Creating a Passionate Cover Letter
By Heather EagarAre you applying for a new job but are not thrilled about the
work it might entail? You may be seeking an entry-level position
and don’t want to be someone’s assistant, yet you know
it’s a necessary step to getting your foot in the door.
If you feel this way, don’t be discouraged as you are
not the first to experience this sentiment. However, in order to
avoid expressing disinterest in the job before you’re ever
interviewed you might want to redirect these feelings. One way to
do this is by creating a passionate cover letter that can help you
develop enthusiasm that doesn’t yet exist. Let’s look
at some ways to get started …
Know Why You’re Applying
One way to get started is by exploring the reasons
you’re applying for the job. In reality you might be applying
because you really need the money, or because you want to move up
the corporate ladder. However, try not to focus on these ideas and
instead dig a little deeper to find your passion.
For example, if you’re applying for a clerical job with
a company that you really want to work for – yet you hate
clerical work – think of some specifics you might enjoy about
the position. You might love working on a computer and working with
people. Or you might simply enjoy learning something new. Whatever
those specifics are, try to focus your energy on them in a positive
way so that your feelings can shine through in your words.
Find Out What the Company Wants in an
Employee
Another way to bring out the passion in your cover letter is
by studying the company’s job posting and visiting their
corporate mission for more information on their goals. By doing
this, you can wrap your mind around what they’re looking for
in an employee, which is a great way to better align your goals and
interests with theirs.
Of course, you don’t want to take their message
word-for-word, making it obvious that you’re using their
ideas as your own. Instead, you can simply take their concepts and,
in your own words, define how you will fit into their corporate
structure. Taking this step can help you speak directly to their
heart in language they understand while helping you better
determine whether you and the company are truly a match.
Maintain Professionalism
While you’re divulging your enthusiasm for the position,
it is a good idea to make sure that your passionate cover letter
remains as professional as possible. For example, saying “I
have waited my entire life for a job like this!” might sound
disingenuous or naive to a prospective employer who knows the job
will be tough. So instead, try writing, “This position
perfectly rounds out my goals in the marketing profession and will
offer me an excellent opportunity to serve a wider client base
efficiently.” In doing so, you sound enthusiastic about the
job opportunity while maintaining a professional tone.


