How do I authentically present the best of myself? on paper?
How do I get over the discomfort of talking about myself?
Key Terms: Portfolio, Action verbs, Keywords, Quantifiable achievements, Headline, Skills section
ATL Skills
"The greatest gift that anybody can give
is their honest self."
Fred Rogers (aka Mr. Rogers)
Why 🎯
Practice writing to convey your authentic voice while highlighting your strengths.
Instructions
Write a cover letter for a job that you intend to apply for. (See tips below
Share your resume with two friends to get their feedback.
Revise your cover letter based on the feedback.
Paste it into your internship application form.
⚠️ Pro Tip: Seeking Feedback from Others
Never just ask "Can you give me some feedback on my assignment?"
Why?
Because you will get general comments that aren't useful to you, or the feedback is too nitpicking when you've just started, or too sweeping when you're almost already to click Submit.
Instead, be targetted in your request for feedback. For example:
"Does my authentic voice shine thru?"
"Where can I be more fluent?"
"Can you help me correct my grammar/wordiness?"
"Are my examples of achievements quantifiable."
"Does my hook attract your attention?"
A cover letter is your chance to introduce yourself to a potential employer and showcase your personality. Here are some tips to help you write an authentic cover letter that highlights your strengths:
1. Start Strong:
Hook: Begin with a strong opening sentence that grabs the busy Hiring Manager's attention. Reference a specific detail from the job description or company. Or if you want to do even better, try to evoke in the reader an emotion.
Personal Connection: Share a brief, personal anecdote that relates to the company or position. This can help establish a connection and show that you have put in the effort and care.
2. Highlight Your Unique Qualities:
Authenticity: Be yourself. Don't try to be someone you're not.
Storytelling: Use storytelling techniques to illustrate your experiences and skills.
Specific Examples: Provide concrete examples of your accomplishments, such as quantifiable results or positive feedback.
3. Tailor Your Letter:
Research the Company: Learn about the company's mission, values, and recent news.
Customize Your Message: Tailor your letter to the specific job you're applying for.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasize the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the position.
4. Proofread Carefully:
Typos and Errors: Proofread your letter carefully to avoid any errors in grammar or spelling.
Formatting: Use a professional font and format.
Clarity and Conciseness: Keep your letter concise and easy to read.
⚠️ Warning
Before you go searching for examples or ask an AI chatbot to generate one for you, try writing one yourself in your own words. It is a valuable exercise and this is a safe space to fail.
Plus, don't give up the one thing that you have that is uniquely yours... Authenticity.
Video: Write an Amazing Cover Letter: 3 Golden Rules (Jeff Su, 2021)
Article: How to write a cover letter (Herrity, 2024)
It's you I like,
It's not the things you wear,
It's not the way you do your hair--
But it's you I like
The way you are right now,
The way down deep inside you--
Not the things that hide you,
Not your toys--
They're just beside you.
But it's you I like--
Every part of you,
Your skin, your eyes, your feelings
Whether old or new.
I hope that you'll remember
Even when you're feeling blue
That it's you I like,
It's you yourself,
It's you, it's you I like.