Chapter 7 Study Outline

Study Outline
Chapter 7: Job Applications and Cover Letters

Objectives

· Learn how to complete effective employment applications.

· Learn how to complete effective online applications.

· Learn how to write effective cover letters that get employers’ attention.

· Learn how to format cover letters.

· Learn the importance of following up with employers after submitting applications and cover letters.

Overview

You will be screened into or out of an interview (and a job) based on the quality and effectiveness of your job search package: resume, cover letter, and employment application. If you carefully completed the activities in Chapter 6, your resume should be top-notch. This chapter presents tips and activities for preparing winning employment applications and cover letters.

Remember: The qualified job applicant who does only an average job of preparing these documents is screened out; applicants who prepare these documents well will remain in the running for the job. Chapter 7 explains how you can market yourself by completing print and online applications correctly, writing a results-oriented cover letter, and formatting letters for print and online submission.

Outline

The Employment Application
Application Forms
Preparation and Practice
Completing an Employment Application
Personal Information
Position Information
Education
Employment History
References
Additional Information and Applicant Statement
Request to Contact Your Current Employer
Background Information Check
Submit Your Application at the Appropriate Time
Look the Part and Be Ready to Interview
Special Considerations for Online Job Applications
E-mail Registration
Posting Your Resume and Cover Letter
Applying via a Company Web Site
Using Job Listing Sites
Proofreading and Following Up
Cover Letters
Cover Letter Content
Address, Date, and Salutation
The Opening
Your Sales Pitch
The Closing
Tips for Writing Effective Cover Letters
Customize the Content
Address Your Letter Appropriately
Find Out Who Hires
Which Department?
Revise and Edit
Consult Your Network
Formatting and Submitting Cover Letters
Print Cover Letter Format
Distributing Your Print Cover Letter and Resume
Regular Mail
E-Mail Attachment or Fax
Electronic Cover Letter Format
Submitting Cover Letters and Resumes Online
E-mail
Web Posting
Following Up

Chapter 7: Job Applications and Cover Letters Your Career: How to Make It Happen, 7e