v1.1 AJS Cover Letter Workshop LG Day 3

Professional Year Program
Applying Job Search Skills
Cover Letter Workshop
This module addresses the following elements:

 Identify personal characteristics and skills as they relate to job searches
 Understand the job search process
 Target job opportunities
 Interpret job advertisements
 Explain the key steps in the job application process
1 | PY Learner Guide | 20180320 v1.1 AJS: Cover Letter Writing © Performance Education 2017
Activity 3.1: Cover Letters - Introduction
1. In pairs, discuss the following –
2. What’s the difference between a curriculum
vitae and a resume?
3. What’s the difference between a cover letter
and a resume?
4. Have you ever written a cover letter in English?
5. What did you write in your cover letter?
Activity 3.2: Cover Letter Descriptions

Complete the description of cover letters using the words in the box.
tailored resume generic differentiate

simple complement position interview
cover letter persuade criteria example
employer address grammatical
What is a cover letter?

A (1) ______________ gives information about the educational qualifications and
professional experience you have, whereas a (2) ______________ explains why you
want the job. A cover letter should (3) _______________, not duplicate your resume.
The main purpose of a personalised cover letter is to (4) _______________ the employer
to read your resume and consider you for the vacant (5) _______________
Every cover letter should be slightly different. You should not have a (6)
_______________ cover letter but a (7) ______________ cover letter which shows that
you’ve taken the time to read the job advertisement and taken the time to think about
how you match the key
(8) _______________ required for the role. It is also the time to let yourself shine and to
(9) ______________ yourself from other candidates.
Remember though, there's no sense in just telling someone that you're a hard
worker or a team player, it must be supported with an undeniable (10) _______________
as well. However, it is important that you are capable of discussing ANY of the
statements you make in your cover letter or resume.
2
A cover letter is often your earliest written contact with the potential (11)
_______________, creating a critical first impression. Show your confidence but do not
sound desperate for the job. You should highlight your value to the company,
enthusiasm for the role and availability to be interviewed. It is important to (12)
_______________ it to the right person and state the role being applied for. Whenever
possible, go to the effort to find out the person’s name instead of writing Dear
Sir/Madam.
A well written cover letter demonstrates your communication skills and will help you
get that all important (13) ____________. It should be brief, clear and use (14) _-
______________ sentence structures. Use action verbs and avoid the continuous use of
“I”. Most importantly, it should be absolutely free of (15) _______________ errors. Make
sure you proofread your cover letter and get others to proof read it that are very
proficient in English.
Activity 3.3: Reasons why Writing a Cover letter

Improves your Resume
Read the article following which gives reasons to the importance of cover letters.
Underline and summarise key points for future reference.
Four Reasons why Writing a Cover Letter Improves Your
Resume
Writing a cover letter helps your resume land in the right hands. Writing a cover
letter with your resume can convince potential employers that you’re the right person
for the job.
But do you really have to write a cover letter when your resume already explains
your past accomplishments?
Yes!
Resumes are typically organised in a strict format. Writing a cover letter, however,
allows you more flexibility to express your aptitude for a specific job as well as a bit
of your personality. Written correctly, a cover letter will:
1. Match your Resume to the Job

The primary purpose of writing a cover letter is to interpret the main points on your
resume. When writing a cover letter, state what you can bring to the workplace, and
how each of the skills on your resume has prepared you for the particular job.
Writing a resume cover letter also demonstrates your knowledge of the company,
which alone can impress many employers. Mention a few aspects of the company in
your cover letter and why they attract you to the position, or describe an area the
company is developing and how you can help.
This means that each cover letter you write should be slightly different – the most
effective cover letters make an impact not only because of your qualifications, but
because your descriptions are tailored to the needs of the position.
2. Show off your Writing Skills

Writing a cover letter gives employers a better sense of your communication abilities
than the lists and bullet points on your resume. Employers in every field look for
applicants who communicate well. After all, business hinges on the clear exchange
of ideas. Writing a resume cover letter not only reveals how well you can get a point
across, but also demonstrates your basic knowledge of vocabulary and grammar.
The writing skills you display in your cover letter can matter just as much as a job on
your resume – so make sure to check your letter for spelling mistakes before
sending it!
4
3. Explain your Hidden Strengths
Including a cover letter with your resume can be a huge benefit for students
and recent college graduates with little work experience. Writing a cover letter offers
you the opportunity to highlight all of your skills – even those not listed on your
resume. When your job experience is limited, like if you’re looking for your first job
after college, your resume alone might not tell employers why they should consider
you. Writing a cover letter is your chance to say what your resume can’t. You can
explain your lack of experience, but also note why you will overcome it if hired. If you
have qualities that you haven’t yet proven in a work environment, you can give
examples of these talents by writing a cover letter. It’s an important way to direct
your employer’s attention to abilities that they might overlook in your resume.
4. Express your Creativity

When resumes all have the same typical format, from fellowship resumes to entry-
level resumes, they can seem routine – so show off your personality by writing a
cover letter.
Professionalism is important in your interactions with a possible employer, but you
can use many forms in writing cover letter and express more of your voice than a
resume can.
Check out the tone of the job listing to assess how conversational or formal your
cover letter can be.
Whereas resumes list the facts of your career history, cover letters can include your
opinions and interests. If you aren’t sure your hobbies or extracurricular activities are
right for your resume, but know they relate to your job duties, you can include this
personal touch when writing your cover letter.
Stay positive and explain why you’re the only person for the job. Writing a confident
cover letter will help gain the employer’s confidence too.
Record a list of the most important key points for future reference
Structuring a Cover Letter
There are a variety of ways to structure
a cover letter.
You need to decide which structure will

best communicate your strengths and
value to the potential employer. We
recommend using the block letter
format.
Like all business letters, it should follow

the guideline of having an
1. Introduction
2. Body
3. Conclusion
When designing a cover letter,

remember the employer could be
receiving hundreds of applications for
any one job.
Following the culling process, you have a window of opportunity of no longer than 30
seconds to convince them to take your application to the next step.
Take the time to create the best possible first impression!
6
Tips for Writing a Cover Letter
• Find out exactly what the job will entail and tailor your cover letter
accordingly.
1
• Less is more. There is no need to write more than one single page
for a cover letter. Successful people are busy, and brevity is
2 appreciated.
• Do some research first. Before you write your letter, why not call or
visit the place where you wish to be employed? A bit of background
3 knowledge will help your letter.
• Get the little things right. Make sure that names are spelled correctly
- in fact, make sure ALL words are correct. Check the grammar and
punctuation. Don't use words that sound impressive if you're unsure
4 of their meaning.
• Don't exaggerate ... too much. It's OK to put a positive spin on your
experience and credentials but be honest!
5
Standard Cover Letter Structure

The below structure can be used as a guide:
You may need to include additional information or paragraphs. Depending on the job
advertisement, the nature of the role and the emphasis the employer places on the
criteria, you may need to change the order of the paragraphs.
Choose a structure which best matches your strengths to meet the criteria.
The tone may also change to match the tone used in the job advertisement. Some
ads are more conservative than others. The tone in the advert could be an indication
of the company culture.
Address Line 1
Address Line 2
City (or Suburb) STATE Post Code
Day Month Year (Date)
Contact Person's Name

Contact Person's Position
Company Name
Address Line 1
Address Line 2
City (or Suburb) STATE Postal Code
Dear Ms Jones (Avoid Dear Sir/Madam and never Ms First Name)
Re: Application for position of...
First paragraph – Introduction: Identify the job applied for, where the job was advertised
and on which date. Opening the cover letter with a statement that grabs their attention and
compels them to read more about you is a good idea. However, it must be related to the
position and the reason you are writing.
Second Paragraph – Interest in the position: State why you are interested in this
particular position at this particular company and what makes you stand out from the crowd.
Also, make sure you highlight how you will meet their needs, not exclusively your own.
Demonstrate you have researched the company.
Third Paragraph – Hard skills: Provide details of your qualifications, skills or experience.
Make sure you particularly focus on skills that are relevant to the selection criteria or the job
description. These skills may have been gained through your education/course, your work
experience and your extra-curricular activities.
Fourth paragraph – Soft Skills and Qualities: List personal qualities or characteristics
which may benefit the employer. Once again, direct your main focus towards any soft skills
listed in the job description. Support them with concrete examples. Include any added
points of interest which may relate to the position.
Fifth paragraph – Closing: Thank them for considering your application; tell them that you
have attached a copy of your resume, and that you would appreciate the opportunity to
attend an interview.
Yours sincerely
Your name/signature
T: 0000 000 000
Email address
8
Activity 3.4: Cover Letter Analysis
Review the Holly Jones’ cover letter below and match the functions (A-M) to the
relevant section.
Give your contact information and address. A
Acknowledge your skills gap and how you are overcoming it.
Reinforce your suitability for the job at the end of the cover letter.
Address your letter to correct person. Use their name whenever possible.
Demonstrate that you meet the criteria.
Show how any previous work experiences and transferable skills support
the key criteria
Include any further education/certificates you have received which could

complement the role.
Show how your degree and qualifications can further support the role.
Show that you have researched the company.
End “Yours sincerely” if salutation uses the person’s name or “Yours

faithfully” if not. Type your name underneath indicating Ms or Mr if gender
is not obvious
Include any special awards or recognition.
Say who you are and identify when and where you saw the job
advertisement
Your sign off should be friendly, polite and suggest the opportunity for an
interview
7 Success Street
A Northcote VIC 3070
23 November 2017
Ms Michelle Camfield
Office Manager
Ross Buchanan Pty Ltd
308a Bay Road
Cheltenham VIC 3192
B
Dear Ms Camfield
RE: Graduate Tax Accountant

C
I am writing in response to your advertisement for the position of Graduate Tax

Accountant at Ross Buchanan as advertised on seek.com on Monday, October 22nd,
2014. I am a recent Bachelor of Commerce graduate with a major in Accounting,
seeking the opportunity to implement my knowledge and skills.
D
After researching your website I was impressed by the commitment and value you
place on meeting your customers’ needs. I endeavor to be part of a team which
displays such high standards. I also have experience in all of the necessary areas
encompassed by this role through both work and study.
E
The completion of my Degree at Melbourne University and a three-month internship

at The Western Hotel has advanced my ability to use a broad range of accounting
functions. These include accounts payable, accounts receivable, bank account
reconciliations, statutory account preparation and tax compliance, including BAS,
GST, payroll tax and budgets. I am also a proficient user of MYOB, Quickbooks and
Microsoft Office. Currently I am independently studying the functions of Handiledger
& MYOB and would welcome the opportunity to further advance my ability to use
these software programs.
G
10
I note with interest that Ross Buchanan places a great emphasis on excellent
communication skills and customer service. I am currently working at Hungry Jacks
to support myself through my studies and internship. I believe this has been a great
opportunity to enhance my skills in these areas as I communicate frequently with
managers, colleagues and customers. Feedback has always been positive and last
month I was awarded employee of the month. I have also recently completed my
Professional Year at Performance Education, which refined my overall business and
communication skills. I would implement these skills while liaising with colleagues
and customers within your company.
J I
K H
You will find me to be a positive, motivated and hard-working person who is keen to
learn and contribute. Given the opportunity, I would apply myself with enthusiasm to
all tasks, ensuring that I get the job done accurately and efficiently.
L
My resume is attached, and I would be pleased to have the opportunity to discuss
the position with you further at an interview.
Yours sincerely
M
Ms Holly Jones
T: 0455 111 222 A
hollyjones123@gmail.com
Cover Letter Example 2
Review Dan Smith’s cover letter below and match the functions (A-H) to the relevant
section.
Give your contact information A
Suggest actions to lead to an interview
Show how your past experiences support the job requirements
Show how your hard skills meet the criteria
Express your enthusiasm for the role
Demonstrate that you have researched the company
Show how your soft skills meet the criteria
Identify the job being applied for
8 Hunter Street
Sydney NSW 2000
23 October 2017
Dear Sir/Madam
B
Re: Junior IT Support Analyst
It is with pleasure that I forward you my application for the position of Junior IT
Support Analyst as advertised on seek.com on 23 October 2014. This role is an
exciting opportunity that matches my particular skills, values and career goals
D C
F
I have a keen interest to contribute to the success of Sumiomo Mitsui Banking
Corporation. Being the second largest Japanese-owned bank in Australia with a
strong international presence proves that this is a company with vision and strategy.
I have been highly involved in the area of IT since completing my Masters in 2011
and recently I finished a three-month internship at Braidwood Technologies. I am
12
confident and enthusiastic to now be part of a bigger team and step up to greater
challenges.
E
During my internship I worked both on site and off site, maintaining systems and
delivering technical support to our clients. My areas of expertise are programming,
analysis and testing and database administration skills. I have also had experience
using IT manuals and registers as required by the role at SMBC. I am familiar with
the practices of ITIL and its ability to align IT services with the needs of business. I
am always eager to learn and I keep myself up to date with IT trends. As you will
see from my enclosed resume, I have also completed numerous professional
development programs to ensure that I remain at the cutting edge in my field.
G
At SMBC, my manager quickly noted my ability to liaise with clients and fulfill the
technical requirements of the role. In this role, it was essential that excellent
communication skills were demonstrated as we had a lot of face to face contact with
our clients. Towards the end of my internship I often independently attended the
needs of clients, both onsite and offsite, to fulfill a busy schedule. The feedback
from the manager and the clients was always very positive.
I would appreciate the opportunity to meet to discuss my skills, capabilities and

professional experience in greater detail.
Yours sincerely H
Mr Dan Smith
Tel: 0479 235 699
dan.smith1@gmail.com A
Applying for Public Service Positions: Addressing
Selection Criteria
Some job applications, especially for government positions through the Australian
Public Service, professional appointments and larger businesses, require you to
address key selection criteria. This is often a replacement for a cover letter, or may
be in addition to the cover letter (the instructions on how to apply will explain).
Key selection A list of personal qualities, skills, knowledge and work

criteria experience you need to have to get the job. It is used by the
employer to shortlist applicants for the interview process.
To be considered for an interview, you need to show that you meet the essential
criteria. If you need to write 'statements of claims against the selection criteria', then
you must be aware this is likely to be the most important document in your
application. It is used to assess you against other applicants, with scores often given
for each criterion. Usually, these scores are then totaled, and those with the highest
scores are granted an interview. Key selection criteria responses need to be
accompanied by a cover letter and your resume.
Some common examples of selection criteria include:
 Demonstrated capacity to communicate effectively
 Good organisational and administrative skills
 Proven ability to work as part of a team
 Well-developed customer service skills
 Proven ability to manage projects
 Ability to contribute ideas and demonstrate initiative and flexibility
Selection criteria can often be divided into:

 Essential criteria ('must have' criteria)
 Desirable criteria ('nice to have' criteria)
14
It is essential to respond to each criterion. A ‘number of words’
guide is usually given for each application. When addressing
selection criteria you need to choose specific situations that
demonstrate your ability to meet the conditions of the particular
role.
The STAR model (covered in the subject ‘Australian Business
Environment’) can help you form your answer.
Example of addressing 1 selection criteria
Demonstrate experience in problem solving

My sound research and analytical skills I use on a daily basis to examine and
interpret information from a broad range of sources. To identify and solve
problems I research the issue, seek information from a variety of sources and,
once this information is collated, identify solutions. This can be demonstrated in
my ability to develop reports required for reviewing operational effectiveness,
for example reporting and analysing utilisation rates for trainer capacity.
Activity 3.5: Describing Characteristics
Practise using descriptive language by matching the adjective in the boxes with the
descriptions of people listed below:
punctual ambitious impulsive persuasive
reliable patient honest flexible
decisive sociable industrious optimistic
careful organised reserved imaginative
1. Rafal is always on time He is
2. Lydia is good at making decisions. She is
3. Mai always does what she says she will do. She is
4. Charles doesn’t mind waiting. Charles is
5. Camila finds it easy to talk to other people. She is
6. Paul never tells lies. He is
7. John has everything in order. John is
8. Sarah looks on the bright side of life. She is
9. If someone is sick, Jack will come into work Jack is

to help, even if it is his scheduled day off.
10. Susan is hard-working, energetic and diligent. Susan is Source

Adapted from Cambridge English for Job Hunting – Extra Activities, Colm Downes, Cambridge University Press 2008
16
Activity 3.6: Spot the Error! (Table Groups)
Part 1: Review the Cover Letters provided. Highlight as many mistakes and/or
weaknesses as possible. How many errors did you spot? How would you fix the
errors?
Typical errors could include -
Inappropriate email
Spelling errors Grammatical errors
address
Apologised for skills they More than one email Not using the recipient’s
don’t have. address name
Not tailoring the cover

Formatting errors Inconsistent use of fonts
letter
Did not end letter using Using flowery language

Exaggerated level of skills “Yours sincerely” or rather than clear, simple
“Yours faithfully” language
Others? (fill in)
Part 2: Select a cover letter, and then in pairs, re-write it correcting all errors and
improving the content. Swap your corrected cover letter with another team and
review. Discuss further improvements. Use the sample cover letter below as an
example of an excellent cover letter.
To Apply or not Apply: Am I at Least a 70% Match?

To ensure your cover letter serves its purpose to entice the reader to review your
resume it’s important to ensure you address at least 70% of the advertised criteria.
This technique is also helpful in drafting the cover letter itself and working out exactly
what information to include and leave out.
See the example below:
Sample Advert
Accounts Assistant | Strata | Lower North Shore | $44K
 Convenient location on the Lower North Shore

 Progressive, reputable company with a positive working environment
 Excellent training and development on offer
Our client is a progressive strata company with an excellent reputation for
delivering exceptional service to their clients. There is a fantastic new opening
for one lucky candidate to be part of this close knit working environment.
1 2
As Accounts Assistant you will be responsible for all accounts payable and
assisting the Trust Accountant. Your specific responsibilities will include:
 Entering invoices 3
 Managing the online filing system
 Dealing with levy enquiries
 Attending to payment enquiries 4
 Receipting
 Banking
 Assisting with end of month accounts 5
 Filing of monthly reports 6
 Ad hoc duties as required by the Trust Accountant 7
This is an amazing entry level role into strata and accounts with a fantastic
company. Not only will you be offered excellent training and development but
8
you will also be part of a great company 9 for this position is
culture. All you need
a minimum of 1-2 years’ experience in accounts or a tertiary qualification in a
similar area. Along with this you will need strong communication skills and high
attention to detail. 10 12 11
To apply please forward your CV to tania@unknownrecruiters.com.au or for
more information call Tania on 09 9988 7766. Apply now
To be eligible to apply for this position you must have an appropriate Australian
or New Zealand work visa.
18
7 Success Street
Northcote VIC 3070
10 20 November 2017
Dear Tanya
RE: Accounts Assistant

1
Please find attached my application for the entry level role of Accounts Assistant which was
advertised in mycareer.com.au on 18th November 2012.
9
I have completed my Master of Professional Accounting at the University of New England and I
am about to complete the Professional Year in Performance English at the end of this month. I
am very enthusiastic in pursuing my career and I believe I have the necessary qualities you
require.
8
Although lacking practical experience in accounts, I have the necessary tertiary qualifications
which will enable me to be responsible for all accounts payable, including attending to payment 2
4 enquiries, and other job duties as outlined in this position. I have learnt accounting
fundamentals including entering invoices, assisting with end of month accounts, and filing of 3
9 monthly reports and I am willing to perform any assigned duties. 5
7
9
Throughout my tertiary studies, I have had to develop strong communication skills and pay
12
11 careful attention to detail. These skills are necessary for an accounting student, as a small
difference in the figures may cause a significant discrepancy in final reports. I believe I have the
flexibility and enthusiasm for further training and development to enable me to expand my
current knowledge and become an asset to your company. I am ready to work hard and to take
on any responsibilities and additional duties assigned to me.
I hope you will consider my application favourably, and would appreciate the opportunity to
attend an interview.
Yours sincerely,
Ms Holly Jones
T: 0455 111 222
hollyjones123@gmail.com
Activity 3.7 Cover Letter Writing Workshop
Instructions
1. Each student should have a printed copy
of a suitable job advertisement.
2. Highlight the key criteria to ensure you
have at least a 70% match.
Let’s Begin Writing!
After you have put your details, the date, the company details and addressed the
correct person in the salutation, it’s time to start writing your cover letter.
First Paragraph – Introduction

Identify the job being applied for, where the job was advertised and on which date.
Opening the cover letter with a statement that grabs their attention and compels
them to read more about you is a good idea. However, it must be related to the
position and the reason you are writing.
Useful language examples:
 I am interested in applying for the position of a/an/no article (position name) as
advertised on (website and date)…
 I am a recent graduate with a (state your highest qualification) from (university
details, name starts with capital letters) and I would like to apply…
 I am writing in response to your advertisement for the position of (job title starts
with capital letters) …
 I would like to apply for the position of (job title starts with capital letters) …
 Please accept this letter of application for the XXX position currently advertised
on your website.
Practise writing below - Proofread what you write and share it with a partner.
20
Second Paragraph – Interest in the Position:
State why you are interested in this particular position at this particular company and
what makes you stand out from the crowd. Also, make sure you highlight how you
will meet their needs, not exclusively your own. Demonstrate you have researched
the company.
 With a background in … and with …. years’ experience, I am well-qualified for
the/this position.
 Accompanying a strong academic background, I can also offer an array of skills
such as ….
 I firmly believe my qualifications, experience and professional background
would enable me to make a significant contribution to your organisation.
 After researching your company I was impressed by ………
 This role caught my attention because……….
 I am particularly skilled in the areas of ….. , which will assist ……..
 Given my experience in ….. and ……, I believe I am an ideal candidate for this
position.
Third Paragraph – Hard Skills:

Provide details of your qualifications, skills or experience. Make sure you
particularly focus on skills that are relevant to the selection criteria or the job
description. These skills may have been gained through your education/course,
your work experience and your extra-curricular activities.

 Working in ………………. for over ……. years has developed my skills to
……………...
 While working on an academic project at university, I developed my ability to
…………………...
 I feel I have significantly strengthened my knowledge and understanding of….
by….
 My past experience of ….has brought me a greater understanding of…
 At present, I am responsible for…
 As part of my degree I completed/participated in …
 Working in… (has) helped me appreciate the importance of…
Fourth Paragraph – Soft Skills:

List personal qualities or characteristics which may benefit the employer. Once
again, direct your main focus towards any soft/people skills listed in the job
description. Support them with concrete examples where possible. Include any
added points of interest which may relate to the position.
 I am confident that the combination of my qualifications, experience and
personal skills makes me an ideal candidate for this position.
 I believe, that my ability to…………………combined with my …………… would
enable me to ……………………….
 During my previous employment at…. I developed the skill/s to …
 I am also an avid reader of (industry magazine in italics), which I believe helps
me keep up-to-date with many of the current IT trends.
22
Fifth Paragraph – Closing:
Thank them for considering your application; tell them that you have attached a copy
of your resume, and when you would be available for an interview.
 As you can see from my resume, I am ……, …… and …. , and therefore well-
suited to this position.
 Please find attached a copy of my resume, which outlines my experience in
more detail.
 I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my suitability for the position with
you in greater detail at an interview.
 Thank you in advance for your consideration.
Assessment Task: (AJS: WCL) – Writing a Cover
Letter - eGrad
Instructions:
1. Complete the cover letter that you drafted in class.
2. Save according to the naming convention specified.
3. Upload to OWL per instructions.
Cover Letter Checklist – Assessing your Cover

Letter
The final draft of your cover letter should be a very well written document and 100%
error free.
As you write your cover letter, ensure that you use the cover letter checklist below.
Do I … Outcome
1 Have a professional letter format which is consistent? ☐ Yes ☐ No
2 Addresses and date correctly placed and formatted? ☐ Yes ☐ No
3 Include the reference number and/or the position being applied for? ☐ Yes ☐ No
Have an appropriate greeting and ending E.g. “Dear Ms Jones” not

4 ☐ Yes ☐ No
“Dear Ms Emma”, ending “Yours sincerely” <first name> <surname>
Include appropriate opening information - Where the ad was seen,

5 ☐ Yes ☐ No
research about the company and reasons for applying?
Highlight my main skills and experience and address the key criteria
6 ☐ Yes ☐ No
in the job ad?
Make sure the ending reiterates my enthusiasm/suitability for the

7 ☐ Yes ☐ No
position and suggest an opportunity for an interview?
8 Ensure the register is formal? ☐ Yes ☐ No
Follow the appropriate cover letter structure as outlined in the learner
9 ☐ Yes ☐ No
guide on p. 40 - 42
Make sure the language clear, concise and accurate? Is it free of any
10 grammatical errors? ☐ Yes ☐ No
Make sure there are no spelling or punctuation mistakes (including

11 capital letters) ☐ Yes ☐ No
24
References
Cole, K (2005) Management: Theory and Practice, 3rd ed, Pearson Education
Australia, Frenchs Forest
Dwyer, Judith (2003) The Business Communication Handbook, 6th edition, Pearson
Education Australia,
Cambridge English for Job-Hunting, Colm Downes, Cambridge University Press

2008
My Future www.myfuture.edu.au
Finance Mark www.financemark.com.au
Career Potential Australia http://careerpotentialaustralia.com.au
Ambition www.ambition.com.au
http://www.universitylanguage.com/resumes/writing-resume-cover-letter/
http://www.startheregoplaces.com/why-accounting/cpa-skills/
Life after death by PowerPoint, Don Macmillan

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MjcO2ExtHso
http://www.uni.edu/careerservices/students/rcl/docs/actionverbs.pdf
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Professional Year Program

Applying Job Search Skills

Cover Letter Workshop

This module addresses the following elements:

Activity 3.2: Cover Letter Descriptions

tailored resume generic differentiate

What is a cover letter?

Activity 3.3: Reasons why Writing a Cover letter

1. Match your Resume to the Job

2. Show off your Writing Skills

4. Express your Creativity

You need to decide which structure will

Like all business letters, it should follow

When designing a cover letter,

Take the time to create the best possible first impression!

Standard Cover Letter Structure

Day Month Year (Date)

Contact Person's Name

Dear Ms Jones (Avoid Dear Sir/Madam and never Ms First Name)

Re: Application for position of...

Give your contact information and address. A

Demonstrate that you meet the criteria.

Include any further education/certificates you have received which could

Show that you have researched the company.

End “Yours sincerely” if salutation uses the person’s name or “Yours

Include any special awards or recognition.

RE: Graduate Tax Accountant

I am writing in response to your advertisement for the position of Graduate Tax

The completion of my Degree at Melbourne University and a three-month internship

Give your contact information A

Suggest actions to lead to an interview

Show how your past experiences support the job requirements

Show how your hard skills meet the criteria

Express your enthusiasm for the role

Demonstrate that you have researched the company

Show how your soft skills meet the criteria

Identify the job being applied for

I would appreciate the opportunity to meet to discuss my skills, capabilities and

Key selection A list of personal qualities, skills, knowledge and work

Selection criteria can often be divided into:

Example of addressing 1 selection criteria

Demonstrate experience in problem solving

punctual ambitious impulsive persuasive

reliable patient honest flexible

decisive sociable industrious optimistic

careful organised reserved imaginative

1. Rafal is always on time He is

2. Lydia is good at making decisions. She is

4. Charles doesn’t mind waiting. Charles is

5. Camila finds it easy to talk to other people. She is

6. Paul never tells lies. He is

7. John has everything in order. John is

8. Sarah looks on the bright side of life. She is

9. If someone is sick, Jack will come into work Jack is

10. Susan is hard-working, energetic and diligent. Susan is Source

Not tailoring the cover

Did not end letter using Using flowery language

Others? (fill in)

To Apply or not Apply: Am I at Least a 70% Match?

 Convenient location on the Lower North Shore

RE: Accounts Assistant

Let’s Begin Writing!

First Paragraph – Introduction