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In this digital age, much of our communication is electronic, both in text and video form. Job applications and other job-search correspondence are no exception.

People contact companies by e-mail, apply for jobs through company websites, use Facebook and LinkedIn to network and get information. It has become the norm, just the usual way of doing business.

In the face of this electronic blizzard, one person is championing a more traditional approach – the old fashioned handwritten letter. He contends that at a time when electronic communications dominate the job search world, sending a personalized letter is a good way of getting yourself noticed.

“There is no denying the power of the hand-held pen,” says Robert Graber, the founder of online recruiting site WallStJobs.com.

People seldom see anything on paper these days, he says. Resumes, cover letters, job notices are all online. It certainly makes things easier and makes things run more smoothly. But a handwritten note can be a real opportunity to set yourself apart from other job candidates.

Hiring managers, Graber says, expect to get a lot of job related correspondence online. But a really savvy candidate will use any information or details about the company he or she has picked up during research in a brief, handwritten letter, in addition to all of the other application materials.

Graber advises to look for things that are unique to the company when you go for an interview. Then, write a short, handwritten note related to what you have seen. For example, he says you might have noticed an award from a trade association given to the company, an association of which you are also a member, which you can mention in a note. Or if you see a diploma, your note can connect to that in some way – through a friend who might have gone there, for example.

Be sure, however, that you use high-quality materials in your correspondence.

Graber advises using neutral colors. Practice writing the note a few times first to firm up your penmanship and also to refine what you are going to say. Don’t overlook writing and revising your letter just because it’s a brief note. Graber also says not to write more than two or three sentences. Also, use the person’s title in the note and sign your first and last name. Keep the note short and professional. Also, avoid using a postage machine or computer generated logos. “Use a real stamp,” Graber says. “It’s the little things that mean a lot.”

When you’re looking for a new position, let the experienced recruiters at Trinity Staffing Services help you find a new job in the San Antonio area. We have connections with many of San Antonio’s best employers and we can help you find great direct-hire, temporary, or temp-to-hire opportunities with them. Contact us today!