Putting your cover letter in second place to your resume increases your chances of blowing both. Let's look at these 3 deadly mistakes and what to do instead.

Mistake #1 - Not knowing that an employer's requirements are actually a "wish" list.

Why it's a mistake? - You think if your qualifications don't match every requirement exactly you will not be considered. Not true. If you don't "walk on water" and you don't "leap tall buildings in a single bound" and you have other sterling skills, you will be considered.

What to do instead: Because the list is a "wish list" you make sure you match up well with 70 to 80% of the requirements and ignore those that don't.

Mistake #2 - Thinking it's okay to write a 2-page cover letter.

Why it's a mistake? Because, just like everyone else, recruiters want it done quicker, better, cheaper, and less "taxing" you lose twice; a) A two-page cover letter is too long and b) Your too-long cover letter tells the recruiter your e-mails and memos are going be too long too.

What to do instead: You guessed it. Work hard to keep your cover letter to one page; shorter the better. Write the cover letter in the third person and as if you don't have a resume. Show you are a problem solver and give results, results, and more results. Accomplishments win.

Mistake #3 - Sending hard copies folded twice in a No. 10 (letter size) envelope.

Why it's a mistake? Short answer: It's not user (customer) friendly. If someone has to flatten 200 resumes and cover letters so someone can read them; figure it out.

What to do instead: Use 9x10 white mailing envelopes. Insert your documents flat. No staples. Small, flat brass paper clips work. Now your mailing is immediately ready to be read and appreciated. Note: Add a PS saying you applied online too as required. The hard copies are sent as a courtesy and your documents come out looking great ready to be read.

And now I'd like to invite you to claim your Free Instant Access to your own one-on-one live and recorded one hour tele-conference when you visit http://www.resumesteve.com

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From Stephen Q Shannon - The Free Teleseminar Resume Guy