Dear Hiring Manager,

To paraphrase Tolstoy, all happy organizations are alike; each unhappy organization is unhappy in its own way. My goal is to work for a happy organization. Not fake happy or suck-up-to-the-boss happy, but a place where there is an articulated effort to snuff out any flames of toxicity before they spread. Negative workspaces are childishly unnecessary and an unprofitable way to conduct business. Cruelty should have no currency.

I thrive in places where courage is valued, because as Winston Churchill stated, “courage is rightly esteemed the first of human qualities, because, as has been said, it is the quality that guarantees all others.”

There may be many other equally credentialed candidates who you’re considering for this opportunity, so your choice might be difficult. However, it’s my personal philosophy that sets me apart. At work, your success = my success. If that attitude is reciprocated, then together we should have many more wins than losses.

Is your organization oriented around happiness, and is courage valued? If so, perhaps we should talk.

I look forward to discussing this opportunity with you.

-Charles Lawrence

p.s. I am willing to relocate for the right opportunity.