Your cover letter is an essential part of your
application and is often your first opportunity to make a
good impression. It should be positive and sell your
suitability for the position to the employer. The letter
must be individually tailored to the particular position;
consequently the organisation and job must be
thoroughly researched.
Be sure to address all the skills and/or abilities the
employer is seeking and has indicated either in their
advertisement, in the position documents, or on their
website.
Format
In terms of format, the example on the other side of
this page can be used as a guide. Your cover letter
should be:
• 1 page in length unless the employer specifies
otherwise – you must follow their instructions
• Format the date like this 1 February, 2024
• No commas or full stops within the addresses or
opening address
• Add a heading to indicate which role you are
applying for.
• All paragraphs starting flush with the left-hand side
margin rather then being indented
• It is good practice to address your letter to a
specific person if possible. Try to find the name of
the contact person for the role. Otherwise, use To
Whom it May Concern.
• When you sign off use ‘Yours sincerely’ as the
closing salutation if you have a name to reference,
otherwise use “Yours faithfully’ or ‘Kind regards’.
Introductory Paragraph
This paragraph should let the employer know which
position you are applying for, where you found out
about the position, and the date it was advertised.
Make a positive statement to show why you are
suitable for the role.
‘Why You’ Paragraph
This paragraph gives you the opportunity to show how
your qualifications, skills and abilities meet the needs
of the employer and the position, and why you would
be an asset to their company. Be sure to demonstrate
how you meet these requirements - give examples.
Selling Paragraph
In your third paragraph, you can expand on paragraph
two and highlight what you know about the
organisation, why you wish to work for them, and how
you would make a valuable contribution. Be sure to
show how enthusiastic you are about the prospect of
working for their specific organisation.
Closing Paragraph
In your final paragraph, end on a positive note by
thanking the employer for their consideration and
restating your interest in the role. Let them know how
you can be contacted. You should also specify the
documents you have attached in your application.
Finally, check and double-check your letter for correct
grammar and spelling. Avoid jargon and unnecessary
abbreviations.
Don’t forget to put your signature on the bottom and
keep a copy of your letter for your records.
Resources
Check out the following free resources for students on
our website (jcu.edu.au/careers)
• Employability Edge – has a module on Master
Written Applications.
• Resume and written application feedback
service.
• Career and Job Search Information - Resumes,
Selection Criteria, Interviews and more, are
available on our website or from our office on Level
1 of the Library.
• Industry Events – find out about job opportunities
and connect with employers.
• Big Interview – improve your interview technique
and build your confidence.
• JCU CareerHub - view job vacancies and events.
• Career Ready Plan – build your career now.
Tip: Avoid using clichés and generic
phrases. Focus on showing examples
of your skills and experience.