Professor Susan Walton generously offered her time to provide a Brown Bag Seminar and give some guidance and instruction to public relations students on November 2nd. Since we are all looking for internships, or jobs when we graduate, we all need insight into gaining an edge over the competition. Professor Walton showed us how we can use our cover letters to get that edge. Here are some of the highlights of her presentation:
The Resume/Cover Letter difference:
Resume = Qualification.
· This should include basic info, education, employment, skills, etc.
Cover Letter = Differentiation or “Pick Me!”
· This should show why you are the best candidate for the job.
Tips:
· Incorporate keywords from the job listing, or buzz words the company uses.
· Avoid sounding arrogant, but do exude confidence.
· Focus on your results. Try and use things you can quantify.
· Tell them what you can do for them, and what they can do for you.
The Must List:
· Proof, proof, proof and more proof! Zero grammatical or typographical errors.
· Do not use, “To whom it may concern:” = this is the kiss of death. Personalize it.
· Make sure your contact info is live. No dead e-mail addresses or phone numbers.
· Make sure your closer is great. This is the last thing they will read.
Professor Walton offered some fantastic advice. Even our own Patrick Hernandez, who already has a job, was in attendance and taking notes. “You can always learn more. And this way I can help out fellow classmates better,” Hernandez said.
These Brown Bag Seminars are invaluable. If you didn’t make this one, make sure you attend next time!
The Resume/Cover Letter difference:
Resume = Qualification.
· This should include basic info, education, employment, skills, etc.
Cover Letter = Differentiation or “Pick Me!”
· This should show why you are the best candidate for the job.
Tips:
· Incorporate keywords from the job listing, or buzz words the company uses.
· Avoid sounding arrogant, but do exude confidence.
· Focus on your results. Try and use things you can quantify.
· Tell them what you can do for them, and what they can do for you.
The Must List:
· Proof, proof, proof and more proof! Zero grammatical or typographical errors.
· Do not use, “To whom it may concern:” = this is the kiss of death. Personalize it.
· Make sure your contact info is live. No dead e-mail addresses or phone numbers.
· Make sure your closer is great. This is the last thing they will read.
Professor Walton offered some fantastic advice. Even our own Patrick Hernandez, who already has a job, was in attendance and taking notes. “You can always learn more. And this way I can help out fellow classmates better,” Hernandez said.
These Brown Bag Seminars are invaluable. If you didn’t make this one, make sure you attend next time!
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