I‘ve written about resume writing before, but, in a nutshell, like DM, SEO, even landing page development, resume writing:

• Is technique-driven, structured, and format counts
• Focuses on specifics, active voice and action verbs

The mind-set is very much a part of the regular copywriter’s mental toolbox. So when a prospective resume client calls and I have a hole in my schedule, I’ll handle a bit of the people marketing thing.

But even though I don’t do a lot of resume writing, I do lurk on several resume writer boards and found mention of the "Two-Thumb" rule about writing cover letters. It’s a great technique and one I’ll share you with you, too!

Rule #1: Cover Letters Should Almost Always Be One Page

Unless you’re some big-name, hot-shot in which case you probably wouldn’t need to bother with the whole resume/cover letter thing — cover letters should be no longer than one page.

Think concise and to the point. Tell the Hiring Manager:

• Why you’re writing and for which job you’re applying for. Don’t make the reader guess.
• Don’t repeat the highlights from the resume, but use the letter to amplify them. Feel free to refer the reader to particular parts of the resume.
• I’d suggest no more than 3 achievement highlights. Put them high in the letter, be specific, quantify, and make them count.
• Ask for the interview. You’d be surprised how many cover letter writers fail on this one salient action.
• Add a PS restating your interest and the USP - unique service proposition - you’ll bring to the corporate party if hired.

Rule #2: Cover Letters Should be No Longer than Two-Thumbs Down

Now, this is a tactile rule. Pick up a piece of 8.5 x 11 paper as if you were going to read something on it. Notice where your thumbs are. BINGO, that’s how long the letter should be.

While I think that’s a rule worthy of being broken where it makes sense, I think it’s a good overall rule (dare I say - rule of thumb?) during the crafting process.

Maven’s Maxim
If you’re looking to expand your marcomm writing revenue streams, do consider resume writing or perhaps even specializing in cover letters. The shorter the writing the better the writer you have to be. Why not you?

Check out: Write Copy? Write Resumes!(aff) for more info.