Conclusion

The cover letter is the human side of your marketing collateral. When you are unable to be there in person to shake someone's hand while you give them your résumé, your cover letter is your best first impression. Make your cover letter professional, yet human. Your cover letter should convey a sense of who you are.

It is best to be real here. You don't want to convey an image of stoic professionalism if you are a bubbly and gregarious personalityand vice versa. You're better off not being hired for a position where your personality will create conflict or will not mesh well with the company culture.

Note

If the problem with your personality or attitude is you, you had better adjust it quickly. Most companies can and do hire a broad spectrum of individual personalities, but virtually none can afford an abrasive and difficult person.