Cover Letter Help: Defining the Next Step
Let’s put an end to the tired cover letter cliché: “I hope to hear from you soon.” It sounds so sad and desperate. Picture the candidate anxiously checking his phone and email on the chance that he will hear from the hiring company. Waiting for news creates a sense of anxiety. While waiting we feel a lack of control. Also, waiting for an uncertain period of time feels longer than waiting for a defined number of days. Did you know that you could reduce the anxiety of waiting for a reply from a potential hiring manager? This can be accomplished through a well-crafted close to your cover letter. Let’s take a look at the closing paragraph of our sample cover letter.
My resume is attached for your review. I believe it demonstrates in detail how I meet your requirements. I hope to hear from you soon so we may meet to discuss my qualifications. Should you need any additional information in the meantime, please feel free to call me at (555) 555-2154. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Jon Marston
In the above example, Jon communicates that his resume is attached and that he is willing to share additional information if needed. He hopes to hear from the company soon. In other words, he is sending the letter and passively hoping for the best. Now, let’s look at the closing paragraph written differently.
The accompanying resume can give you an overview of my potential to make a meaningful contribution to Jameson Corporation. As a proven leader, I believe it would be mutually beneficial for us to meet. I will call you next week to inquire about the possibility of meeting to discuss your company’s goals and how I can help you achieve them. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Jon Marston
In the new paragraph, Jon sells himself by using stronger language when he mentions his resume. More importantly, he states the next step. By stating that he will call next week, he is taking charge of the situation. The employer is now expecting his call. He also reduces the anxiety of waiting because it is a defined period of time and he has control of the matter.
Defining the next step and making a follow-up call does not guarantee that Jon will get the interview or that when he calls, he will be able to talk to a decision maker. However, candidates who proactively call, versus those that do not make a follow-up call, have a greater chance of gaining an interview. If you have a cover letter quandary, contact me. In the meantime, check out these blog entries.
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