Preparing your cover letter and resume

Cover letter

A good cover letter is brief (usually 1-2 pages), well-structured and specific to the job you are applying for.

Your cover letter should have the following:

1. Professional introduction

• Address appropriately: Direct your letter to the contact person mentioned in the job advertisement. If no name is provided, address it to the "Hiring manager." Address the person formally, such as "Dear Ms. Smith."
• State the position: Clearly mention the job title you're applying for and the organisation or business unit the role belongs to.

2. Personal summary

• Express interest: In 1-2 sentences, explain why you're interested in the role.

3. How does your experience match the job requirements

• Analyse the job description: Identify key selection criteria and responsibilities.
• Demonstrate suitability: Provide specific examples from your work history that showcase your relevant skills and experience.

4. Polite conclusion

• Reaffirm relevance: Sum up by restating your suitability for the position due to your skills, experience and how the values or goals of the organisation are aligned with yours.
• Express gratitude: Thank the employer for considering your application and express eagerness to discuss the opportunity further.

5. Contact Information

• Provide details: Include your full name, phone number, and email address to facilitate easy communication.

Resume

Your resume is a summary of your qualifications, experience, skills and qualities. It should be up-to-date, clear, concise (up to 5 pages), well organised and tailored to the role you are applying for.

Your resume should have the following:

1. Contact information

• Visibility: Place your name, phone number, and email at the top of the document.

2. Professional summary or career objective

• Contextualise your application: If you're changing careers or returning to the workforce after a break, include a brief statement (1-2 sentences) explaining your objective.

3. Education

• Details to include: List your highest level of education, including the qualification obtained, institution name, and completion date. Highlight any notable achievements, such as leadership roles or academic awards.

4. Relevant experience

• Comprehensive overview: Include both paid and unpaid work experiences. For each role, mention your position, the organisation's name, employment dates, and key responsibilities or accomplishments.

5. Skills

• Highlight relevant abilities: List skills pertinent to the job, such as language proficiencies, technical competencies, leadership experiences, problem-solving abilities, and special skills from extracurricular activities, such as sports, volunteering or charity work.

6. Qualifications and certificates

• Additional Credentials: Mention any relevant courses or certifications, such as a driver's license for roles requiring driving or a first aid certificate for health-related positions.

7. Extracurricular Activities

• Showcase broader involvement: If you have limited professional experience, include volunteer work, community service, or participation in sports. This demonstrates transferable skills and a well-rounded character.