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Private Investigator Cover Letter Template

Professional template and example for Australian job applications

Private Investigator Cover Letter Example

Dear Hiring Manager, I’ve spent the last eight years building a practical skill set in investigations, data gathering, and discreet reporting. In the last role I handled a portfolio of cases for [Previous Company] that included shoplifting and theft inquiries, typically delivering case files within 48 hours of collection. I’d bring a calm, methodical approach to [Company Name], with a track record of keeping information tight and actionable. I’m comfortable with interviewing witnesses and suspects, conducting background checks, and assembling evidence packages for solicitor use. I’ve used surveillance awareness and field notes to corroborate financial position, occupation, and whereabouts information while maintaining strict privacy and ethics standards. I value concise reporting and clear recommendations to help teams decide the next step quickly. One case stands out for me. A growing shoplifting pattern required coordinated inquiries across multiple sites, plus data from point-of-sale systems and external records. I mapped the timeline, secured witness statements, and produced a 12-page report that pinpointed the pattern and the responsible individual. The client used the information to halt losses, and the site managers reported a noticeable drop in incident frequency over the following quarter. I’d be glad to discuss how my hands-on approach fits [Company Name]. I’m available for a chat this week and can join a call or meet in person to talk through the role and the current priorities. Kind regards, [Your Name]

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Matches your experience to job requirements

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What happens next: Our AI will match your skills to the job requirements, highlight relevant achievements, and create a compelling narrative that positions you as the ideal candidate.

Why This Private Investigator Cover Letter Works

Opening Paragraph

Hook with specific achievement + role alignment

Skills Match

Maps experience to job needs + company research

STAR Example

Situation-Task-Action-Result with numbers

Professional Close

Forward momentum + availability

Key Requirements for Private Investigator Roles

Essential Skills to Highlight

Make sure your cover letter demonstrates these key skills:

Investigative TechniquesInformation GatheringEvidence CollectionInterviewing SkillsSurveillance AwarenessBackground ResearchData AnalysisCase File ManagementAnalytical ThinkingReport WritingDiscretion and EthicsPrivacy AwarenessCommunication Skills

Tip: Include specific examples of how you've used these skills in your STAR example paragraph.

Core Responsibilities to Address

Align your experience with these typical responsibilities:

  • Investigates Shoplifting
  • Theft and Dishonesty
  • Makes Inquiries Concerning Property
  • Seeks Information on Personal Character
  • Obtains Information on Financial Position
  • ...and more

Tip: Reference 2-3 of these responsibilities when describing your relevant experience.

Private Investigator Cover Letter Best Practices

Structure (4 Paragraphs)

Opening (40-60 words): State the role and company, plus one compelling hook
Match (100-130 words): Map 2-3 achievements to their top requirements
Proof (80-100 words): One detailed STAR example with quantified results
Close (30-40 words): Confirm fit and invite discussion

Essential Requirements

  • • Length: 250-350 words (one A4 page)
  • • Australian English spelling and dates (DD/MM/YYYY)
  • • Address to specific person when possible
  • • No photos or personal details (DOB, etc.)

What Makes It Strong

  • • Specific achievements with numbers
  • • Company research in second paragraph
  • • Keywords from the job description
  • • Professional but personable tone

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • • Generic opening lines
  • • Repeating your CV chronologically
  • • Including salary unless asked
  • • Exceeding one page