My CV and Cover Letter

A CV (or Curriculum Vitae) is a document highlighting your skills, attributes, work experience and education. Make sure you keep it up to date and tailor it for each role you apply for rather than sending out a generic version. CVs are usually two to three pages long but, as a student, yours may be a one-page summary if you have little or no work experience. Once you have finished your CV, feel free to email it to careers@rollestoncollege.nz for it be checked. You will find some templates on this page but feel free to have a look around places like canva, there are lots of different layouts you can use just keep it fairly simple and easy to read. Remember an employer will only take a few seconds to look over your CV in the first instance - make sure it stands out.

What is a cover letter?

The cover letter introduces you to the employer and tells them you would like to apply for a role. This is an opportunity to market yourself and make you stand out from other applicants.

Why use one?

It is your opportunity to tell the employer why you are the best person for the job and get them interested enough to look at your CV and want to interview you. It needs to show you have a genuine interest in the role and the company.

What should I include?

Don't repeat your CV, but do highlight specific skills and abilities that relate to the job you are applying for. Each application should include a new cover letter tailored for that role.