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Practical Skills to Find Work
Cover letters
Sometimes employers state specifically that a cover is/is not required. In these instances you should follow their instruction. When an employer has not specified if a cover letter is required it is a good idea to submit one.
Cover letters should always accompany an application that is speculative (i.e. where no job has been advertised but you are submitting on ongoing expression of interest in work that may be currently available or for future employment opportunities).
E-mailed applications should also include a cover letter. It can be incorporated into the body of your e-mail message or be included as an attachment.
Keep in mind the following when writing your cover letter:
| How to Give a Positive Message |
Things that can harm your letter |
- Address the specifics of the job advertisement
- Tailor the letter for each position and organisation you apply to
- Perfect grammar and spelling – definitely no excuses
- Keep it to 1 page only (that means A4 not A3)
- Use a formal business letter layout including appropriate forms of address
- State clearly how your skills, qualifications and experience are relevant to the role
- Emphasize your interest in the job and organisation
- Express your enthusiasm to learn in the job role
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- “One size fits all” letters rarely impress employers
- Obvious cut and paste in the organisation of information
- Lacking clarity in what makes you suitable for the job role
- Poor spelling and grammar
- Jargon or abbreviations that no-one else understands
- SMS language
- Writing in a chatty style eg addressing the employer by first name as you would a personal friend, signing off the letter with terms such as “cheers”
- Repeating information that is in your resume
- Attaching information that has not been requested eg photo
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