Showcase 1 — Professional Cover Letter
Artifacts:
Cover Letter PDF
1) Why I selected this piece
I chose this cover letter because it demonstrates my ability to apply the principles of professional communication in a real-world context. The task required tailoring a message for a specific employer (IMP Aerospace & Defence), aligning tone, structure, and content with industry expectations. This piece reflects my understanding of audience analysis and the importance of clarity and conciseness in job application materials.
2) What this shows about my development as a communicator
This assignment illustrates my growth in adapting technical experience into persuasive, reader-focused language. I moved beyond listing skills to framing them as value propositions for the employer, which aligns with the Axioms of Communication (e.g., communication is purposeful and irreversible) and the 7 C’s (clarity, conciseness, courtesy). It also shows my ability to integrate technical details—such as experience with ANSYS, STK, and MATLAB—without overwhelming the reader.
3) How this piece showcases my communication skills
- Clarity and conciseness: The letter avoids jargon and uses short, impactful sentences.
- Organization: It follows a logical flow—introduction, qualifications, and closing call-to-action.
- Tone: Maintains professionalism while expressing enthusiasm for the role.
- Audience adaptation: Highlights skills relevant to aerospace structural integrity and ASIP programs.
4) Was I pushed outside my comfort zone?
Yes. Writing persuasively for a professional audience was challenging because it required balancing technical accuracy with readability. I had to revise multiple times to ensure the tone was confident but not arrogant, and that the content aligned with the employer’s priorities.
5) Was this my best work? Why or why not?
This is among my best work in terms of professionalism and alignment with the 7 C’s. However, I would improve it by adding a stronger closing paragraph that explicitly connects my skills to the company’s mission and by quantifying achievements where possible.