CollegeRecruiter.com Insights by Resume Writers Blog

Dear Job-Hunter:

Everyone enjoys being greeted in a warm, friendly, yet professional manner. So endear yourself to a hiring manager by starting your cover letter with this magical word--DEAR.

Add the potential employer's name and your cover letter will magically rise to the top of the incoming mail pile.

Example:

Dear Mr. Jones not Dear Hiring Manager
Dear Jane Smith not Dear Personnel Manager
Dear Mrs. Brown not To Whom it May Concern

Dear Mr. Jones is superior to Dear Hiring Manager. But Dear Personnel Manager is clearly better than To whom it may concern--which doesn't really concern anyone.

It may take a bit of time to find out the name of the employer you wish to reach but it will be worth the effort. Do so by calling the company or checking the web site. Then sprinkle this bit of magic on your next cover letter--greet the hiring manager by his or her first name.

If you cannot find the name of the person you're writing to, use the generic greeting, Dear Hiring Manager, and then add this personal message.

PLEASE NOTE: I'm sorry for greeting you in an impersonal way. I was not able to find your name online or by phone. However, when we meet in person, I promise to call you by name and I'm eager for that opportunity.

Such a note would surely inspire him or her to contact you for an interview. This cover letter magic turns a negative into a positive that will set you apart from other job seekers.

Before you write your next cover letter, think about who will want to hear what you have to say. Then find out that person's name and write a clear and confident letter that starts with DEAR.

Article by Jimmy Sweeney, president of CareerJimmy and author of the brand new, "Amazing Cover Letter Creator." Jimmy is also the author of several career related books and writes a monthly article titled, "Job Search Secrets."

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