Apex Cover Letter Pointers

apex-cover-letter-pointers

Purpose

This skill provides high-leverage guidance for the cover letter narrative:

• what to emphasize,
• which evidence to use,
• how to address gaps diplomatically,
• and how to mirror the JD language without copying the CV.

Shared definitions

Apply the expert lens, collaboration rules, guardrails, and quality loop protocol defined in apex-guardrails. Output format profile: strategy_markdown.

Inputs

Required:

• JOB_DESCRIPTION_TEXT: to align the cover letter with the role's mission and requirements.
• USER_JOB_HISTORY_TEXT: to identify standout experiences and personal motivations.

Optional (Recommended for higher quality):

• apex-candidate-evidence-bank output: to address gaps strategically.
• apex-star-story-blueprints: 3–4 STAR story blueprints tied to critical job requirements using the candidate’s evidence.
• apex-uvp-statement output: for thematic unity across documents.
• TERM_EXTRACTOR: five high-priority terms from a job description with star ratings, ATS synonyms, JD-grounded rationale, and resume-ready examples in a strict four-line format.
• JD_KEYWORD_BANK: an expanded 20–40 phrase keyword bank.

Output format

Return:

Cover Letter Integration Pointers

Provide 2–4 short paragraphs or bullets, each focused on one of:

1. Core Narrative Theme: Suggest a unifying story or theme that ties together motivation, UVP and alignment with the job and organization’s mission.
2. Evidence selection: Which 1–2 STAR stories to feature and why
3. Gap Addressing Strategy: Provide advice on how to proactively address any critical gaps identified (e.g. lacking direct experience) using transferable skills or a commitment to learn.
4. Complement, Don’t Repeat: Remind the user that the cover letter should add context and personality, rather than re‑listing CV bullet points. Recommend highlighting motivation, cultural fit, or values alignment.

Rules

• Do not draft the cover letter itself. Keep each recommendation concise but specific, ideally one short paragraph.
• Ensure suggestions align with the organization’s tone and the analysis from earlier phases.
• Use term text only (no star symbols).

Steps

1. Identify the JD’s top 2–3 requirements and the candidate’s most compelling motivations and relevant experiences.
2. Recommend a narrative theme and which STAR story(ies) to highlight.
3. Identify any gaps and propose ways to address them positively.
4. Provide 2–4 recommendations of concise pointers in the required format.

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