Brilliant. Notice that he doesn't dwell on his "qualifications" or his accolades, the letter is basically:
1. I know as you do that there are many who claim to be able to bring you new stuff, but as we both know, they are almost all just rebranding the same old stuff we already have
2. I can do the following important things for you:
a.
b.
c.
...
3. If you are skeptical of my seemingly optimistic claims, I'd be happy to come and show you test versions which I'm sure will convince you of their worth.
I wonder what a modern tech version of this letter would look like?
My thoughts precisely. It's a good model for any job applicant aiming for any non-mindless job. The thing to keep in mind is: don't just make a list of your skills unless it's obvious how they relate to the job you want. It's always best if you show you've put some thought into what your target company really needs and where it's pain points are.
As an employee you're still an entrepreneur in a sense, selling your services, and your prospective employer is your potential client.
A researcher applying for a research job doesn't list their skills (well, maybe as a minor point), they list projects, publications, along with experience. The CV often looks more like a portfolio.
Reminds me of How to Win Friends and Influence People, wherein they give the advice to focus on others' interests primarily because people care about their own interests most. As an example, the author quotes a letter to a potential employer that has a very similar format (I know you have this need, and this is why I can fill that need).
1. I know as you do that there are many who claim to be able to bring you new stuff, but as we both know, they are almost all just rebranding the same old stuff we already have
2. I can do the following important things for you:
a.
b.
c.
...
3. If you are skeptical of my seemingly optimistic claims, I'd be happy to come and show you test versions which I'm sure will convince you of their worth.
I wonder what a modern tech version of this letter would look like?