Why we are different and better
Twelve years ago, Joe Konop was bored to tears. He was writing his
own cover letter, and the dull writing was just not right. If it’s this
boring writing the cover letter, it must be even more boring reading
the thing.
He sat back in his chair, thought for a bit, drew his chair up to the
desk and typed out a letter he much rather send. It had personality, it
had more information than the boring letters, and it was fun to read!
Potential employers thought it was a better approach, too. Coupled
with a complete, well-organized resume, Joe’s cover letters were
getting noticed. Interviews came more frequently, and so did job
offers. Interviewers commented specifically on Joe’s cover letter and
resume, on how it grabbed their attention and piqued their interest.
Today, Joe writes resumes, cover letters, and other job-hunting
resources professionally. While many other writers approach resumes
from a human resources point of view, Joe works differently. Joe has
worked as a marketing writer for more than 22 years, focusing on
bringing out a subjects most appealing attributes and conveying them
in an attractive, appealing manner.
Joe brings a unique approach to resumes, cover letters, and other job-
hunting documents that is designed to making these documents fresh
and effective:
Resumes
- It’s your brochure! – Like sales literature, your resume should
show the essence of who you are, what you do, and what you’ve
accomplished.
- Be well organized – Finding facts on a resume should be
effortless. It should follow a simple, logical sequence that never
loses the reader.
- Be top heavy – The top third of the first page of your resume
should tell the majority of who you are and what you do. Hit
them between the eyes before the reader gets any further. The
rest of the resume reinforces the points made in the first third of
the page.
- Sell your abilities and accomplishments – Most resumes
are a boring list of past responsibilities and ambiguous
accomplishments. Make it come to life with specifics! Make your
resume tell the success story of your professional life.
Cover Letters
- A lost art? – Many say cover letters are no longer necessary.
False! Your cover letter is your chance to add some personality
to your interest in the position. While others are not even
bothering with a cover letter, use your cover letter to knock their
socks off!
- Break most of the rules – Employers receive stacks and stacks
of cover letters for every job they post. While you’re being
respectful and showing your interest in the position, leave the
boring same-old same-old behind. A little life in a cover letter
goes a long way to being noticed and remembered!
- Attitude is everything – A positive, upbeat tone comes through
loud and clear in a well-built cover letter!
Follow-up Documents
- Be the one who sends one! – Also known as the interview "thank
you note," a follow up correspondence is an afterthought
to someone who isn't getting the job, but it's a must-do
for someone who will be hired! Be brief, be specific, and be
memorable!