Our cover letter group made changes to the original schema for writing project 3. In the introduction paragraph, we added multiple reasons, where before there was only an option for one. We added an optional URL that could direct the audience to some additional information like a LinkedIn profile, a portfolio website, or a code repository. We made a change that allowed for text in the background paragraphs outside of “experience” elements. We made the “proposition” element in the introduction paragraph optional. We added an “interest” element in the background paragraph. We made an optional space or image file at the end of the cover letter to allow for an electronic signature.
Overall, I think that these were good changes. Allowing the applicant to have multiple reasons for applying for a position helps the audience have a better understanding of the applicant’s motives and interests. The optional URL makes it easier for the audience to quickly access additional information about the applicant. This is especially helpful because many companies request portfolio submissions. It is also common within computer engineering and computer science for companies to request applicants’ repositories of previous project work. Allowing applicants to write outside of the strictly defined elements in the background paragraph section helps their writing flow better. Often writing can be disjointed when a person is trying to fit content into different confined elements. I personally am ambivalent about making the “proposition” element in the introduction paragraph optional. While I see how making that element mandatory could cause repetitive writing, the introduction of a cover letter is usually short, and I do not think that applicants would write so much that they would include redundant information. In my opinion, the introduction of a cover letter should be concise, while the background information should make up the bulk of the writing. I agree with the decision to add an “interest” element because this could help an applicant relate to the company on a more personal level. This could make an applicant stand out to the audience. I do not think that adding an electronic signature is necessary, but that element is optional so it will not negatively affect my writing.
