Can you review my cover letter and resume?

[cb1]

I'm looking to apply with a local PBS station and have written my cover letter and resume, but want to get your opinion on anything that should be changed. I don't have a college education, so I am not including an education section. (I've changed the station call letters to PBS for this post, I've changed a few of the personal details for this post, also some of the formatting may be lost in this post)


COVER LETTER:

Dear Hiring Manager,

It is with PBS that I desire to offer over 10 years of video production expertise and resourceful insight in creating projects that connect with viewers on a personal level that conveys to them that PBS is truly a part of their family. I am certain that my skills and experience, when linked with linked with the vision of PBS will serve to create a dramatic impact in the community.

Accustomed to fast paced environments where deadlines are a priority and handling multiple jobs is the norm, new challenges is what I thrive on and will do whatever it takes to get the job done, and get it done right, every single time. If you are seeking a qualified and productive individual who looks at challenges as opportunities to learn and excel, then I am the right person for the job.

Some of my key strengths and achievements include:

-Video production background ranges from video editing on such platforms as Avid and Final Cut Pro, as well as expert knowledge of such programs as Adobe After Effects and Photoshop.
-An idea person, with numerous scripts written for TV, film, commercials and music videos, I have a passion for creating new and fresh ideas that will create a strong connection with audiences and leave a lasting impact.
-Excellent organizational, interpersonal and communication skills with the flexibility and experience required to adjust to rapidly changing schedules and shifting priorities.
-Exceptional ability to concurrently manage several complex projects at once, while meeting rigorous quality standards, strict budgets and demanding schedules.

It is my objective to establish a time when we can meet to discuss how my talent, professionalism, and passion will add value to PBS. Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to speaking with you soon.



RESUME:

Video Editor ~ Videographer ~ Writer ~ Producer

-Over 10 years’ experience in all aspects of video production.
-Extensive background in writing and overseeing projects to completion.
-Dedicated and driven to succeed at the highest level on all projects.
-Featured in Rolling Stone Magazine.

-Ability to develop world-class solutions to real world challenges.
-Able to generate cutting edge ideas that translate to winning projects.
-Outstanding interpersonal, motivational and presentation skills.
-Pioneer of streaming video online with over 10 million views.
-Team Player with polished communication skills.

SKILLS
Proficient in both Windows and Macintosh environments with competent to expert level command of the following:

Editing Software
- Avid Express with Mojo – Avid Symphony – Avid Media Composer – Adobe Premiere – Final Cut Pro

Software Applications
- Adobe Photoshop – Adobe After Effects – Adobe Encore DVD –
- Boris Red/FX – Sorenson – Vela MPEG Card – Twixtor Pro - Main Concept MPEG Encoder
- Windows Media Encoder – Quicktime Encoder – Flash Video Encoder

Production Equipment
- Sony Beta Cams – Sony XDCams – Panasonic AG-HPX Series Cameras – Canon XL1S
- QTV Prompters – UHF-VHF Mics – Boom Mics – Grip Kits – Lighting Packages
- Camera Dollies & Jibs

SELECTED EMPLOYMENT HISTORY
John Doe Productions, Anywhere, USA (2007-Present)
Owner / Sales Consultant
• Founded company that creates music videos and commercials for clients.
• Services provided in the metropolitan area while creating new and fresh ideas for clients while staying on time and on budget.
• Collaborated with clients and fellow team members to create unique and original projects.
• Responsibilities include writing scripts and shot lists, on set direction and producing, post-production editing and effects, promotion and publicity.

Jane Doe Films, Anywhere, USA (2005-2007)
Assistant Editor / Script Supervisor / Producer
• Edited using Avid systems while integrating graphics, animation and voice-overs.
• Coordinated multiple projects simultaneously in deadline-driven environments.
• Produced and wrote content for clients.
• Delivered final product to stations or clients on DVD, tape or web application.

 

[craigbowman]

...

SELECTED EMPLOYMENT HISTORY
John Doe Productions, Anywhere, USA (2007-Present)
Owner / Sales Consultant
• Founded company that creates music videos and commercials for clients.
• Services provided in the metropolitan area while creating new and fresh ideas for clients while staying on time and on budget.
• Collaborated with clients and fellow team members to create unique and original projects.
• Responsibilities include writing scripts and shot lists, on set direction and producing, post-production editing and effects, promotion and publicity.

Jane Doe Films, Anywhere, USA (2005-2007)
Assistant Editor / Script Supervisor / Producer
• Edited using Avid systems while integrating graphics, animation and voice-overs.
• Coordinated multiple projects simultaneously in deadline-driven environments.
• Produced and wrote content for clients.
• Delivered final product to stations or clients on DVD, tape or web application.

Start again and list everything of note you've done and in particular, the awards you have won in connection with your work.

 

[grinner]

Cut your cover letter in at least half and address him with his name.
Your resume is not really a resume. You need to list your employment history with dates, projects, clientele lists and gear you worked on. No need to specify Avid products unless you have DS experience. All the other interfaces are the same.
List your education, if applicable and include 3 references.
Don't forget to mention where your reel can be seen online, even if mailing this in with a DVD.
Stay far and away from the word objective. Your objective is obviously to get a gig there, hence the application. This just tells the reader you started with a template.
Be very careful with multiple titles. If applying to jobs that are asking for multiple titles, go for it, otherwise you are greatly handicapping yourself against specialists.
In this case, I'd not mention a decade of experience as PBS in known for low salaries and this will most likely scare them away from calling you to even haggle. Always write your cover letter to the person reading it. This cannot be a saved letter that feels like a template. Write it how you talk not with the whole "it is with your company I desire" stuff. I'm not saying call him dude but you don't wanna sound like a young guy learning engrish either.
Tickle his intrest, list your website and attach or paiste your resume.

 

[cordvision]

I really agree with the above post. Instead of telling them that u are good, u should show them that u are good. It doesnt mean much if u say that u have a lot of experience, list specific work with dates u have done instead. What do u mean with featured by rolling stones magazine? Because u don't go more into detail, it gives me the impression that it was something rather "small" that u are trying to make a big deal out of it. If it was something substancial, name it and give more info.... Just my 2 cents...

 

[Scott F]

What do u mean with featured by rolling stones magazine?

I was wondering the same thing.....Rolling Stone? Who are you, Joe Perry?