Cover note on Job app

[EvianBaby]

I'm going to apply for a job with a company who my current firm happens to do a lot of work for on a sub contractor basis.

I was thinking of including in my covering letter that in my current position I can see how rapidly said firm is expanding and want to be part of blah blah blah.

I can't decide if that's a good idea or not?

[EvianBaby]

By the way, if it makes any difference the companies are entirely different industries. They are retail, we work on the new shops/refits.

[factor-fiction]

A good covering letter summarising why you are applying, how keen you are and why you are the ideal candiadate is always a good idea in my opinion.

[tonyav]

I think it is a good idea, Evian. if it were myself I think I would.

[vodkancoke]

I would send in a covering letter EB, as factor and tony have said. I always think it looks good. Good luck! x

[EvianBaby]

Sorry, I wasn't questioning about whether I should send a covering letter but if I should include that specific thing, about (that basically says I know they spend a fortune on expansion/improvements)?

[jno]

why not; it's certainly the sort of thing you should bring up in a job interview.

[factor-fiction]

If it's an important reason for wanting to join them then say it.

[tonyav]

Well it will show that you are taking an interest in their company, Evian.

[vodkancoke]

Sorry, my brain isn't working today! I don't think there is anything wrong in bigging them up and telling them you want to be part of a company that you can see is expanding as rapidly as they are. x

[EvianBaby]

Cool, I'll stick it in. If nothing else it helps me beef it up a bit.

Thanks!

[EvianBaby]

Well this question was a waste of time.

You have to fill in an online questionnaire when you submit your CV that contains about 5 questions about your experience. It said I won't be considered because I don't match the criteria. So a computer decides if you're good enough without anyone even glancing at your CV. Wonderful.

[tonyav]

DOH, bad luck, Evian.

[EvianBaby]

Funnily enough, I could actually give very positive answers to all the questions (from the tick box options) so christ knows what the criteria is. That's pissed me right off.

[tonyav]

Could you not write to them any way, Evian. might be worth a try.

[coccinelle]

I agree with tony I'd write anyway. Your letter might be a refreshing change to what the person has been looking at all day. I remember advising my husband to interview somebody who really didn't have the experience needed for the job but his letter was so refreshing I thought him worth at least an interview and he got the job and became a friend too. Sad times if computers are taking over in recruiting too....

[joko]

well if a compnay are that impersonal then youre probably best off where you are.

all i was going to say in regards to your question, should it come up again is be careful how you word it ... be sure it doesnt sound like you have used insider information that perhaps could be seen as an underhand tactic, and also fickle - that you'd jump ship after having access to their private accounts and seen who is doing best.