Tips For Improving Your Cover Letter & Resume

Tips for writing an effective cover letter

Most available career vacancies require you to write a “Cover Letter” when you apply.

A cover letter is a document sent with your resume to highlight the relevant skills, experience, achievements and qualities you possess to explain why you are the best person for the job!

The most effective cover letters:-

• Are no more than one page long;
• Have the correct spelling;
• Clearly state the position you are applying for;
• Address how you have the essential criteria listed in the job advertisement;
• Promote any additional qualities or skills that you may possess; and
• Should compliment not duplicate your resume.

Cover letters can be daunting at first, you can follow these 3 simple steps as a guide.

1. 1. Introduction

   Here is your chance to demonstrate why you have applied for this particular position. You must include the title of the position (together with a reference number if applicable) and where you viewed the job advertisement. It is essential to express your enthusiasm and to state why you are interested in the position.

2. 2. Body

   Take this opportunity to highlight what attributes you have that would make you the ideal candidate for this position. It is a good idea to include things like:-

   • your achievements including sporting and academic;
   • qualifications you have already attained such as an OHS greencard, School Certificate etc
   • community involvement
   • Employment or work experience etc.

   It is a good idea to link how these attributes relate to the available job. I.e. “I have captained my local football team for the past 3 years, which showcases my team work and leadership qualities.”

3. 3. Conclusion

   In the final paragraph, reiterate your enthusiasm and passion for the position. At this stage, you can invite CCGT to contact you for an interview. I.e. “Should you wish to discuss my application in more detail, you can call me on my mobile ...”

Writing an effective Resume

A resume is a document that is used to summarise your personal details, achievements, employment history and references. CCGT will ultimately use your resume to decide whether you will be selected to attend an interview for the job vacancy.

Resumes create CCGT’s “first impression” of your application so make it count!

1. 1 Be truthful on your resume

   If you have lied on your resume, chances are we will find out! It is best to be honest and factual when writing your resume. You don’t need any qualifications or experience to commence an apprenticeship or traineeship, so don’t lie and risk losing an interview!

2. 2 Keep your resume to a maximum of two pages

   Be clear and concise when writing your resume. You want to make sure that your major achievements stand out on your resume. If your resume is too long, there is a chance CCGT may not notice your most important points. Bullet point lists are great.

3. 3 Make sure your contact details are correct and up to date

   Be sure to include all of your contact details including your mobile number, home number, email address and street or postal address. If CCGT decides to invite you in for an interview, we want to speak with you straight away! Don’t miss out!

4. 4 THINK about your skills and achievements

   Do you feel you have no achievements to list on your resume? Sometimes it can be hard to recall your proudest moments, we recommend talking to your friends and family to see what they perceive to be your milestones. They don’t just have to be academic accolades, they can relate to any aspect of your life. Here are some ideas to inspire you:-

   • OHS greencards
   • First Aid Certificates and other licences
   • Sporting commitments and achievements
   • HSC or School Certificate
   • Participation in fundraising events
   • Surf Life Saving Commitments
   • Community Involvement
   • TVET or TAFE courses
   • Pre-apprenticeship or pre-vocational courses
   • Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite or other computer programs

5. 5 Provide your employment history

   Be sure to include your employment history. CCGT recommend including the name of the Company where you were employed, the title of your position and the dates outlining when you were employed there. Remember, your employment history is not necessarily limited to paid employment; you can also include work experience/placement and volunteer work.

6. 6 List Referees and their contact phone numbers

   A Referee is someone who will be able to comment on your character, work ethic or skills. Upon receipt of your application, CCGT may contact your referees as listed on your resume. It is best practice to provide at least two referees on your resume and this can include past and current Employers, Managers, School Teachers, Sports Coaches etc. We recommend that you contact your referees to ask their permission if they mind providing you with a verbal reference first.