To whom it may concern;
I would like to thank you for the opportunity to discuss my qualifications as they relate to the position of fashion columnist for your magazine. I believe that fashion gives people a unique opportunity to express themselves in their everyday lives. It allows them to speak about who they are without saying a word or roll play for a day and escape the mundane. With the proper tools each person can put their best foot forward by defining their unique style which can ultimately enhance their lives.
My past experiences include writing for the Hartford Women’s Style Examiner and owning a Vintage Clothing Boutique which have allowed me to hone my distinct voice in the fashion world as well as my eye for up and coming trends and designers. Most importantly, in these tough economic times I understand that what women want most is to continue to maintain their fashion sense while remaining budget conscious. I understand today’s woman.
I look forward to the opportunity to demonstrate my skillset as a fashion and lifestyle journalist. Please contact me via phone or email for any additional information regarding this promising opportunity.
Sincerely,
Tiffany BrickWallVintage
One strength of your cover letter was that you were able to point out what makes you unique (like owning a vintage clothing boutique). One weakness was the line "I understand today's woman." It seems a little abrupt for some reason.
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading this cover letter because it was a different spin on things, you are very passionate and that speaks throughout the letter. I like your back round, not only do you already write about fashion but you also own your own boutique which gives you an extra edge. One thing I wish I could have seen was you write about what you can do for the company that you are writing to. How will your qualifications upgrade them?
ReplyDeleteHi T,
ReplyDeleteYou have a great sense of personality that draws the reader in. The specific examples of your experience in fashion work well, and you certainly sound like someone worth hiring. Next, you need to focus on your professional credentials, cut down some clutter, and get right to the point.
"I would like to thank you for the opportunity to discuss my qualifications as they relate to the position of fashion columnist for your magazine"
That's a lot of words for someone who doesn't have a lot of time to read. In your first paragraph, you might just say, "I write to express my interest in (position)," and then give a quick one-sentence summary of why you think you're the one for the job.
Also, avoid cliche phrases such as "best foot foward" and "without saying a word."
Can you give some more details about your experience in owning a boutique? How many customers do you serve? Have profits increased? What kinds of experiences have helped you "understand today's woman?"
Again, it's fine to speak passionately about how you "feel" about the position, but keep it in moderation. Focus on the practical, and on how your specific skill set can fulfill the needs of the company/position.
Cover letters are deceivingly difficult. Keep up the good work!
--Prof. Nichols