Covering letters
A covering letter provides the opportunity to summarise your skills and experience, and communicate any key points that do not fit within the format of your resume.
It should explain why your skills and experience are relevant, what sets you apart from other applicants and why you are interested in both the role and the company.
What to say
Because of its less rigid format, cover letters give you more room to match your skills and experience to the role on offer. That’s why it’s so important to get it right – it connects you to the role! The letter must present a positive first impression: the best covering letters are brief and to the point. They capture an employer’s interest and give an impression of competence and professionalism.
Remember to say it well
Many people believe the covering letter is less important that the resume. You should never assume this. Some employers judge applicants on the covering letter because it is all their own work and will reveal more of the personality than a resume.
Take the time to read through your completed cover letter before submitting your application. Ask a friend to proofread it for you and another friend to assess its content. Get it right!
Online applications
Many organisations now ask you to complete an online application. Treat them with the same level of professionalism and attention to detail you put into your resume. These forms also provide the opportunity to include a general introduction to your application. If there is no other opportunity to do so, treat this section like a covering letter.
Formatting
Remember – this is a letter, not artwork. Keep your cover letter simple and easy to read, using the same font and style you used in your resume. Use plain fonts such as Arial, Times New Roman, Verdana or Tahoma and keep font sizes between 10 and 12 point. Use plenty of white space and avoid borders or graphics. Photographs are not commonly included in cover letters and resumes in Australia and New Zealand.
Covering letter tips
Things to include
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Where possible, address the person named in the advertisement
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Include the job title, job reference number (if there is one) and where and when you saw the advertisement
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Stick to the point. Explain why your skills and experience are relevant, what sets you apart from other applicants and why you are interested in the role and the company
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Avoid repetition
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Tailor your cover letter to the role
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Maintain a professional and business-like tone
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Keep it short and to the point – no more than three to four paragraphs
Things to avoid
Covering letter sample
Download a sample covering letter and use it to tailor a covering letter for your next job application.