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Dynamic Cover Letters
Job-Search Cover Letter Tutorial
Page 59 of the Cover Letter Tutorial: Example
More Guaranteed Ways to Write a Bad Cover Letter: Starting Sentences With "I"
Sample bad cover letter -- and an example of how to fix it:
Here's the original cover letter, which showcases the job-seeker's poor writing skills:
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Dear Mr. Peller:
I have been referred to you by Samantha Willamette, whom you interviewed last month for a tour-guide position. She informed me that Languages Unlimited is currently searching for someone in the translation department.
I am fluent in Spanish and Russian. I feel that my bilingual and international experiences will benefit your company.
I am currently a junior at Ball State University, where I am working on a degree in corporate finance and a minor in Spanish. My university schedule permits me to work flexible hours in a part-time position.
I would really enjoy meeting with you at your convenience and will contact your office within the next week.
In case you don't feel like imagining how much more interesting the letter would be when fewer sentences start with "I," here's a sample way to fix it:
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Dear Mr. Peller:
Samantha Willamette, whom you interviewed last month for a tour-guide position, informed me that Languages Unlimited is currently searching for someone in the translation department, so I am writing to tell you how my bilingual skills and international experiences can benefit your company in a part-time position.
Fluent in Spanish and Russian, I am currently a junior at Ball State University, where I am working on a degree in corporate finance and a minor in Spanish.
I would really enjoy meeting with you at your convenience and will contact your office within the next week.
Lost? Check out the Map to the Cover Letter Tutorial... or go to the home page of the Cover Letter Tutorial for Developing Stunningly Effective Job-Search Cover Letters.
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