Be careful when you compare on your cover letter

By MAX MESSMER
Scripps Howard News Service
Tuesday, June 05, 2007

Analogies can be used to great effect in literature. By making comparisons between different people or objects, writers can highlight their similarities, adding both flavor and clarity to a piece of writing. But when it comes to your resume and cover letter, be careful when drawing comparisons between yourself and other individuals -- or things. What you intend to be funny or clever might come across as odd, confusing or unprofessional to a hiring manager.

COVER LETTER: "If the company I work for is a fine 1967 Shelby Mustang, and the company president is the driver, and the engineers and managers are the twin turbo engine, then I am the synthetic oil that makes the car run smoothly and efficiently."

We're not "racing" to call this candidate.

COVER LETTER: "I'm like a split personality, so put both my Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde to work for you."

We might take Dr. Jekyll, but you can keep Mr. Hyde.

"SKILLS: Optimism. I am like the female version of motivational speaker Anthony Robins. Nothing is negative in my world! Everyone is part of the team, and they are dependable, organized and very self-motivated."

For this candidate, the glass is always half full.

COVER LETTER: "I like to think of myself as a workplace chameleon."

How will we know your true colors?

"IMPORTANT NOTE: The fastest way to get in touch with me is through e-mail because it's like my laptop is attached to my hip."

There is probably a surgery for that.

And, finally, this example from a stand-up comedian, er, candidate.

COVER LETTER: "I'm a Git-R-Done-type of employee. I'm like Larry the Cable Guy."

For more Resumania, and to submit samples you've come across, visit www.resumania.com. Keep the Resumania coming. Examples can be sent to Resumania, c/o Robert Half International Inc., 2884 Sand Hill Road, Suite 200, Menlo Park, Calif., 94025, or faxed to 650-234-6998.

Max Messmer is chairman and CEO of Robert Half International Inc., a specialized staffing firm, and author of Managing Your Career For Dummies(r) and Job Hunting For Dummies(r), 2nd Edition. His most recent book is the newly released Human Resources Kit For Dummies(r), 2nd Edition.

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