For those of you contemplating updating your resume' and lookingfor work...here are a few tips from my favorite book, "Knock 'Em Dead1997" by Martin Yate. The front cover says, "It's a New YorkTimes Business Bestseller" and "The ultimate job-seeker's handbook with great answers to over 200 tough interviewquestions."  

Don't let the title words,"1997" fool you. This book is relevant even today. I love this book! There have been updates to this book, so I buy any one of these books that I can. I have bought at least 3-4copies from used book stores and Goodwill and presented them to friends as they begin their job hunt journey.

Over the years, I have used the cover letter idea from this book so many times I can't count them all. (Because you should be tailoring your cover letter to each specific job's needs!) You can find an example of their ideas for your cover letter in Chapter 2. It's called"The Executive Briefing." I honestly got an interview almost every time I used the format they suggest but I didn't always get the job....I feel that I don't do well in interviews!! And that's a funny story for another day.  The Executive Briefing suggests that you really do use the exact words the company asks for in their requirements and answer with your credentials...but you do it in a table format. Their company needs requests on one side of the table, and your answers on the other side of the table format.

Then,this is what I always thought were the clencher sentences that you begin the cover letter with: "Dear Sir or Madam, While my attached resume will provide you with a general outline of my work history, my problem-solving abilities, and some achievements, I have taken the time to list your current specific requirements and my applicable skills in those areas. I hope this will enable you to use your time efficiently today."

Best of luck in your job search. I hope you find profit in work andfriendships!