Your Complete
Tips
Try to tailor your cover letter to the company and the position it is seeking to fill. This indicates that you're motivated and serious. Contact the employer if you need more details.
When applying for a job, be sure to attach a cover letter to your résumé.
Cover letter
It’s your first contact with your potential employer and a good opportunity to show that you have the skills needed to do the job. Your letter should convince the person to take a closer look at your résumé and contact you for an interview.
Before starting to write your letter
- Have your résumé and the job offer handy.
- Seek out certain information about the company (size, operations, customers, projects)
- Find out what the job entails (consult LMI Online at emploiquebec.net).
- Ask yourself what about the company and job really interests you.
- Identify the experiences and skills you wish to highlight (think of things that are not already in your résumé to make your application more interesting).
- Obtain the name and title of the person to whom you should address your letter.
Tips for writing an effective cover letter
- Avoid repeating what is already in your résumé.
- Keep it short (maximum one page).
- Type it on a computer or typewriter (it will be easier to read).
- Single-space your letter and use paragraphs.
- Avoid talking only about yourself. Touch on the company’s needs.
- Use positive wording such as “I developed…”
- Be original without being aggressive or arrogant.
- Avoid mentioning your difficult situation, conflicts with former employers, or worries about your job search.
- Do not strike out text or stain the letter.
- Carefully reread your letter before sending.