Write a CV and Cover Letter that get you noticed
CVs and cover letters can feel all-consuming during the autumn term, especially for those targeting the big players. Using your time wisely to tailor and review before submitting is time well spentbut not always easy. Below are practical tips, plus insights from recent graduates Yuqi Pan-Mo (MSc Strategic Marketing20242025)and Tim Bamberger(MSc Management 20242025)on navigating the application process.
Think of your CV and cover letter as a business proposal. Youre the productsell your value with confidence and precision. Demonstrating impact and relevance is key: your CV proves your capability, and your cover letter conveys your fit.
CV Tips
Tailor it:Highlight achievements aligned with your target role. Use keywords from the job description. Ask yourself: could this exact CV be used for another role? If yes, its not tailored enough.
Quantify results:Increased sales by 20% beats Responsible for sales. Demonstrating your ability to deliver results is far more impactful than listing duties.
Show leadership and the skills it requires: Include team projects, societies, or entrepreneurial ventures. Explain how these experiences stretched your collaboration, communication, and decision-making abilities.
Keep it clean:One-page, professional layout, no typos. As Yuqi shared with Robert Preda, Make sure that everythingsuch as the companys name, the positions name, and the dateis properly listed. You dont want to be screened out because of very silly mistakes.
Cover Letter Tips
Your cover letter can address what the CV cannot: your motivation for the role, your familiarity with the organisation and its values, andmost importantlyyour personality.
Start strong:Open with a compelling hook. Why this company? Why you? Mention a connection, conversation, or event that led to this application.
Tell a story:Share a brief example that demonstrates your skills and drive. Make it memorable.
Connect the dots:Show how your MSc experience prepares you for the role.
End with intent:Express enthusiasm and suggest next steps.
Graduate Insights
Yuqi shared advice learned from a career services consultant: The cover letter should be energetic, dynamic, and concise. The language doesnt need to be complex youre not applying for a degree in English literature. You just want to reveal the truth about yourself. Be concise. Also, chat with consultants and native speakers. Except for some specific sectors, like consultancies, I believe they appreciate a creative style.
She also added: Use the material you have as much as possible. This includes the job description and the company profile.
Tim added: I included a lot of keywords from the job description in my cover letter. I followed your teams advice look at the companys values and include them. Shape the letter so it passes the initial check.
Connect with Careers for all application support
Share
Developing as a strategic leader through 51勛圖厙s Executive MBA Leadership Journey retreat
Valentina Amoroso and the Executive MBA Class of 2026 recently attended the Executive Leadership retreat, an immersive experience designed for reflection, coaching and applied leadership development.
Why adaptability is the most important career skill
The professional landscape facing todays graduates is evolving at pace. Advances in technology, shifting economic conditions, and changing organisational needs are redefining roles and career paths.
The ultimate guide to choosing a part-time MBA at 51勛圖厙
Part-time MBA programmes have grown in popularity as more professionals look for flexible ways to develop their skills while continuing to work. At 51勛圖厙, options include the Weekend MBA, Global Online MBA and Executive MBA, each designed to fit around different schedules and career goals.