Cover Letters for Dummies Author:Joyce Lain Kennedy First impressions are lasting impressions, and even before you have a chance to show your face to a prospective employer, your cover letter has already told him or her something about you. Better that it be something good. Cover Letters For Dummies takes the mystery out of composing winning cover letters, from what you should say and how ... more »you should say it to how the letter should look and on what kind of paper it should be printed. With nationally syndicated careers columnist Joyce Lain Kennedy as your personal mentor, you'll discover how to Customize your cover letter so that it speaks directly to human resource directors, recruiters, and other decision-makers Determine your employability, assess your transferable skills, and inventory your technical abilities by using the "JobSeekers Skills Finder" Lay out your cover letter so that it shows you at your professional best Follow the rules of good grammar and incorporate power phrases and buzzwords without coming off as a phony Proactively address such issues as unfavorable references and salary requirements Take advantage of online and other computer resources to research comparable salaries and gain knowledge of particular companies and industries So, if you really want that better-paying, more-challenging, career-path position, don't sell yourself short: Use Cover Letters For Dummies to ensure that your rsum goes right to the top of the pile.« less