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By Adams Media Corp,
3. Wasted space: Since cover letters are generally four paragraphs long, every word of every sentence should be directly related to your purpose for writing. In other words, if you are applying for a position as a chemist, include only those skills and experience most applicable to that field. Any other information weakens your application. Some real-life blunders we've seen include:
Example: "As my enclosed resume reveals, I possess the technical experience and educational background to succeed as your newest Civil Engineer. In addition, I am a certified Gymnastics Instructor who has won several local competitions."
Example: "I am writing in response to your advertisement for an Accounting Clerk. Currently, I am finishing an associate degree at Fisher Junior College. My courses have included Medieval Architecture, Film Theory, American History before 1900, and nutrition."
4. Form letters: Mass mailing, in which you send a general form letter to a large number of employers, are not recommended. This approach does not allow you to personalize each application. Every cover letter that you write should be tailored to the position you are seeking and demonstrate both your commitment to a specific industry and familiarity with each particular employer. Mass mailings may indicate to a hiring manager that you are not truly interested in joining his or her organization.
There are certain formats and phrases that signal to an employer that you are using a form letter. In one real-life mass mailing mishap, the candidate created a form letter with blank spaces where he penned in the employer's name and position applied for. Another applicant who was indecisive about her field of interest created a list of possible positions in her letter. She then circled the most appropriate job description depending on the targeted company.
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