Standing out From the College Crowd Through Targeted
Resumes and Cover Letters

If you are a college student looking for an internship or your first job, you'll want to stand out from other entry-level job seekers. Even with minimal experience, it's possible to impress a recruiter, if you research her company, tailor your resume and cover letter to her requirements and interview and follow up effectively. Last week we talked about research (good word to hyperlink). Now let's take a look at how to customize your resumes and cover letters to capture a potential employer's attention.

The biggest mistake people make in writing resumes and cover letters is taking a one-size-fits-all approach. If you want a recruiter to notice you, your written sales tools must speak directly to her needs. Customizing the cover letter, but not the resume won't get the job done. It's tailor both or die!

Send Your Letter to a Real Person

Your letter's greeting is your first opportunity to focus on the recruiter. Addressing your correspondence to real person rather than "To Whom It May Concern" is a great way to spark a relationship. If you don't know the recruiter's name, check your college career center's employer files or call the company's receptionist. When your interviewer sees her name instead of, "Dear HR Person," she will appreciate your initiative, perseverance and attention to detail.

Tell Why the Company Interests You

The first paragraph of your cover letter gives you another chance to shine. Instead of the typical, "I saw your ad in the Dallas Morning News" or "at the career center," use your research to mention specific things about the organization that interest you. If you admire its products, services, innovative direction, culture or training program, say so right after the greeting. This simple acknowledgement will set you apart from the vast majority of applicants who haven't done their homework.

Explain Why You're Right for the Job

In your second paragraph, highlight the reasons you are qualified for the job. Since you probably have little paid experience, show how your classes, internships and activities parallel the opening's requirements. If you tailor your accomplishments to the position, you will continue to hold your reader's attention.

Follow Up with a Call or Email

Conclude with something like, "I will contact you next week to confirm receipt of my resume, answer any immediate questions and schedule an interview." Then follow up as promised. Employers admire decisive candidates who go after what they want.

Tailor Both Your Cover Letter and Resume

When you write your resume, make sure it's congruent with your cover letter. Whatever background you spotlighted in your letter's second paragraph must play a key role in your resume as well. Together these documents should present a seamless case for why an interviewer needs to talk to you versus your competition. The more your letter and resume speak with one voice, the greater chance you'll have to continue the sale in person.