Hey there folks. I know, I know…it’s been a MINUTE since I’ve posted and I’m sure you’ve all been chomping at the bit. Not to worry. I’ve got some fresh words to lay down for this New Year.

Speaking of new things, I went through some old files the other day and double clicked on my cover letter from 2016. Let’s just say it needed some re-vamping. I’ve gone back and forth with cover letters. Are they THAT important? Does anyone actually read them? Truth is, it doesn’t really matter what I think. If a prospective employer is asking for a cover letter (regardless if they read it or not) then you better add a cover letter to your application submission.

I asked a business consultant once if they ever read cover letters. He said they will always read someone’s CV first to assess experience but the cover letter expresses more individuality and can usually land that person the interview or not. Here are a few do’s and don’ts for your cover letters:

Don’t use a salutation like “gentleman” “lady” (particularly in today’s society)

Do send an original cover letter to each employer

Don’t waste space on wordy phrases.

Don’t depend on them to take action. ASK FOR THE POSITION

Do speak to the requirements of the job and how your experience matches up or exceeds

Do keep your cover letter brief. NEVER go more than one page!

There are plenty more of do’s and don’ts when it comes to how to land an interview. One of the worst things when trying to sell yourself through a piece of paper (so to speak) is to be unoriginal, in my humble opinion.