Posts Tagged ‘cover letter’

Second Thoughts the Other Way

Wednesday, December 2nd, 2009

Okay, now we have second thoughts the other way. Mom called one of the affordable apartments near us and while they’d be cool with the girls, they require all tenants to be making at least $1700 a month. Totally lets us out.

Mom called our DHS case worker to inquire about Section 8 Housing, course, the state screwed up DHS so it’ll probably be… oh, friday… before she gets back with us.

Which took us back the other way, back towards leaving again. Either way, we’re going to be homeless for a bit.

I found a few entry level web development jobs I could do, but will they take me is the question. I’m completely clueless about cover letters in the first place, let along crafting one to convince people to consider me when I’m not even there yet.

One is, awesomely enough, with the World Wildlife Federation and the other is for a yacht company. I can do everything both ask, though I’ve only dabbled with ASP. (I can make it say “Hello World” and some other basic newbie stuff.)

*eyes Echo snoozing in the armchair* I don’t think so! Mom did her best dragon impression ever last night, remember? You are sleeping tonight!

Resume Writing and Business Metaphysical

Wednesday, September 9th, 2009

Trying to rewrite my resume again, this time to send to employers in the Northern Virginia, DC, and Maryland areas. The fact is, an entry level resume isn’t that exciting.

It’s not so much an issue of confidence. I have complete faith I could do the jobs I’m applying for; but, it’s convincing a total stranger of that. Yes, they might have to train me… but I’ve had the honor of pleasantly surprising every employer I’ve worked for at the speed I can learn and apply the skills they give me. It’s also convincing them that while I’m not local yet, I want to move to their area.

So, off to the internet I go. Some of the stuff regarding job searching is amazingly… metaphysical sounding. Almost like religious writings. If they were using other language, they might sound exactly like some of the new age metaphysical stuff. Or maybe crazy cult writing. Just without the heavy incense. And suits instead of strange robes. Some of this stuff you probably need a degree program just to learn how to translate and apply it.

I’m kind of jealous of anyone who went to a college and got realistic resume and job search help. After my classes with Baker, I’m still stumped on how to write effective resumes and cover letters. Not understanding how to write an objective / summary, I completely omitted one. Nothing I write is considered “strong” despite straight A’s in my traditional writing classes. It’s obviously a different language, totally different syntax… despite looking like English.

Posted to as many career and lifestyle forums as I could, asking for advice on how to sell myself to out-of-state employers. I’m trying things first with just my e-mail and portfolio address. If that doesn’t work, I’ll see about a virtual PO box and a virtual phone number from Vonage.

And if all else fails: screw it. I’ll just take the leap of faith and hope I land on something soft.