MyJobSearcher.com

Today’s Job Hunting has a different set of challenges and requirements than the hunt of even a decade ago.  One of the major changes is the importance the cover letter plays.  In fact, it has become as important as the resume.  There are some Managers and Human Resource who pay closer attention to the cover letter than they do to the resume. Which is often a challenge for the potential applicant who may feel that their resume shows their skills and ability much better.  Although they are correct, they are also incorrect.  Take a look for a moment at the evolution of the “job hunt” if you will:

Not too terribly long ago, it was customary to “pound the pavement” to find a job.  Properly dressed with plenty of resumes in hand, the person would go from place to place, personally dropping off the resume.  Sometimes the opportunity to present themselves to the appropriate manager who would be interviewing them, would also arise.  They were able to instantly make a good impression and – more often than not, that interview.  In essence, the person was their own “cover letter.”

Today’s business world doesn’t really allow for this more personalized approach to finding the perfect position. Due to the more fast paced environment that we operate in and the demands and pressures of managers, the cover letter operates as that personal introduction.  It helps to define who the potential applicant is and why they may be a good candidate to interview.  It brings a stronger interest to reviewing the resume and ideally “cinching” the interview.

Honestly, today’s employers would prefer not to have the personal visit. There is real time save in the electronically delivered resume and a nicely done cover letter.  Conversely, today’s job applicant would also prefer the less strenuous approach to finding that perfect position.  The “pounding of the pavement” days are best left behind for both sides.

The next time you are looking for a new position, or if you are looking for a new position right now, you will do well to include a well written letter of introduction with your resume.  There are a few things you may want to know about the art of writing a cover letter as well:

1. When you write your letter, do ensure that it explains why you are sending a resume.  In other words, what are you inquiring about:  the reception position? the managerial opening? etc.
2. Identify where you learned about their position:  an online job board? A newspaper advertisement?  A friend?
3. Encourage to look at your resume by pointing out key elements in it — but only mention a couple, do not use the cover letter as a restatement of your resume.
4. Your letter of introduction should be a reflection of you.  Does it give an idea of  your enthusiasm, personality, motivation, or your ability to communicate?
5. Let them know how and when you would like to follow up, by letter, phone call, email or fax.

Utilizing this ever-so-essential tool as a part of your own search for a new position will be very helpful to you and to your potential employer.

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You’ve worked for an employer for a few years. You’ve done the best you know how to do and given it your all for the job. Sometimes, though, your all doesn’t stop the impending lay off that comes with a looming economy and economical crisis. There are things to consider even though the ride home seems to leave room for every negative thought to enter your mind.

First, it’s ok. In this economy, a lot of us are being let go for a simple lack of budget and downslide in stocks and revenue. Don’t let yourself fall into depression or give yourself visuals of foreclosure. Perhaps you have a savings account to rely on? If you are a student, you can get school loans or grants that can be a source of income.

Give yourself some time to relax, and try to keep from panicking. Regardless of the economy, jobs are out there. Take a weekend to meditate and let yourself celebrate for a moment. A layoff can be a blessing in disguise. You now have the option to move into a better paying job.

Once the shock of a layoff wears off, take the time to fully review your resume. Your resume is the strongest asset you have for your next job (aside from the interview). Take a day to make it good. Take it to a professional if you don’t think your writing skills are proficient for a professional resume. A strong cover letter can add to a stronger resume, and it can make it stand out against others.

The best thing to remember is to keep yourself from panicking. The idea of losing your job can make your heart fall into your stomach, but jobs are out there and you can recover just as quickly.

It’s time to dust off the resume for a new job. Most people don’t need to update their resume very often, but when the time comes it’s hard to come up with ideas for the perfect, professional resume. There are several things to consider when writing a resume. If you decide to write it yourself instead of hiring a professional, consider these tips before diving into the writing process.

Your resume should be tailored towards the job to which you are applying. Bringing out certain skills listed in the job description advertisement will put your resume at the top of the other applicants. Remember, an employer gets hundreds of applications sometimes. You want to ensure your resume stays at the top. The best way to stand out is to elaborate on the skills the employer needs that you can offer to him.

Clearly state your skills while trying to be as succinct and concise as possible. It’s difficult to take years of professional experience in skills and narrow it down to one or two sentences, but simple and easy to read resumes allow the employer to easily read your skills that match his employee needs. Remember, an employer will read bulleted and areas of the resume that stand out. These are the skills you want him to see quickly and see that you’re the perfect candidate for the job.

Finally, format your resume in a professional manner. Tiny print, long paragraphs, or messy resumes frustrate the reader so that they go to the next resume. Section you resume by qualifications and experience. Create bullet points for important skills. Clearly define your skills without being too wordy. These are a few formatting tips that create a great resume.

With just a few extra details, your resume will bring you multiple interviews with multiple offers. Make sure to make a good impression and spend time on a good resume.