Pierce Mattie Public Relations New York

The recession has left a lot of very talented, skilled publicists without jobs. We are averaging about 10 resumes a day that come into our HR department for review. I always enjoy looking at talent, especially experienced, smart and savvy PR professionals. But I still continue to be dumbfounded over the cover letters we receive.

The cover letter is everything in the resume submission process and often will inspire the HR director to review or chuck the resume. Here are some things to avoid in your cover letter when getting a job in PR that we have experienced in the past few days. It has made me laugh, upset and also quite nervous on the industries writing capabilities.

Pierce Mattie’s List of Don'ts & "Nevers" When Writing Your Cover Letter To Get A Job in PR:

• Never refer to yourself in third person or as a “fab girl!” when describing your PR talents.
• Avoid slang in your cover letter; “with oodles of contacts and a smokin resume.”
• Do not put your age in the cover letter, a good HR pro never looks at how young or old you are, nor do they care.
• Do not put your lists of debt that have incurred since finishing college and being unemployed that you need to pay off in hopes it will help you get a better salary.
• Never state that you are “very educated” – we will be the judge of that.
• Please do not sign your email to us with “Ciao!”

Pierce Mattie’s List of Don'ts & "Nevers" When Coming in For An Interview For a PR Position:

• Please don’t chew gum, we had two last week that were chomping away. (grape flavored)
• Wear a suit! Yes, Anne Taylor might have gone casual but we haven’t, you still need to wear one and include some heels.
• Guys, the 5 o'clock shadow is “in” but not at 9am for a job interview, please shave.
• Don’t lie about your media placement experience, we do call the editors and ask them about the hits that you have claimed to secure.
• Avoid speaking ill about your former boss, PR clients, etc. We only want those that inspire others, not discredit them.   

Lastly, I know you are tired, but please don't give up. Stay professional, positive, polished and polite.