Does a Cover Letter Matter?
Short answer: Yes.
A well-written cover letter can be the difference between getting noticed or getting overlooked. It’s more than just a formality—it’s your chance to introduce yourself, highlight your strengths, and let your story shine.
At Thanbarran Careers, we know our mob bring a lot more to a job than what’s written in a resume. Whether it’s cultural knowledge, lived experience, or leadership in your community—a strong cover letter is where you can bring those things to life.
What a Cover Letter Should Do:
✅ Introduce who you are
✅ Show how your experience connects to the job
✅ Highlight your most relevant skills (even from outside formal employment)
✅ Demonstrate pride, professionalism, and clarity
✅ Reflect cultural identity and lived experience—on your terms
Telling Your Story with Strength and Pride
You don’t need to fit a mould. You just need to be clear, confident, and real.
Example opening:
My name is [Name], a proud [Nation] person from [Country]. I bring with me a strong sense of community, leadership experience, and a deep commitment to contributing to workplaces that respect culture and difference.
Three Tips for Writing a Strong, Culturally Grounded Cover Letter
1. Tailor It to the Job—but Stay True to You
Yes, every job is different—so your cover letter should be too. Use keywords from the job ad, but explain them in your own way. Link your lived and work experience to what the role needs.
Example:
I have strong communication and teamwork skills developed through organising community events and mentoring young people. These skills would support me to contribute positively to your team.
2. Keep It Clear, Kind, and Confident
Employers value clarity. Stick to one page, use respectful language, and show you’re serious—without losing your voice.
Pro tip: You can be formal and friendly. Think "polished yarn", not "robotic email".
3. Proof It, Then Send It Proud
Small mistakes can distract from a strong story. Read it out loud to yourself, or ask someone you trust to check it. Make sure it represents the best version of you.
Extra Tips to Make It Strong
- Length: 3–4 paragraphs, max one page
- Font: Keep it readable and professional
- Closing line: Invite a yarn or follow-up
- Optional: Mention flexibility, cultural responsibilities, or if you’re applying under an identified position
Example closing:
I’d love the chance to yarn further about how I can contribute to your team and bring strong cultural values to the workplace.
Final Word
Your cover letter is where you get to say: This is me. This is what I bring. This is why I’m ready.
No one tells your story like you do—so tell it strong, tell it true, and always write with pride.
Good luck—you’ve got this. From all of us at Thanbarran Careers.