When to use a high impact approach?
The objective of any
cover letter is to gain attention and persuade the reader
to offer you an interview.
Most job search situations benefit from a traditional,
well-thought-out and tightly constructed letter, which
follows normal business correspondence standards and
norms.
However, in some situations you may want to consider
a more innovative approach, using techniques and styles
that really stand out from the crowd.
When to use a high impact approach:
A high impact cover letter can help you get noticed,
but it can also speed up your application's transit
into the bin! There is always a risk that the recruiter
will not like the style. The more innovative your letter,
the higher the risk of rejection.
To minimise this risk:
1. Find out who will be screening your letter. An
HR manager may respond more positively to a traditional
approach. On the other hand, an artistic director may
appreciate a more creative style.
2. Only use appropriate high impact tools, which clearly
demonstrate the skills or attributes relevant to the
job. For example:
- A business analyst might include a quote from a
relevant business partner of the company to which
he is applying. In this way, he demonstrates his ability
to scan the business environment for suitable information.
- A graphic designer might include graphics.
- A sales representative might present his letter
in the style of a sales proposal.
- A writer or publisher might include quotes, sections
of prose or short extracts from his work.
- An advertising executive might present his application
in the style of an advertisement concept storyboard.
- An accountant might structure his cover letter to
include bullet points and headings, demonstrating
his ability to present information clearly.
3. If you are not sure if a high impact approach is
appropriate, don't take a risk. Focus on a well-constructed
traditional letter, which will always create a good
impression.
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