Many job adverts in Fiji ask for “a CV and cover letter”. Some applicants skip the letter or send one line in an email. That is a missed opportunity. A good cover letter is your chance to explain, in your own words, why you are the right person for this particular job.
Keep it to one page
Employers are busy. Aim for three to four short paragraphs and no more than one page.
Paragraph 1: Why you are writing
Name the position and where you saw it. For example: “I am writing to apply for the position of Accounts Assistant advertised on eJobsFiji.” If someone referred you, mention their name here.
Paragraph 2: What you bring
Pick two or three of the most important requirements in the advert and show how you meet each one. Use real examples: “In my current role at a Suva hardware store, I reconcile daily takings and prepare weekly reports for the manager.”
Paragraph 3: Why this employer
Show that you know something about the organisation. Look at its website or social media pages. One sentence about why you want to work there, such as its reputation, its services or its community work, makes your letter feel personal rather than copied.
Paragraph 4: Close politely
Thank the reader, say that your CV is attached, and state that you are available for an interview. Include your phone number again.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Sending the same letter to every employer. Recruiters notice when the company name or job title is wrong.
- Repeating your CV. The letter should add context, not list every job again.
- Focusing only on what you want. Explain what you can offer the employer.
- Forgetting the instructions. If the advert asks for a specific subject line or reference number, use it exactly.
Sending it by email
Many Fiji employers receive applications by email. Attach your cover letter and CV as PDFs, write a short polite message in the email body, and use the subject line the advert requests. Double-check the email address before you press send.
A clear, honest cover letter will not guarantee an interview, but it often decides which of two similar candidates gets the call.
