Job App Help

[Jobapp]

I normally post on another name, but knowing that my username may be recognised by someone, I quickly set up another account. I hope someone can offer advice/help?

What is the etiquette regarding cover letters and job applications?

I must leave my current employment (again no details can be shared at this time), and a role was made known to me by an ex colleague in my old company. The role is currently being advertised internally, but HR said to my ex colleague that they would consider my application too as I used to work there (they do not know my name at this stage).

I have a situation with my CV/Cover letter. I have worked alongside the team where the role sits, offering advice etc.. However, I have no direct full on experience. I had a keen interest to pursue that career in the past and my family had an "interest" in the area, but you know how life to takes you in a different direction sometimes? Is it okay to sell yourself moreso in the cover letter, than the CV? My CV won't cut it alone. Having a concise cover letter won't demonstrate my motivation either. Any advice would be gladly welcomed. My draft cover letter is over one page - will that just ruin the application?

Thanks everyone!

[Sue]

The covering letter is intended to "sell" you to the employer in a way that the CV may not.

But if they are doing their job properly, they should be looking to see how your skills fit with the person spec for the job.

If you can demonstrate cross-over skills which may not be immediately obvious from your CV, then you should use the covering letter to make it clear how you could use those in the job requirements they have specified.

A concise covering letter is fine if it covers all you want to say - a covering letter which is long just for the sake of it is more likely to put them off, I would have thought.

ETA: You should definitely get somebody to look over both your CV and covering letter to check for typos and layout errors.

ETA: But if you don't fit all the "essential" requirements of the person spec, then you won't (or shouldn't) be offered the job, so don't be too disheartened if you don't get it.

Good luck.

[Jobapp]

Sue, thank you so much for your response. I've done as you said, and ensure that the cover highlights the crossover of skills which are not so clear from my CV. As well as nautrally highlighting my direct involvement with the team. I've also ensured they can see the motivation towards the role. Its a long shot, but if you are not in, you can't win, as they say.

Its all being read over now by three different people, so fingers crossed it will be okay.

Thank you again

[El Pibe]

It's called pollydsyndrome; comments you make on the EDF being thrown in your face in a job interview.

You are wise to be cautions Mr Job App.

[Jobapp]

Haha no I am not concerned about comments being thrown in my face. More concerned that my current employer may read the forum, as they live locally!!!