How to write a great CV & cover letter that will help you get that interview

1. Grasp the purpose

Understanding the distinct roles of your CV and cover letter is foundational. Your CV serves as a detailed record of your professional and academic journey. It’s where you present a comprehensive view of your qualifications, skills, and experiences. The cover letter, on the other hand, is your opportunity to explain why you’re the best candidate for the job. It should enhance your CV by underscoring your most relevant achievements and your motivation for applying.

2. Tailor your CV & cover letter to the job

Customisation is key. A one-size-fits-all approach won’t make you stand out. Begin by thoroughly reading the job description and researching the company. This will give you insights into what the employer is looking for. Tailor your CV to emphasise the experiences and skills that align with the job requirements.

• For your CV: Highlight experiences, skills, and achievements that match the job description. Incorporate keywords from the job posting to ensure your CV passes through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
• For your cover letter: Mention specific elements of the job and company that appeal to you. Explain how your background and skills make you an ideal candidate. This personalised touch shows that you’ve invested effort into your application.

3. Keep it concise & structured

With hiring managers often reviewing hundreds of applications, clarity and brevity are vital.

• CV Structure: Use a clear format with sections like Contact Information, Professional Summary, Work Experience, Education, Skills, and Certifications. Bullet points help make your CV easy to skim. Keep it to 1-2 pages.
• Cover Letter Structure: Limit your cover letter to one page. Start with an introduction stating the position you’re applying for and how you found out about it. Follow with 2-3 paragraphs detailing your most relevant experiences and skills. Conclude with a strong closing paragraph that reaffirms your enthusiasm for the role and includes a call to action, like expressing your interest in an interview.

4. Showcase achievements, not just duties

Employers want to see what you’ve accomplished, not just what your responsibilities were. When describing your work experience in your CV, focus on achievements that had a measurable impact.

For instance, instead of saying "Managed a team," say "Led a team of 10 to achieve a 20% increase in sales over six months." This quantification highlights the value you can bring to the company. Similarly, in your cover letter, showcase a specific achievement that aligns with the job’s requirements and discuss how it can benefit the prospective employer.

5. Proofread & edit

Errors can tarnish an otherwise strong application. Carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for spelling, grammar, and formatting mistakes. Consider asking a trusted friend or mentor to review them as well—they might catch errors you’ve missed.

6. Maintain a professional tone & language

Throughout your CV and cover letter, maintain a professional tone. Avoid slang, overly casual language, and complex jargon that might not resonate with all readers. Your language should be clear, direct, and focused on your professional qualifications.

Conclusion

Your CV and cover letter are essential tools in your job search. By tailoring them to the job, keeping them concise and well-structured, showcasing your achievements, and maintaining a professional tone, you’ll significantly enhance your chances of making a strong impression and securing that interview. The goal is to make it effortless for the employer to see why you’re the best fit for the role

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