In 2013 this post really shouldn't have to be written. Sadly, it does. Not two, but three hiring managers recently confided that they've received resumes from job applicants with serious spelling errors. Not cover letters, but resumes. Yikes! If you aren't a strong speller, get to know spell check in your favorite word processing program. Even if you are a strong speller and winner of elementary spelling bees, use spell check.
Decode Job Search Jargon
Before Pinterest, to create a bulletin board, you had to cut out magazine articles and photos. I used to stuff these clippings into folders and when recently cleaning out a closet came across a job search folder from 2007. In it was the above gem. While the original article in the November issue of Self Magazine by Janene Mascarella translated five of the most common corporatese into plain language was directed at interviewing, you can use the same tips and suggestions in your cover letter. Keep the job description in hand when you write the letter and underline key phrases and repeat them (if applicable). Then if you do score an interview, get out the job description again and review it once more.
Happy at work
A recent Facebook post by a Mizzou colleague, Joy Mayer, discussed the perfect interview question. She wrote: "On a reference call for a former colleague, the hiring editor just asked me, 'What will I need to do to keep her happy and fulfilled in her work?' Man, that's an excellent question. One all hiring editors who like retaining staff should be asking. In addition to hiring managers, this is a question all job applicants should be able to answer for themselves.
Advice for 2013 Graduates
You're about to graduate with a degree and are probably eager to share your vast knowledge with your future employer. That's great! Find a way to keep that enthusiasm while you learn the ropes of your field and job. Take time to learn not only the industry you'll work in, but the office politics, the major players in the field and in your office and where you are the most talented. Take a step back and observe before you jump in head first.