Dos and Don'ts of cover letters

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Style isn't more important than substance, but appearances certainly matter when you're hunting for a job.Just as you would not go into an employment interview with untied shoes and a wrinkled shirt, you should never submit a resume or cover letter that you haven't gone over with a fine-tooth comb. Remember: Regardless of how seemingly inconsequential the goof, any mistake will cause hiring managers to question your professionalism and attention to detail. "ABILITIES: Strong deal-making and negotiation skulls."He has the brains for business."OBJECTIVE: To become a billionier."A candidate who's not on the money."JOB RESPONSIBILITIES: I cover up other employees when they are on vacation or out sick."Do you use a blanket or a quilt?"COMPUTER SKILLS: Knowledge of Micro Word."We'll get out the magnifying glass.COVER LETTER: "I would appreciate the opportunity to review my qualifications."Go right ahead."SKILLS: Committed to meeting deadline."Just one?Finally, strive to be concise. Provide time-strapped hiring managers with a clear snapshot of who are and what you offer -- not a series of confusing and verbose statements."OBJECTIVE: Whatever that is to come into my path, I'm extremely positive that my inner strengths will continue to be rigorously polished even further, which will be accelerated with my need for a stable and well-solid furnished foundation that must be expected from me and will be of great value, and I hope to continue my education."A run-on sentence for the ages.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 Human Resources Kit For Dummies(r), 2nd Edition.)