Reader's questions and views
Nov 07, 2010
VERY often, employers ask applicants for different requirements, like cover letters. Most job-seekers, however, don’t know what to make of such requirements.
VERY often, employers ask applicants for different requirements, like cover letters. Most job-seekers, however, don’t know what to make of such requirements. Worry not because Viqué-Ocean Kahinju took your questions to Gorretti Namubiru, an HR consultant in Kampala and now brings you the answers.
Most of the newspaper adverts I have read stress that every applicant must submit a cover letter. Being used to application letters, I am confused. What is a cover letter? Osikol Patrick, Kampala.
Although quite challenging, a cover letter is both an introductory and persuasive letter to the employer. This letter, often confused with an application letter, is quite different.
A cover letter accompanies the application letter and explains what the applicant thinks about the position. This gives the employer an insight into the potential of the employee.
Companies today ask for submission of cover along with application letters and resumes because they have information about the applicant’s drive for the job.
A month ago, I attended an interview where I was asked about my previous salary. I was hesitant to reveal it to the interviewers. What could have been the best way to answer the question?
You are not alone in this confusion. Most times interviewees fear when asked about their salaries because they think that if they tell recruiter what they are earning at the current job they may be given less.
This should not worry you since every company pays their employees using their own salary scale.
It is wise to say out what your present salary is, make it clear to the interviewers that you expect to be paid according to the prevailing market rate.
It is, however, not wise to start bargaining for salaries in the interview.
Just state your expectations and wait to first get the job.
Most of the newspaper adverts I have read stress that every applicant must submit a cover letter. Being used to application letters, I am confused. What is a cover letter? Osikol Patrick, Kampala.
Although quite challenging, a cover letter is both an introductory and persuasive letter to the employer. This letter, often confused with an application letter, is quite different.
A cover letter accompanies the application letter and explains what the applicant thinks about the position. This gives the employer an insight into the potential of the employee.
Companies today ask for submission of cover along with application letters and resumes because they have information about the applicant’s drive for the job.
A month ago, I attended an interview where I was asked about my previous salary. I was hesitant to reveal it to the interviewers. What could have been the best way to answer the question?
You are not alone in this confusion. Most times interviewees fear when asked about their salaries because they think that if they tell recruiter what they are earning at the current job they may be given less.
This should not worry you since every company pays their employees using their own salary scale.
It is wise to say out what your present salary is, make it clear to the interviewers that you expect to be paid according to the prevailing market rate.
It is, however, not wise to start bargaining for salaries in the interview.
Just state your expectations and wait to first get the job.