FIRST IMPRESSIONS
This section is filled with tips, advice and resources to help you with the first steps of any application: your CV and Cover Letter. From providing templates to highlighting relevant information to include, this section aims ease an often daunting process.
CVs & Cover Letters
Top Tips
Your cover letter should be no longer than a single A4 page
The standard CV length is no longer than 2 A4 pages
(this can change depending on the position and organisation)
Do your research about the position, organisation and the skills required before applying
Remember to proofread twice and double checked you've saved it!
Things to include in your CV
Basic Information
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-Full name
-Professional title
- Contact details
(you likely will not have to add an addresss)
Personal profile:
A short paragraph giving prospective employers an overview of who you are and what you’re all about.
Education and qualifications:
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State the school or examining body (High School/Pearson etc.) and the qualification (Degree/A Levels/GCSEs etc.) as well as the grade
Experience and employment history:
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Outline your previous jobs, internships and work experience in reverse chronological order. Add contact details for references if possible.
Additional sections:
You can include a few sections that may strengthen your CV and highlight your skill such as, key skills, interests and hobbies.
Cover Letters
what to include:
Your most relevant skills and experiences
How your skills and experiences will benefit an employer
What makes you stand out from the crowd
Which position interests you and why
The Basics
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Cover letters should be written in the style of a formal business letter.
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While you can have a generic cover letter saved as a template, each cover letter should be tailored specifically for the company and the role you are applying for
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Keep them concise–employers will be reading many of these for one position.
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Now is not the time to be modest, you want to demonstrate why you would be great for this position and to show this by talking about relevant accomplishments and past experiences.
As a rule of thumb:
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If you know who you are addressing your letter to, then use "Dear [Name]" and signoff with "Yours sincerely"
If you do not know who you are addressing, then use "Dear Sir/Madam" and sign off with "Yours faithfully".
What should you avoid?
Lying or including misleading information in your application
Not highlighting important information that shows why you're right for the job
Not following the instructions provided with the application or using the wrong format
Making unsupported claims
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