How do you create a great cover letter? Once you have researched the job and the employer, you are ready to write the coverletter. There are two important aspects of the coverletter:
Length and style – keep it short and simple
Structure and content – focus on your employer’s needs.
Learn more in the sections below, including how to go about submitting an unsolicited job application. Before you start your application, you may want to complete this exercise. It takes approx. 30 minutes and can be found here.
To effectively tailor your job application, begin by thoroughly reading the job posting to identify the required skills and tasks. Keep in mind that the job posting is a wish list, so don't hesitate to apply even if you don't meet all the requirements.
Additionally, researching the company by visiting their website or LinkedIn profile can help you further customize your application to their needs and values.
If you're interested in learning more about the position or the company, it can be beneficial to call and ask relevant questions. However, it's important to prepare your questions beforehand and only call if you have something valuable to inquire about.
How to Write a Winning Job Application: Tips and Examples
Remember to proofread your application thoroughly and send it as a PDF with a clear naming convention. By following these tips and examples, you can increase your chances of writing a winning job application.
When you write an unsolicited application, many of the same recommendations apply as when you respond to a job advertisement.
Research is even more important when you write an unsolicited application, since you don't have a job advertisement to guide you. You have to find out the needs of the company yourself, which you can fulfill with your profile.
You must also investigate to whom the application should be sent. If necessary, call the employer and ask. The recipient must preferably have management responsibility or other opportunity to be able to make decisions about employment.
When you write the application, you should find something that you can offer the company. Remember, don't beg for a job; you apply because you have some resources to offer. You can possibly present good ideas regarding the company. Perhaps you have heard of a project that they are working on and that you know you can contribute to, or maybe you just read an article about the company in the newspaper and think your profile is suitable for the position. Be forward and show your own vision!
Make sure that your request is short and precise, so that the employer can easily find out what you want. Consider whether you want to write a real application or simply formulate your points in an email and attach your CV.
End the application by saying that you will return in the coming week to follow up. In this way, you have prepared the employer that you will contact him/her. Do not leave a message with the secretary, instead ask when you can meet the boss or the personnel manager. Don't expect them to call you back, so hang in there until you get in touch. You are the one who has the initiative.
Prepare some questions about the company and the possible position. Start by asking if they have read your inquiry. If not, explain what it says and ask to schedule a personal interview. If they flatly refuse, you can ask if they can offer any advice on what they would do if they were in your position and wanted to enter the industry. They may know someone in the industry who knows someone who needs someone with your qualifications.
Applying unsolicited is time-consuming, as you have to do a lot of research. You also have to prepare for a number of rejections. But it often pays off - after all, it only takes one company to think you are a match in order to get your next job.
AU is running a workshop focused on how to write a Cover letter and prepare for the job-hunting process. You can find the next date for the session and sign-up in the event calendar.