The website, “Cover Letter Round 2″ basically talked about looking at the job description, and then telling of examples of how you possess what specific qualities the company looks for. Show passion, and do not try to write too many points. One person said to end positively, and act like you are assuming to get a response back “I look forward to hearing from you” but another disagreed and said it sounded to generic, like everyone writes that. I think I would write “I hope to hear from you”, which is positive but does not assume anything.
The tips from Craiglist had a different perspective. He did, however, agree that the cover letter should meet the needs of the company, shown through specific personal examples. He said not to use language that was too fluffy and sophisticated, but make it more personal, open, and honest. Although you should definitely write about your positive qualities, it is ok to mention your mistakes and how you overcame then. He also included the tips to not attach the cover letter to a word document when sending through e-mail and put the job advertisement in the subject heading.
From the examples I have seen with cover letters, none are alike. There is no standard way to write the letters, but you should definitely make it personal. The thing that must be included is how your qualifications meet those of the desired qualities posted in the job description. Sound professional, but not too stiff.
When I know something could have a direct impact on my life, I exert myself fully. However, when it comes to smaller issues, I am a “go with the flow” type of person. My friends can attest to this; whenever choosing where to go out or eat, I never have a strong opinion. I despise conflict, especially when it is between two of my friends or family. My friends have told me that my attitude as a good influence on them. Many stress over small, unimportant issues, and I always try to help them see the big picture, and how whatever they are worrying about does not matter in the long run. Also, I belive that self pity is the biggest waste of time.
John Byrne talked with guest speaker Marshall Goldsmith about managing your career: only you can do it through developing a strategy, and creating a brand identity for yourself which aligns with your personal mission. Today, most professionals work 60 to 80 hours a week, so putting focus into your career is more important than ever. When establishing your strategy, identity, and mission, you can receive real job offers, have real alternatives, and make real choices about who you want to be. The short speech was very inspirational and helpful. I never thought of only marketing myself based on the company’s needs; I am usually told to focus on my own strengths; now I see that it is good to always relate my strengths to the company’s needs. The podcast was almost scary, however, because, I am only 21 with not much corporate experience; I do not know exactly who I am or what my mission is. I am motivated now to be more proactive when it comes to my future career, and Byrne and Goldsmith gave me the perfect tools to do this.
