Description
As we discussed in Lesson 1, mistakes that job seekers often make includes:
Using generic templates and not paying enough attention to making the language stand out.
I often feel like many of my students find it difficult to know how to connect aspects of their personality, culture, background, and international experience to the job they're applying for. I also feel like the writing lacks excitement and pizaz as they are so focused on getting the writing correct.
In the video from lesson 1, Stephen talks about being bold and using persuasive language but what does that really look like?
How can you uplevel the writing?
Avoid things like:
"if you give me the chance" or "take a risk on me" or "you won't be disappointed", you're already making it seem like you are a risk!”
Instead, connect your skills and values to the companies skills and values and make it feel like you're the absolute right person for the role. Share parts of who you are and what you believe.
How can we do this?
Use more persuasive and emotive language!
Use powerful adjectives - an insightful, meticulous, thoughtful, sophisticated, imaginative, deep appreciation.
Use powerful verbs - dedicated, developing, building, transforming, highly motivated, shape/shaping.
Use powerful adverbs - thoroughly, unbelievably, ambitiously, and incredibly.
If you're feeling particularly bold you could also try using:
Hyperbole - exaggerated language used for effect. It is simply out of this world – stunning!
Here you'll find 3 examples of some opening paragraphs that help to connect the job seeker to the job, their background. They are a little different to your usual cover letter examples but sometimes it's important to take a risk, appeal to companies emotions and values and put yourself out there!
Showing connection to your cultural background or international experience:
Growing up in Nepal, I was exposed to various styles of architecture. I had a deep appreciation vernacular architecture built from cost-effective materials complementary to the local character. As such, I enjoyed thoroughly exploring the life cycle of materials through my architectural studies. With this personal connection to your dedication to using natural materials and a focus on sustainability and practicality, I would be proud to work as a member of the team to work together on your mission to uphold the UN Global Goals for sustainable development.
Showing connection to the mission:
Having dedicated the last 5 years of my career to managing small-medium residential projects with a focus on efficiency, sustainability & practicality, I feel incredibly connected to Design Squared's goals. I strongly believe in switching to clean energy sources and building residential homes that withstand climatic extremes. In many of my previous projects, I have been dedicated to meticulously improving my knowledge about material selection and passive solar design. I'm ready and highly motivated to channel my years of experience into joining the team and shaping the future of the industry alongside you.
Showing how your international experience adds value :
I am excited to apply for the role of Project Manager with Example as it is a natural next step in my career which I’ve built around my core strengths in communication, organisation and relationship management with clients and other contractors. With 5 years of international experience in the commercial sector, including with Example clients, I have a good understanding of your mission, services and what sets you apart. I am highly driven by the idea of providing a strong project management backbone to the wider team so that they can focus on what they do best - providing outstanding advice and guidance to your clients.
Your Task:
Write your opening paragraph and post it in the community for feedback.
