1. You cover letter should… compliment, not duplicate your CV

Your covering letter is not just a wordier version of your CV. While your CV is there to provide information on your educational background, skills and work experience, a cover letter is a concise document that makes it clear why you are the best person for that specific job.

2. You cover letter should… match your skills & experience to the job description.

Every cover letter you write should be unique to the job you are applying for. Make it clear why the skills and experience you have that makes you the best candidate for this particular job. It should mention all the ‘essential skills’ listed in the job description

3. You cover letter should… catch their attention in the opening paragraph

Make sure you have a strong opening paragraph that clearly and concisely summarises what job you are applying for and why you are the best person for the job. Try to open with a recent accomplishment that is noteworthy, or an impressive skill that makes you unique.

4. You cover letter should… be customised

With covering letters there is no one-size-fits-all. Yes, it may take you a couple of hours to tailor each covering letter to each job, but it’s a task worth doing.   Your covering letter must match your experience and skills to that particular job.

5. You cover letter should… tell them how you could help their company

Don’t just tell an employer how great the job would be for you. “It would be a great opportunity for me to learn more skills and further my career” Tell them how you think you would directly benefit their company by bringing your skills, experience and a passion to what they do.

6. You cover letter should… be one page in length

Employers don’t have time to read a five-page document on how great you are.   Divide your one-page covering letter into clear paragraphs, with an intro, body and closing paragraph.

7. You cover letter should… speak their language

Using language that suits the industry you are applying for job in can help to persuade them that you are suited to that job.   For example if the job you are applying for requires you to use specific equipment, or to be comfortable with particular software programs, then list them.

8. You cover letter should… highlight any training or professional qualifications you hold

Undergoing training or gaining professional qualifications demonstrates to employers that you are prepared to invest time in developing yourself and your career.   Make sure you highlight any recent training achievements clearly in your covering letter.

9. You cover letter should… encourage employers to want to read your resume

   

After an employer has finished reading your cover letter they should want to look over your CV for more information on your skills and full employment history.   Always remember to invite an employer to read your resume in the closing paragraph of your covering letter.

10. You cover letter should… outline why you want to work for them

   

If you have spent time to research the company then let them know by calling out something that impressed you. For example: “I’d love to work for a company which such a great portfolio of clients and found the work you did on the City of Sydney campaign inspirational. I particularly enjoyed… ”.    

You only have one chance to make a good first impression. Follow these tips to make your covering letter stand out from the crowd.

Drive your career forward by gaining

new skills and qualifications.

Speak to the team at Capital Training Institute today. Our courses and qualifications are available across Australia.

http://www.ctiaustralia.edu.au/