Tuesday 21st March Newsletter

Are cover letters a thing of the past?

March 21, 2023

CareerAddict

TOGETHER WITH

Welcome to Tuesday! Alphabet has announced that AI is coming to Google Workspace — but we’re kinda more excited about it being National Crunchy Taco Day today 🌮

In today's email:

  • Burn, cover letters, burn! Why they should just die.

  • Job hunting like a pro: The tips that will land you your dream job.

  • Self-care gadgets: How to treat yourself at work.

✨ TODAY’S AFFIRMATION: I am creating a work life that inspires and motivates me.

OPINION

Dear cover letters: just die already 💀

I’ve been on both ends of cover letters — as a jobseeker and as a hiring manager. And, from both sides, I can tell you this: they’re absolutely pointless.

As a jobseeker, I don’t want to beg for a job. And besides, 90 per cent of recruiters ignore cover letters completely. So, why waste my time writing something that won’t even be read?

As a hiring manager, they don’t really give a good sense of the candidate and, most of the time, they just sound so BORING. I’d rather get to know candidates in an interview than have them reiterate their résumés in paragraph format.

So, yes, I really think that cover letters should just go ahead and die. It will make everyone’s life easier.

What do you think? Do cover letters have a place in the world of work?

— Chris Leitch, Career and Résumé Expert

TOGETHER WITH THE INFORMATION

Don’t just read the news — Make the news.

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And the greatest part? For a short time, new subscribers can save 25 % on their first year. Subscribe to The Information and receive unlimited access to award-winning reporting.

TODAY’S ADVICE

Hunting for a new job? Strategies that work

Job hunting can be unpredictable. 😩 You can get 0 responses one week, and 3 different invitations to interviews the next. Though the uncertainty makes it stressful, there are ways to make the process more bearable and effective:

1. Stay focused. Fight the urge to rage-apply, and be choosy instead. Stick to the jobs that suit your skill set and experience, and can help you achieve your future goals.

2. Give yourself time. Don’t give up at the first — or tenth — rejection. Expect the hunt to take a while. Companies receive hundreds of applications, so your bit of good news may arrive with some delay.

3. Network — a lot. Make use of your LinkedIn account and ask your friends to put a word out for you. Using human connection is one of the best ways to optimize your job hunt.

4. Always tailor your résumé. Sending out the same résumé and cover letter to different companies won’t cut it. Customize and ATS-proof your application material… Yes, every time!

 📝 TUESDAY’S TO DO:

Stay hydrated 💧 Being hydrated improves cognition, your mood and productivity. So, make sure you don’t go thirsty by always keeping a bottle of water nearby!

DEAL OF THE DAY

A bundle of joy résumé templates

Not sure if your current résumé’s design works? Well, we’ve got a treat for you: the 7-in-1 Résumé Template Bundle. Featuring 7 premade and beautiful designs, you can easily change the look of your résumé however often you want!

What’s included:

  • 7 professionally designed résumé templates

  • Font and icon files

  • Detailed instructions for customizing each template

  • The “Job Application Checklist” eBook

Use code BUNDLE-50 at checkout

DON’T MISS

⭐ Are you an introvert? These qualities will help you stand out.

🥶 Watch out for these signs of career stagnation — + how to overcome it.

👶 Are you a born leader? Here are tools you need to succeed.

🏆 The most in-demand jobs of 2023 — get a sneak peek.

STUFF WE LOVE

Today’s password is: Self-care

Need to close your eyes for your 20-minute break? Do it in comfort with the NapFun Neck pillow. Grab the pillow ➜

Treat your hands to this Gold Bond Softening Hydrating Cream. Soft and supple hands, here you come! Grab the moisturizer ➜

The NIUONSIX Neck and Shoulder Heating Pad will ease those aches and pains. Grab the heating pad ➜

MEME IT

Like what you read? Reply and let us know your thoughts.

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