[This is an excerpt from my Get a Job Fast programme]

The job searching road you’re on may have started out smooth and free flowing. But likely it deteriorated fast. And now you’re stuck in traffic with no end in sight. Is there an exit? Is there another way?

In job hunting, there are two roads. Road A. And Road B. Here’s a quick synopsis of what they are. Try to figure out 1) which you’re on; and 2) which one you should be on. One leads to frustration. Another to freedom … or at least another job options, sooner, quicker, faster.

Job Hunting Road A:

Road A has a dedicated lane for perfect people (qualifications, experience, race, age, etc). For everyone else, it’s congested, slow, frustrating, with plenty of breakdowns along the way.

Road A is the world of employment agencies, job adverts and junior HR people filtering you out in a pile of many other similar looking people. It has a tick-box mentality and if you don’t immediately appear to meet a few criteria, you’re don’t get a look in. It’s known for poor service.

On Road A, people easily become demoralised. Even angry. It’s a congested, frustrating road. So use path A, but be warned. What’s your experience been?

Job Hunting Road B:

Very few know about it. But with it you always have a way forward, you can get unstuck. You have more control – it’s not a passive “apply and wait and hope for the phone to ring” type approach.

You can decide what to target. You can go after what you want. You can take ‘massive action’. You can take the initiative. You can follow up. You can set your own schedule. You can make things happen. You can land dream interviews.

But of course it takes guts. And preparation. And focus. And willingness to step outside some comfort zones. Road B is what Get a Job Fast is all about. It’ll give you alternative strategies. So instead of the helplessness of Road A, you’ll be equipped with smart, ‘guerrilla’ style, highly effective tactics to put to work. And they work fast.

[Get a Job Fast is a learning programme which will help you discover the ‘ins and outs’ of a job hunt in which you take control, where you don’t sit, wait and hope, but in which you make things happen. The end result is more job interviews, more job offers, faster. It’s an approach that cannot fail. Visit www.careerandsuccess.info to apply.]

 

A cover letter for job applications is critically important. It can hit hard – getting you an interview even when you’re NOT the best applicant! It’s true. In this article I’ll show you why and how. And I’ll give you some examples of cover letters for job applications.

Why a Cover Letter for Job Applications?

A few good reasons:

1) It guides the mind of the reader – tells them immediately how to ‘file’ and respond to what’s in front of them.

2) It’s a chance for you to be quick, concise and confident – a good message.

3) It’s a chance to put your ‘best foot forward’ – to powerfully show that you’re “the one” for the job, to present your case.

How to Write a Cover Letter for Job Applications

Here are some cover letter principles:

Be quick. Get to the point. Use short paragraphs. Use bullets.

This is not the place to write about how hard working you are.

This is a place to immediately satisfy the reader that you have what’s required for the job.

Cover Letter for Job Application Examples

Here are some examples to learn from and use:

+++++++++++++++++++++

Dear [find and use the personal name of the recruiter]

Re. Accountant Position Advertised in The Star Workplace (June 15, 2009)

“Accountant – available to organise, streamline, and get things back on track.”

My suitability is as follows:

• NDip in Financial Accounting
• 5 Years experience in Accounting roles
• Strong skills in reorganising, getting up to date, and creating “order out of chaos” in an accounting department
• Rated by KPMG external auditors in 2007 as “super organized”

Please see CV attached for further details.

Available for interviews with immediate effect.

Regards,
Joan Smith
[Contact Details]

+++++++++++++++++++++

See how short it is. See how it got to the point? No going on and on with irrelevant details. Just a concise, confident, powerful message.

Here’s another cover letter for job applications.

+++++++++++++++++++++

Mr Abel Modiba
Human Resource Manager
XYA Industries

Re: Application for Bookkeeping position.

Dear Mr Modiba

I am applying for the position of BOOKKEEPER as advertised in The Star, Workplace (01.01.2009).

My qualifications match your needs very closely and I believe could be of immediate impact for you.

Your requirements VS. my qualifications are as follows:

• “3 Years Experience – bookkeeping” : I have 4 years in total with good companies.
• “Matric” : I have Matric, with a distinction in Maths (SG)
• “Advanced Pastel” : I have  2 years experience with Pastel and have completed an advanced course.

I’m 100% confident I can quickly slot into the role, but also I look forward to discussing the specific challenges of the role with you and the employer.

I have very positive and contactable references. I will follow up with you on Wednesday January 20.

Yours sincerely,
Richard Jones

+++++++++++++++++++++

Examples of a CV can be a big help. They can give you fresh ideas of how to ‘power up’ your CV.

What I’m adding here with these CV or resume templates or examples is my commentary on what works, why I’ve written them the way I have. This provides insight into how you can adapt yours in order to improve it.

Example of a CV – Downloads to Study

Just note: a CV is a notoriously difficult document to write for yourself. If you get stuck and feel you need professional help, I’m here for you. See my “Professional CV Writing” page or contact me directly at gerard at jobsearching.co.za

Example of a CV #1 PDF

 Example of a CV #2 PDF

You’ll notice that these CV examples are different to what you’ve ever seen before. I’m a big believer that you need to differentiate yourself with your CV. So instead of doing things the same way you’ve always done them, perhaps it’s time to try a  new approach.

Do I write every CV the way I’ve written these? No. But the principles hold true.

Examples of a CV – Templates to Write Your CV

CV Template #1 (conservative approach) – click and download. Open up in MS Word and add your details – you can also adapt your approach using the principles learned in the examples of a CV above.

CV Template#2 (more international / advanced approach) – click and download. Open up in MS Word and add your details – you can also adapt your approach using the principles learned in the examples of a CV above

Contact me on gerard at jobsearching.co.za if you need my personal help.

A CV template (Word / MS Office) can be helpful! Especially when you just have to submit that CV NOW! So, this is where you’ll find some CV templates in Word that you can use and be guide by.

Quick CV Template Warning

You’d better be careful! Writing a CV – a good CV, one that demands attention and gets more job interviews for you, even twists the arm of the employer to call you – IS NOT about the ‘neat and pretty’ layout. It’s not just about adding your personal details.

Over the last 10 ideas I’ve developed creative, innovative, mind twisting ideas for a CV to grab more attention and demand attention (even if the person behind the CV is pretty average!) So contact me if you need personal help, I’m on gerard at jobsearching.co.za.]

CV Templates Word

Here are some easy-to-use CV/resume examples to help you. They include sample data and a few tips and ideas from me on how to use them effectively.

CV Template Word #1 You can’t get more basic than this. This CV/resume example allows you to quickly add your details in a table. Your CV/resume will be neat, organized, well spaced and professional.

[Click the link above, a box will pop up asking you to save the document to your PC. Once you’ve downloaded the CV template, you’ll be able to edit it in MS Word, or in any other word processing package.]

CV Template Word #2 This is a more progressive approach. And a bit more ‘international’. It also allows you to sell yourself a little better, but with this CV template, it also adds the requires more skill from you – both in using words and in using MS Word for formatting.

[Click the link above, a box will pop up asking you to save the document to your PC. Once you’ve downloaded the CV template, you’ll be able to edit it in MS Word, or in any other word processing package.]

With these MS Word based CV templates you can of course change they way they look to suit yourself – change the font, change the headings, etc. But be careful of getting too elaborate. Keep it simple.

When a CV Template Doesn’t Work

If you get frustrated, if you feel your CV is ending up still a bit weak, not powerful enough to distinguish you from all your job market competitors, I can help you personally. See link/tab “Professional CV Writing” above or contact me directly at gerard at jobsearching.co.za. I’m here for you.

Got an question via Facebook today:

I need your advice. Am looking for practical work experience to graduate and I have been asking companies for such an opportunity in their company, mostly I email and call but I either dont get a respose or they can not assit me. What advice would you give me to get a better my chances?

Here was my answer … as you know it won’t involve sitting and waiting and hoping that someone either cares or will answer. It’ involves taking the bull by the horns and swinging it around a bit. THEN one can expect response. Only THEN.

Hi Rachel – start working for them (your targeted employers) right now. You may say “what?!”

Yes, research 5 companies that operate within your industry of interest. Research them thoroughly, use their website. Discover what they’re working on that you can contribute towards in line with what your qualification is. Here are some examples:

Engineer – draw up a set of calculations for that bridge the co. is building and present it to them;

Sales – search the net and provide them with a list of key decision makers in their industry of interest;

Marketing – draw up a new marketing, advertising and communications plan for that new product they’re launching;

Graphic Designer – rework their logo that seems outdated and old;

Customer Service – draw up a customer survey that will help them get to grips with what their customers are saying about them;

Administration – draw up a presentation on efficiency in the office and any new methods/technology you discovered during your studies.

When you start working for them before they even know you like this, what does it tell them? You’re committed. You’re useful. You have initiative, you’re a go-getter. AND you approach them with something of value instead of as a beggar, as one of many.

Now, the only thing is this: do you have the hunger & desire to do this?

 

To all job hunters and their supportive friends …

Just launched:

6 Job Market Attack Strategies
-Job Search Coaching & FREE Support Group

Here’s what it’s all about.

Many job hunters feel helpless, stuck, frustrated. They seem to be bashing their head against a brick wall. And yet they’re not sure what to do differently. So they keep doing the same things and getting the same demoralizing results.

But now, with 6 Attack Strategies …

• You’ll have practical, fresh ideas to reignite your job search – from South Africa’s only Guerrilla Job Search Coach. These 6 strategies are designed to help you get back on the attack, to give you an organized, fresh, bold and smart, guerrilla-type approach.
• It includes coaching – you’ll have definite, clear instructions and follow up from me. No more wondering “what can I do differently?” or “am I doing this right?”. You’ll know.

And also – this is critical – you’ll have …

• Support. Within the LinkedIn.com based members only support group, you’ll be part of a crowd of supportive friends – anonymously if you like – who are facing the same challenges as you. You’ll be able to share ideas and discuss job search methods that work, with people who care and can really help.

Here’s what’s you’ll get and discover …

1) The 6 Attack Strategies Guidebook, with instructions and examples. You just want a job. And you want it fast. These strategies are what will take you from helpless to ‘on the attack’. With them, overnight, you’ll be distinguishing yourself, standing out. From ‘no response’ to more job interviews, more job offers, more often. Guaranteed*.

Here’s a quick look inside:

a. Strategy #1 explains a simple principle of business and marketing that you can turn to your advantage. And the incredible thing is this: 99% of other job hunters have no clue what it is, they don’t use it. Once you do, you’ll immediately see better results. I guide you through it, and I give you 12 examples you can follow.
b. Strategy #2 will help you transform your CV into an attention demanding tool. And get this: you don’t have to sit for hours fiddling with your CV to use it. It’s my 100% original creation, it’s persuasive, it’ll distinguish you, it’ll twist employers’ arms into inviting you in for interviews (yes, even if your current CV is boring and ‘average’.)
c. Strategy #3 is a unique tool you can use in an interview. It’s something (I’m not telling you what yet) you can hand to your interviewer after an interview that will stop the interviewer dead in their tracks. In a good way! Suddenly you’ll stand out, they’ll now view you as a superior candidate. It’s totally professional and you’ll feel proud using it.
d. Strategy #4 is a tool for networking. Networking is awkward – and yet it has massive power to help you find your next job. Is there an easy tool you can use? Is there an easy way? YES! Again, this strategy is nothing you’ve seen before. I’ve developed the idea from scratch to help you connect with people get them working to find work for you.
e. Strategy #5 talks you through the kind of cover letter you need – again, this will not be like any other cover letter you’ve seen. It’s created to make an impact and hit all the right notes in 3 seconds or less. You’ll have a detailed example and template.
f. Strategy #6 addresses how to find employers. Most job hunters get stuck using job websites, job ads in newspapers and agencies (often rude!) etc. to find their next employer. Only, these approaches often don’t work very well!
So what else can be done??!! I’ll introduce you to 4 simple but effective strategies to reach employers. And they’ll be easy to do for you.

Then there’s …

2) 6 Attack Strategies Coaching. Via e-mail you will be prompted to take action. You will be pushed, guided, encouraged. I’ll be a constant presence, providing fresh ideas and the spark you need. I want you to try some new things, I’ll support you in it.

And …

3) The Support Group. Having positive support makes all the difference in both your mindset AND in giving you the practical help you need. You’ll be able to ask questions and have them answered. Job hunting can be demoralizing. You need support and advice. You’ll get it here.

I’m not going to overwhelm you with information. The technology is easy. All you’ll need is e-mail and Internet access and a free LinkedIn.com account to join the support group.

What you need is a fast solution. You don’t need a 300 page book. You need easy to read, quick, easy to apply lessons. You need expert guidance. And you need these strategies to start working for you immediately (or tomorrow at the latest!).

Most people market themselves in a haphazard, weak, ill informed fashion. That doesn’t have to be you. There are more powerful ways to do things. One person on the program tried just one idea, and guess what? Within a day they had an interview. Within a week they had the job.

For the last 12 years I’ve been in the newspapers (The Star, Cape Argus, Pretoria News, Business Day, etc), on radio (Cape Talk, 702, SAfm, KayaFM, Radio2000, etc), I’ve been a guest speaker at UCT GSB, I’ve been writing my free weekly e-column (Job Search Success) and I’ve written a few books and been a contributing author to “Guerrilla Marketing for Job Hunters 3.0” by David E Perry and Jay Conrad Levinson.

All of this has been to help job hunters be smarter in their search, all to help them get more job options, more often and faster.

That’s what you’ll get with 6 Attack Strategies, guaranteed*. Yes, “guaranteed*”.

* If you’re not blown away by what you get, or if you don’t get better job hunting results, you get your money back. No questions.

Now, pricing is next. And I have some exciting news.

Pricing and Application

The investment is a once off R750.00.

(You can pay in smaller installments – contact me directly about that.)

But for DECEMBER 2012 only, I’m holding an inaugural “BOOT-CAMP BETA” version of “6 Job Market Attack Strategies”. And because it’s the first time, it’s bound to be a little rough around the edges, so … for that I’m discounting it heavily, down to just R375.00 from today.

Who is this “BOOT-CAMP BETA” for? It’s for you IF you’d like to use the first few weeks of December focusing intensely on getting your job search revamped, re-organized, re-invigorated. There’ll be 11 lessons – each with practical assignments. Each assignment will take a little time to complete and will require quality attention (but it’s certainly not a full time thing. For some it’ll only take a few minutes.)

BUT it’s also for you if you just want the lower price – you can always tackle the course content later, there’s no time limit.

Is this the answer to all your career problems? No. The job market and life are complicated. Sometimes we’re our own worst enemy. But other times all we need is the spark of an idea which goes on to ignite a wildfire of success. I’m hoping this will be that for you.

“AND THAT’S NOT ALL” – in addition to benefitting from this program, I’m also going to be giving you access to the Career & Success INNER CIRCLE – a member’s only website which includes in its library inspiring books, articles, videos such as “Think & Grow Rich” and 2 coaching programmes to help you set and achieve more in your life and career.

AND REMEMBER MY GUARANTEE:

* If you’re not blown away by what you get, or if you don’t get better job hunting results, you get your money back. No questions.

So, get on the 6 Job Market Attack Strategies, Job Search Coaching & FREE Support Group “BOOT CAMP BETA” now.

APPLICATION INFORMATION

There are 2 steps to your application:

1) Payment (via direct deposit or EFT): ● A/C Holder: G le Roux ● Bank: Standard Bank
● A/C Number: 072 591 498 ● Branch: Claremont, Cape Town: 025109

Send proof of payment via SMS (083 744 5454), or e-mail (gerard@jobsearching.co.za) or fax to 086 6512 455)

2) Then send/e-mail me your details: ● Your name, e-mail address & phone number.

[As soon as I have confirmation of payment and your details, I’ll register you and you’ll receive instructions. Mostly this will happen immediately. If you’re uncertain about anything, call me directly, I’m on 083 744 5454.