Five Reasons to Write a Cover Letter
The world of social media allows me to mingle with recruiters and human resources professionals from the corporate world. In the process, I’ve learned many of these colleagues place low priority on cover letters. They want the resume to do the talking.
In nonprofits, though, a cover letter is more often the norm. Cover letters clarify which position interests you and establishes your connection to the mission. When applying for a nonprofit job, read and follow instructions carefully. To ignore a request for a cover is suicide. If a cover letter is not mentioned, I’d still recommend erring on the side of sending one.
Not convinced? Five reasons to write a cover:
1. Tie your skills to the open position.
2. Showcase your writing skills.
3. Answer the “What have You Done for Me Lately?” question.
4. Personalize your job search, show you’ve done your homework about the organization.
5. Share your passion for the mission. When I say this, I don’t mean by saying, “I am passionate about working with people with developmental disabilities.” Anyone can say that, including people who are not being truthful. Tell us why you’re passionate. Paint an image. Tell a story. The more personal the connection, the more compelling the story. I don’t mean personal as in unprofessional, I mean personal as in “Growing up with a brother with Down syndrome has given me unique compassion coupled with a drive to advocate for people who have disabilities. Working at your agency would allow me to exercise my commitment by…..” [Obviously, you only share that story if it is true!]
Does this mean that if you don’t have a ‘story’ the job is a lost cause? No. Does it mean that you should make stuff up? No, no, no! But do look for ways you can elaborate on your connection to the mission. I want to know what drives you, what motivates you. Your story helps me understand why you want to work in a position that is not seen by the world as glamorous, why you’re willing to work nights and weekends for a salary that is less lucrative than some other available options, how you will keep going during tough times after the newness of the job has worn off.
In nonprofit settings, we look for the human face behind the resume. That’s where your cover is so important.
photo by: cambodia4kidsorg
