So now that you’ve mastered your resume, how about that cover letter? Even though it is sometimes considered optional, cover letters are a great way to personalize your resume and describe your passion for whatever position you may be applying. Although every job market is different, for English-speaking countries, strong cover letters follow the pattern described below. Also, your cover letters is a great way to show evidence of your English skills to an employer in an English-speaking country!

Even though most applications are done online these days, the formatting for cover letters is still formally stuck in the past. For formatting there are 4 main parts:

1. Your contact information goes at the top center including:

• Name
• Address
• Email
• Phone number

2. The written-out date goes at the top left, ex: April 17, 2015.

3. The contact information for the recipient goes above the salutation on the left side:

• Name
• Title
• Company
• Address

4. The greeting continues on the left: 

• Dear Mr./Ms. ______,
• Dear Hiring Manager,
• To Whom it May Concern,

5. Your signature goes at the bottom left:

• Closing compliment
  • Respectfully,
  • Sincerely,
  • Regards,
• Your written signature
• Your typed name

With the formatting done, all that’s left is to write what makes you the best candidate for the position! Although you should write a different letter for each position, the general idea for each cover letter is the same. You can break down your paragraphs with the following checklist of what to mention in each one:

Paragraph 1: Introduction

• The position for which you are applying and the name of the company or organization
• How you found out about the position
• Your “thesis” that you are the best candidate for the job

Paragraph 2: Why?

• Research the company and position and brainstorm how your experiences match what they are looking for in a candidate
• Pick one or two examples and go into detail about how those experiences show why you are a great fit for the role

Paragraph 3: Conclusion

• Talk about the company as a whole, why you are motivated to work them, and how this position fits into your future plans
• Thank them for considering your application
• State a plan for following up

Applying for a position in an English speaking country? We can help you write an awesome cover letter! Get started here 🙂