3 Job Qualifications You Need in 2012

Job outlooks in several fields are now improving. Possessing these qualifications will help you start your new career in 2012.
 

The Cover Letter – Your Chance to Impress

Resumes and online applications forms can only say so much, writing a cover letter allows gives you an opportunity to explain why you believe you are qualified for the job, to make a positive impression and to explain reasons for employment gaps or career changes.


Keep reading for our cover letter writing tips.

Follow directions. Before sending your cover letter, read the job posting carefully. Employers often list specific instructions to follow when applying, such as including examples of work, explaining your prior work experience or submitting your cover letter in a certain file format.

Personalize. Address the letter to the hiring manager by name. If you don’t know the contact’s name, call the company and ask. Also, don’t just write one cover letter and assume you can use it over and over. Write a new letter for each job you apply for and make sure the letter shows that you have researched the company.


Keep it short. Limit your cover letter to two or three brief paragraphs. Avoid sharing personal details that don’t relate to the position.

Proofread! Have someone else read your cover letter and try reading it aloud to make sure you find any mistakes.

Getting a Good Reference

Many employers want references – 3 seems to be the right number to have at the ready. Past employers, coaches, volunteer managers and others could all be candidates. Here are other tips to pick the right ones. 

Choose references you're sure can do a good job answering questions from an employer. Here's a checklist:

• Wants to see you succeed as much as you do.
• Can clearly articulate your strengths, areas of expertise and development.
• Can think on her feet if asked a tough question.
• You would feel good about being a reference for. 

Ask before you list anyone!

• It makes you look professional and courteous.
• It gives them time to prepare and not be caught off-guard by a phone call they didn’t expect.
• Their willingness or hesitancy can help you judge whether or not they would make a good reference. 

Share your goals

Tell your references where you are applying and why. Give them your resume' and current contact info.

Prepare a contact sheet

Create a one-page list that includes contacts and be sure your references can be reached and know the best way to contact them (phone, email, days/nights, etc.)

• Person’s name
• Job title
• Relationship to you (such as co-worker or direct supervisor)
• Company name
• Address
• Contact info (phone number, email address)

Close the Loop

Check back with your references from time-to-time to make sure that contact information has not changed. And of course, THANK your references each time they are contacted. They should also be the first to know when you land that new job.

These tips and suggestions were excerpted from a blog by Beth Braccio Hering of Career Builder found here.