If the ad or website seems to be fun and light-hearted, the traditional no-nonsense cover letter and resume might seem too stuffy and formal -even if you are perfectly qualified.

This is something I was reminded of recently when I applied for a ‘fun’ job and got a mass reply letter back stating that too many applicants were too stuffy. Yup, I am sure I was probably one of them – after all, most people have been trained to be ‘professional’ and ‘all-business’ when applying for a job. I certainly have. I have worked hard to turn off my silly side in order to be seen as the consummate businesswoman when I go after work I want.

But, the person who wrote it was also kind and gracious enough to give everyone another chance to apply – with more specific instructions and the reminder to lighten up. I really appreciate the opportunity to step out of business mode and let my Zany Dani side shine through. I have to re-think my entire approach to my resume and cover letter, but its good for me, and it may well give me a template for a new ‘fun job’ cover letter and resume.

This feedback brought up another pet peeve of mine, not following directions. I dont’ think it’s too much to ask for this, and I don’t understand why so many people get in an uproar when I point it out.

I love getting client feedback. There’s nothing like hearing it from the horses mouth.

This feedback is that person’s opinion. Another client may have a completely different take on things. I posted what was relayed to me without editing it, so please do keep that in mind.

@ Julie F: I take no credit for having “trained” anyone. And I have to agree that stepping outside your comfort zone is a good thing. You may find that you have a knack for a particular type of writing or a niche that you would never have discovered otherwise. Once again, these comments represent one person’s opinion.

Sorry, but I taught myself how to follow directions in an ad. Wait, no…actually that honor should fall to my Kindergarten teacher.

And I agree with Ann G. If we never step outside of our comfort zone, we might never find our perfect niche. Encouraging someone to forget about a job just because they aren’t completely in the know or totally passionate about the subject could result in the loss of the best writer they’d ever hire.

I understand where the employer is coming from, but if we all stuck only to our experience, what would we learn? I never in my wildest dreams would have thought I’d become interested in one of my husband’s hobbies – homebrewing – yet I’ve taken to it more than he has and now if beer is being made, it’s me doing the work 9 times out of 10. Enough that I was able to use my experience and help three other acquaintances learn how to make their own beer. My son never would have imagined enjoying writing, but he was given an award from his teacher at 8th grade graduation for most promising young writer and that’s fueled a brand new passion for him. Enough that he’s asked for his own blog this summer to try to earn some money. I hope everyone does keep their minds open to learning and tackling new challenges!