Crafting an impressive CV and cover letter

Your CV (curriculum vitae) and cover letter are your first opportunities to make a lasting impression on potential employers. The following will help you create a standout CV and a compelling cover letter tailored to each job application.

CV writing tips

 Format and structure

• Keep your CV clear, concise, and well-organised. Use a clean, professional font, such as Arial, Aptos, Helvetica, Lato or Verdena) and ensure the layout is easy to read.

• Include the following sections: contact information; personal statement; work experience; education; skills; and references.

• Aim for a CV length of no more than two pages.

Contact information

• Place your name, address, phone number, and email address at the top of the CV.

• Ensure your email address is professional (e.g., Jane.doe@example.com).

 Personal statement/profile

• Write a brief personal statement summarising your career goals, skills, and experience.

• Tailor the statement to match the specific job you're applying for.

Work experience

• List your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job.

• Include the job title, company name, location, and dates of employment.

• Use bullet points to describe your responsibilities and achievements in each role.

• Quantify your achievements where possible (e.g., "Increased sales by 20%").

Education

• List your educational qualifications in reverse chronological order.

• Include the name of the institution, the degree or qualification obtained, and the dates of attendance.

• Highlight any relevant coursework or projects.

Skills

• Include a section highlighting your key skills relevant to the job.

• Focus on both technical skills (e.g., software proficiency) and soft skills (e.g., communication, teamwork).

References

• You can choose to include references on your CV or simply state "References available upon request."

• Ensure your references are aware and willing to vouch for you.

 

Cover letter writing tips

 Format and structure

• Keep your cover letter to one page.

• Use a professional format, with your contact information at the top, followed by the date and the employer's contact information.

• Address the letter to a specific person, if possible.

Introduction

• Start with a strong opening paragraph that grabs the reader's attention.

• Mention the job you're applying for and where you found the job listing.

Body paragraphs

• Use the body of the cover letter to highlight your relevant experience, skills, and achievements.

• Explain why you're interested in the position and how your background makes you a strong fit.

• Provide specific examples to demonstrate your qualifications.

Closing paragraph

• Summarise your key points and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role.

• Mention that you have attached your CV and are available for an interview.

• Thank the reader for their time and consideration.

Signature

• End with a professional closing (e.g., "Sincerely") and your name.

• If you're sending a physical letter, include your signature.

Additional tips

• Tailor each application - Customise your CV and cover letter for each job application. Highlight the skills and experience most relevant to the specific role.

• Proofread - Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors. Consider asking a friend or mentor to review your documents for feedback.

• Keywords -  Use keywords from the job description in your CV and cover letter to increase the chances of passing through applicant tracking systems (ATS).

By following these tips, you'll create a compelling CV and cover letter that will help you stand out from the competition and make a positive impression on potential employers.