Page 25 - 201 Killer Cover Letters

03 6/27/03 9:20 AM Page 12
Because the majority of the people responding to this ad will not include a
letter at all, simply sending this letter gives Mr. Tucker an advantage over the
competition. The advantage is all but wasted, however, by sending a letter as
weak and unappealing as this one.
As you read Letter 2-2, the following stronger version of the same letter,
you’ll see the differences—and the improvements they make in the effectiveness
of the letter.
LETTER 2-2: RESUME COVER LETTER SENT IN RESPONSE
TO ADVERTISEMENT (BETTER)

Terry Muldour
Box 34 RE: Your ad in the Daily Gazette
Daily Gazette Sunday, March 3, 20XX for a
City, State Zip self-starter to help with
financial planning
Dear Terry Muldour:
You’re looking for a self-starter to work in the financial field -- I’m a self-starter with
financial expertise and experience!
My resume, which is enclosed, details my background; let me provide you with the
highlights:
Thorough educational background: I recently received my M.B.A. after
completing a B.S. in Economics with a Business minor.
Firm grasp of finance: In my six years of study, I developed expertise in
econometric and price analysis as well as marketing, financial, and
business management.
A proven self-starter: I am currently writing a postgraduate paper on
various trade tariffs in the regional Northeast, for which I created my
own unique research methods and models.
Financial work experience: By investigating individuals and companies
wishing to open sizeable credit accounts overseas for Prudential Bache,
I became a dedicated leader, a detail-oriented worker, and better
communicator.
I am a hard worker and a team player. I have the knowledge, skill, and desire to
enhance the success of today’s financial company. If you will contact me at (555)
456-7890 during the day or evening, I will make myself available at your
convenience for an interview.
Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to meeting you.
Sincerely,

Philip Tucker
Philip Tucker
(555) 456-7890

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