When applying for jobs in Canada, a cover letter should be sent or posted with a resume. A cover letter should be specific to the position that is being applied for. It should contain information relating to the skills and experience to those mentioned in the job posting or help wanted ad. The cover letter is the first and best chance to make a favorable impression.

The first thing to do is to choose a cover letter type. There are three different types of cover letters. Application letters, letters of interest, and networking letters are all types of cover letters. The type of cover letter chosen will depend on whether the applicant is applying directly for a job or seeking help finding one. An application letter is attached when applying for a specific job. A letter of interest is sent when looking for a possible job opening at a company. Networking letters can be sent to request job search advice and assistance.

When writing a cover letter for jobs in Canada, make sure that the cover letter is properly formatted. The applicant contact information is first, then employer contact info followed by the salutation. Perhaps the most relevant section is the body of the letter. This is where an applicant highlights themselves. This is followed by the salutation and signature.

The cover letter should be thoroughly read through for mistakes of any kind. This is the first contact any employer will have with the applicant. Check for grammar errors and of course spelling errors. Make sure the employer knows which job is being applied for and what the applicant can offer the employer. The cover letter is not a copy of the resume. It is an accompaniment to the resume. It highlights specifically what the applicant can do with what they listed on their resume. The cover letter is where the applicant shows interest and sells themselves for the position. Job interviews are given to people who show interest, sell themselves and show they have respect for the company by taking the time to format a proper cover letter. 

1 comments

  1. Unknown // December 23, 2011 7:45 PM  

    Echo the wording used in the job posting, is good advice. Second, have someone else edit it. Too often we read, what we wanted to say, not what we did say

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