Applying for a Job: You're Excited?

A quick tip for those of you applying for a job: never, ever use the word "excited" in your cover letter (unless you're a porn star).

I spent a great deal of time over the past few days reviewing dozens of resumes and related materials. Some idiot somewhere told these kids that they need to convey enthusiasm. So, about half of the cover letters begin something like this: "I was excited to learn that [insert company name] is looking for [insert job description]."

Employers want to hire practical, hard working, level-headed, smart people. Excited and excitable people need not apply.

PS There are lots of other ridiculous things people say in these letters, and they are from some really smart people. For example:

• "I am sincerely interested..." Are your other expressions insincere?
• "Enclosed please find..." Is your stuff hidden?
• "My passion for [insert job field]..." Come on, are you that geeky?