Page 30 - 201 Killer Cover Letters

03 6/27/03 9:20 AM Page 17
LETTER 2-4: RESUME COVER LETTER SENT IN RESPONSE
TO ADVERTISEMENT (STRONG FORMAT)
Chief Financial Officer
P.O. Box 425
New York Times
New York, NY 10000

Dear Chief Financial Officer:
To maintain continued growth, a company must have financial and management
professionals who are capable of identifying and seizing market opportunities
before the competition does.

My marketing savvy and management expertise can help you do just that. I possess
a powerful commitment to task, a drive for excellence, and the ability to respond to
customer needs. For example, in my current position:
I increased sales 74% by upgrading service efficiency, resulting in a
25% annual increase in profitability.
I streamlined a branch outlet from inception, coordinating every
aspect from recruitment to organizing and redefining office functions,
thus achieving substantial cost reductions, greater efficiency, and
increased market share.
I reduced receivables from 115 days to 33 days, thereby improving
cash flow 21%. This released enough working capital to enable the
firm to expand into other markets.
These achievements are certain to prove both valuable in and transferable to a
range of firms.
Because I am currently seeking to broaden my horizons, I eagerly await your reply
so that we can arrange a personal meeting. Then we can discuss in greater detail
how my particular blend of capabilities, experience, and managerial strengths can
help your firm capture lucrative business opportunities.
Sincerely,

The difference between Letters 2-3 and 2-4 is not in the wording. The content
of both letters is identical. The difference is in the formatting. Letter 2-4 employs
many of the same techniques advertisers use to get millions of consumers to no-
tice, absorb, and act on promotional messages. You can use the same tricks in your

17