Cher Forman
"Ask Cher"
Cher Forman has over 20 years of domestic and international Human Resources experience in organizations ranging from startups to $3B. As Director or Vice President, she has managed Human Resources groups at Applied Materials, Stanford Telecom, Ask Computer Systems, Teledex and Tri-Data Corporation and consulted on H.R. philosophy, values and infrastructure with many start-ups as well. Cher has managed several of these firms through rapid expansion and significant organizational challenges. While at Applied Materials, she led her business unit as the company grew from 6,000 to 16,000 employees in three years. Ms. Forman has specific expertise in employment, corporate legal compliance, development of cost effective compensation/benefit strategies, organization development and international HR management. She has a degree in Organization Behavior from the University of San Francisco and has participated in advanced training at several other colleges and universities.
Dear Cher:
I have always been taught that a cover letter is just as important as the resume. Now I am hearing otherwise. I haven't looked for a job in 16 years, so please help.
Marie, Denver, CO
Answer:
DearMarie:
Good question. Some things HAVE changed, but not that one. For instance, now we are often instructed to send our resumes via e-mail, to a common address where resumes for every level job get scanned by computer software. The software looks for a match between the words on your resume and the words on one of their job postings. This is most common in large corporations where hundreds of resumes are received every day. This does not mean, however, a cover letter is unnecessary. Actually, the cover letters are scanned as well. So take advantage of it and use your key words in the cover letter, too. If you are instructed to reply by "snail mail", be sure to use a heavier paper than copy paper. Many office equipment stores sell a heavier weight paper and matching envelopes, which always make a favorable impression when received. Thanks for your question, Marie. I realize some people do not believe cover letters are still necessary. However, my colleagues and I agree, they're still a good opportunity to make points with a potential employer. Best wishes on your job search.
Best, Cher
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