Cover letter preference question

JackandCassie

I used to work with management to hire new employees and I feel like my company's own preferences may be getting in my way when I'm applying for jobs.

I'm writing a cover letter for a position that I'm very interested in. It's an administrative position at a small museum outside of Boston. The description is fairly vague, but it seems like I'm a good match for what their looking for. I was working on my cover letter and I got to thinking . . . 

When I was hiring, I liked a cover letter that could prove the applicant could write and organized their thinking. I also liked it when they elaborated on skills listed in their resume, but didn't outright repeat them. So for example, if they listed they maintained the filing system, I liked it if they talked about the organization project they outlined and executed. I also like them to be somewhat short and to the point. Maybe 3 - 4 shortish paragraphs and we're done. In some job hunting book, they seem to suggest relisting your major resume bullet points on your cover letter.

I also was not a big fan of "I want to work for your company because" paragraphs. If it was relevant, that's fine. When I applied, I had just left a job working at a copy center so I mentioned I developed an appreciation for fine paper product while working there. But people writing, "I've enjoyed stationery since my Lisa Frank starter set in 2nd grade . . . " I don't really care. I could write a short paragraph about how much I love history (ESPECIALLY what this museum covers) but I'm not sure how relevant it will be to the job posted. 

Blahblahblah, I'm over thinking everything. 

 

ariajean

I think that a museum would love to hear that you have a special interest in their area.  I think that's true of all non-profits.  I believe they care about that above your skill level, sometimes.  

I would only elaborate on points in your resume relevant to the position that can't be described in a bullet. 

hudysgirl

Sorry, I'm no help. I've never written or been advised to write cover letters, just send the resume. 

LorelaiOctoberBride

I find the post interesting... I would think sharing your knowledge would be good in the cover letter-you want to add something that will give them more reason to read your resume!  (guess I'm trying to find your question here, but...)

 

kdonedizzle

I'm with Aria in the sense that this particular job could/should call for more personal info like your interest.  We (my company) appreciates a cover letter that may offer up a bit more information for conversation starting purposes when interviewing other than just what is bulleted in the resume.  I would NOT repeat the resume or bullet anything on the actual cover letter.  I think your on the right track with the way you are playing it out in your mind.

Mrs.KaityJane

I have no advice.  I suck at writing cover letters.  I got into a math/science field because I have no desire to write.  I do wish you the best though.  Dont try to over analyze it.

TWiNKfly

I'm with you - I'd briefly mention an interest, but when I read cover letters like that I get annoyed if it starts to imply that the job would be satisfying in some regard to them. Because frankly, I don't  care how you "feel," I want to know what you can do for me. So if you think your passion for the museum translates into dedication and creativity or whatever other positive attributes, I'd definitely include it. Obviously you are smart enough to stay away from the "I love Lisa Frank stationary, it's so cool" territory.