As a technology professional, one might think your job search would be conducted on social media or you would “tweet” your way to a new career.  It’s not as if these techniques haven’t been attempted, but they rarely do much to get you in the door.  The problem with many job searchers these days is that they rely too heavily on their devices.  I cringe when my clients tell me that they wrote a thank you note from their Blackberry after the interview – before leaving the parking lot!  There is nothing wrong with handhelds per se, but there’s a lot wrong with that approach to job-related correspondence.

Writing a good cover letter and thank you letter can make all the difference in the world.  It can jumpstart your job search and separate you from other technology professionals.  Without this skill, you could be overlooked when it’s time to schedule interviews.  Why is a well-written letter so important to your job search?  You may be wondering why technology professionals are expected to go “offline” to write a letter, but it is an incredibly effective tool.

•  According to an article that appeared on the Monster Resume Expert blog, “Top 9 Cover Letter Tips for Technology Professionals,” the letter should include specifics about how you have met or exceeded job requirements.  This is your chance to tailor your background and experience to the job you are targeting, rather than hoping the hiring manager will look at your resume and draw their own conclusions.

• In addition to facts, your letter should also express your passion for the industry and make it seem as if this particular job is the one you’ve been waiting for.  Let the employer know that this position will allow you to combine your interest in telecommunications with your background in networked security systems, or include something specific about the company that has attracted you to this job.

• Next, don’t forget to emphasize your accomplishments.  If you have achieved at high levels in other organizations, employers are likely to believe you will do the same for them.  However, this doesn’t mean you should exaggerate or use the letter to boast about yourself.  Be honest and always relate your accomplishment to the job you are targeting.

• Lastly, remember to include keywords.  In case you’re not familiar, today’s hiring managers use tools to help them sort through all the resumes and cover letters they receive.  One of these tools quickly searches the text of your cover letter and resume to search for key terms related to the position.  This is of particular importance to your job search as a technology professional because the terms will relate directly to the requirements for the job.

Your job search can be shortened dramatically if you consistently practice letter writing. Career experts agree that technology professionals can stand out against the competition by spending a little extra time on written communication.