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v1.1 AJS Cover Letter Workshop LG Day 3
v1.1 AJS Cover Letter Workshop LG Day 3
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?
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.
3 | PY Learner Guide | 20180320 v1.1 AJS: Cover Letter Writing © Performance Education 2017
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:
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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.
5 | PY Learner Guide | 20180320 v1.1 AJS: Cover Letter Writing © Performance Education 2017
Structuring a Cover Letter
There are a variety of ways to structure
a cover letter.
1. Introduction
2. Body
3. Conclusion
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.
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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
7 | PY Learner Guide | 20180320 v1.1 AJS: Cover Letter Writing © Performance Education 2017
Address Line 1
Address Line 2
City (or Suburb) STATE Post Code
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
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Activity 3.4: Cover Letter Analysis
Review the Holly Jones’ cover letter below and match the functions (A-M) to the
relevant section.
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.
Show how any previous work experiences and transferable skills support
the key criteria
Show how your degree and qualifications can further support the role.
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
9 | PY Learner Guide | 20180320 v1.1 AJS: Cover Letter Writing © Performance Education 2017
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
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
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
11 | PY Learner Guide | 20180320 v1.1 AJS: Cover Letter Writing © Performance Education 2017
Cover Letter Example 2
Review Dan Smith’s cover letter below and match the functions (A-H) to the relevant
section.
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
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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.
Yours sincerely H
Mr Dan Smith
Tel: 0479 235 699
dan.smith1@gmail.com A
13 | PY Learner Guide | 20180320 v1.1 AJS: Cover Letter Writing © Performance Education 2017
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).
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
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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.
15 | PY Learner Guide | 20180320 v1.1 AJS: Cover Letter Writing © Performance Education 2017
Activity 3.5: Describing Characteristics
Practise using descriptive language by matching the adjective in the boxes with the
descriptions of people listed below:
3. Mai always does what she says she will do. She is
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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
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.
17 | PY Learner Guide | 20180320 v1.1 AJS: Cover Letter Writing © Performance Education 2017
Sample Advert
Accounts Assistant | Strata | Lower North Shore | $44K
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
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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.
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7 Success Street
Northcote VIC 3070
10 20 November 2017
Dear Tanya
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
19 | PY Learner Guide | 20180320 v1.1 AJS: Cover Letter Writing © Performance Education 2017
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.
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.
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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.
Useful language examples:
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.
Practise writing below - Proofread what you write and share it with a partner.
21 | PY Learner Guide | 20180320 v1.1 AJS: Cover Letter Writing © Performance Education 2017
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…
Practise writing below - Proofread what you write and share it with a partner.
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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.
Useful language examples:
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.
Practise writing below - Proofread what you write and share it with a partner.
23 | PY Learner Guide | 20180320 v1.1 AJS: Cover Letter Writing © Performance Education 2017
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.
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
3 Include the reference number and/or the position being applied for? ☐ Yes ☐ No
Highlight my main skills and experience and address the key criteria
6 ☐ Yes ☐ No
in the job ad?
Make sure the language clear, concise and accurate? Is it free of any
10 grammatical errors? ☐ Yes ☐ No
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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,
My Future www.myfuture.edu.au
Ambition www.ambition.com.au
http://www.universitylanguage.com/resumes/writing-resume-cover-letter/
http://www.startheregoplaces.com/why-accounting/cpa-skills/
http://www.uni.edu/careerservices/students/rcl/docs/actionverbs.pdf
25 | PY Learner Guide | 20180320 v1.1 AJS: Cover Letter Writing © Performance Education 2017