Here's how to approach the activity:
Activity: Writing a Letter of Application and Attaching a CV
This activity requires you to write a letter of application (also known as a cover letter) and outline the contents of a Curriculum Vitae (CV) for a job advertised within your department.
a) Letter of Application (Cover Letter)
A letter of application introduces you to the employer and explains why you are suitable for the job. It should be concise and tailored to the specific role.
Structure of a Letter of Application:
1. Your Contact Information: Your Name, Address, Phone Number, Email.
2. Date: The date you are writing the letter.
3. Employer's Contact Information: Hiring Manager Name (if known), Department, Company Name, Company Address.
4. Salutation: "Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name]" or "Dear Hiring Manager."
5. Opening Paragraph:
State the position you are applying for and where you saw the advertisement (e.g., "I am writing to express my keen interest in the [Job Title] position advertised within our department.").
Briefly mention your current role or connection to the department.
6. Middle Paragraph(s):
Highlight your relevant skills, experience, and qualifications that match the job description.
Provide specific examples of how your experience aligns with the requirements of the role.
Explain why you are interested in this specific role and this department*.
Demonstrate your understanding of the role's responsibilities.
7. Closing Paragraph:
Reiterate your enthusiasm for the position.
State that your CV is attached for further details.
Express your availability for an interview.
Thank them for their time and consideration.
8. Complimentary Close: "Sincerely," or "Yours faithfully,".
9. Signature: Your handwritten signature (if printed).
10. Typed Name: Your typed full name.
b) Curriculum Vitae (CV)
A CV is a detailed document outlining your academic and professional history. It provides a comprehensive overview of your qualifications, experience, and skills.
Key Sections of a CV:
1. Contact Information: Your Name, Phone Number, Email, LinkedIn profile (optional).
2. Personal Statement/Summary (Optional but Recommended): A brief, compelling paragraph summarizing your key skills, experience, and career aspirations, tailored to the job.
3. Work Experience:
List in reverse chronological order (most recent first).
For each role: Job Title, Company Name, Location, Dates of Employment.
Use bullet points* to describe your responsibilities and achievements, quantifying results where possible (e.g., "Increased efficiency by 15%").
4. Education:
List in reverse chronological order.
Degree/Qualification, Institution Name, Location, Dates of Attendance, relevant modules or projects, grades/GPA (if strong).
5. Skills:
Technical Skills:* Software proficiency, programming languages, specific tools.
Language Skills:* List languages and proficiency levels.
Soft Skills:* Communication, teamwork, problem-solving, leadership (often integrated into work experience descriptions).
6. Awards and Achievements (Optional): Any significant recognitions, scholarships, or accomplishments.
7. References: State "References available upon request." Do not include actual contact details unless specifically asked.