A cover letter is a powerful document written in the first person. Coupled with an enticing, accomplishment-based resume, it’s a powerful job search tool.

There are several types of cover letters each aimed at a different audience. Not too many people have heard of or utilized a pain cover letter.

What is a pain cover letter?

It’s a very specific, powerful document addressing a particular issue relating to a company experiencing problems or pain with relevance to your particular realm of expertise. In the case of sales, it could be that you have heard that ABC Company is experiencing a drop in market share, or reduction in sales. For a Production Engineer, it could be continuous breakdowns on the manufacturing line.

Once the issues have been identified, if you feel confident in resolving the problems, write a detailed letter to the President, CEO, or the senior executive with overall responsibility for that particular function and issue. Outline how you see their issues, and present a brief synopsis on how your skills and knowledge can rectify their problems.

Be detailed and give some examples on how you have increased market share, driven sales or realigned production line operations with minimal investment from your previous employers.

What does a pain letter show?

It portrays you as proactive, looking for new challenges and ready to tackle critical business issues.

From experience this letter has proven to be a winner for many of my clients of all levels and functions. It’s certainly an intriguing way of luring a potential employer into calling you for an interview. They want to know in greater detail, more than is outlined in the pain cover letter, what contributions you will make. It places another perspective on your job search.

Go hunting for these opportunities. Read the newspapers and business magazines to see what troubles companies are experiencing. Then position yourself as the chief problem solver and go in with gusto telling them how you would tackle their dilemma.

It works. Make it work for you!

Martin Buckland, President of Elite Resumes also known as @EliteResumes is a leading resume writer, career coach and job search strategist. Established in 1993, Martin provides executive career management services for a global clientele of senior level clients and those who aspire to be business leaders. Certifications include: Certified Professional Branding Strategist, Certified Professional Resume Writer, Certified Employment Interview Professional, Job and Career Transition Coach, Certified Job Search Trainer, Co-Pilot Executive Coach.