Job Seeking Tips

More information, tips and advice:

How to write a cover letter
Your cover letter should introduce you and your CV, but remember a good cover letter should contain basic points but not give too much away, enough to make the recruiter interested in reading your CV but not providing them with an exact copy of the information. It should encourage the reader to want to know more about you and make them interested in inviting you for an interview. Here are some tips on how to write your cover letter:
  • Find out the exact name and address of the person your CV needs to go to.
  • If the position has a reference number, make sure you quote it along with the job title on your letter.
  • Explain where you heard about the position (i.e., The Evening News on Thursday 22nd March).
  • Give a brief description of your current role drawing attention to any skills you feel are applicable to the role you are applying for.
  • State that you would like to meet with them to discuss your application in more detail.
  • Make sure you have included all of your contact details on your letter.
    • Cover letter do's and don'ts
  • Do make sure your letter is correctly addressed.
  • Do use the same paper for your cover letter and CV.
  • Do ensure there are no typing, spelling or grammatical errors.
  • Do sell yourself! Highlight your strengths and any previous achievements.
  • Do double-check your cover letter and CV before you send it – it needs to be perfect!
  • Don’t copy your letter out of a book or ask someone else to write it for you, use your own words and make it personalised.
  • Don’t copy your CV, a cover letter should only introduce your CV encourage the reader to know more about you.
  • Don’t include information that isn’t relevant, keep it to the point.
  • Don’t include conflicts or disagreements with previous employers.
  • Don’t appear unenthusiastic – sell yourself.
    • How to write a CV
    Your CV, alongside your cover letter, is an introduction to yourself, your skills and the qualities you can bring to the role you are applying for. It should always be presented in a clear, easy to read format. It should be a brief overview of your education and employment history. Sometimes providing too much information can be as damaging as providing too little. Try not to make your CV longer than 2 pages. Here are some helpful tips on how to write your CV:
  • Display your CV in a logical order.
  • Always be honest as information is easily checked.
  • Include information about relevant training courses and certificates gained.
  • State your current employment first and work backwards.
  • Only provide relevant information and keep it to the point.
    • CV do's and dont's
    Do make sure your CV is well presented in an easy to follow format.
    Do ensure your CV is grammatically correct with no spelling or typing errors.
    Do be honest.
    Do highlight your skills and achievements.
    Do put your contact details on your CV as well as your cover letter.

    Don't make your CV too long, as it will discourage the reader. Too much information can sometimes be as bad as too little.
    Don't omit vital information such as your contact details.
    Don't provide false information, you will probably be caught out.
    Don't send your CV out without double checking it first.
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