CV and Cover Letter Guide

CV and Cover

Letter Guide

UNIVERSITY OF OTAGO

Career

Development

Centre

Te Pokapū Umanga

CV INFORMATION

CV and Cover

Letter Guide

UNIVERSITY OF OTAGO

Career

Development

Centre

Te Pokapū Umanga

CAREER DEVELOPMENT CENTRE

CONTENTS PAGE

GETTING STARTED

CV process flow diagram page 3

What needs to be in my CV – essential page 3

My CV – optional page 4

Referees page 4

WRITING YOUR CV

Employer expectations: what they want and how to deliver page 5

Employer expectations: what skills are valued in a CV page 6

Ideas for responding to skills criteria page 7

Presenting your evidence page 9

List of action words to use page 10

Presenting your relevant experience page 12

Personal statement/career objective/personal profile on your CV page 12

Optimise your CV for application tracking systems page 13

LinkedIn CV/resume builder page 14

Academic CVs page 14

CV self-review checklist page 15

CV & COVER LETTER

Writing your Cover Letter page 16

Cover letter suggested layout page 18

Using Social Media in the recruitment process page 19

Electronic/Online applications page 20

Cover letter checklist page 21

Emailing applications page 22

Application statements page 22

Check out OtagoCareerHub for further resources, making appointments with Career Advisers,

and booking into workshops, job database etc. http://otagocareerhub.ac.nz/careers

Overview

The CV and Cover Letter Guide from the University of Otago provides essential strategies for crafting effective CVs and cover letters. It outlines key components that should be included, such as personal details, qualifications, work experience, and references. This guide is designed for students and job seekers looking to enhance their application materials and improve their chances of securing interviews. It includes tips on tailoring CVs to specific job applications and optimizing them for applicant tracking systems. Key Points Explains essential components of a CV including qualifications and work experience Offers tips for tailoring CVs to specific job applications Includes strategies for optimizing CVs for applicant tracking systems Provides guidance on writing effective cove…

/ 26

352

FAQs

What essential components should be included in a CV?

A CV should include essential components such as your name, contact details, qualifications or education, work experience, and referees. Your contact details should consist of a professional email address and phone number, while qualifications should be listed in reverse chronological order with full titles. Work experience must detail both paid and unpaid roles, indicating position titles, employers, locations, and dates of employment. Additionally, including referees is crucial, with their names, titles, and contact information.

How can I optimize my CV for applicant tracking systems?

To optimize your CV for applicant tracking systems (ATS), use standard sections like Education, Qualifications, Experience, and Interests. Avoid using graphics or tables, as these can confuse the ATS. It's also important to spell out acronyms and include both full titles and abbreviations for qualifications. Additionally, sprinkle relevant keywords from the job description throughout your CV to enhance your match rate with the ATS.

What are the key skills employers look for in a CV?

Employers typically value a range of skills in a CV, including complex problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, and emotional intelligence. Other important attributes include teamwork, negotiation skills, and cognitive flexibility. The document highlights that these skills are essential for university graduates to thrive in the workforce, reflecting the evolving demands of employers.

What is the purpose of a personal statement in a CV?

A personal statement in a CV serves to provide a concise overview of your professional background, career objectives, and the role you are seeking. It is particularly useful when your degree differs from the job you are applying for or when applying for scholarships. This statement should capture the reader's attention and summarize your qualifications and aspirations, setting the tone for the rest of your CV.

How should I present my relevant experience in a CV?

To present relevant experience effectively, create a dedicated section on the front page of your CV that highlights industry-specific roles. This section can include part-time work, internships, volunteer experiences, or relevant projects from your studies. Organizing this information under a clear heading, such as 'Marketing Experience' or 'Food Industry Experience,' allows employers to quickly identify your qualifications related to the position.

What are the common mistakes to avoid when writing a cover letter?

Common mistakes to avoid when writing a cover letter include using generic phrases that could apply to any job or company, failing to tailor the letter to the specific role, and not addressing the letter to a specific person. Additionally, avoid overly formal language that lacks warmth and personality, and ensure that the letter is free from grammatical errors. A cover letter should clearly articulate why you want the position and how your skills align with the company's needs.

You May Also Like