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By Adams Media Corp,
9. Personal photos: During the course of our research, we found actual photographs of candidates enclosed in job applications. We opened one letter to find an 8-by-10-inch glossy of a doctor surrounded by her patients. Another candidate used his computer to electronically scan his image onto the cover letter stationery. A third blew up a picture of his face to cover the entire page, then handwrote his letter over it!
Unless you are seeking employment in modeling, acting, or other performance industries, it is not appropriate to send a photograph. An employer will see what you look like should you reach the interview stage. Until then, even the cutest baby face won't help you get a foot in the door!
10. Confessed shortcomings: Some job-hunters mistakenly call attention to their weaknesses in their cover letters, hoping to ward off an employer's objections. This is a mistake because the letter emphasizes your flaws rather than your strengths. For example, avoid statements such as these: "Although I have not related experience, I remain very interested in the Management Consultant position" and "I may not be well qualified for this position but it has always been my dream to work in the publishing field." Instead, emphasize your strengths, including valuable skills, related experience, and company knowledge.
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