Cover letters

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Does anyone else here really, really hate writing cover letters? It feels like I have to re-type something new for each job, and each time it feels like I'm walking a fine line between writing too little about myself and gushing way too much. I can never seem to strike that perfect balance without seeming like I'm just regurgitating all of the posted job qualifications.

Anyone else here just really hate writing CVs?

I hate it a lot too, I feel like I have to stretch the truth about myself a little bit. My dad who does hiring at his work told me that you need to be enthusiastic and hype yourself a little. I hate that part the most. He said your basically advertizing yourself in a cover letter, and it needs to tailored to the job your applying for as well. It's definitely the part I hate the most about creating an application.

I use the boilerplate approach...

Looking for work is more work than work is. And it doesn't pay squat, either.

I agree with Fnord and Aharon. Just create a basic cover letter template, and save that. Then, when you need a new one, make and edit a copy of the original template, to suit the new job. Name the original something like "CVR-LTR-Form." Name each copy CVR-LTR-(name of company). This will make it easier to tailor each letter, as the basic info will already be there. This also works with resumes if you have more than one skill set, and are applying for more than one type of job. It's best to keep the letters simple, too. If they are interested enough in your resume to give you an appointment, then you can give them more details at the interview.

Some job hunting ideas:

- Register with ALL of the local employment agencies. By signing up with all of them, instead of just one, you cast a wider net. It is 100% legal to sign with as many as you want. They don't own you.

- Use the local state jobs center. You can go in person to use their facilities, or go online to use their computer job center. The ones I used even let people fax their resumes for free. They also will give people who are interested, a kind of vocational testing, to see what your interests are, and what things you might be good at.

- Online job hunting sites. HelpWanted.com and Monster.com come to mind, but there are others. Just do a search for online job hunting sites.

- Word of mouth--network with your family and friends to find out who is hiring in your area.

- Local classified ads. I never had luck with these, but some people do, and I did get a few appointments from them.

Good luck with your job hunt. And remember, we on the spectrum are all:

A Different Drummer

If a man does not keep pace with his companions,
Perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer.
Let him step to the music which he hears,
However measured or far away.

--Henry David Thoreau

Well, I also dislike writing cover letters. As an alternative, I refer to some of the sample cover letter formats available online.