One great idea – in my opinion anyways – is the use of testimonials or quotes from former managers, colleagues or customers that you include in your resume or cover letter.
I recall reading a few resumes that have used this device and thought it was quite clever. In these cases, the job searcher had written their cover letter in the usual fashion but had made comments about their strongest attributes (i.e. strong organization skills) and then followed right up with a quote from a former manager or colleague who commented on that particular trait.
Of course, that same person leaving the quote was typically one of their references so the person reading the cover letter could then follow up with them to either expand on the quote or to simply verify its authenticity and accuracy.
If you’re looking for a way to positively stand out from your competitors you could try this sort of technique assuming you can find a few former co-workers or managers who’d be willing to do it. One possible way would be to either start or end your cover letter (or both actually) with a quote(s) to catch the reader’s attention and to help you stand out from your competitors for the same job.
