Creating a job application
Preparing for work
Key points
- What is it? Written job applications usually include a cover letter and resume. It also sometimes asks you to respond to key selection criteria.
- Why does it matter? A job application is the ‘first impression’ the employer will see, so you want to make sure you put your best foot forward!
- What should I do? Make sure your job application addresses all the key points, selection criteria, and required skills that are mentioned in the job advertisement.
Writing a cover letter
A cover letter is a short (about one page) letter where you can introduce yourself to a potential employer. It usually contains:
- some brief information about you
- what job you are applying for and the reasons why you’re interested in the job
- some of the skills that you can offer the employer
- your interest and availability for an interview.
Sometimes, if a job is advertised on a website such as Seek or CareerOne, you might also need to copy information from your resume and put it into an online form.
You can check out Youth Central’s How to Write a Cover Letter page for detailed advice on writing a cover letter. On the bottom of the page, there are additional links for specific situations, like how to write a cover letter if you don’t yet have work experience.
