When writing a cover letter, is it ok to put that I have Christian values that I apply to my work ethic?

Answer 1

I, too, am surprised to read this question. As DebtWill...said, evaluating a potential employee based on religion, or stated religious values, is against the law!

If you are an adult and are applying to government jobs, in particular, it is a big "no-no." More than likely your cover letter would be disregarded as it is not in compliance with the law.

If you are targeting private companies, and especially Christian companies, then you can take the chance. Personally, I think it would be to a huge disadvantage to do so if you do not know the company and what it stands for. A private company, such as IBM or Microsoft, or OfficeMax or the food industry, or publishing -- all of these would probably frown upon such a letter, and if they have a choice of you or someone else, would probably disregard your application.

If you are applying to a known Christian organization, then go ahead -- they are probably looking for someone of like-mind. But to think that your Christian values would give you an advantage during a general job search is folly. It sounds like you have not been in the work world for long, or have not held many jobs.

Because you seem to feel strongly about your Christian values and want to let a future employer know that these are your beliefs, I would only target known Christian organizations -- there are plenty out there -- do some googling and find some to apply to -- you would probably be happier in an organization that held similar beliefs.

Answer 2

Only if it's a Christian company. What if the letter is to someone who's Jewish, can you imagine how offended they would be? It's almost like you're telling them they have no values - and implying only Christians have values.

I hope you work for or will work for a Christian org if you feel that strongly about it. Or maybe volunteer your time without pay and live a life of austere poverty and give whatever you have to others (the less fortunate that is, and not to some billionaire televangelist) since that altrusim was the way of Jesus.

Answer 3

Oh, God, NO! If I was the person reading your resume, and it said that, I would throw it in the trash. Religion has nothing to do with working; ethics does. Find another way to say you have good ethics, without offending someone. You really offended me!

Answer 4

No, while you are welcome to specify specific applicable values that you believe apply to your employment you and your employer should not bring up religion.

So, rather than saying you have "Christian values" you should say something like "honesty and truthfulness are important values in my life" ...

Federal law prohibits an employer from discriminating on the basis of religion and as such they would have to ignore a phrase such as "Christian values".

Answer 5

I would say yes. I'm 17, and twice that I've been interviewed (successfully I might add), I've let my employer know that I'm a Christian. They respect me for it to this day. I've even been respected over others (as far as being given responsibility, etc.) for my Christian values. I know every employer won't respect that, but I would say most do. Good luck hon!

Answer 6

I would not imply religion on a cover letter. You never know what religion the interviewer is and may take offense

Answer 7

OOOHHH! That's a good one! I'm gonna have to remember that next time I'm doing a cover letter. I believe that's an excellent idea.

Answer 8

No, you shouldn't. I can't believe there are people here that think that's a good idea.

Answer 9

If its a christian company... i sure would