A great CV and cover letter will put you on the right path to securing an interview. Follow these tips to help you stand out from other applicants vying for the position.
Identify the key requirements of the role and make sure your CV includes the experience that best matches the job's key requirements. Keep it clear, concise, and relevant.
List your career history starting with your most recent employment. Include the organisation you worked for, your dates of employment, your job title, and outline what the role involved – provide a summary of your past and present responsibilities and key achievements.
Give an overview of your qualifications.
Be clear about what you are good at – ask friends and whānau for feedback as they can help you to describe yourself and your strengths.
Avoid using too many specialised terms or jargon, particularly if it isn't well known or is specific to only one organisation.
Spell and grammar check. Watch errors and spelling mistakes – these are obvious to someone looking at your CV with fresh eyes, so have a friend or family member review your CV.
Cover letter tips
Your cover letter should be tailored to the role you are applying for. What is it about this position or our council that interests you so much?
Try not to repeat everything that’s in your CV in your letter. Remember, your letter should be concise and give us an understanding of who you are as a person, your situation, and make us want to go to your CV to find out about your skills and experience.
