Freelance
Writers' Series
Career & Business Development Help
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by Yuwanda Black When I was recruiting, I always advised applicants to submit cover letters only on request, specifically in instances of switching from one field to another (therefore the need to explain what skills you think are transferable) and/or to explain gaps in time. HOWEVER, as a job search drags on and on, a well-written cover letter can be just the trick to get your foot in the door. Following are some guidelines to make yours stand out. 1. DO NOT assume that you can lead the horse to water and he will automatically drink: To explain, when I was recruiting, many applicants would send in the same cover letter and just change the name of the position for which they were applying. This does little to explain how you are best suited for a particular position.
You wouldn't believe how many recruiters can't make the connection between your current job and the position for which they are hiring. One possible explanation is that there are many facets of the editorial industry and they all tend to operate differently. Eg, ad agencies are organized and operate differently than magazines, which are different from nonprofits, which are different from tech firms, etc. So, take the time to lay out for the prospective employer exactly how your skills are transferable. If an employer has requested a cover letter, believe me, they read them. Make this work to your benefit by leading the reader gently through your credentials and how you are best suited for the job. Freelancers: If you are just starting to freelance, it is particularly important to highlight how duties you performed in your full-time position can benefit an employer. Don’t state that you are just starting to freelance, simply highlight how your skills are relevant to the position at hand. 2. DO NOT submit a general cover letter: Underscore 2-3 major requirements of the job for which you are applying. One good tip is to take the wording directly from the job description and outline how you did that exact thing in your last/current position. This spoon feeds the reader of your cover letter your credentials in their words. It's a subliminal technique that works because the reader instinctively feels that you "get" what the job is all about; you understand what the position entails. At the very least, it keeps your credentials out of the slush pile. For Freelancers: Ask yourself why this firm uses freelancers and let them know exactly how they can benefit from your experience. Take wording from their website, sales materials, etc. so they get the feeling that you know/can relate to their wants/needs/desires. 3. DO NOT ramble on and on: In the majority of cases, a cover letter should be one page. Your resume gives the nitty gritty details; your cover letter is what makes them want to read further. For Freelancers: You would write an introductory/sales letter. Keep it brief and attach a brochure or a professional profile; offer to show them your portfolio and/or direct them to your website for more detailed info. Something to keep in mind: When you are submitting samples (clips, articles, photos, etc.), more is NOT better. Send in exactly what the the job seeker requests. Sending in piles of material only frustrates the screening process and could get your submission sent to the slush pile almost immediately. This is simply because there are so many applications to wade through when considering freelancers for an assignment that those who don't follow specific instructions are almost immediately weeded out as potential candidates. Good luck!
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