Welcome to the Self-Marketing Workshop Agenda
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Cover Letters
Types of Cover Letters
Solicited or Invited: responds to job posting
Unsolicited or Uninvited: non posted/employer direct contact
Refe
al: someone the employe
knows recommended that
you should apply (use their name)
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True or False
All a cover letter needs to do is refer to the
resume attached.
A cover letter should not reveal aspects of
your personality.
Cover Letters
It is acceptable to address the cover lette
“To Whom It May Concern” or “Dear Si
Madam”,
if not provided.
Only use the methods that you are most
comfortable with when preparing a cover letter.
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Cover Letters
Anatomy of a Cover Lette
Formatting your cover letter:
Sender’s Address: Begin with your cu
ent address.
Date: The date that you are writing the letter.
Employer’s Address: Do not assume that a person uses the title eg. “Mrs.” Always include the person's name and title. If you don't have the address or title, look it up on the company's website or call directly.
Greeting: Refer to the reader by his/her last name. Use a colon after the greeting, not a comma.
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Cover Letters
Anatomy of a Cover Letter cont.
3 main paragraphs in a cover letter:
Opening: State the reason you are writing and name the specific position you are interested in with enthusiasm
Body: Market yourself by including what you can do for the company, specific achievements and interests that are directly relevant to the position, answer ad requirements (1 or 2 para)
Closing: Thank them for their time and consideration.
Ask “When” you can meet for interview. Give a date you will
call back (approx. 1 week) restate contact information
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Cover Letters
Anatomy of a Cover Letter cont.
Signing your cover letter:
Yours Truly / Sincerely: Close with your salutation.
Sign: Hand written signature – in blue or black ink
Your Name Typed: Allow room for signature above
Enclosed: Refer to the resume attached by adding Enclosed; used at the very end of cover letter.
TIPS for your amazing Cover Letter.
Words, spelling, grammar, and a
. matte
Always tailor every cover; send with every resume
Research company and add information you learn
Label personal and confidential; if administrative blockades exist
Be creative
Sell yourself
Match cover letter to your attached resume
Cover Letters
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TIPS for your amazing Cover Letter.
Use different approaches
Use bulleted copy
Your Requirements – My Qualifications
Use testimonials, mention awards you received, articles you read, or interesting facts you learned
Do not be too ve
ose ( overly wordy )
Sell yourself; without appearing overconfident
Match cover letter to the employers needs
Always make a connection between you and employe
Cover Letters
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Be Brief!
Be Brilliant!
Be Done!
Cover Letters
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Cover Letters
Portfolios
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What is the Purpose of a Portfolio?
Demonstrates your achievements
Documents the scope and quality of you
experience and training
Shows your skills and abilities
Shows pride, work ethic, and initiative
Offers a visual presentation and proof
of accomplishments
Portfolios
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Portfolios
Portfolio Contents / Evaluation
1 - Appropriate binder / folder
2 - Cover page – include your name & program
3 - Updated resume XXXXXXXXXXcopies)
4 - Course outline
5 - Certificates / Awards
6 - Sample coursework (2 from each subject) (28 marks)
Optional considerations:
- Letters of reference / Thank you letters
- Copy of transcript
- Marks sheets
- Volunteer certificates
May include small sampling of personal interests
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