Q:  I liked the cover letter you drafted, but, somehow, it sounded more driven and business-like than I am.  Should this concern me? What do you suggest?

A: Revise it immediately.  It is critical for the cover letter to be an accurate snapshot of you and not of just any competent professional.  The reader can tell very quickly if a cover letter is another “canned” version of the same recycled leadership skill set or whether it speaks with the voice of a real professional with a unique sense of humor and personality.

If you tend to be thoughtful and process-oriented, create a cover letter reflecting your analytical tendencies and respect for process.  (Avoid seeming overly curt or driven; these qualities belong to another leadership style.)  Similarly, if you are data-driven and are known for cost-savings and process engineering, craft a cover letter with few frills and deviations from the key points.  This will align with who you are professionally.

Have a trusted colleague read your cover letter before you send it out both to proofread it and to signal whether it captures the essence of who you are as a professional.  When the text sounds like you and the achievements accurately reflect your accomplishments and readiness to take on another role, send it.  If you have any reservations about the content, tone or style, revise it until it truly “fits.”

Contact Karen Alphonse at Karena@execSearches.com or visit ExecSearches.com for more information about our career coaching services.

ExecSearches.com is a job board for nonprofit job seekers interested in fundraising, management and executive nonprofit jobs.

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Last updated on September 19th, 2012 at 12:05 pm