July 26, 2011, Greencastle, Ind. — A nationally syndicated article offering advice on crafting a resume includes tips from Steve Langerud, director of professional opportunities at DePauw University. When it comes to cover letters, he tells Buzz McClain of McClatchy Newspapers, "There are three parts to the letter. The first, why are you writing? You have only two choices: To apply for a position or to request information."
Langerud continues, "Second is the core of your letter. It consists of two to four single concept paragraphs highlighting what you know about the position and explaining what you will do for them. Specifically, you tell stories from your past that highlight your skills in the context of the new employer. It's helpful to use a simple formula that includes the situation in which you used a skill, the task you
had in that situation, the actions you took to address that task and, finally, the result of your action. The writing should be clear, concise and lead the reader to see you working for them."
He adds, "Third, thank them for their time and consideration and tell them what you will do next. You have only two choices, to call them and find out about the status of your application or to wait."
You'll find the full article at the website of Washington's Bellingham Herald.
Steve Langerud has helped more than 15,000 people with workplace issues and is regularly quoted in articles on the job market and career development, including another nationally syndicated column last week as well as a recent MSNBC.com piece.
Langerud is available to help DePauw students and alumni with career planning. Visit DePauw's Office of Civic, Global and Professional Opportunities here.