My Relationship To: My 23-year-old Self
Good to know I haven't changed much per my 2018 cover letter.
While surveying old cover letters hoping to glean inspiration for a new one, I came upon one for a sales rep position with W. W. Norton from 2018. I was 23. Below are some snippets from it:
“A large part of my role required me to form and maintain positive working relationships with my coworkers and clients, using my creativity and strategic thinking to push new and exciting ideas.”
“My enthusiastic and energetic personality, combined with my passion for books, allowed me to form positive relationships with new and returning customers, some of which came back only for my personal recommendations.”
“I studied abroad in Australia for six months where I pushed the boundaries of my comfort zone and grew more independent.”
“I value intellectual engagement and personal and career development, and I am excited to have the opportunity to continue to grow with W. W. Norton; I’m confident that my skills and experience will be an excellent match for your team’s needs.”
I self reflect often now at 27, and can conclude my confidence in the work place and in life — as projected above — stems from my challenging of normalcy and complacency followed by sitting down to think it through. Part of why I’m drawn to journalism: find holes in coverage, ask questions, and write.
Still, I read the letter this morning and was impressed with young 23-year-old Hannah… and then questioned if I should go into sales because I just sold myself to me.