Your Cover Letter Counts
Hello! I am Tom Mitchell, Founder and Education Job Coach for
Teacher Express.
I am often asked if applicants need to write cover letters anymore. Particularly if candidates apply online and submit an application for a job posting, obviously, their application is tagged with that vacancy. So why write a cover letter?
The short answer? Yes, you still need to write a cover letter, whether you hand-deliver your application materials, mail them, or submit them online. In fact, I heard of recruiters and district administrators that consider applications without cover letters as incomplete, and they are screened out for that reason. Whether it is specifically requested or not, yes - you want to write one.
I said it that way because your cover letter is more than a compliance matter. It is an opportunity to present yourself as a friendly and capable individual. What you say and how you say it matters a great deal.
Keep you cover letter short. State that you want to apply for the position that was advertised and then summarize your qualifications and accomplishments, but be careful not to re-write your resume! In addition, share your motivation for applying. In your letter, be sure to match YOUR skills with THEIR goals! This is crucial.
You see, truth is, it's not as much about you and your goals as it is about them and their goals. Make it clear that you have skills and authentic experiences to help them achieve their objectives. Plus, if you have your own motives for applying, then the position would also be satisfying to you. They will see it as a win-win for both of you!
A word of caution. Many applicants make the mistake of simply "sending" a cover letter. For many, this is a standard letter addressed to different individuals, as if all districts and positions were the same. They are not, and administrators feel their districts are unique and special. Personalize every cover letter for the position advertised and make the reviewers feel that you think so as well.
Your cover letter and resume will speak for you when you are not in the room and they must convey the WOW factor quickly. If you are not getting the results you deserve, then your documents must be revised.
We can help. For more details or to plan your strategy, call
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