How to write a job application

• How to build a resume

For ideas on how to present your resume if you have an episodic work history, see:

• Applying for a job when you have an episodic work history

Written applications

Written applications generally form a key part of an employer’s selection process. Employers use selection processes to select who they should interview for a job by assessing skills, qualities, experience and qualifications. Some employers will also use selection processes to identify written communication skills if these are important to the job.

Before you begin your written application:

• ensure you have researched the employer and the position you are applying for
• identify which of your skills, attributes, knowledge, experience and qualifications are going to appeal to the employer the most.

Cover letter

Many employers are very busy, so the cover letter needs to be concise. 

What to include

• Customise every cover letter so it’s relevant to the employer and a particular job.
• Focus on what the employer wants to know, not what you want from them. Try to convince them that you can do the job, that you’ll do a great job and that you’ll fit in and be an asset to their organisation.
• Make sure you include your contact details.
• Keep your letter to no more than one page—you don't want to overwhelm the employer with too much information.

Structure

In the opening paragraph, explain the purpose of your letter. Mention the position you are applying for and where you heard about it or where it was advertised. 

In the next paragraph, show you can do the job and do it really well—you should focus on covering concisely your qualifications, skills, abilities and experience. Highlight what makes you perfect for the job advertised.

Next, highlight how keen you are to work for the company and why. Try to give some information about what type of person you are. Keep in mind what you know about the employer and mention the personal qualities you have that you think they are looking for.

Before finishing, thank them for taking the time to review your application. Also mention any attachments including your resume and any work examples.

Final check 

Before sending your application check it over or have someone else read through it to ensure there are no mistakes and ensure that you have read the job advertisement and any other information thoroughly. For example, some employers may ask you to send several copies of your application. Others might want you to address specific selection criteria. If you miss things like this, the employer might think you lack attention to detail. 

You should also complete the following check:

• Don’t send too much—employers are very busy and will not want to be bombarded with information they haven’t asked for. 
• Send only copies of your documents.  If the employer has requested copies of certificates and other formal documents, send copies only.  You can show them the originals if required at your interview.
• Ensure your application is professionally presented as employers pride themselves on their professionalism and are looking at your application to ensure that you share their values.  For example:
• type your application, unless they specify for you to write it
• use clean A4 paper
• don’t make manual corrections, such as crossing something out or using correction fluid
• make sure it is easy to read—the print is clear, there are spaces between paragraphs, a suitable font size and appropriate margins (the print doesn’t start too close to the top of the page or go too close to the edges or bottom of the page)
• Use an A4 envelope so that you don't have to fold your application
• use a standard font, nothing too fancy
• tailor your application to the job you are applying for.  If you are applying for a creative industry, it might be appropriate to show your creativity.  For most jobs, however, concentrate on making the application clear, simple and to the point. 
• number the pages in the application and include your name in the header or footer of each page just in case they become separated.
• If posting your application make sure you send it in plenty of time, otherwise try and drop it off in person.

Selection criteria

If you are applying for government employment, then you will probably have to provide responses to selection criteria for the job.  Check out the following information:

• How to write selection criteria
• How to apply for Australian Government jobs

See our Related Links for more relevant information on the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations web site.