Sonic Career Series. CV Creation: Cover Letters

Hey guys 😃 Welcome to Chapter 5 of CV Creation: Cover Letters!

Firstly, well done on making it this far 👏 By now, your CV should be in top shape so let’s crack on with crafting an amazing cover letter!

👉 Paragraph 1: Intention of letter

Simply state that you’re writing to apply for X position as advertised on X website.

👉 Paragraph 2: Overview of experience

Summarise your relevant experience and skills. You want to incorporate keywords from the job advert. Example:

I have 4 years experience working in fast-paced, customer-facing roles within the hospitality industry that developed my customer service skills. I handled complaints, and also dealt with cash and card payments.

👉 Paragraph 3: Specific achievements

Sell yourself and explain how you were an excellent employee in previous jobs using examples that are measurable if possible!

🖋 What were your achievements?

🖋 What was the toughest part of your role?

🖋 Were you given noteworthy responsibilities? 

🖋 What ideas did you bring to the company?

👉 Paragraph 4: Close

Thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration, and express your final interest in working for that company specifically.

Cover letter FAQs

❓Should I address my redundancy? Absolutely. After paragraph 2, explain the reason for your redundancy and state that this is in no way a reflection of your work or ability, as they will see from your achievements (detailed in paragraph 3).

❓What if I don’t have any experience in the industry? Focus on your transferable skills in paragraph 2. Example: ‘Although I haven’t worked in retail before, I have 2 years experience in customer-facing roles within hospitality working under busy conditions, handling complaints, and striving to deliver an excellent customer experience.’

❓How long should my letter be? No longer than one A4 page.

Get cracking with your cover letters guys! I’ll see you in Chapter 6 where I’ll give you tips on getting your CV out there!