Ask Captain Lim - Some tips on writing covering letters and impressive resumes.

I am trying to apply for the Cadet Pilot position currently offered by Malaysian Airlines (MAS). I stumbled upon your web site while I was searching the Internet for some guidance to clarify some of my doubts before I submit in my application letter. This is my first time applying, so I need some advices on what I should include in my application.

I am currently in my final year, pursuing a bachelor degree in Computer Science. Based on your experience all this years, do you think I should write in my resume that I am still presently undertaking the degree or should I just include my highest qualification at this point which is my diploma (I fulfill the minimum SPM qualification required)? I am afraid that MAS will not consider my application seriously when they see that I am still pursuing my degree.

Could you also give me some tips on how to write an impressive cover letter and resume so that I will have a better chance of being short listed? What are the important details that are usual viewed by the hiring personal when applying for this position and what should I avoid doing?

Thank you in advance for your time.

Regards, Ling

Hi Ling,

MAS is only interested in what you have acquired, not what you are pursuing. You can give these information only during the personal interview. What you want in your application is to be called up for the interview first - that means telling them what you have achieved so far.

Very few resumes are read during the short-listing except your qualifications. Generally, resumes are perused during the interview if you are short-listed. Your resume should be about one page in length because, in most cases, recruitment personnel are unlikely to sift through three pages of information. If you don't list the important details on the first page, your application will most likely be overlooked.

If you are putting your resume on paper, use a high quality bond paper but avoid bright and colorful paper with designs. Together with your resume, you can include a short covering letter if you have not already incorporated it in the main page. Make sure it is concise and to the point and it must be directed to the proper recruitment personnel and not 'To whom it may concern'. If possible, ensure it is addressed to the correct recruiting personnel or specific individual. Double check that there are no spelling errors to their names and credentials (if any). Don't forget to include your email address and phone number.

There are many guidelines on writing good and 'impressive' resumes in the Internet. I am sure you can handle that yourself. The interviewing committee is more interested in your actual performance in the pilot selection process and only if you are successful would they look into the resumes further in the second round.