American Job Centers

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The Write Stuff. Do you really need a resume, cover letter or thank you letter? Western Maryland employers recently took part in a survey conducted by the Maryland Job Service. The employers represented a variety of industries and occupations from both small and large companies. They offered some advice about resumes, cover letters, and thank you letters.

RESUMES

40% of the employers said they ask most of their job candidates to supply resumes. While many employers only ask candidates for professional or managerial jobs for a resume, some employers ask for them at all levels.

So, do you need a resume? It’s a good idea to have one even if the employer doesn’t specifically ask. As one employer said, "An application only has limited space – a resume can tell the employer more about you and your experience." Tailor your resume to the job you are seeking and clearly highlight relevant skills.

Have a friend proofread your resume to make sure there are no spelling errors. The Maryland Job Service offers resume workshops and has resume software to assist job seekers in writing their own resumes. Copiers and fax machines are also available for job search purposes at no charge at Maryland Job Service One-Stop Career Centers.

COVER LETTERS

Most employers that want resumes say including a cover letter with your resume is important. Many commented on how they use the cover letter to evaluate a person’s writing ability, attention to detail, personality, communication skills, and professionalism. "A cover letter is a way of showing personality and getting a better chance of your resume sticking out", said one employer. One said lack of a cover letter would be a "deal breaker" and several said poorly written ones are "killers."

The cover letter should explain why you are interested in the specific position for which you are applying. Keep it brief -- no more than 3 or 4 paragraphs. If possible, address it to a specific person. Highlight your qualifications and tell the employer what skills and talents you will bring to the position. "Sell yourself" is how one employer put it.

Your letter should provide the employer with the following information:

• The reason you are writing.
• The reason you are interested in the company and the job.
• The reason the employer should be interested in you.
• A request for an interview.

Try to address it to a specific individual if possible. If you don’t have a name, you may be able to get one from a local employer directory. Check with your local Job Service or library.

FOLLOW UP AND THANK YOU LETTERS

75% of the employers encouraged job seekers to follow up after dropping off an application or having an interview. About half of those said to follow up within one week and the most popular method requested was by telephone. However, some employers really disliked getting phone calls. Several of them recommended that a candidate ask specifically about following up to find out what method each employer would prefer.

55% said a thank you letter has made them take a second look at an application. "It shows interest and keeps the person’s name on top of my desk" said one employer. Because not all candidates send thank you letters, it can make you stand out and give you another chance to sell yourself to the employer. Many candidates use it to highlight areas the employer emphasized at the interview. A thank you letter can be typed or handwritten, depending on the type of position you are applying for. Send it as soon after the interview as possible, ideally within 24 hours.

This brochure was developed by the Maryland Job Service with the assistance of the Washington County Job Service Employer Committee.