Tag: how to

Posted on

How to write a shining cover letter

A successful cover letter summarizes your relative experience and expresses your interest in a position. Your cover letter should leave the reader wanting to meet you for an interview. During the writing process, it’s important to use your unique voice, while also maintaining a professional and appropriate tone. Here are a few tips for making a great first impression with your cover letter:

Be personal. Whenever possible, address your letter to a specific person.

Do your research. Know what the position entails and learn as much as you can about the industry and organization you are applying for. Doing so allows you to focus on specific assets that match those of the position you’re applying for and tailor your cover letter to best suit the job.

Avoid using clichés. Employers sift through a number of cover letters with the same language. If you’re able to find unique ways to express your enthusiasm and interest for the position, you’re more likely to stand out.

Support your claims. Relate your strengths and experiences to the job description. This gives your letter substance. It also shows you are prepared for the position and prove your written communication skills.

Use active voice. It’s powerful. It shows your confidence. It keeps your ideas clear and easy to understand.

Proofread. Put your cover letter aside for a while, and then reread it. This is an old revision trick, but it works. You will likely discover grammatical errors and sentences that could be improved when you come back to it. Also, consider having a professor or advisor read over your letter – another set of eyes is very helpful when editing.

Don’t forget to format. Take time to make the letter clean and attractive. Keep the same font and header as your resume, but stick to traditional business letter formatting. Don’t forget to include a handwritten signature.

Your letter is the first impression a potential employer has of you as a professional. Remember, be yourself and let your strongest qualities stand out in your writing.

Photo Credit: Wim Mulder via Compfight cc

Post by Ruby Betten, PRSSA member for the 2012-2013 school year. You can contact Ruby through our blog editor at cgisler@uoregon.edu

Posted on

How to jump start your PR portfolio

Any student in the University of Oregon School of Journalism and Communications (UO SOJC) has heard the word “portfolio” a million times. Let’s face it… we all know how important a strong portfolio is to post-grad career success. But building a portfolio from the ground up can be overwhelming. Before you get started, here are a few ways create a solid foundation for your portfolio:

  • Search out work and internship opportunities
    Research opportunities with local businesses or student organizations. Could they use help with marketing or PR? Most likely, the various clubs and organization on campus are looking for a person just like you to jump in and help establish a presence online, through print or a physical campaign. This can lead to strong portfolio material and connections with a client you successfully helped.
  • Join a publication or start blogging
    Writing samples are one of the most important pieces of your portfolio. The University is home to many exciting student publications: The Daily Emerald, The Oregon Voice, Allen Hall Advertising, Flux Magazine, Envision, and the list goes on! Get involved and start writing. Or take matters into your own hands and start a blog!
  • Establish an online presence and network
    In addition to your physical work samples, make yourself discoverable online. Get yourself established on social media sites and use them regularly. A Follow professionals in your field, whether that’s political journalism, corporate relationships, or advertising for a niche field. Acquaint yourself with the “experts.” And don’t be afraid to start conversations with them!

These are just a few of the many ways to jump into building a portfolio. Find a subject you’re interested in and let it inspire your portfolio content. But remember: a portfolio isn’t static. Plan to revisit your portfolio often to add new material and refine old content, since staying up to date in this fast paced market is key!

Photo Credit: Kasaa via Compfight cc

Post by Samantha Hanlin, PRSSA member for the 2012-2013 school year. You can contact Samantha through our blog editor: cgisler@uoregon.edu!