If I am just dropping off resumes without responding to a classified, do I need a cover letter? -

I know when you re responding to a job posting you include a cover letter describing the position you are seeking and why you make an excellent candidate but what about if you are just dropping off resumes trying to find a job? Do you simply drop off the resume or ask for an application, or both? In the past all of my jobs have been in response to a classified ad. I m not really sure what is proper or looks the most professional when going door to door. If it depends on the field, I am seeking a hospitality related job in either a hotel or property management company and have experience in both. Finishing degree in Hospitality Management as well.

Yes. Not replying to a specific ad is all the more reason to include a cover letter. You may not be applying for a specific job opening, but you do know what sort of jobs you are best equipped to do and are likely to be available at the company where you are dropping off your resume, so you can use that information to draft a cover letter. At the very least you should have two - one for hotels and one for property management companies, each one highlighting the experience you have in specific to the industry.

I am a professional resume writer. You can check out my website at www.mlbresumes.com. You should never do a resume on your own, it is the most important part of a job search. I provide my services at very low prices and do everything to help all of my clients. I do all of the resumes myself so you get personalized attention and low prices. 24 hour or less turn around time! Only $35 for a professional resume and it includes a Free Cover Letter, ASCII resume, and drawing into a raffle for a $50 gift card of your choice (to be drawn on 01/05/2010). I have been professionally writing resumes for 5 years and have been a Human Resources Manager, Recruiter, and Marketing Manager for over 10 years so I know what employers are looking to see. Feel free to email me with any questions you may have. ResumesbyMarissa@gmail.com

Well, let s put it this way: if you re just dropping off a resume, you don t need to include a cover letter the way that you would if you were mailing it. However, in this economy with SO much competition, a well-written cover letter could make you stand above the crowd.A word of advice: the employer doesn t really care what kind of job you are seeking. They care about finding a person who has the qualifications to fit the job they have AVAILABLE. If you slant the letter and make it about what YOU want, you can kiss your chances goodbye.Carefully read their job description. Then, craft a well-written opening paragraph making parallels to THEIR needs and your experience. It s about THEM, not you.It may sound like a little thing, but a whole lot of people lose out on great jobs because they have no clue how to write a proper cover letter. Good luck.