| The last thing you want to see when looking for a job | | | | them in person. |
| are completely generic job ads: no specific information, | | | | Step 2: Personalize your response |
| nothing to attract your attention, etc. Likewise, | | | | When you're reading over an ad you should be able to |
| employers don't want to read boring responses. | | | | pick up on what specific skills they are looking for and |
| Once you find an attractive job ad, you'll need to sit | | | | what type of work they need done. When writing your |
| down and crank out a response that will get you the | | | | response, use those key points to attract potential |
| job. Here are some tips on writing a great response: | | | | employers' interest. If they mention certain skills and |
| Step 1: Start with a boilerplate response | | | | you know those skills, be sure to mention it! |
| Before you start responding to any job ad, you should | | | | It can also help to pick up on the tone of the job ad |
| first come up with a simple generic response that | | | | and tailor your response that way. For example: |
| covers all the basics. Here's a list of things that I will | | | | - The job post looks it's a contract position for a |
| usually cover when first replying to an ad: | | | | business: use a more professional tone |
| - Where I saw the ad | | | | - Conversely, if it looks like a sole person or a home |
| - Who I am, what I specialize in | | | | based business: use a personable, friendly, trustworthy |
| - My resume and portfolio | | | | tone |
| - My rate (if I feel comfortable giving my rate) | | | | - The person who wrote the job ad sounds like they |
| - How to contact me | | | | are very experienced in the area: respond similarly, |
| Those are the minimal areas you need to cover for | | | | don't shy away from technical terms |
| someone to get a good feel for you, just some simple | | | | - On the other hand, if they sound unfamiliar or |
| statements, nothing too fancy. Here's an example | | | | uncertain about what the job requires: use a helpful |
| boilerplate: | | | | and supportive tone |
| Hello, | | | | - I've also found a lot of times for personal web design |
| I saw your (insert job name here) position on Craigslist. | | | | jobs the job poster will mention something like "must |
| I am an independent web designer / developer who is | | | | be a sports fan", or "experience with classic cars is a |
| currently looking for work. My portfolio and resume are | | | | plus". If someone says this, it's probably a good idea to |
| online here: (link to portfolio) | | | | mention it in your response. Be genuine though! |
| My rate is $(xx) to $(yy)/hour depending on the type | | | | Step 3: Double check everything and send it out |
| of work involved. Please let me know if you are | | | | If you've written up a good customized response and |
| interested or have any questions.thanks, | | | | are ready to send it out do a few last checks; you |
| (full name) | | | | only have one chance to make a first impression! |
| One thing I also do (if it's for local work) is mentioning | | | | Make sure your resume and portfolio are linked or |
| where I am and that I'd be willing to meet or talk with | | | | attached and look good. |