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Creating a Cover Letter

For best results it is a great idea to have a specific cover letter created for every job application; just a generic application letter is not the answer if you are going to convince a potential employer to call you for an interview. The goal of your cover letter is to be dynamic and specific, highlighting the reasons why you are the most appropriate candidate.

Important aspects to include:

Personal Introduction

Detail the job or role that you are applying for

Describe briefly how your skills and experience align with the specific requirements of the job being offered

Encourage the reader to read your resume

Conclude your letter with a call to action. This could be in the form of asking for an interview or arranging a meeting

Keep in Mind:

Keep it short, this is a summary of your resume so the details should be precise and direct

Find out who to address the letter to. This will personalise the approach and demonstrates positive efforts

Spellcheck. Make sure all information, locations and peoples names are spelt correctly, it is a good idea to get family or friends to proofread your work before sending.

Thoroughly research the company before applying, this will show your interest in the job as well as the efforts you are willing to go to 

Resume

Your resume is a crucial element of the hiring process. It tells employers what you can do for them and helps them picture working with you. This one seemingly basic collection of personal information reminds employers of all of your skills and experience when it’s time for them to make their final decision. Think of it as a brochure selling what makes you stand out from the crowd via your unique skills, experience and attributes.

Resume Essentials

Resumes should include a summary of the following information.

Education

Skills, qualifications and certificates

Achievements

Interests

Previous work history

Show off your Talents

Creating a great skills section can help recruiters skim your document quickly to see if you have the qualifications that they seek. Read the job description. Which desired capabilities does the employer need most? List your qualities and skills which are more important to the organization at the top of your list. By prioritizing the content of your resume, with the most important information and relevant experiences listed first an employer is able to quickly and efficiently pick out why you would be the ideal candidate for the job.

Resume Format

Adding your information to a template will not only save you time but will create a professional and stylish product. It is important to research templates before deciding on the final product and it can be beneficial to use a variety of templates for different companies. Once you have decided on the appropriate template for the job, customise it to highlight your skills and abilities.

Interview Tools 

The interview is your time to shine - don’t blow it by freaking out. Put your best foot forward and you will improve your chances of success. Knowing your communication style and the style of the interviewer will help you communicate your message effectively so make sure you research the company beforehand.

Job interviews are a competitive process. How you present yourself as a candidate will ultimately determine whether you stand apart from the other applicants as being the best fit for the job and the company. Your best shot is to understand the process and what the interviewer is looking for. You can’t be too prepared for an interview.

Here are some basic steps you need to take to prepare effectively for an interview:
They are:

Research the company and the interviewer

Match your strengths to the company profile

Prepare questions to ask

Prepare answers to difficult questions

Practice aloud

Arrive with time to spare

Prepare something clean and neat to wear

Follow Up Essentials 

Keep the momentum going to increase your chance of success and remember all contact is a possible lead to your next career step.

A follow up thank you letter after any communication or meeting with a potential employer is essential to position you as an ideal candidate. Most people don’t bother doing this. This will show the interviewer that you are willing to put in extra effort and have appreciation for the time they have taken to see you.