I came across an article in my travels, Season Your Cover Letter with a Great Quote, that recommended to job seekers that they use an inspiring quotation in their cover letters. In case any of you encounter the same advice, I want to warn you now NOT to follow it. I strongly discourage anyone from including a quotation in a cover letter, unless that quotation comes from you, a client or supervisor.
“Setting an example is not the main means of influencing others; it is the only means.” (Albert Einstein)
The cover letter in question stated regarding the above quote, “You can count on me to live these inspiring words. I know the importance of influencing people for good and that is what I want to be known for. I’d welcome the opportunity to meet with you in person so you can judge for yourself.”
Some other suggested quotations from this article:
“Plan your work for today and every day, then work your plan.” Norman Vincent Peale
“Real success is finding your lifework in the work that you love.” David McCullough
“Success depends on your backbone, not your wishbone.” Unknown Author
The problem with using these borrowed words is that just because you like a quotation does not mean you will live up to it! In your cover letter, give inspiring examples of what you have done and then say you will live up to your own examples. Hard facts always speak louder than flowery language.
When I was a hiring manager I never received a cover letter containing a quotation, but if I had I would have mistrusted it immediately. Anyone can do a Google search for inspiring quotations. Not very many people truly meet the high standards set by those words.
Related posts:
- What Color is Your Cover Letter? Cover Letter Tips from The Essay Expert
- How to Get an Interview with Your Cover Letter: 3 Essential Cover Letter Tips
- A Cover Letter is Not Expendable – from The New York Times
- The Art of the Cover Letter – from Lawyerist.com
- Job Search Myth: You Don’t Need a Cover Letter
Tags: Cover Letters, Job Search
