Tell Your Story

Applicants often think that cover letters need to focus primarily on skills and experience, but when reading hundreds of the same documents day after day, hiring managers are seeking candidates who know how to tell their story. Craft a letter that shows who you are as a person to grab the attention of a potential employer and ultimately land you a job interview.

It is likely that you have the skills, qualifications and experience needed for the position, but if you don't have the personality that matches the company culture, you could be hurting your chances of nabbing your dream job. Telling your story in a cover letter helps the hiring manager see the real you before a face-to-face meeting.

Think about how good stories are told, recommends Liz Ryan with Forbes. Readers want to know about the characters' interests, actions and voice. Show how you have been successful rather than just telling the reader. An applicant who notes that he was in charge of a project is telling the story. An applicant who details the process, successes and rewards of leading a project is showing the reader much more personality and detail.

Your introduction is an important component of your cover letter. Many applicants begin with a phrase that details the position sought after within the company. You need to tell a story about how you landed where you are professionally. Detail why you want to work in the industry, show the successes or steps that have led you to this career, and outline your motivation and inspiration for obtaining a position within the company. Show hiring managers that you are creative, personable and professional by telling your story in an engaging manner that captures their attention.

Your story doesn't end with the cover letter; it continues during the job interview. Find a creative and thorough way to show who you are personally and professionally when meeting face to face with a potential employer. Discuss not only your involvement in the community but also your reasons why you are active in helping others. Detail what you like most about your past positions instead of just listing your job duties. Note how your professional experience has improved your personal outlook. Job candidates should not restrict themselves to discussing only their skills and experience but, instead, should show how their personality meshes well with the company's culture.

Application materials that are creative, personable and professional stand out from the packets submitted by other candidates. Be the applicant who steps outside of the box and shows initiative when writing a cover letter. You have only one chance to impress the hiring manager; show that you have what it takes right away by sharing your story.

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