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Internal referrals and your cover letter |
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You are probably already aware of how critically important the role
personal connections play in your job search. So if you are applying
to an airline with whom you have a good contact who's willing to
recommend you for employment, you should draft the cover letter
differently.
Write the opening sentence in a manner similar to these examples:
"Tom Allen mentioned that you may have some need for Saab 340 First
Officers. With over 3 years flying Part 135 freight in multi-engine
Metroliners, I..."
"Acme Air Captain Bill Hendall suggested to me that I submit a resume,
as hiring at your company might be commencing soon. I am thus eagerly
applying in the hopes of becoming an Acme Air B-737 new-hire first
officer."
"Acme Air marketing assistant Jill Smith informed me that you are
presently interviewing for Fall pilot new-hire classes and suggested I
contact you."
As you can see in the above examples, we used the referral's name to
highlight the connection to the pilot recruiter. This is a very
effective way of getting attention drawn to your resume.
Of course, you must contact the insider and make sure that the
name-drop is OK with him or her. Do not introduce the name of somebody
that's merely a met-one-time acquaintance, lest the truth comes out in
your interview.
In sum, do not be afraid to mention a contact within the airline when
you're drafting the cover letter. Rather, address this person right up
front in your opening sentence-- given their permission. Your cover
letter will be off to a great start.
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