Applying for jobs

Once you're ready to take the next step on your chosen career path, you'll need to come prepared to shine
at every stage of the application process. Crucial elements of any succesful job application are

a focused CV
a tailor-made personal cover letter
a convincing job interview

The CV

The first thing a recruiter, hiring manager or selection committee will read is your CV.
Writing a CV is all about making sure those in charge of recruitment will get to know the essentials of your professional experience at a glance and getting invited for a job interview. A good CV quickly grasps the reader's attention and conveys the skills and experience needed for a particular job.
While any good CV succeeds in getting these essentials across there are significant differences between an academic CV and a CV for a job elsewhere.

Common questions about writing your cv

An academic CV

An extensive overview of your academic achievements

Find out more

A non-academic CV

A visually appealing overview of your career in one or two pages

Find out more

The cover letter

This video walks you through the key points of the cover letter. Find out more in the next part.

What it's for

Your CV and cover letter should complement each other and not be a repetition of each other.
Your CV is an account of your professional and educational life and the skillset you required.
The purpose of the cover letter is to explain your interest in and motivation for the job and
the organisation. You want to convince the employer you would fit well in the company culture,
you share values and ideas and why you are chose them as your next career step.
As with your CV, put yourself in the employer’s shoes and look at yourself from their perspective.
How do you fit the profile? Mention anything that demonstrates your potential and your fit with
the job and organisation, even if it’s something outside of work.