Cover Letters Ideas and Tips for a Successful Job Application Letter

Transcription

1 Ideas and Tips for a Successful Job Application Letter 2013 WHY SHOULD I WRITE A COVERING LETTER? The key objectives of a cover letter are to: Inform employers of your interest in the job Persuade the employer of your suitability for the position Demonstrate your writing and research skills Obtain an interview WHAT ARE SOME TIPS TO MAKE YOUR COVER LETTER OUTSTANDING? Do Match yourself to the job criteria listed in the advertisement/position description Focus on what you have to offer an employer Validate your claims of skills or knowledge with an example Use your cover letter as an example of your communications skills Use action verbs to describe your transferable skills e.g. developed, initiated Be positive and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the job by showing knowledge of the organisation/company Write 3 or 4 short paragraphs using one page only, unless you are responding to several selection criteria (See Selection Criteria handout) Edit your letter and have it checked by at least one other person before you post or it Don t Use negative language, eg apologise for something you should have done Sound desperate Rehash your resume; the cover letter is a separate document Highlight your lack of experience IDEAS FOR POSSIBLE OPENING PHRASES I wish to apply to the position of ( name of job ) advertised in ( paper or website ) on ( date ) Your advertisement in today s paper for a... appealed to me because... I am enthusiastic about... because... Expertise in the... field has given me a background which could make me effective in your organisation My background and education qualify me for consideration as a... in your organisation My extensive background in... has given me the expertise you require I believe I could make a worthwhile contribution to If there is a job reference number include it in your letter eg Administration Officer Job No. 789X. IDEAS FOR POSSIBLE ENDINGS / REQUESTING AN INTERVIEW I look forward to discussing the position with you personally I would be happy to supply you with further information at an interview I believe a meeting would affirm my suitability for the position I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you... I am looking forward to meeting you and learning more about your organisation and the challenges of the position you advertise Please find attached my resume and responses to the selection criteria for your consideration I will call you next week to arrange a suitable time to discuss potential opportunities with (suitable for cold contact letters) Careers and Employment, Swinburne University of Technology, 2013 For a list of all Careers & Employment handouts scan the code:

2 COVER LETTER TEMPLATE YOUR CONTACT DETAILS Name Address Phone number address it needs to be professional, not to include anything offensive, funny, or obscure DATE i.e. 25 th February, 2012 EMPLOYER CONTACT DETAILS if you do not have this information Google it! Name Address Phone number address Dear Sir/Madam or Mr/Ms Last-name (if known), Re: Application for xxxx position 1 st Paragraph Introduction/ Purpose of your letter The title and company/agency of the position you are applying for Where you saw the position being advertised and the date of advertisement Demonstrate your company research, why do you want to work for THIS company/ THIS position? you will need to Google the company, if you do not know the company s name you will need to demonstrate your passion for the industry 2 nd Paragraph Qualifications/ Hard Skills The full title of all relevant qualifications including the institution name Include specific information as to why your qualifications are relevant, i.e. marks, subjects, projects, achievements etc Demonstration how your skills/ knowledge will benefit the position/ company 3 rd / 4 th Paragraph Experience/ Transferable Skills Highlight your work history include position title, company name and responsibilities/ skills demonstrated in this role/s Mention relevant skills listed in the job advertisement = employer expectations Describe any relevant projects, internships, Industry Placements you have completed Mention anything that will enable you to demonstrate transferable skills that you will bring to the company 5 th Paragraph Close/ Conclusion Summarise/ reiterate why you feel you are the ideal candidate Draw attention to other included documentation i.e. resume and portfolio Confirm your interest by requesting an interview, be specific use the company name Provide your contact phone number First-name Surname **Please ensure that your cover letter is written in a professional business letter manner i.e. sentences are used to form paragraphs** Cover Letter Handout Careers and Employment, Swinburne University of Technology, 2013 Page 2

3 WHEN SHOULD A COVER BE USED? As networking becomes increasingly popular in the workplace, employers are requesting potential candidates to through their job application, rather than applying online through the usual jobseeking websites such as Seek and CareerOne. When contacting employers directly through , DO NOT be fooled; you still need to include your resume and cover letter along with a short cover outlining the specifics of your application. WHAT SHOULD I INCLUDE IN A COVER ? Engaging subject line include the job title you are applying for and your name Personal salutation Dear Mr / Ms Last Name, or Sir/ Madam if you do not have the contact person s name Introduction paragraph highlight the position you are applying for and why the employer should select you for an interview Middle paragraph demonstrate what you have to offer the employer. Ensure you address the employer s expectations, enabling you to highlight the connection between your abilities and their needs Conclusion mention that you have attached your resume and cover letter. Thank the employer for considering you for the position. Request an interview and provide your contact phone number DO Just because you are using an format does not mean you should abandon standard business letter writing guidelines. o Make sure to include a salutation (for example, Dear Ms. Smith ) o Use a standard closing (such as "Yours sincerely") o Leave blank lines between paragraphs Use key words that have been used by the employer Attach your resume and cover letter and any other documentation the employer requires Ensure you proof read; check spelling and grammar before you press the send button DON T Copy and paste your cover letter into an it is too long and overwhelming for an Use emotions, abbreviations and shortcuts used in everyday s and text messages Include wild colours, and other techniques/ pictures. Remember: this is a professional document Use HTML or fancy typography in your ; keep it simple Sign off Yours Sincerely or Kind Regards, and your name Remember: you are interpreting your resume, not repeating it! Careers and Employment, Swinburne University of Technology, 2013

4 COVER EXAMPLES Example One Dear Sir/ Madam, I saw your advertisement on Seek for a Graduate Marketing Research Assistant. With your recent acquisition of XYZ Corporation, I imagine that understanding the needs of your new customers and integrating these needs into your product lines are major priorities. My recent completion of a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Marketing at Swinburne University of Technology, along with my two years experience working at 123 Corporation as a Telemarketer, has given me a solid background in surveying, focus groups and an understanding of client needs and concerns. Please find attached my resume and cover letter for your review for the Graduate Marketing Research Assistant position. I look forward to meeting you at an interview to discuss my application further. I can be contacted on Yours faithfully, Jack Student Example Two Dear Mr Smith, Jane Doe recommended that I submit my application for the Graduate Journalist vacancy that XYZ Magazine currently has available. As I have previously worked with Jane in a volunteer Journalist capacity for the Baptist Monthly magazine, she is able to attest to my skills, abilities and enthusiasm for journalism. Through my journalist work experience and the recent completion of my Bachelor of Media Communications, I am confident with interviewing techniques and article writing skills. Please find attached my resume and cover letter; for examples of my work, please see my online portfolio I welcome the opportunity to discuss my skills and experience further. I can be contacted on Kind regards, Sally Graduate Example Three - Dear Ms Jacobs, Having published twelve 110-page full-colour trade magazines in the past year where I managed the complete production process and a staff of 7 professionals, I am an ideal candidate for the position of Publishing Coordinator with ABC Publishing. Publishing is a dynamic and exciting industry, and I am convinced I can help ABC Publishing grow its reputation and dominant position within the industry. I would like to meet you to discuss the position and look forward to hearing from you in the near future. I have attached my resume and cover letter for your review. I can be contacted on Amy Jobseeker Careers and Employment, Swinburne University of Technology, 2013 Page 4

5 HIGHER ED. GRADUATE EXAMPLE JAN SWINBURNE 20 Wakefield St Hawthorn jan_swin@ogtus.org 16 June 2013 Mr Joe Clark Senior Human Resources Consultant Bay and Johns 123 Collins St Melbourne Vic 3000 Dear Mr Clark, Bay & Johns Graduate Accountant - Audit Circa $40,000 (+ superannuation) Bay and Johns is a well established accounting firm with a commitment to excellence in customer service. An opportunity exists for a new member to join our auditing team. We seek applicants who are enthusiastic, capable and business oriented, with a minimum of a three year degree in accounting. The successful applicant will also need strong communication and interpersonal skills. This is a full time, on-going position. Contact Joe Clark for further information on GRADUATE ACCOUNTANT AUDIT I am writing to apply for the Graduate Accountant position with Bay and Johns, as advertised in The Age on the 11 th June Through my research of Bay and Johns, I was greatly impressed with the extensive client portfolio and reputation your firm has in the accounting industry and believe my skill set would be of great value to your team. The Auditing position sounds like an exciting opportunity to develop my professional skills working in a collaborative and supportive team environment. Having recently completed a Bachelor of Business, majoring in Accounting at Swinburne University, while also undertaking part-time employment, I will bring to the position the following skills: A thorough understanding of auditing principles and applications as indicated by my Distinction average results. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills developed during two years of part-time employment in a customer service role. Time management, attention to detail and a results oriented approach shown by achieving high standards and meeting all university and employment based deadlines. My enthusiasm and interest in all aspects of accounting are demonstrated by active involvement in the Chartered Accounting Society of Swinburne (CASS). I have taken on leadership roles with responsibility for arranging speakers for our successful professional development evenings which are held each semester. Part-time employment as a Team Leader with Officeworks has developed my skills in leadership, customer service and balancing the end-of-day accounts. I enjoy exceeding the expectations of both Officeworks and its customers. On two occasions my business-oriented approach saw me awarded Employee of the Month for achieving the store s highest sales figures. I am very interested in working with a well know accounting firm such as Bay and John and believe I have much to offer the Graduate Accountant position. I hope you find my background and experience to be of interest and I would welcome an opportunity to discuss my application further. Please consider my enclosed resume and academic transcript. I can be contacted on Jan Swinburne Careers and Employment, Swinburne University of Technology, 2013 Page 5

6 HIGHER ED. GRADUATE EXAMPLE John Sample 17 Jones Rd EARLVILLE VIC 4444 (03) , th June 2013 Sue Smart Human Resources Engineering Excellence Pty Ltd 116 Smith Road DUKEVILLE VIC 3199 Dear Ms Smart, Graduate Engineer Engineering Excellence is a multidisciplinary, cutting edge consultancy. We are seeking an enthusiastic, passionate Graduate Engineer who is looking to develop a career as part a progressive, innovative team. Applicants should possess the following: Achievement focus Innovation and initiative Excellent communication skills Experienced in working as a part of a team Demonstrated leadership potential Problem solving capabilities If this sounds like you, send your cover letter and resume to: Sue Smart Human Resources Engineering Excellence Pty Ltd 116 Smith Road DUKEVILLE VIC 3199 Application for Graduate Engineer position Please accept my application for the position of Graduate Engineer with Engineering Excellence as advertised on the Seek website on 28 th June I will be graduating in November 2013 with a Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical Engineering) from Swinburne University having achieved a Distinction average to date. Earlier this year, at the Swinburne Employment Fair, I was greatly impressed with the information provided to me by Mr. Paul White from your company. I would like to offer my technical skills and knowledge to a successful provider of engineering-based solutions like Engineering Excellence. My professional experience in engineering has been developed at AEP Corporation in the area of power plant water treatment system design. During this time, I gained experience in preparing project schedules, process planning, developing equipment lists and gained exposure to project costing. One of my initiatives was to design a more practical version of the corporation s project schedule which greatly improved communication among the project engineers. In addition to my industry experience, I have been working part-time in customer service based roles, meeting the needs of a range of people from different backgrounds. These roles, together with my position as president of the Swinburne Snow Sports Club and Assistant Manager of the Student Welfare Committee, have enabled me to enhance my communication skills and further develop my leadership qualities. I have enclosed my resume for your consideration and would appreciate the opportunity to discuss this further. I can be contacted on [Add signature] John Sample Careers and Employment, Swinburne University of Technology, 2013 Page 6

7 TAFE Example Joanne Underwood 3/82 Whitehound Road Aspen Vic 3999 Ph: August, 2013 Mr Travis Horachio Senior Human Resources Consultant Honcho s Early Learning Centre Panda Parade Upper Plenty Vic 3991 Dear Mr Horachio, Child Care Assistant Ref: Honcho s Early Learning Centre Warrandyte Area Honcho s Early Learning Centre is a quality, accredited 40 place centre. Duties will involve all aspect of children s care. Applicants should have a commitment to child care and enjoy working with children of all abilities. All applicants must have a minimum of a Certificate 3 in Children s Services, and a professional, enthusiastic and friendly manner. Experience in working with children from 0-4 years is an advantage. Please send your application to Mr Travis Horachio, Senior Human Resources Consultant, Honcho Industries, Panda Pde, Upper Plenty, 3991 or via to thorachio@helc.com.au Further information can be obtained by telephoning Applications close 30 August 2013 RE: Application for Child Care Assistant position (Ref: 30129) I am applying for the Child Care Assistant position (Ref: 30129), with Honcho s Early Learning Centre, as advertised in The Age, on 1 August I am a qualified Child Care practitioner, strongly committed to seeking the best from children of all ages. I have recently completed an Advanced Diploma of Children's Services with Swinburne University of Technology, TAFE Division. Throughout the course I have achieved excellent results in all subjects undertaken and graduated with a distinction average. The course covered office procedures, preparing reports, customer service standards, and workplace occupational health and safety issues. While studying, I worked as a nanny for a family of three children aged between 6 months and 5 years. My duties included before and after crèche and school care, preparing nutritious meals, feeding, bathing, planning fun and educational activities, overseeing aspects of discipline as well as providing encouragement while being a positive role model. I believe my experience, together with my flexible and patient nature, would ensure my success with Honcho s Early Learning Centre and the children entrusted to my care. In addition to your requirements, I hold a current Certificate II in First Aid, a Bronze Medallion in Swimming and a Victorian Driver s Licence. Please find enclosed my resume. I look forward to discussing the position and my application further. I am best contacted on Joanne Underwood Careers and Employment, Swinburne University of Technology, 2013 Page 7

8 TAFE Example Amanda Smith 22 Henderson Road Epping Vic 3071 Ph: Mob: July 2013 Mr Robert Brown General Manager Sparks Ltd Thomastown Vic 3074 Dear Mr Brown, Application for Administrative Assistant position Please accept my application for the position of Administrative Assistant with Sparks Ltd that you are currently advertising on SwinEmploy. I will be completing my Diploma of Business at Swinburne University of Technology (TAFE) next month, having achieved excellent marks to date. I am seeking a position where I can consolidate the knowledge and skills I have obtained through my course in a practical, work place environment. This course has provided me with the knowledge and skills to efficiently work in an office administration role and the assignments have strengthened my clerical and keyboard skills. I am a confident internet user and familiar with the full MS Office suite. This can be supported by my referees who will also be able to confirm my enthusiasm and ability to take initiative, when required. For the past year, I have balanced full-time study with part-time employment with the Hawthorn branch of Jellis Craig, Real Estate. My duties include reception, managing the switchboard, and general office administration. As Jellis Craig is a market leader in the area, I have been expected to maintain a high level of professional standards and confidentiality. At times, I am in charge of the office so I am very capable of dealing with high volume customer service and a wide range of client enquiries and requirements. Enclosed is my resume for your consideration. I look forward to discussing the position and my application further and can be contacted on Amanda Smith Careers and Employment, Swinburne University of Technology, 2013 Page 8

9 Recruitment Agency Example Robert Thomson 61 Church Street Fairfield Vic July 2013 Ms Grace Collins Recruit IT 123 Flinders Street Melbourne VIC 3000 Graduate Web Developer Fantastic Team Environment Hawthorn Location Are you about to graduate or recent graduate from an IT or Computer Science degree? Are you looking to establish yourself with a great team where you can learn from the best? If so, this is the role for you! My client, located in Hawthorn, is currently looking for a Graduate Web Developer to join their development team. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to learn and be mentored to be a talented developer. To be successful in this role, you will have the following skills and experience: * Bachelor Degree in IT or Computer Science. * Knowledge of the.net framework * Understanding of SQL Server * Exposure to web development * This role requires OUTSTANDING communication skills. If you are ready to embark on the beginning of your career as a.net Developer, then do not hesitate... submit your resume to Grace Collins, Recruit IT gcollins@recruitit.com.au Dear Ms Collins, I wish to apply for the position of Graduate Web Developer advertised on the Unigrad website on 4 July This is an opportunity that I have been specifically seeking and believe that my background and your client s requirements are a good match. In November of this year I will be graduating with a Bachelor of Computing, majoring in Information Systems, from Swinburne University of Technology. I offer your client the following skills and attributes: A comprehensive knowledge of the.net framework and web development as shown by the distinction average achieved in subjects such as Computer Programming, Internet Systems Development, Multimedia Software Development and Software Development. Excellent understanding of SQL Servers developed during my studies and through practical experience gained in casual employment as a Database Administrator at IT Connections. A high level of communication skills gained through several customer service roles within the retail and hospitality industries. My aim is to extend and improve my knowledge of Information Technology and to be able to contribute my own skills, ideas and enthusiasm within a team environment. I have attached my resume for your consideration and I look forward to meeting with you to discuss my application for this position or any other similar vacancies. I am best contacted on Robert Thomson Careers and Employment, Swinburne University of Technology, 2013 Page 9

10 Work Experience Example Higher Ed. Sam Seeker 1 Jobsville Parade Jobsville Vic 3124 Phone: sseeker@optusnet.com 12 June 2013 Ms Regina Harris Graduate Recruitment Manager Western Health PO Box 867 Greensdale Vic 3167 Dear Ms Harris I am currently completing my second year of a three year degree in Social Science at Swinburne University and would like to gain some practical experience within the mental health field. Western Health is of particular interest to me because of the holistic nature of the programs applied to Acute Health, Aged Care and Community Health. I am an avid supporter of this approach and would appreciate an opportunity to join your team as a volunteer. Together with knowledge gained from my studies in social science, I can also offer your company a high level of communication and interpersonal skills developed though my part-time position as a customer service representative at the legal firm McGraw & McGraw. In this position I have had the opportunity to communicate with a diverse range of people (both in person and by telephone) resolving conflicts and negotiating successful outcomes for all parties concerned. Of further interest to you may be the following qualities: Excellent writing and research skills developed through numerous laboratory reports for which high distinctions have been consistently achieved Experience in a leadership role as a captain of my netball team including the winning of two premierships A strong work ethic which each of my referees are willing to confirm My commitment to community support is best illustrated by my three year involvement as a volunteer in the Red Cross Shield Appeal. This is an experience that I found to be highly rewarding. Please find my resume attached for your consideration. Yours sincerely Sam Seeker Careers and Employment, Swinburne University of Technology, 2013 Page 10

11 Work Experience Example - TAFE Sally Seeker 1 Jobsville Parade Jobsville Vic 3124 Phone: sseeker@optusnet.com 12 June 2013 Ms Regina Harris Graduate Recruitment Manager Southern Services PO Box 680 Oldtown Vic 3167 Dear Ms Harris, RE: Request for voluntary student placement at Southern Services (200 hour placement) I am currently completing my first year of a two year Diploma of Community Welfare Work at Swinburne University of Technology (TAFE). As part of the course, we are required to undertake a 200 hour student placement with a community organisation where we can apply the knowledge that we have learnt during our studies in a practical work environment. Southern Services is of particular interest to me because of the holistic nature of the programs applied to Community Health, Aged Care and Acute Health. I am an avid supporter of this approach and would appreciate an opportunity to join your team as a volunteer. Units I am currently studying that may match with the requirements of a student placement with your organisation include Professional Practice, Communication Techniques, Community Development Strategies and Work with Clients Intensively. Together with my studies in Community Services, I can also offer your organisation a high level of communication and interpersonal skills developed though my part-time position as a customer service representative at the legal firm McGraw & McGraw. In this position I have had the opportunity to communicate with a diverse range of people (both in person and by telephone) resolving conflicts and negotiating successful outcomes for all parties concerned. In addition, I can offer the following skills and attributes: Excellent writing and research skills developed through numerous assignments and reports. Experience in a leadership role as a captain of my local Youth Group netball team including the winning of two premierships. A strong work ethic which each of my referees are willing to confirm. My commitment to community support is also illustrated by my three year involvement as a Volunteer Co-ordinator in the Red Cross Shield Appeal and my two year participation as Activities Leader with my local Youth Group. I have found these experiences to be highly rewarding and they have motivated me to undertake my professional training in the community services sector. Please find my resume attached for your consideration. I look forward to the opportunity to meet with you to discuss possible Student Placement opportunities at Southern Services. I am very flexible and my dates for placement are negotiable. Please contact the Placement Coordinator Mary Smith on or msmith@swin.edu.au for any further enquiries you may have regarding the placement. Sally Seeker Careers and Employment, Swinburne University of Technology, 2013 Page 11

12 Industry Based Learning Example Kim Mitzy 224 High St Prahran VIC 3144 (03) July 2013 Ms Chloe Smythe Recruitment Manager Australian Broadcasting Corporation GPO Box 9994 Sydney NSW 2001 Australian Broadcasting Corporation The ABC has two Industry Placement / Industry Based Learning positions for The applicants will work with our state of the art facilities and assist with web development and web authoring of our electronic publications, mainly in the creation of 3D animations. The positions are in the division of New Media & Digital Services (Ref no 7897-IP). We seek to recruit skilled, energetic, achievement oriented candidates. The ABC needs applicants who are committed to high quality performance and can accept a high level of responsibility. To be eligible you must be enrolled in an IC&T degree (or equivalent), have successfully completed at least two years of your degree, be available for one year full time work, commencing in January Before applying visit our website to understand the scope of the positions at the ABC: To apply, your resume and cover letter to Ms Chloe Smythe, Recruitment Manager at jobs@abc.net.au Dear Ms Smythe, I am writing to apply for an Industry Based Learning position with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation commencing second semester 2013, specifically the position in the New Media and Digital Services division (Ref 7897-IP). I am enthusiastic about working for the ABC as it is involved in competitive edge developments and uses advanced technology to support its programs. Currently, I am a second year Bachelor of Design (Multimedia Design) student and enjoy every aspect of the course. My interest, enthusiasm and competency are reflected in my consistently good results. The course at Swinburne University has given me a sound grounding in many aspects of computing. Most relevant to my potential work at the ABC are the subjects Design for Multimedia, 3D Animation and Special Effects. In addition, I have designed and created websites for Imagine Reality and Channel 31, using web authoring tools such as Dreamweaver, Flash and Fireworks. I have also created storyboards to set out the content and to determine the most appropriate places to use 3D modelling, digital video, and audio media throughout the sites. My project work involving web development with Blue Chip Computers best illustrates both my capacity to take on an advanced level of responsibility and my high standard of work. In addition to the attributes requested, my strengths include the ability to mix with and relate well to others, demonstrated by my role as President of the Swinburne Student Association. In support of my application I have included my resume and academic transcript. I look forward to further discussing my application further with you in an interview and can be contacted on Kim Mitzy Careers and Employment, Swinburne University of Technology, 2013 Page 12

13 Cold Call Example Sally Martin 17 Berget Road Doncaster Vic 3109 Ph: May 2013 Mr Reg Patterson HR Manager Heritage Golf Club 18 Boon Road Chelsworth VIC 3019 Dear Mr Patterson I am writing to enquire about work opportunities with Heritage Golf Club. Rachael Abbott, my friend and a current employee at Heritage, suggested you might be interested in reviewing my resume. I am actively seeking a position where I can apply my theoretical knowledge and previous work experience to a well-regarded organisation such as Heritage Golf Club. I have recently graduated from Swinburne University of Technology (TAFE) with an Advanced Diploma of Hospitality Management. The course included a series of work placements as part of the strong focus on experiential learning. The practical experience together with the theory has strengthened my skills and knowledge of food and beverage service (front of house), basic cookery operations (back of house) and business management. I am fully committed to working in this field and very keen to utilise my skills and further extend my experience. Over the last three years, I have worked in a number of restaurants and function venues, at times taking a supervisory role. I have well developed customer service skills and really enjoy helping people. During my time at Early Street Cafe, I received several customer service awards and was often asked to assist important patrons. On several occasions at Wonganui Gardens Restaurant, I was asked to step into the role of supervisor, including one period that lasted three weeks. In supporting and organising other staff members, I have developed a range of skills including rostering, inventory management and a familiarity with occupational health and safety measures. I would be very interested to meet with you to discuss any positions that may be available with Heritage Golf Club. Although I realise there may be nothing available at present, I will follow this letter with a phone call in order to discuss potential future opportunities with Heritage Golf Club. I have enclosed my resume for your consideration. I can be contacted on should you have any queries. Sally Martin Careers and Employment, Swinburne University of Technology, 2013 Page 13