How to write a successful Cover Letter and CV

Advice Job Hunting Candidate

Cover Letters and CVs are key summary documents in the application stage of a recruitment process, which present yourself to prospective employers.

Many feel the pressure of writing these documents correctly to prove they can do the job, and by marketing their skills, qualifications, achievements, etc that they often rush the formatting and presentation of these documents which can be just as important.

The ultimate goal of submitting a cover letter and CV when applying for a job is to convince the recruiter to invite you along to an interview where you get the opportunity to sell yourself and discuss why you are the best person for the job.

While the details that you put in your Cover Letter and CV are fundamental, the presentation and format of your application can also make a significant impact. This could lead to the difference between you or someone else being selected. Chances are, recruiters are sifting through many applications at one time, so creating documents that are succinct, reader-friendly, and clear, allows the recruiter to quickly determine your suitability for the job.

Fine-tuning your application from both a content and formatting perspective is key to setting yourself apart. Here are some of our tips to enhance your Cover Letter and CV documents, to captivate the recruiter’s attention so your application lands in that ‘yes’ pile!

Cover Letter Writing Tips:

A cover letter gives an employer an insight into who you are; so, explaining what skills you could bring to the job, why you are interested in their business and the role you are applying for is key. Tailor your cover letter, so it relates specifically to each job you are applying for.

What to include - Introduction, description of yourself, your motivation for applying for the role, why you should be selected, what skills, experience, and qualifications you bring to the role.

One-Page Rule - Recruiters don’t want to read pages and pages of waffle for a cover letter. We recommend keeping it succinct and to one page.

Writing Style - Recruiters are looking for applications that stand out. Try to write the letter in a way that gets your messages across. Make it interesting to read (be enthusiastic but not pushy) but short and to the point. Keep it concise. Use positive words and phrases such as "I have," or "I can" (but don’t start every sentence or paragraph with “I”). And finally, be confident.

Be specific - Many people use templates for their cover letters which is a great start but remember to change the ‘insert here’ words! Refer to the company, the position, and where you saw the position advertised. Make it read like you have only written the letter to that one employer and not sent it off generically all-around town!

Font Choice - Choose a font that is easy and simple to read (it is advised not to use the curly and swirly ones), professionalism goes a long way!

Check and check again - Check when the closing date is and submit your application in time. Whoever reads your cover letter will consider it an example of your writing skills, so it is important to make sure there are no grammatical errors and that your spelling is perfect.

CV Writing Tips:

7-second rule - A Recruiter starts reading a CV from the top to the bottom and makes up their mind within 7 seconds if your application is going into the yes or no pile (make the most of those 7 seconds)! Outline your contact details in a small font, so that you can then use the rest of the space/time to bullet point your top achievements – SELL YOURSELF.

Specific Experience & Skills - Make sure you highlight the key skills and experience that you have to offer. Tailor your CV for each job and remember skills/experience can be transferrable to different industries.

Qualifications & Training - Don’t forget to include your qualifications (education/schooling if relevant) certificates, courses you have completed, etc (this is all that recruiters want to know).

Include Interests & Hobbies - Recruiters like to know what you enjoy doing in your spare time.

Formatting - Present your CV so it is clear and easy to understand. Lots of colour, pictures, and
fancy designs are often not encouraged. Bullet points and key phrases keep the word count down and make your CV easier to read quickly. Do a thorough spelling check before sending off your CV and have someone else read it to double check before submitting. When emailing your documents, make sure they are in PDF format, so they are compatible to open for everyone.

We recommend following these tips to transform your application and hopefully land your next career move.