This page outlines some important points in applying for a job. It also outlines some aspects you should take into consideration with cover letters.

• Research the Organisation and the Position.
  Use the internet, annual reports, professional associations, Business Who's Who, newspapers and business magazines. Speak to friends, family, lecturers and anyone else you can think of.
  
  
• Address the letter to the appropriate person.
  Avoid using Dear Sir/Madam. If there is no name in the ad, phone the organisation and ask who you should address the letter to. Spell both the person and the company name correctly. Double check all of the company and contact person's details. (People occasionally put the wrong company name in!)
  
  
• Relate your skills and abilities to those addressed in the ad.
  Think about what the employer is looking for, not what you want. If the ad says they are looking for someone with 'customer service experience' it is not enough to say you have that experience. You must prove it. Outline where you worked, the skills you gained in customer service and how you see that being of benefit to this position, enough to say you have that experience. Highlight particular skills gained from different university projects and subjects relevant to the position.
  
  
• Be confident and positive.
  Phrases like "some experience", "while I don't have", and "although I have limited work experience", "I believe" create the impression that you aren't very confident or proud of your achievements. If you don't have one of the prerequisites, outline similar skills you do have and that show you are capable of learning new skills quickly.
  
  
• Ensure that there are no spelling or grammatical errors.
  Your cover letter is an opportunity to show how well you express yourself. Mistakes in a resume show poor attention to detail (one of the qualities which they generally look for) and give the impression that you are not overly serious about your desire / potential commitment to the role. Grammatical mistakes will lead employers to think your English is poor.
  
  
• Contact details.
  Provide up to date contact details and ensure that employers find it easy to leave a message for you. Employers often need to fill positions quickly. If you are not at home when they phone, they will perhaps try a few times, then contact the next person on the list.
  
  
• Timing.
  Make sure your application reaches the organisation by the due date. Late applications are usually not considered.
  
  

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