What would make for a good cover letter for CV?

[Jo's Nails]

Hi,
I would like to wright a cover letter that explains me.
Whilst I have my CV which states what I've done, I feel that it a cover letter would explain a little more.
I realise that my nail skills aren't totally up to scratch and I require extra training or coaching in the right direction to bring me to industry level. This way it's not miss leading and the future employer doesn't get the wrong end of the stick and think I am better than I am. I have had breaks from the industry, so I haven't had the full experience.
I would also like to put in it the things that inspire me, the people I follow such as Doug Schoon, Sam Biddle, Robin Moses, the group's and products I have worked with. Can I I do this?

Any suggestions would help me an awful lot.
Thank you
Jo-Anne

 

[AcidPerm]

A short covering letter with a CV is always a good idea as it allows you to introduce yourself to the prospective employer.

However, you need to write it so that it appeals to the employer reading it. Preferably, tailor each covering letter to the individual salon and include details relevant to that salon rather than a generic letter sent to lots of salons. Research the salon and check what services they offer and what brands they use. You want the employer to think, 'Yes, I like the sound of this person and I'd like to meet them'. If they use CND and you trained with Harmony Gelish say something like 'my initial training was with xxx brand but I'm confident I can quickly learn the specific techniques for CND Shellac with a little support'.

Employers generally want an employee who is already trained to a good standard and willing to work hard to build their business. So, it's not really about what you want but what you can offer.

Don't undersell yourself.
No-one is going to employ someone who says 'actually I'm not very good and need you to train me'.
If they think you just want to work for them to take advantage of free training, that's not very appealing.

However, if you explain that you have completed X,Y and Z courses and you're especially keen to improve and hone your skills. In the meantime, you have been following vlogs from top industry technicians (include a couple of names), this sounds much more positive.

Whilst employers want someone who can hit the ground running, equally they want someone who is willing to follow their direction and not be a 'know it all smartypants'.

Finally, I can't stress this enough, always get someone competent to read through and check the spelling and grammar of any written correspondence. It doesn't matter if you are dyslexic, just ensure your writing is perfect in this instance.

A well written and accurately spelt letter will stand out and create the impression of someone who sets themselves high standards. If your handwriting is untidy, definitely type the covering letter too and ALWAYS remember to sign it! (I have a pet hate about letters that have no signature on them. It just looks sloppy.)

I hope this helps and best of luck.

 

[Jo's Nails]

Hi Haircutz,
Thank you so so much you have been so help full.
Would it be unprofessional if I send CV through messenger as a lot of salons only have Facebook page, I can't find email addresses?

 

[squidgernetball]

Hi Haircutz,
Thank you so so much you have been so help full.
Would it be unprofessional if I send CV through messenger as a lot of salons only have Facebook page, I can't find email addresses?

Are you responding to an advert? If so, I would respond in the same way that they have advertised. However, we advertised through Facebook and asked for applicants to use our email address.

If you are just randomly sending out your CV don't do it through Facebook. Do try and find an email address - usually available from the website.

Look at what products the salon uses if you are applying for a job. Check out their website or FB page so you at least have some idea of what they use.

@Haircutz covering letter advice is spot on. We're currently advertising for staff and it's nice to get a sense of the person. On one CV she's written "bubbly, friendly and outgoing" and I like that. I like that she wants to get that bit of her over to me!

I agree about spelling. I'll forgive a CV that's not standard and I'll overlook a lot but poor spelling in a technology based world is unforgivable!!!

Finally, good luck x

 

[Jo's Nails]

Some of the applications I have seen of Facebook don't really give any other contact details other than messanger. Also they only seem to have Facebook page and not an actual website where I can find an email address. Maybe I am looking in the wrong place?
I replied to 7 applications last night and had 3 phone calls this morning for interviews. I have just come back from one which sounds promising with the opportunity to build a nail/beauty business up from scratch. I have another 2 to go to.
Thank you both of you for your wonderful advise

 

[carolwheatley]

Hi Haircutz,
Thank you so so much you have been so help full.
Would it be unprofessional if I send CV through messenger as a lot of salons only have Facebook page, I can't find email addresses?

If it were me.... i would deliver it....