how to write a proffesional cv and cover letter
how to write a professional cv and cover letter in South Africa
1.
Structure of a CV
1. Personal Information:
Full name
Contact details: mobile number, email address
Residential address (optional)
LinkedIn profile or professional portfolio (optional)
2. Professional Summary / Objective:
A short paragraph (3–5 lines) highlighting your experience, skills, and career goals.
Tailor it to the specific role you are applying for.
3. Key Skills:
List relevant skills for the role.
Include both technical (software, tools) and soft skills (communication, teamwork).
4. Work Experience:
List jobs in reverse chronological order (most recent first).
Include:
Job title
Company name and location
Dates of employment
Key responsibilities and achievements (use bullet points, quantify results where possible)
5. Education:
List academic qualifications from most recent first.
Include:
Degree, diploma, or certificate
Institution
Year completed
Add relevant courses or certifications if applicable.
6. Additional Sections (if applicable):
Volunteer experience
Awards or honors
Professional memberships
Languages spoken
References (or note: “References available upon request”)
2.
Tips for a Strong CV
Part 1 : Tailor Your CV
Customize for each role you apply for.
Keep it Concise: Ideally 1–2 pages for most professionals.
Use Action Words: Start bullet points with verbs like “managed,” “developed,” or “implemented.”
Quantify Achievements: Use numbers to show results (e.g., “Increased sales by 15% in six months”).
Professional Formatting: Use clear headings, consistent fonts, and bullet points for readability.
Check for Errors: Proofread to eliminate spelling or grammar mistakes.
Part 2: Writing a Professional Cover Letter
A cover letter complements your CV and explains why you are the best fit for the role.
1. Structure of a Cover Letter
1. Header:
Your name, address, phone number, and email
Date
Employer’s name and company address
2. Salutation:
Address the hiring manager by name if possible, e.g., “Dear Mr. Smith”
If unknown, use “Dear Hiring Manager”
3. Opening Paragraph:
Introduce yourself and state the position you are applying for.
Mention how you found out about the job.
4. Middle Paragraph(s):
Highlight your relevant skills, experience, and achievements.
Show how your experience matches the requirements in the job description.
Provide specific examples of accomplishments.
5. Closing Paragraph:
Express enthusiasm for the role and company.
Mention your availability for an interview.
Thank the reader for their time and consideration.
6. Sign-Off:
Use “Kind regards” or “Sincerely”
Include your full name
Tips for a Strong Cover Letter
Tailor to the Job: Show that you understand the company and role.
Keep it Concise: 1 page maximum.
Highlight Achievements, Not Duties: Focus on what you accomplished, not just what you did.
Professional Tone: Avoid slang or overly casual language.
Proofread Carefully: Typos or errors can cost you the job.