Handling salary history, cover letters and job loss questions

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Questions from readers are an interesting barometer for the prevailing issues in America’s workplaces. The tight economy has sparked more job hunting questions in the last six months. Here are some of the common questions:

 Question:

What are your suggestions for including salary requirements in a cover letter, as requested by the hiring company?

 Answer:

The employer is trying to determine if they can afford you. They don’t want to go through the time and energy of several interviews, only to discover that you want more money than they can afford. On the other hand, you want to position yourself so you can negotiate for a high enough salary.

When an employer asks for a “salary history” they really don’t mean for you to list every salary you’ve ever earned. In fact, you don’t even have to tell them what you were making on your last job. For example, if you are a career changer moving from a lower paying field into a higher paying one, you risk looking too cheap and consequently, inexperienced, if you list your last salary. To counter this problem, simply state a general amount you are looking for. For instance, “I’m seeking a salary in the 40’s, but this depends on the total compensation package,” will give the employer an idea of what you want, while at the same time, giving you room to negotiate. Mentioning the total compensation package lets them know that you are willing to go up or down, if the mix of benefits and perks fits your needs.

Question:

I recently accepted a new job and relocated to a new city. After six months, my employer went out of business. On my resume, where I list my term of employment of six months, is it okay to also list that my employer went out of business?

Answer:

Absolutely. In fact, I’d also mention it on your cover letter, so they don’t miss it. Otherwise, a screener may scan your dates of employment and miss this important fact. Your resume could be discarded because you look like a job hopper or a problem employee who didn’t make it through your probationary period.

Question:

I need some advice on writing a cover letter that will really make my resume stand out. The problem I am currently facing is that I have been very successful in my career thus far. However, I graduated from college in May of 1999, and I think potential employers are deterred by the fact that I am still so young. Any advice?

Answer:

What makes you think your age is a problem? If you haven’t heard any feedback, I wouldn’t worry about it. In fact, a young person who can already show a good track record should be very desirable to employers.

The best technique for making your cover letter stand out is to treat it as a marketing letter. For instance, start out with one of your best qualifications: “If you are looking for a skillful sales professional who has built a successful track record in a very short period of time, please consider me for your Sales Representative position, listed in the…. ”

Next, include three of your top results statements and set them off with bullet points, so they stand out. For example:

·        In spite of being the least experienced sales professional, consistently closed more business than any other member of the sales team.

The next paragraph should tell the employer why you want to work for them. (Be sure and check out their web page first, for data you can use.)

Finally, wrap up with a summary of your work experience, leaving off dates and just hitting the high points of interest to the employer.

Your cover letter will wow them and your resume should clinch an interview.

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