If you were in a social situation, you would not go up to a person and start talking to him or her without introducing yourself. The same is true of applying for a position. Unless a position advertisement tells you to skip the cover letter, make sure you tell the reader who you are and why you are applying in an introductory cover letter. A cover letter is not a regurgitation of what is on your curriculum vitae or resume. That is why so many potential employers may skip reading the cover letter unless they asked you to list specific information in it such as salary history or availability for work. However, you can grab your reader’s attention by making a bold statement in the first line of your cover letter. Instead of just listing the job for which you are applying and the fact that you are interested in it, tell the reader why the position is important to you. What piqued your interest enough about this position that you are taking time to apply for it? The second paragraph of the cover letter should outline how your skill sets allow you to make a difference, to be successful in this position. What makes you the best person for this job? It cannot just be experience. Everyone else applying for the position should have relevant experience too. Your experience is already listed on your resume. How can you use your experience in a way to help this company or organization. Will it increase their bottom line, help them to be in compliance, see that they are more efficient? Lastly, close with a statement on your desire to meet the employer to talk further about the position. Your interest should show strongly in every statement that you make in your cover letter so that an employer will feel obligated to talk to you, as if he may be missing out on the best candidate for the position if he does not interview you.
The United States job market seems to be picking up steam, but there is still a lot of recovery to be done if the job market is to regain its pre-recession levels. Some Americans are not waiting for that and are deciding to forgo the tumultuous U.S. job market for something more certain, like jobs overseas.
U.S. expats are becoming a regularity in overseas job markets as more Americans find it difficult to locate jobs in their native country and decide to opt out. So what are the signs that it’s time to look for a job overseas? 1. If your position has already been reduced
If your position is in decline in America that doesn’t mean there isn’t a market for your skills in another country. A lot of programmers have left to find work in Europe or in Asia’s developing markets. There is also a lot of opportunity in South America, where countries like Brazil and Peru have seen a remarkable turnaround and an expanding middle class. Plus, just think of all the delicious food you’d get to have daily! 2. If you just want to get out and try something new
If you’re just interested in taking a break from the traditional work you’ve been doing, then why not consider teaching in another country? English as a second language requires their teachers to be fluent English speakers and have a degree. Your degree does not have to be in English, in fact you do not have to even have a teaching certificate, but some require that you complete a course before you can be hired. This may not be an option for everyone but it’s a great way to get a job overseas. 3. You’ve stopped growing as an employee
If you have nothing to look forward to each day, then what are you doing at your job? If you’re not improving your skills or building your position within the company, maybe you would be better off with an employer overseas. Overseas employers typically offer challenging goals to their employees while providing for growth opportunities within the company. Red lights should be flashing if you have been with your company for a few years without any opportunities. You might even like the challenge of getting acclimated to a new lifestyle. 4. The economy takes another downturn
If the economy takes another tumble and the job market suffers, it would be a good idea to look for jobs in other areas. Canada is a great location within the North American continent that offers great opportunities for expats, while keeping close to family and friends. The homesickness should fade soon thanks to Canada’s proximity to the U.S., the lack of a language barrier and the availability of jobs. Aye?
No matter what you want to do with your career, if you decide to look for work overseas, make sure that you take in all the factors. It’s not like moving down the street but it could be a great opportunity to advance your career.
