"im_itemizedlist\">\n<li>The visual elements of r\u00e9sum\u00e9s are important, including subheadings, white space, paper choice, font choice, and limited use of font features.<\/li>\n<li>Your r\u00e9sum\u00e9 should be available in both print format and digital format. Digital r\u00e9sum\u00e9s must have very little formatting. A PDF version can sometimes be used instead of a nonformatted option.<\/li>\n<li>All r\u00e9sum\u00e9s should include your professional name, address, phone number, e-mail address, work experience, and education. You might also choose to include your personal interests, references, website address, objective, fax number, and awards and honors.<\/li>\n<li>You should always include a paper or digital cover letter with your r\u00e9sum\u00e9. Your cover letter should include three or four paragraphs that include the position for which you are applying, the most relevant experiences you have had that make you a good candidate for the job, a request to discuss the job, and your contact information.<\/li>\n<li>Of all the types of writing you do, perhaps none requires more meticulous attention to detail and editing than r\u00e9sum\u00e9s and cover letters.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02_s04_n02\" class=\"im_exercises im_editable im_block\">\n<h3 class=\"im_title\">Exercises<\/h3>\n<ol id=\"mccrimmon-ch12_s02_s02_s04_l03\" class=\"im_orderedlist\">\n<li>Create a r\u00e9sum\u00e9 that you could use when applying for a specific position. Generate both a paper version and a digital version.<\/li>\n<li>Find a position description for a job that interests you and fits your current or prospective skills. Write a cover letter that you could send with your r\u00e9sum\u00e9 to apply for that job. Before you write your cover letter, use the job description as a guide for filling out a statement of purpose.<\/li>\n<li>Working with your writing group, search online for a collection of job descriptions. Using an agreed-on selection from your sample, assign each member of your writing group the task of designing a r\u00e9sum\u00e9 and cover letter to meet the needs of that description (with each group member \u201capplying\u201d under an assumed name). Then compare the submissions and determine which two applicants should be interviewed as finalists. Explain the reason for your choices.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t <section class=\"citations-section\" role=\"contentinfo\">\n\t\t\t <h3>Candela Citations<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t <div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t <div id=\"citation-list-314\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t <div class=\"licensing\"><div class=\"license-attribution-dropdown-subheading\">CC licensed content, Shared previously<\/div><ul class=\"citation-list\"><li>Writers Handbook. <strong>Authored by<\/strong>: Anonymous. <strong>Provided by<\/strong>: Anonymous. <strong>Located at<\/strong>: <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/2012books.lardbucket.org\/books\/writers-handbook\/\">http:\/\/2012books.lardbucket.org\/books\/writers-handbook\/<\/a>. <strong>License<\/strong>: <em><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"license\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/4.0\/\">CC BY-NC-SA: Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike<\/a><\/em><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t <\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t <\/div>\n\t\t\t <\/section>","protected":false},"author":5,"menu_order":60,"template":"","meta":{"_candela_citation":"[{\"type\":\"cc\",\"description\":\"Writers Handbook\",\"author\":\"Anonymous\",\"organization\":\"Anonymous\",\"url\":\"http:\/\/2012books.lardbucket.org\/books\/writers-handbook\/\",\"project\":\"\",\"license\":\"cc-by-nc-sa\",\"license_terms\":\"\"}]","CANDELA_OUTCOMES_GUID":"","pb_show_title":"on","pb_short_title":"","pb_subtitle":"","pb_authors":[],"pb_section_license":""},"chapter-type":[],"contributor":[],"license":[],"class_list":["post-314","chapter","type-chapter","status-publish","hentry"],"part":416,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/314","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/chapter"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/5"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/314\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":789,"href":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/314\/revisions\/789"}],"part":[{"href":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/parts\/416"}],"metadata":[{"href":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/314\/metadata\/"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=314"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"chapter-type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapter-type?post=314"},{"taxonomy":"contributor","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/contributor?post=314"},{"taxonomy":"license","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/suny-mcc-styleguide\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/license?post=314"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}