Job Search Toolkit

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CONTENTS

HOW TO WRITE: RESUMES ...................................................................................................................... 2

HOW TO WRITE: COVER LETTERS .......................................................................................................... 6
HOW TO ADDRESS: SELECTION CRITERIA ............................................................................................. 9
SUCCESSFUL INTERVIEWS .................................................................................................................... 12
HOW TO USE: LINKEDIN .......................................................................................................................... 14
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS AND OTHER USEFUL LINKS ............................................................ 15

Additional Resources, details on Job Search Workshops / Presentations and Student / Graduate
opportunities in industry can be found on myMurdochCareer.

www.murdoch.edu.au/myMurdochCareer
HOW TO WRITE: RESUMES
Your resume is a marketing tool selling YOU! It should:

- be concise, truthful and tailored to the position / industry you are interested in (i.e. includes
keywords included in the job advert or language used in your chosen industry)
- set you apart from other students / graduates with similar qualifications by highlighting your skills
achievements and experiences (both paid and unpaid) and
- project a friendly but professional tone leaving the reader wanting to move you to the next stage
of the recruitment process.

The following is recommended to be included in your resume:

NAME and CONTACT DETAILS: No heading required, just your preferred first name and
surname (enlarged), followed by address (optional), mobile number, email address. You can
also add a link to your LinkedIn profile here if you have one. Remember to keep it tight!

PROFILE STATEMENT or PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY: This is your chance to promote what

you offer, not what you are looking for (it is not a career objective). Heading is optional. It should
be two to three sentences long or use dot points highlighting:
- your degree status
- any relevant strength / skill areas
- a key experience (if you have one)
- motivation / how you could add value in your industry of interest.

SKILLS: List 3-5 specific skills required for the position / industry. Include both discipline specific
and transferrable employability skills such as communication and team skills. Provide a brief
example to evidence each skill. The job advert can help you to generate a relevant skills list or you
can search LinkedIn profiles to see what skills have been listed by others in your chosen industry.

EDUCATION AND ADDITIONAL TRAINING: List most recent first. Include all majors / minors and
don’t abbreviate. Only include High School if completed less than 5 years ago, beyond that
consider leaving off unless it is related to the position you are applying for. Include any
achievements (e.g. awards/student competition prizes / study abroad experiences, industry
projects) and if you have done well, your GPA or name 2- 3 units you were strong in (include
grades). Also include other courses and training you have completed, including the institution or
training provider.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE: Again list most recent first and Include both paid and unpaid
experience here e.g. internships, placements, related volunteer work. For specific positions / job
roles include a brief list of key responsibilities (max. 5 dot points) any achievements for each.

OTHER EXPERIENCE: In a similar format to your relevant skills, this section lists details of
unrelated on-the-job experiences such as ‘Team Member’ at a supermarket. This experience is
important to mention as it demonstrates transferable employability skills, but keep it brief! If you
have more than 10 years unrelated (other) experience, consider combining, summarizing or
leaving off.
PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS / MEMBERSHIPS: List any professional or student associations
/ societies you are a member of (e.g. Murdoch Business Society). (See “Professional Associations
and other useful links” and the Guild). Committee / Student Representative roles are also
important to include here.

REFEREES: Make sure you ask permission from your chosen (2 – 3) referee contacts and keep
them up to date only when you get short listed for an interview. List their full name, job title,
organisation name, phone number and email. Remember, you can include an Academic who
knows you if don’t have many employment / volunteer work referees. NOTE: If there is no position
advertised and you are just getting your resume out to potential employers then state “Referees
are available upon request” in this section.

RESUME CHECKLIST:

Dos
• Use keywords found in the job advert (e.g. relevant skills and/or language of the
employer), but do it naturally, so that it makes sense.
• Keep it short (1-2 pages for inexperienced students and up to 3 pages if you have a
lengthy previous work history). Tip: Narrowing the margins can help reduce pages.
• Use a standard, freely available font throughout and go for 10 – 12 point in size.
• Keep format simple and consistent, making sure dot points and indents line up.
• Use short statements or bullet points (avoid lengthy sentences / paragraphs).
• Seek permission from your referees to include them and keep them up to date if you
get shortlisted for an interview.
• Include clearances / checks / residency status if they are a requirement.
• Read your resume aloud to yourself and ask someone you trust to read it for
feedback.

Don’ts
• Don’t include borders, tables, boxes, pictures and graphics in case Applicant
Tracking System (ATS) software is used to “pre-filter” your resume (keep it simple).
These features can accidently filter out your resume before it is viewed by
employers.
• Make sure there are NO spelling or grammatical errors.
• Don’t include photo, date of birth, marital status, religion, health, children, or
student temporary visa details.
Sample Resume: DO NOT COPY. To be used for ideas to create / up-date your own

CHARLIE LAURENT
24 Barker Avenue I MURDOCH WA 6150 I M: 0407 225 991 I E: Charlie.1234@murdoch.edu.au I LinkedIn
(hyperlinked)

A disciplined final year Business student, keen to build on my studies in Finance and International Business, where I
have developed a sound understanding of financial markets, costs and tax implications for Australian investors. With
a strong academic record (Distinction average) and strength in leading team projects, I am an effective
communicator who can bring groups together, allocates tasks and engage a team to deliver results. I am most
interested in developing further within an investment portfolio team within the banking and international banking
sector.

Education:

Completing 20?? Murdoch University

Bachelor of Business (double major: Finance and International Business)

Notable Achievements
- Achieved Distinction level average (Statement of results attached)
- Performed well on the Bloomberg Aptitude Test (BAT) (results attached).

20?? South Metropolitan TAFE

Certificate IV Business

Skills

Communication Skills
• High level of communication skills both oral and written demonstrated through presentation of reports;
university projects and liaison with industry professionals within the domestic and overseas business
community through my professional association memberships.
• Four presentations delivered at local community events highlighting the strengths and pitfalls of a variety of
share portfolios resulted in very positive feedback from attending members.
• Indonesian (conversational); French (fluent in speech and written).

Analytical Skills
• Managed small personal portfolio (debentures, shares, and short-term investments): 8.9% growth over three
years.
• Developed sound understanding of financial markets, costs and tax implications for Australian investors
through final year project. Achieved a High Distinction result.

Computer skills
• Proficient user of MS Suite - used throughout Tertiary studies for assignments and group project work.
• Familiar with project management and financial analysis software used in multi-national professional
services.
• Confident with online communication/collaboration through Zoom

(Add 1- 2 more skills relevant to the job vacancy advertised / employer and include an example/s).
Relevant Experience

Jan-Dec 20?? National Australia Bank

Analyst, Global Funding (Internship position)

• Effective customer liaison providing information on products and marketing benefits to the point of
decision making.
• Accurately provided information to the development of fortnightly management reports.
• Supported and researched financial data regarding clients borrowing habits. Provided a final written
report and analysis to supervisor.

Other Experience
2010 – present IGA Supermarket – Winthrop
Shop Assistant (part-time)

Professional Memberships

20?? (Student Member) Financial Services Institute of Australasia (Finsia) – Student Member
20?? – 20 ?? Member, Murdoch Student Business Society (MBS) – Committee Member

Referees

Mr William Hannon Ms Kelly Worth

Manager Manager
National Bank Australia IGA
Ph: 08 9371 2431 Ph: 08 6212 4321
Email. W.Hannon@NAB.com.au Email: K.Worth@IGA.com.au
HOW TO WRITE: COVER LETTERS
A cover letter is usually the first thing an employer / recruiter will read. It is the formal introduction
to your application and needs to have impact. Expressing yourself enthusiastically, highlighting
what you know about the organisation and detailing how you would add value are key in making a
good first impression.

Start by researching the organisation and industry in which it operates and thoroughly read
through the job advert (if there is one). This includes any selection criteria / key requirements
and/or the job description. You then need to find out what the employer is looking for in the ideal
candidate and customise or tailor your cover letter, showcasing your capabilities to meet the
employer’s needs. Your cover letter should:

• express your motivation and excitement at the prospect of working for the organisation and/or
industry

• communicate that you have done your research and know the organisation – it’s core
business, new initiatives / projects and the values they consider important in employees, then
relate back to you to suggest you would fit in well with the team and

• highlight relevant experiences and explain how you have developed key skills, attributes and
knowledge.

Make sure you know who to address your application to. If the job advert doesn’t mention who the
application should be sent to, do your best to find out – try to get a name and the position of the
person you are communicating with. This may require some investigation or a phone call.

Avoid repeating too much information that is already detailed in your resume as your cover letter is
really your introduction to you as an individual highlighting the key points you want to
communicate about yourself with a clear orientation to the requirements of the advertised position.

Use sub-headings or dot points if there are a number of selection criteria / key requirements to
address in the cover letter (this is sometimes the case – follow all instructions carefully). See
“How to Address Selection Criteria” for further details.

COVER LETTER CHECKLIST

• Read all job application instructions carefully and follow them! (If a contact person is
included in the job advert, phone them up and ask more about the role and what they
are specifically looking for in the ideal candidate).
• Use professional business format (left justified) and make sure date is accurate.
• No spelling or grammatical errors.
• Keep the letter to one page in length or to the length specified in the job advert (it
can be longer when the Selection Criteria / Work Related Requirements need to be
addressed within the letter).
• Use a standard font type / a size that is easy to read.
• Do your research and find a person’s name and job title to write to (if you can) and
clearly identify the position you are applying for.
• Sign the letter “Yours Sincerely” or “Warm Regards” followed by your name.
• Clearly identify the position you are applying for.
• Be creative with the opening of each paragraph so that you are not always beginning
with “I”.
• Investigate the organisation – focus on their services, values and new initiatives /
projects. Research where they are within their industry and how you match the
employer’s needs.
• Be sure to address the skills and experience outlined in the job advert but don’t
make any unsupported or false statements about yourself.
• Take the time to tailor or customise your cover letter to the position for which you
are applying for. A standard template will often be overlooked and is NOT
recommended.
• Be creative with the opening of each paragraph, avoid repetition e.g. Don’t’ start with
“I” multiple times.
GENERAL COVER LETTER FORMAT

Full name of person letter is addressed to

NOTE: You may need to do some research to get a contact name
Job title
Organisation
Postal Address

Date (in full)

Dear Mr/Ms/Mrs/Dr/Prof.

Re: Position title and quote reference number if there is one (in bold)

Paragraph 1: Why are you writing? How did you find out about the position? If an unsolicited
letter (no job advert), what kind of position you are seeking and why?

Paragraph 2: Why are you interested in working for the organisation? Why that one in
particular? Research the organisation - its values / areas of specialisation etc. and describe how
the work they do aligns with your career goals / aspirations.

E.g. Organisation X values: Being open and authentic, Having a hunger for growth and
development, Embracing Differences – relate these back to you.
Paragraph 3: How do you match the requirements of the position - knowledge, education, skills,
attributes, experience etc.. Highlight any relevant successes that may set you apart from other
candidates or students. Try not to make any unsubstantiated claims i.e. provide concrete evidence
and examples where you can.

E.g. Organisation X is looking for -

People who demonstrate integrity, respect, and team skills.
People with energy, enthusiasm, and the courage to lead.
People who build trust in business relationships based on doing the right thing.

NOTE: You may be required to address Selection Criteria / Work Related Requirements in this
section. List each one separately and see How to Address Selection Criteria below for further
details.

Paragraph 4: Mention you would be appreciative for the opportunity to discuss your application
further. If applying for an advertised position, clarify how you can be contacted for further
information (include your contact number / email address). If you are submitting an unsolicited
letter (no position advertised), specify a time period when you will follow up (say 1-2 weeks).

Close with “Yours sincerely” or “Warm regards”

Your preferred first name and surname

HOW TO ADDRESS:
SELECTION CRITERIA
Selection criteria are typically requested by employers to ensure applicants have the qualifications,
skills, attributes and knowledge required to successfully perform well in the available position. Not
all job adverts will clearly outline the selection criteria, so it may be necessary to analyse the
advert in more detail to identify exactly what the employer is looking for e.g. “Demonstrated ability
to work collaboratively” = teamwork skills.

Addressing selection criteria is the most important aspect of your application. Your ability
to successfully identify, understand and respond in full to each criterion will significantly
affect your chances of being short listed for an interview. In addition, well-structured answers
to the selection criteria will be beneficial should you be invited to attend an interview, as questions
asked are often based around the selection criteria.

The task of addressing selection criteria can often seem daunting and very time consuming.
However, it is important to respect the process and put the effort in. If you miss this step (and it is
a requirement), employers have every right to disregard your application entirely. However once
you have done it for one job application, you can use similar content for future applications.

There are several components to keep in mind when addressing the selection criteria, outlined
below.

o Some job adverts ask you to address selection criteria within your cover letter or separately
(read all the information provided and follow the instructions to make sure your
application is considered).
o Address each criterion separately, writing the criterion (word for word) at the top of each
response.
o If the advert asks for a cover letter of no more than two pages (for example), including how you
meet the selection criteria, ensure you are able to address each criterion within the space
limitations provided.
o Some job adverts may list essential criteria and desirable criteria. Whilst the essential criteria
are more important, the desirable criteria should NOT be forgotten. Candidates that answer
ALL the criteria will usually be preferred over those who focus only on the essential criteria, if
the competition is tough.
o When asked to “Demonstrate” a skill, attribute or knowledge, you need to provide evidence
using detailed examples from your studies and other experiences such as relevant placements,
volunteer work, community activities, work history, involvement with university clubs / societies
etc.. Vague or unsubstantiated answers will not convince an employer you have what they are
looking for.
o Select a range of experiences to promote your skills, attributes and knowledge - use recent
examples from a number of different settings. NOTE: They don’t all have to be positive
experiences, you may want to highlight what you learnt from something you found difficult.
o When outlining specific examples to demonstrate your skills, attributes or knowledge, use the
STAR method:
SITUATION – Provide a brief outline of the setting (e.g. at University, part-time work-place)
TASK – Outline what you did or the challenge you faced
ACTION – Describe (using Action words) how you went about completing the task
RESULT – What was the result? How was it measured / acknowledged? What did you learn
from the experience or will do differently next time?

o Use “I” instead of “we” when providing evidence, even if the example refers to working
collaboratively (you need to explain your role).
o Use the right tense throughout the document for past and present experiences. E.g. “Last
semester I was involved in…” or “In my current volunteer support role I need to ensure …”
o Assume the reader knows nothing about your experiences when describing them. If you use
acronyms in your examples, write them out in full the first time, then use the acronym
throughout the rest of your document e.g. Murdoch Student Emerging Leaders (MSEL)
program.
o Never leave a criterion blank or state that you don’t meet it (even if it is only “Desirable”). If you
feel you can’t provide an example or don’t have the experience, mention that you have done
something similar and explain that.
Sample response: DO NOT COPY. To be used for ideas to create your own.

Demonstrated ability to work as an effective team member and the potential to lead work teams.

(Introduction) I thoroughly enjoy a collaborative approach to delivering effective outcomes. I am a

people focused person and have often demonstrated my skills through various groupwork activities
at university as well as work team environments.

(Situation and Task) For example throughout my undergraduate Human Resources degree several
project tasks were carried out in small groups ranging from 2 – 6. Through this experience I
observed the value of team members offering different perspectives based on their diverse
backgrounds and strengths. (Action) I ensured that while working in groups, friction did not escalate
and I developed useful strategies to address this, including active listening and developing an
awareness of cultural sensitivities. I also led my example by being accountable, implementing the
suggestions of others agreed upon by the group and effectively communicating my own ideas in a
respectful manner. (Result) I was awarded either a “High Distinction” or “Distinction” for my practical
group work assessment at university including: ?????

(Situation) In addition to my studies, I was also selected to participate in a co-curricular Student

Leadership Program earlier this year (my final year). (Task) The Murdoch Student Emerging
Leaders (MSEL) program offered by the Guild involved working collaboratively in an interdisciplinary
student team (with three other Murdoch students) over a four month period, delivering on a real-life
project with a not-for-profit community organisation. (Action and Result) We undertook a project
in consultation with the Australian Red Cross Blood Service to promote awareness and donations
amongst the Murdoch student population. Through a number of on-campus initiatives requiring a
co-ordinated approach, our team increased donor registrations and general awareness amongst the
Murdoch community, exceeding the expectations of Red Cross staff. I was able to contribute my
strong organisation skills and ability to effectively liaise with Murdoch University / Guild staff
members in a persuasive manner, resulting in a successful outcome.
SUCCESSFUL INTERVIEWS
Preparation prevents poor performance!

Know the position: Re-read the job advert - focus on the skills, attributes and knowledge
required to perform well in the position e.g. analytical / problem solving skills, communication
skills, teamwork. This will help you anticipate some possible questions. Don’t underestimate what
you have learnt as a student, part-time employee or volunteer.

Know the employer: Research the organisation beyond their website - understanding the values
of the organisation will give you some ideas on how to promote yourself. You want to promote
yourself a being a good “cultural fit”.

Know yourself: Be aware of your strengths and weaknesses, career aspirations etc.

Confirm the interview details and ask for the names of the interviewer(s) – this will make it easier
to remember names on the day. You could also view interviewers LinkedIn profile(s) to get some
further background information (if they have one).

Practice your responses to possible questions – use a mirror, friend or family member.

Prepare some insightful questions to ask your interviewers – this shows that you have thought
about the role and motivated to join their organisation. Some suggestions include: How will my
performance be measured? What type of employees really thrive in your organisation? What are
the key challenges faced by the successful candidate?

On the day: Plan your route and parking (if necessary) to arrive early (or if it is an online
interview, test your technology). Remember to turn your phone to silent, take off sunglasses and
take some deep breaths whilst you wait. Self-talk strategies such as “I am just as qualified for this
job as other candidates” and “I am well prepared” can also be useful. Be respectful to the
receptionist or anyone you encounter before the interview (you don’t know what influence they
may have!)

Dress for success – clean, comfortable, neat and tidy with a professional / conservative
appearance will indicate that you are an organised person and keen for the position. You can also
ring ahead to ask about general dress standards. Avoid too much jewellery, perfume / aftershave.

Be aware of your body language

• Smile often
• Give a confident handshake and wait to be seated
• Look the interviewer(s) in the eye when responding to questions. If there are multiple
interviewers, include them
• Don’t slouch or fidget and keep your hands away from your face
• Try to demonstrate confidence, knowing that you’ve already been selected as a strong
candidate on paper

Consider what you say

• Speak clearly and be specific (look out for “umms” and colloquialisms / slang)
• Be prepared to talk about your learning experiences from previous successes and failures –
this indicates your commitment to self-improvement
• If you get stuck or freeze up, ask for the question to be repeated, or revisited later in the
interview – when answering, try to be direct or provide a response that reflects your ability to
learn and adapt quickly

Typical Interview questions: Interview questions can usually be identified as ‘Behavioural

Based’, ‘Career Orientated’ or ‘Self Awareness’ questions.

Behavioural Based Questions – require you to provide examples of past behaviour with the aim of
predicting future behaviours. For example:
• Tell me about a situation in which you had to deal with a difficult customer / client / student.
What did you do to handle the issue and what was the result? (employer is looking for an
example of your interpersonal skills)
• Describe a situation where you stepped up within a team in order to achieve results. What
were your actions? (employer is looking for an example of your team skills)

It can be useful to adopt the “STAR” method when answering Behavioural Questions:
SITUATION - Offer background information to provide the context
TASK - Outline what was required of you / the challenge faced or task undertaken
ACTION - Describe the steps you took to handle the situation
RESULT – Explain what you achieved and how your actions affected the outcome of the
situation. Always be positive and describe what you learnt from the experience or what
would you do differently next time

Career Orientated Questions – these are asking you to look to the future
• Describe your definition of a successful “Visitor Experience Manager”
• Why did you choose Marketing as your business major? / What was your favourite unit at
University?

Self-Awareness Questions – these will get you to reflect upon your abilities as well as areas for
improvement
• What is your greatest strength? Describe a weakness in the way you operate and identify
how you would go about changing this?
• Why would we employ you over other Business graduates?

FINAL TIPS: Follow up with a brief thankyou email to the interviewer (or one from the panel),
highlighting your interest, adding anything you had forgotten to mention and thanking them again
for their time. If unsuccessful, seek feedback on your performance post interview. Try to find out
areas for improvement.
HOW TO USE: LINKEDIN
LinkedIn is a useful professional networking site that can help promote your “brand” or what you
have to offer 24/7. It is a useful way to showcase your achievements and examples of your work
by up-loading images / video etc.. It is therefore important to get your Profile right BEFORE
reaching out and engaging with others on LinkedIn.

Your profile:

Tailor your HEADLINE

e.g. “Final year Accounting / Finance student and aspiring Financial Analyst”

Include a professional looking photo of you, with a plain background and a smile!

NO YES

ABOUT Section - Be concise and confident about where you are at as a student, what you have to
offer and where you would like to take your degree (your career aspirations). Make the first 50
words count as this is what readers see before selecting “more’. Briefly mention any experiences
related to your studies and include keywords used in your preferred industry.

Promote your EDUCATION - Include FULL name of your degree. Highlight areas of competence
(but do not list ALL your units). Add any short courses or industry certifications. Mention any
academic awards, student competitions etc..

EXPERIENCE section – Don’t forget to include student experience / placements / related

volunteer work etc..

Be strategic with “SKILLS” – list skills relevant to your industry.

FOLLOW company / school pages and influences related to your career aspirations.

What Next?

• Check your Privacy and Communication Settings

• Update your profile regularly, be active on LinkedIn, invite supervisors / university
contacts / industry representatives you meet etc. to connect (with a personal note)
• Include your LinkedIn profile link on your Resume (allows employers to read more about
you if they wish, given a profile can be longer than a tailored resume)
• Search "LinkedIn Help" online for more tips

• “Opportunities do not float like clouds in the sky. They're attached to people.”
(A great reason to network)
Reid Hoffman – Co-founder of LinkedIn
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS AND
OTHER USEFUL LINKS
Professional Associations:

Accounting / Finance / Tax

Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand - charteredaccountantsanz.com
CPA Australia - www.cpaaustralia.com.au
Institute of Public Accountants - www.publicaccountants.org.au
Financial Services Institute of Australasia (Finsia) - https://finsia.com
Financial Planning Association - www.fpa.asn.au
Tax Institute - www.taxinstitute.com.au
Association of Taxation and Management Accountants - www.atma.com.au
Human Resource Management
Australian Human Resources Institute - https://www.ahri.com.au/
Marketing
Australian Marketing Institute - www.ami.org.au
Australian Market Research Society - www.amsrs.com.au
Business / Management
Rockingham / Kwinana Chamber of Commerce and Murdoch University – Young Professionals
https://rkcc.org.au/young-professionals/
Australian Institute of Management - http://info.aimwa.com/student
Governance
Institute of Public Administration in Australia - http://www.wa.ipaa.org.au

Australian Labour / Job market Information:

Labour market Portal - www.employment.gov.au/lmip

Jobs Directories:
GradConnection – www.au.gradconnection.com
Prosple – www.au.prosple.com/