Writing a CV and Cover Letter

 

This week we learnt about how to successfully write a CV and cover letter.

I found this lecture to be very useful as I have never written a cover letter before, and haven’t written a CV since I was 16 and applying for my first job.

 

CV

A CV is a concise, formal document summarising who you are and what you can offer a workplace.

 

What to Include

  1. Contact details
  2. Short bio
  3. Awards
  4. Skills
  5. Work experience
  6. Education
  7. References

 

Keep it short

  • Only include relevant information
  • If it is more than one page long, add a number ref.

Spell check

Ensure there is good spelling and grammar

Work backwards

  • Most recent education and achievements come first
  • Can summarise GCSEs as grades

Avoid obnoxious competency indicators

Say that you are proficient at certain skills and leave it at that. Don’t include percentages or designed stats for how good you are at a particular thing.

Use a limited colour palette

Simple colours are best

White space

White space makes a CV easier to scan so space things out well.

Typography

Good use of typography can make you stand out to employers. However, you must ensure that it is still readable.

Keep it as its own document

Best saved as a PDF file

Include a link to your portfolio

Make sure the link works first!

Tailor it for the job where possible

Adapt bio slightly, or lead with certain skills that suit the specific workplace

Be honest

Be clear about what you can and cannot do – employers will figure out if you’re lying if they give you the job and you can’t do the things you said you can.

References

Ask permission to use someone as your referee. This can be an employer or a client.

 

Cover Letter

A cover letter is an introduction for the receiver of the application.

It provides a chance to explain what attracted you to their company, and an opportunity to summarise what you’re good at.

Use the same typeface and styling as you do for the CV.

 

Tips for a Successful Cover Letter

Find out more

Find out who to address it to. Call or e-mail the company and ask the name of the recruiter.

 

Tone of voice

  • Be respectful and natural
  • Have someone else read it to get a second opinion
  • Use active voice
  • Can check on Hemmingway Editor.

 

Be enthusiastic

  • Show them that you’re passionate and excited about your craft, as well as the idea of working with them
  • Explain why you’re a good fit for the team, and how you found out about them.

 

Not just an application

A cover letter can make a good impression, and can be a good thing to send even if they’re not currently employing.

 

Make sure all your information matches LinkedIn and vice versa

Be consistent across all mediums and platforms

 

Make an impact

  • Consider posting a physical CV and cover letter to the employer. It could be more noticeable than just another email.
  • Postal tubes you’ve designed could be a cool idea
  • Be creative! It will make you stand out