AboutRuth Butler Expertise I will answer questions about resumes and how to do well on an interview. I am a former employment counselor and I have owned my own resume and career counseling business since 1982.
Expert: Ruth Butler Date: 7/9/2008 Subject: cover letter assistance
Question I am interested in assistance with my cover letter. I am a Social Worker and
I received my Masters Degree in Social Work from Fordham University in
2006 followed by my New York State Social Work License in 2007. I live on
Long Island (about 60 minutes from New York City) and I will soon be
relocating to New York City to find more employment opportunities. Due to
the fact my living expenses and rent will increase in the city I am looking to
make a higher salary than I am currently making. Unfortunately, in the
social work field, the salary (even with a License and a Masters Degree) is
rather low. I am wondering if it is appropriate to list my salary requirements
in my cover letter even if it is not asked for. My reason for this is that I
don't want to apply for jobs in the city and travel an hour to get to the
interview only to find out that the agency is offering a measly $30,000.
How can I work around this situation?
Answer Dear Courtney:
You can state a range in your cover letter that you are looking to earn. I wouldn't state one figure, as that may put you out of the running. If you put a range, you at least show you are somewhat flexible.
This should be stated in the closing paragraph of the cover letter. Warmly, R. Butler
