Your cover letter is one of the first impressions you make on an employer. How would you like that impression to be you are a self-absorbed know-it-all?
And all of this can be determined by your use of the word “I."
Most of us have probably heard the “Don't Overuse 'I' Rule," but do you know why you shouldn't. Keep reading to find out...
Rookie Mistake
This cover letter mistake is one that is commonly made by inexperienced job seekers. Of course if you are a recent college grad applying for your first jobs you may get a little caught up in the idea of getting your career started and not realize the message you are sending out. Although the job you are applying for may only be a stepping stone for your career, you cannot make an allusion to that in your cover letter and expect to get the job.
Team Of 'I'
An article on FastWeb.com warns the most important reason to steer clear of overusing “I" is to avoid coming across as self-centered or arrogant - especially if it's used at the beginning of the sentence. A good rule of thumb is to try to limit your use of “I" to only once. Try to reword sentences in such a way that they will have the right impact without needing the word at all.
Check Out My Stats
One assumption to be avoided by the overuse of “I" is you are more interested in what the company can do for you instead of vice versa. According to QuintCareers.com, this is a common mistake among recent grads and inexperienced job hunters. One feature of your cover letter is to let the employer know what attributes you can bring to the company you are applying for.
They want to know how you being an employed for them will benefit the business. In some cases, overusing “I" on a cover letter can insinuate the opposite. Without knowing, you could give the impression of “this company needs me, don't you see my accomplishments?"
Pass The Ball
Another reason for not overusing “I" is so you won't come off as not being a team player. Employers need someone who is going to collaborate and work well with others. If you focus the cover letter on yourself too much, this may not be the image you are portraying. Remember, no one wants a ball hog. Use your cover letter to let the employer know from the very beginning you can play your part and pass the ball to others.
A common interview question employers ask during job interviews is, "Why are you interested in this position?" They want to know why you want to work at their company, and the specific motivation behind why you applied for the job (not that you need a paycheck).
To persuade the employer that you have a true connection to the company and a passion for the job you applied for, your answer to this interview question should start with, "I'm interested in this job, at this company, because…" and then list at least three reasons why you want to work there.
Here is how you should structure your answer to the interview question, "Why are you interested in this job?"
Example: "I'm interested in this job because I can see that, in this role, my skills could help solve this problem within your company. I also see an opportunity for me to learn and grow these skills, so we both would benefit personally, professionally, and financially. If I can come in here and solve problems and accomplish your goals, I know I can develop my career the way that I want to."
This part of your answer lets them know that you are excited about what you will be able to accomplish for them, while still emphasizing what they are getting out of the bargain. You need to sell yourself as a business-of-one who can provide a service better than the competition.
Reason #2 – Cultural Fit
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Your second reason when answering, "Why are you interested in this job?" also shows fit, but in a different way.
Example: "Also, I like the culture of this organization. From what I've heard and what I've been reading about the company, it seems like a great fit for my personality and my values. I really connect with your mission statement, and feel passionate about the work that you do."
This is a general answer, so if you can be more specific by actually naming a couple of things you've heard or read about the company's workplace culture that you like, it will help your cause. This is one area where your pre-interview research is critical.
Does this company value and/or provide resources for employee development?
Mention those things that truly speak to you and your values so your sincerity shows.
Reason #3 – Personal Fit
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Wrap up your answer to this interview question with something that personalizes it a bit more.
Examples:
"And this job is in a great location for me. I've always wanted to move here."
"And this job is only five minutes from my house, so eliminating the commute is a big plus."
"And I've always used your products, and I just love them. I am really excited about being a part of that."
Say something that gives you another reason of your own for wanting this job. This interview answer is a fantastic place to let your enthusiasm for the job show. It's very appealing to employers, and it gives them one more reason to hire you.
Download Work It Daily's FREE list of common interview questions here.
You'll have a very clear and thorough answer to the question, "Why are you interested in this job?" if you follow the formula above. Set yourself apart from the competition today!
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This article was originally published at an earlier date.