A well-crafted short cover letter is just as vital as a carefully constructed CV when it comes to securing your dream role. It should not be a simple description of how excited you are and that you are hardworking, reliable etc.

In this blog, we will explore the tips in creating a cover letter that distinctly communicates your professional history and career aspirations. Understanding the pivotal role of a cover letter and its interplay with a finely written CV is key. From grasping the purpose of a cover letter to mastering the art of storytelling, we will discuss the core elements that set your cover letter apart.

Prepare your content
Review and research the job requirements, and then relate them to your professional experience. Take detailed note of your notable accomplishments, skills that align with the job description, educational qualifications, and any awards or recognitions you have received. In addition, make a conscious effort to highlight the complexity, size and scale of achievements to date. By doing so, you can skillfully highlight how well you fit into the company and articulate the reasons behind your suitability for the role.

Using your own voice in writing – Although formal a cover letter should be in your own voice, be natural be creative and give employers an example of how you communicate on a daily basis.

Add your work eligibility if you have immigrated from another country
We have seen many applications which do not highlight eligibility to work in Australia when it clearly shows you have relocated. You may have residency or citizenship but have not highlighted this. Place your name, address, phone number and email address in your cover letter heading. Include links to your portfolio and/or LinkedIN profile so that we can contact you.

Powerful introduction
Begin your cover letter with a strong statement, expressing your genuine excitement about the job and communicating the value you can offer. The initial lines of a cover letter function as a brief and impactful introduction, straight to the point. You need to explicitly convey your skill set and why choose you, express your enthusiasm for the position be persuasive by backing it up with skills.

Be concise
Time is short recruiters and employers do not have a lot of time as a result you need to be concise, use words related to the industry and the job. Key words are important.

The main part of a cover letter should provide a short but comprehensive view of your professional history and offer a glimpse into your character. This is your opportunity to demonstrate and support your statements in your CV talk about capabilities and what sets you apart.

Proofread
You must proofread at least once before sending this out. Ensure that there aren’t any typos or grammar mistakes. Proofreading allows you to refine your content further. I must say it is surprising the amount of cover letters and CV’s I have read with spelling mistakes; your spelling and grammar checks before sending it out.

Arcadia Recruitment are specialist in Architecture, Design, and Planning in Brisbane if you would like help with finding your new role, please feel free to get in touch for a confidential discussion.

Caroline Sanders – Director of Arcadia Recruitment