Each of us must have come across someone who appears reasonably qualified but that has seemingly been unable to get a job for the longest time.
What makes matters worse is that the person’s peers who may not have as stellar a record as he or she does are probably landing and changing jobs almost effortlessly.
It is difficult to pinpoint a single definitive reason that applies to all such cases. However, there is a good chance that the perpetually unsuccessful construction job applicant is falling short at the point of job application.
Your construction job cover letter makes the first impression
It is one thing to have hands on experience and possess the relevant Construction NVQ and CSCS Card – it is entirely another how you present these credentials. And in this respect, the cover letter is crucial. Unlike an interview where the two-way communication allows you to clarify something you said that the panel did not quite understand, the cover letter is one-way only. UK construction job recruiters have limited time and so your cover letter might only have a couple minutes of eye time before the recruiter decides to toss it into the ‘regrets’ tray or schedule you for an interview.
How do you prepare a cover letter for a construction job? Well, after getting past the basics of the letter’s header (address, date and official salutation), move on to the first paragraph where you would indicate the specific construction position you are applying for. Mention how you heard about the vacancy.
Stating your motivation in a construction job cover letter
Next, indicate what about the construction company draws you to want to work for them. This is perhaps one of the most important sections of your letter and it is here that the opportunity for an interview is often won or lost. Let your passion and excitement to work for the company shine but be careful that your tone does not appear exaggerated or your platitudes of the company untrue. For instance, do not say you want to work for the firm because it is the largest in the world while in reality it only has a presence in your town.
What sets you apart from other construction job applicants?
As you move onto the body of your UK construction cover letter, build on the previous section and show why you are the best fit for the job. Do not solely rely on possession of the construction NVQ and CSCS Cards because every applicant for the job likely already has them.
Briefly mention specific experiences and skills you possess and that have been tested in other forums or organizations, which would make you a number 1 interview pick. Cite a few names of construction companies, construction projects and industry leaders you have worked in or with, which the recruiter would easily recognize.
Disparities between different construction professions
Some aspects of a cover letter depend on the construction job applied for. For instance, a cover letter for an engineering job must bring out precision and organizational skills. Grammar should be perfect and the letter should communicate flawlessly.
While grammar is important when applying for other construction jobs such as machine operator, you ought to be keener on demonstrating your safety record.