Job Seeker Resources
Your Application
1. The covering letter is the first page of your application and basically states what position you are applying for. Make the letter reader friendly, both in format and the language you use. Be sure it is free of spelling and grammar errors and keep it short. A few paragraphs is ideal and the following paragraph points are a guide to this:
- What position it is you are applying for
- Very briefly summarise where you are now and what you are doing
- Refer to your qualifications in a statement of why you believe you are suitable for the position, with specific regard to the job requirements
- Close by saying you look forward to meeting them at an interview and thanking them for their time
Each time you apply for a position make sure the covering letter is specific for the position you are applying for. Take the time to address the requirements of the position and this will dramatically increase your chances for gaining an interview.
2. Your resume is your chance to start the process of selling yourself as the best applicant for a position.
- Target it for the type of job you are applying for.
- Include a career objective written with the job in mind.
- Include a list of competencies as simply listing past experience does not mean the reader will understand all of your competencies.
- Always include at least two relevant work referees who can be contacted – preferably at work.
- Use information available to you from the selection criteria or job advertisement for the job you are applying for to target your resume.
- Use a clear and concise format and be sure it is free from spelling and grammatical errors.
- Be honest and sell yourself in an assertive way.
- Include your full name and contact details but do not include date of birth or personal information such as marital status.
- Include dates of employment and list the most recent employment first
- Include details of relevant educational achievements
3. The Selection Criteria allows prospective employers to compare each application on level ground.
- Address all selection criteria individually
- Use examples drawn from your work history to illustrate ‘demonstrated’ skills and experience.
- Make sure your responses are clear and easy to read and free from grammatical errors
- Use language and keywords you have drawn from reading the job description supplied
- Tie your experiences in with the requirements of the position
- Be honest – you may well have to explain further at an interview
Remember that it is your application upon which you will initially be judged and from it you hope to gain an interview. Put the time and effort into getting it right.
