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- Cover Letter
How to Format a Cover Letter for a Job in Canada in 2023
Browsing the Google results page gave you a headache? You’ve just found what you’ve been looking for and a painkiller! One dose of this cover letter format guide will solve it all.
Your head must be spinning!
The header, what to write, how to make it readable not only by the recruiters but by the ATS too…
So many questions, yet no reliable answers.
Luckily, you’ve brought yourself here! Dive right in to learn the cover letter format you won’t question.
This guide will show you:
- Cover letter format examples better than 9 out of 10 others.
- How to format a cover letter for a job application in Canada.
- Sample cover letter formatting you can never go wrong with.
- Best cover letter address format and much more.
Did you know our builder can take care of the formatting for you? No need to worry about margins and spacing: just add your text and watch the Zety cover letter builder arrange everything on the page just the way it should be. Here’s what your cover letter can look like:
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Cover Letter Format Template
Cover Letter Header
[Your Full Name]
[Job Title]
[Phone Number]
[LinkedIn Profile]
Date and Reader’s Address
[Date of Writing]
[Hiring Manager’s/Recruiter’s Name]
[Company Name]
Dear [Ms./Mr. Hiring Manager’s/Recruiter’s Last Name],
The Opening
Remember that movie that kept you at the edge of your seat? That’s precisely what your cover letter should do with the reader. They shouldn’t be able to resist not getting to the very end word by word. Mention your most significant achievement, refer to the shared mission and values, and drop names. Whatever you do, make them read on.
The second best part of your cover letter format. Here you’re about to shine with your career highlights that should almost blind the recruiting committee. Bring your most memorable—but relevant!—accomplishments to light and quantify them to make the bulb explode.
Then, explain how you will repair it with your relevant (see?) skillset. Prove to the reader you haven’t picked them for random reasons. It’s also when you convince the hiring manager that you prefer it their way.
You’ve got two paragraphs to achieve just that.
Call to action. Ask the question. Make them sizzle.
Ask to schedule a meeting with you to discuss further the benefits of hiring you. Of course, make it about them.
Formal Sentiment
Yours sincerely,
[Digital Signature]
Attachments:
[Online job application, certificates, etc.]
Let’s now go one by one, eh?
Here’s how to format a cover letter:
1. Create a Cover Letter Header
The header introduces you to the employer and gives them your contact details.
That’s one thing.
The other is that you should stick to a formal cover letter format and address the recruiter or hiring manager directly, as they will likely decide about you landing the gig.
Here’s a checklist for you to follow every time you address a cover letter:
- Your name, mailing address, phone number, and email address
- Date of writing
- Your hiring manager’s or recruiter’s name, job title, company name, location, and contact information
- The position name and number
It works every time. Have a look:
Cover Letter Address Format—Example
John Chillton
4829 Merivale Road
Ottawa, ON K2P 0K1
613-265-0323
[email protected]
linkedin.com/in/johnchillton
December 2, 2021
Russell K. Collins
Human Resources Manager
912 11th Ave
Hespeler, ON N3C 1H3
2. Greet the Hiring Manager and Choose an Opening Strategy
I hope you feel somewhat comfortable meeting people because when you greet your hiring manager, all eyes are on you, and you can’t bust it.
You will, though, when you use one of those salutations: “Dear Sir or Madam” or “To Whom It May Concern.” They’re considered impolite because you haven’t even tried to find out just as much as the name of the person recruiting you.
To successfully format the greeting part of your cover letter, personalize and start like this:
- Dear Mr. Kidman,
- Dear Ms. Kidman,
- Dear Catherine,
Pro Tip: Call the place if you don’t know who to address. Be prepared for that person to answer your call, though. Remember—there’s nothing wrong with asking the right questions.
Now it gets a little more complicated because you need to make the reader want to read your whole story. And that’s where the opening line and introductory paragraph come in. (Write a generic introduction, and you’ll ruin your chances of getting the job!)
Here are several opening strategies you can use to spellbind your reader:
- Mention your most impressive and relevant achievement.
- Drop names.
- Say how you relate to the company's mission, vision, or values.
- Share your enthusiasm about joining the firm.
Now see how you can open the cover letter with the right formatting:
Cover Letter Format in Canada—Opening Example
Dear Mr. Collins,
It’s exciting to see ABC Ltd. being on the lookout for a project management specialist. I’ve been working on growing my knowledge and skills in the project management field for quite some time now, and I’m sure I’ve reached a level where I can safely say I’m the best candidate you’ll hear from. Especially when I tell you that I’ve recently closed another deal with a Fortune 500-listed company.
3. Mention Your Achievements and Motivation
Woohoo! Now’s the best part.
You’re about to remind yourself of all the achievements you made that make you the best fit for the position (they’d better be relevant!) and work them into your cover letter. But don’t rework and repeat yourself using the achievements from your resume. You should either expand on one or pick another you haven’t mentioned. That’s for the first part of the middle section of your cover letter.
For the second part, you must say why the company is the right place for you . Surprising, huh? Employers do want to know what motivates you to join their company, and it’s just the perfect opportunity for training before an interview. You can be sure you’ll hear the question: “Why do you want to work for us?”
And here’s how to format the middle paragraphs of your cover letter:
- Deconstruct the job description and mark the keywords relating to experience, skills, and qualifications.
- Tell your recruiter what parts of your skill set and experience you can offer them and why you think it’ll be in their best interest.
- Add numbers and action words to emphasize your value as an employee.
- Fit that into two paragraphs.
Look at how to put the formatting advice into action:
How to Format a Cover Letter—Middle Paragraph Examples
I’m a certified PMO with a pragmatic approach to solutions wherever possible. My customer service experience has helped me develop anticipating needs skilfully; therefore, troubleshooting is now one of my favourite parts of a process, let alone ideation and Root Cause Analysis. Here are my achievements to date:
- Successfully managed a multi-million project with 100% on-time delivery.
- Commended by the manager for noticing opportunities that brought a +$150K revenue each quarter.
- Leading a virtual team of engaged individuals from Brazil, Spain, France, the USA, England, and Poland.
Your company does business in international markets, which gives me a thrill. It motivates me to take a leap out of my comfort zone and do better. It’s never too late to learn and expand one’s capabilities.
And that’s how you rock it!
4. Ask for an Interview and Sign Off
You’re not writing a cover letter to boast about your achievements and get nothing out of it. Go for the win and call your hiring manager to action—ask for an interview. You don’t ask, you don’t get.
This is how to format a CTA in your cover letter:
Proper Cover Letter Format—Call to Action Example
This week, let’s schedule a meeting to discuss how my result-driven personality can benefit your company and get higher revenue at lower costs.
And now, for the last part—the formal sentiment to close the letter.
Use one of these, and you’ll end up fine:
- Yours faithfully,
- With best regard,
- With kind regards,
If you’re adding any enclosures, list them right below the signature.
See an example of a perfectly formatted cover letter closing:
Job Application Cover Letter Format—Closing Example
P.S.—I’ll be happy to tell you more about how I happened to sign a contract for an international campaign while on holiday in Portugal.
Online job application
PMO Certification
ProTip: If you want to go big and secure yourself an interview, add a postscript. It’s reserved for a spectacular accomplishment you might have up your sleeve. If you do, use it here!
5. Lay Out the Contents of Your Cover Letter
It’s not always what’s on the inside that matters but on the outside.
And that’s especially important for the Applicant Tracking Software (ATS). If the ATS can’t read your cover letter, your application will land in the “not a fit” pile.
Here’s how to avoid that with a correctly formatted cover letter layout :
Cover Letter Formatting
- Pick a legible sans-serif font , such as Calibri or Arial, and make it 10–12 pts.
- Set proper spacing : 1-inch margins on each side, 1–1.15 line spacing, and double spaces between paragraphs.
- Keep your cover letter one page long .
- Left-align the content.
- Title your cover letter in the following format: JobTitle_YourName_CoverLetter .pdf.
- Save it as a PDF . Word files tend to crush, plus you’ll be sure no one edited it.
Feeling tired just thinking about the effort all this will take? There’s a better way: just take it easy and let the Zety cover letter builder take care of it.
Create my cover letter now
Take your pick from 20+ cover letter templates and watch the formatting happen by itself. And create a matching resume while you’re at it!
Key Takeaway
Here’s the revision of the article’s main points:
- Start by creating a formal cover letter address. Give your contact information and address the hiring manager the right way.
- Create a smooth transition between the paragraphs. Let the reader hook onto the opening, jump right into the list of your most significant achievements, and close with a call to action.
- Format your cover letter so that it’s readable to the ATS.
And there it is!
Now you know everything you need to know about the cover letter format.
How does it feel?
Please tell us—
Do you have questions about the format of a cover letter? Is there anything about the business cover letter format still confusing you? Would you like to know more about how to format your cover letter for a resume?
Give us a shout in the comments! Let’s get the conversation rolling.
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I am pleased to submit my application for the __________ opening at your company. I have used this letter to briefly summarize why my application is worth attention.
I am excited by the opportunity to work at your company because.
As an applicant with skills in __________, I have confidence that I am a strong candidate for the role of __________. For example, .
Thank you for taking the time to consider my application to join the team at your company. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at.
What is a Cover Letter?
A Cover Letter, also known as an application letter, is a document that you write to complement your resume, application, or CV when you apply for a job.
A Cover Letter serves as an introduction, so your potential employer can learn more about your professional accomplishments and goals.
Some companies specifically request that applicants provide a Cover Letter with their application.
What Should I Include in a Cover Letter?
Best practice for beginning your Cover Letter is to address the person your resume or application (along with your Cover Letter) will be sent to. LawDepot's Cover Letter allows you to begin by addressing an individual. If you are unsure who your information will be sent to, you can simply use a generic greeting, such as To Whom It May Concern.
Our questionnaire will take you through the following elements to include in the body of your cover letter:
- What job or position you are applying for, as well as your name
- Information about any professional skills or abilities that are appropriate for the job
- Your contact information
- The date your cover letter will be signed and sent out
In addition to this information, be sure to include any other relevant information about yourself that would be applicable to the job you are applying for.
For example, someone applying for a sales position might point out that they won an award at their last job for being a top seller for the last business quarter. Or, a writer applying for a technology-based writing job might refer to their published works that are related to that position.
The goal is to include relevant content in your Cover Letter that will help you stand out compared to other applicants.
Why Should I Write a Cover Letter for a Job?
Including a Cover Letter when you are applying for a job gives the employer a quick overview of you as a professional, and gives them more information regarding your motivation for responding to their job posting.
A well-written Cover Letter can also help you stand out from other applicants by giving you the chance to showcase any unique professional skills or accomplishments you may have.
Related Documents:
- Resume Builder : a tool that allows you to create a custom formatted resume using your professional experience, skills, and interests
- Letter of Recommendation : a written assessment of an individual's capabilities for professional or educational purposes
- Resignation Letter : a formal notice from an employee to their employer that states they are leaving the company
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How do you write a cover letter for Canada? We’re here to provide tips on how to write a focused Canadian cover letter and supply you with cover letter examples.
Being able to write a cover letter for Canada is a must for all professional job applications and is crucial to finding work in the country, so let’s get started.
Write the perfect cover letter for Canada’s job market
One of the most important things to remember when it comes to creating the perfect cover letter for Canada is that there’s a three-pronged approach to success.
First of all, you need to introduce yourself and the job you are applying for.
Secondly, make it patently clear that your skill set matches that requirements listed in the job description.
Finally, articulate the reasons why you would be an ideal candidate for an interview but don’t be too pushy.
OK, so let’s look at these three points in closer detail.
- Always state your relevant skills and reasons why you are right for the role in question as early as possible in your cover letter for Canada. A cover letter in Canada is not all about you. Ensure you spend at least 30 per cent of the document talking about what you know about the company — recent projects, company values, company news. Make the company feel special and they will be more likely to invite you for an interview.
- Do not simply rehash your resume. Instead you should focus on showing why the skills and experience you have would be a fit for the role in question . It makes sense to address each requirement in turn, doing so shows the hiring manager that you understand the role clearly and could be a great fit for the position.
- Do your research on the company and demonstrate this in your cover letter to ensure you make a good first impression. Don’t take it as a given. Highlight what you know, but don’t be brash about it.
- Don’t forget that you will need two documents — a resume and cover letter — for a successful job application in Canada. Keep your resume brief and then craft a cover letter to provide more nuance to the key skills and attributes that you will bring to the role if hired. In brief, make sure that you “tick all the boxes” that are outlined in the job description.
- Our comprehensive resume guide should help you with the accompanying resume, which is also crucial to landing an interview and ultimately your dream job in Canada.
Want to write the best Canadian cover letter possible?
A cover letter for canada: always needed.
In some instances — such as if you are lucky enough to be referred by an employee of a company — a cover letter may not be completely necessary. However, it is best to write a Canadian cover letter for each job application as it is a means of demonstrating your understanding of the position and how your skills and experience match the requirements. This is particularly true if you want to land that dream career job.
Take the time to understand the company and elaborate concisely about how you can help them. That’s how to make a strong first impression and write a successful cover letter. Generic cover letters for Canada that state “I have always wanted to work for {insert company name} . . .” don’t cut it, so differentiate yourself by showing the company you are genuinely interested in them.
Don’t forget to download the Moving2Canada Getting Started Guide today. In this free guide you will find detailed templates for a Canadian-style resume and a Canadian cover letter. The guide will give you exclusive access to our proven cover letter techniques and will help you accelerate your job search in your new home.
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A Canadian cover letter acts as an introduction to your resume and is tailoured to a particular role you wish to apply in Canada. A cover letter's primary purpose is to introduce you to the Canadian employer and urge them to read your resume. It should demonstrate that you are the ideal candidate for their firm. Your cover letter should highlight your relevant qualifications, experience, and favourable work characteristics. Download your Free Canadian Cover Letter Sample and Template below on your laptop/desktop.
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Table of Contents
Finding work in Canada as soon as possible is a top priority for many newcomers. Resume is a crucial starting point, and it is vital to get it right.
In this article, we will go over some helpful hints and provide templates to help you stand out from the crowd and catch the attention of recruiters, employment agencies, and employers for the job posting.
What is a Cover Letter?
A cover letter is a brief document created in response to a particular employment opportunity and addressed to the organization or person in charge of the position’s hiring. It should supplement the material on your resume and reintroduce you to the business as a viable candidate.
It contains information on why you are applying for the job, a short summary of your career background, and what qualifies you for the role. While some employers may need a cover letter as part of the application process, others may make it optional or even prefer that you not send one.
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Canada Cover Letter Tips
Most Canadian firms will require you to follow a specific cover letter structure. Here are some pointers:
- The cover letter must not exceed one page in length.
- Your cover letter’s typeface should be consistent throughout, and you should use a professional-looking font. When printing your cover letter, make sure the font size is large enough to read well.
- The spacing in the cover letter must be proper. The major body of the paper should be single-spaced, with enough space between every paragraph and section.
- Personal information like your full name, residential address (current), email address, and contact number.
- Then, put the date when you will be mailing your cover letter below your personal information.
- Also include contact details for the person, department, or firm you are sending the cover letter to underneath the date.
Canada Cover Letter Format
- To begin your letter, use a polite greeting. If you are aware of the name of the person who makes recruiting decisions, use their prefix and full name to address them. Use a polite, generic greeting like ‘To whomsoever, it may concern” if you do not know the person’s name.
- The main content of your cover letter is divided into three sections: introduction, body, and conclusion.
- You should introduce yourself in the first paragraph of your cover letter. You might include the position you are interested in, as well as your qualifications and also how you encountered the job search. If you have a contact within the company that introduced you to the job, you should mention their name and position in your cover letter. Make sure you do not introduce yourself in more than two to three lines of the paragraphs.
- In the following paragraphs, you must persuade the company that you are the strongest candidate. Explain to them why they must put their money into you.
If you are unsure what to add, consider the following questions.
Information to Add to a Cover Letter
- What projects do you have experience with that are related to the position? What did you take away from it? What makes you a better candidate as a result of this?
- What relevant responsibilities have you undertaken in the past that apply to this position? What did you take away from it? What makes you a better candidate as a result of this?
- What are your plans if you are decided to be hired? What is the value to the employer in hiring you over someone else?
The body of the cover letter should be at max two paragraphs long.
- The conclusion is the last paragraph of your cover letter’s primary material. It is your chance to express your excitement about the prospect of working for the organisation, appreciate the company for the opportunity to pursue it, and ask them to respond to your approach. It should just be up to four sentences long.
- Add your signature: The closing line and your complete name are the two elements of your cover letter signature.
- A suitable closing line must be included in your cover letter. This is the line immediately preceding your name.
- The final line includes your entire name. Because most job applications are made electronically, it is not required to print and sign your cover letter.
Cover Letter Template
Here is a common template for a Canadian cover letter which you can take ideas and inspiration to create your own:
Ms. Iliana Schneider
Metrolance Systems Canada
10153 King George Hwy,
British Columbia, V3T 2W1
Therese Anne Peters
(800) 667-2215 | [email protected]
February 23, 2023
Re: Application for Junior Sales Associate at Metrolance
Dear Ms Schneider,
I am submitting my resume to apply for the position of Junior Sales Associate at Metrolance Systems Canada. I came across your listing on LinkedIn, and after going over the mentioned requirements, I believe I fit the profile well.
Apart from my specialization course in Sales, I have worked in 2 hands-on B2B Sales positions for the last 3 years. My interest in human psychology and the skills I have developed helped me build strong, lasting relationships with clients, address their issues and offer them solutions.
Working with over 12 diverse clients across industries in my last profile has taught me time management, professionalism, persuasiveness, and persistence – skills that will greatly benefit the organizations I work with in the short and long term.
Metroland’s values of connection and conviction resonate deeply with my work style and seeing this opportunity lightened up my day. I hope to be able to contribute my bit towards the smarter future that Metrolance is building and truly add value to the clients I will work with.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Resume Format and Tips
If you have a Canadian-style resume, Canadian recruiters will pay greater attention to it. While there are many distinct forms of Canadian-style resumes, there are some commonalities that you should be aware of. In Canada, a photo is never included on a resume, and personal information is limited to your name and contact information.
- Having a generic resume and sending it to multiple employers for various positions/roles may not get you the greatest results. You must customise your resume for each position you apply for. Work experience, talents, and other information should all be tailored to the post.
- Many job applicants make the error of focusing on roles and responsibilities rather than accomplishments. On resumes, recruiters and hiring managers desire to see quantitative achievements. The ‘ CAR’ method is useful for structuring individual sentences: The letters C, A, and R stand for Challenge, Action, and Result , respectively.
- Lastly, a cover letter should always be included .
Never do the following since none of these things is thought to be important in a job search:
- Give your age, ethnicity, or cultural background and describe your physical characteristics.
- Indicate whether you are married or have children, as well as your sexual orientation or preferences.
Resume Template
This is a sample resume for the above-mentioned profile of a candidate.
Junior Sales Associate
linkedin.com/ca/thereseanne
A dynamic Sales professional with a keen interest in human psychology and relationships. I create long-lasting sales relationships with clients based on problem-solving and honesty that yield benefits to my organizations in the short and long term.
Junior Sales Associate Skiles & Sons, Toronto, ON
February 2019-Present
- Responsible for closing and onboarding 12 hospitality clients for Skiles & Sons with the sales team.
- Assisting through end-to-end B2B sales journey, including providing product demos, understanding the requirement, answering doubts and questions and resolving initial onboarding challenges.
- Helping the team chalk out the sales plan of action and identify high-value clients to prioritize.
- Creating and maintaining growth reports and presenting these to the team on a weekly basis.
Sales Intern
Champlin Ltd., Toronto, ON
March 2018-February 2019
- Worked closely with the team to understand clients on a case-to-case basis and conduct cross-sells and upsells.
- Attended sales meetings with senior sales associates, presented observations, and offered ideas for the next steps.
Bachelor Of Business Administration in Marketing Management
Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Vancouver, Canada
Graduated 2017
Certified Sales Rookie by Canadian Professional Sales Association
Awarded in 2018
- Interpersonal Communication
- Time Management
- Persistence
- Conflict Management
A resume is a sales tool utilised for one purpose: to obtain an interview. In contrast, a cover letter introduces you and your resume to a potential employer. It is the first document that an employer sees, serving as a first impression. It also allows the employer to receive a more in-depth insight into who you are and why you are qualified for the job.
As this will be your first impression of Canadian firms, you need to make sure you are well-versed in the Canada cover letter and resume format. For more details, reach out to experts at LeapScholar .
Jobs in Demand in the UK
Frequently Asked Questions
How is a cv different from a resume.
A CV is usually two to four pages long, used to apply for academic purposes. However, a resume is a two-page long description of your work experience, skills, and education to apply for a job. In Canada, a resume is preferred over a CV.
Do we need to add our official signatures to the cover letter?
If it is not being electronically made, you can add your official signatures. But in the other case, adding your full name would do the work.
What gives brownie points in a resume if we do not have much professional experience?
Always add some voluntary work or help you did to aid the environment or society to gain some brownie points if you lack some experience in the field.
Saket Kohli
An International Higher Ed professional with 7+ years of experience studying, working, and living across three geographies, currently on a mission to share his journey as an International Student.
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A cover letter is a short document written in response to a specific job prospect and addressed directly to the department or individual in charge of hiring for the position. It should add to the information contained in your resume and resent you to the employer as a candidate.
The following are general guidelines only. You must tailor your cover letter to suit your own experiences, and to suit the specific position you are applying for.
Before You Begin
Once you find a specific job posting that you want to apply for, you can begin to work on your application cover letter. Following these steps before you begin will help you write the best cover letter possible.
1. Do Your Research Before you begin to write your cover letter, learn everything that you can about the company or organization you are applying to. Check out their website and social media pages, research their top competitors, and read recent industry news articles. Learn the name(s) of the individual(s) who will be in charge of hiring for the position you want, as well as the head(s) of the company. You will not be able to include all of your research in your cover letter, but it will help you decide what you should include. Do you research for every cover letter you write. It may take some time, but you have a much better chance of being granted an interview if you have tailored your cover letter to the individual who will be reading it.
2. Check for Instructions Some employers include instructions in their job postings. They might ask you to include specific information, or answer certain questions, in your cover letter. Check whether the employer has left any specific instructions for you cover letter. If they have, follow them carefully. Formatting Guidelines
Formatting Guidelines
There is a standard cover letter format that most Canadian employers will expect you to follow. However, depending on your industry and the specific job posting you are responding to, you may have to change the formatting of your cover letter.
1. Length Your cover letter should be no more than one page in total.
2. Font Your font should be consistent throughout your cover letter, and you should choose a professional looking font. You font size should be big enough that it is easy to read when your cover letter is printed.
3. Spacing Your cover letter should be appropriately spaced. The main body should be single spaced, with sufficient space left between each new paragraph and section.
What to Include
There are seven sections in a cover letter.
1. Your Information Your name and contact information should be at the top of your cover letter. Include your:
- First and last name
- Current residential address
- Phone number
- Email address
2. Date Below your information, write the date that you are sending your cover letter.
3. Employer Information Below the date, include the contact information of the individual, department, or company you are addressing the cover letter to. If you know the name of the individual, include their:
- Position title
- Company or organization name
- Commercial address of the company or organization
If you do not know the name of the individual, include:
- Department in charge of hiring decisions (if known)
- Commercial address of company or organization
4. Greeting Use a formal greeting to open your letter. If you know the name of the individual making hiring decisions, address them directly with their prefix and full name. If you don’t know the name of the individual, use a formal, generic greeting like ‘To whom it may concern,’.
5. Main Text: There are three parts to the main text of your cover letter: the introduction, body, and conclusion.
- Introduction In the first paragraph of your cover letter, you should introduce yourself as a candidate. Include your first name and the position you are applying for. You can also include your post relevant qualification and how you found the job posting. If you have a contact at the company who referred you to the job, you may want to mention him or her by name and department.Your introduction should be no more than two to three sentences.
- What projects have you worked on that are relevant to this position? What did you learn from them? Why does this make you a better candidate?
- What responsibilities have you held that are relevant to this position? What did you learn from them? Why does this make you a better candidate?
- What do you intend to do if you are hired? What benefit does the employer get if he or she hires you instead of someone else?
- Conclusion The conclusion is the final paragraph in the main text of your cover letter. It is your opportunity to tell the employer how you feel about potentially working for the company, thank them for the opportunity to apply, and invite them to respond to your application.It should be no more than three or four sentences.
6. Signature There are two parts to your cover letter signature: the closing line and your full name.
- Closing Line Your cover letter must include an appropriate closing line. This is the line right before your name.
- Full Name Your full name follows the closing line. It is not necessary to print and physically sign your cover letter, since more job applications are done electronically.
Final Revision
Carefully review your cover letter to make sure you have not made any mistakes.
1. Proofread Check your cover letter for any spelling or grammar mistakes. If possible, have someone else proofread it for you, or come back to it after a night’s sleep. Be absolutely sure that you have not make any mistakes in:
- Your name and contact information
- The employer’s name and contact information
- The name of the company or organization you are applying to
2. Check Instructions Go over any instructions for your cover letter given by the employer and make sure you have followed them carefully.
3. Date Make sure that you have the correct date on your cover letter. The date should be the day that you send your cover letter to the potential employer.
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Cover Letters Open the Door to an Interview
- #Cover Letters
Writing a clear, strong cover letter will catch the employer’s attention and increase your chances for an interview.
A cover letter introduces you and your resumé or application form. Your goal is to get the employer’s attention by showing how your skills and accomplishments make you a good fit for the job.
Prepare to write your cover letter
Cover letter examples, checklist for cover letters, send your cover letter.
How to Write a Great Resumé
Study the job posting to see how many of your skills match what this job needs. Make sure to put these in your letter. Tailor each cover letter to fit the specific job you’re applying for.
Research the company’s goals and activities by exploring its website. If you mention a goal or activity in your letter, you’re showing your interest in the company.
Anticipate the reader’s questions and provide answers. Think about:
- How you would benefit the organization
- Why working there appeals to you
Put these reasons in your letter. Make it easy for the employer to see how and where you would fit in. Remember that a cover letter should entice the employer to read your resumé . It shouldn’t simply repeat the facts already in your resumé.
How Do I Write an Effective Cover Letter? (2:57)
A cover letter is your first impression to a potential employer. Learn how to make it an effective one. Get information and referrals about career and employment options from Alberta Supports .
Cover Letter Outline
These examples will help you write your cover letter:
- Cover Letter Outline
- Cover Letter Email Example
- Cover Letter Example 1 from an experienced tradesperson for an advertised position
- Cover Letter Example 2 from a high school student with no paid work experience for an unadvertised position
- Cover Letter Example 3 from an experienced person returning to work after a long absence
Save, email or print your answers
In the job posting, employers usually tell you how they want to receive your resumé. Send your cover letter along with your resumé.
An employer may have hundreds of job applications to sort through for one job posting. Get their attention with a strong cover letter that highlights the skills and experiences you can bring to their organization, and you’ll have a higher chance of securing an interview.
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Canadian resume and cover letter: Format, tips, and templates
For many newcomers, finding employment quickly after moving to Canada is a high-priority action item. Whether you’re contemplating a career switch or looking to get back in your field of work, the first step is usually the same – to have a resume and a cover letter that you can share with potential employers or networking contacts.
In this article, we will explore the Canadian-style resume in detail, highlight some key differences between a resume and a curriculum vitae (CV), and help you identify which resume format might be best suited to your career goal. We will also go over some useful tips to craft an ATS-friendly resume to ensure you stand out from the competition and get noticed by employers, hiring managers, and recruiters.
In this article:
- What is the difference between a resume and a CV?
Understanding the types of resume formats used in Canada
Tips for writing a canadian-style resume, what is the difference between a resume and a curriculum vitae (cv).
Often, there are two ways job seekers can showcase their professional experience to an employer: by using a resume or a CV. In Canada, employers prefer a resume. A CV is mainly used only for academic applications such as academic jobs, grants, research fellowships, etc.
To provide more clarity, here are some key differences between a resume and a CV:
Many countries use a CV instead of a resume, and some have a combination of both. Some regions use both terms interchangeably: for instance, in most European countries as well as New Zealand, the term CV is used to describe an equivalent of a Canadian resume. In Australia and South Africa, “curriculum vitae” and “resume” are synonyms that can be used interchangeably. In South Asia, the terms CV and resume are used interchangeably and refer to an equivalent of a traditional CV.
In some parts of the world, it’s common to include personal information such as marital status, nationality, personal interests, hobbies, date of birth, address, and a photograph on a CV. In Canada, however, you shouldn’t include these details on your resume as it is not required under the employment law, and it is also not a part of the resume format.
As a job seeker in Canada, there are three types of resume formats you should be familiar with. Each of these formats includes the same basic information in a different layout.
1. Reverse chronological resume
This type of resume outlines your professional experience in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent position.
When to use a reverse chronological resume?
If you’re an experienced professional with at least some experience in the workforce, have no major employment gaps , and intend to continue working in the same field.
Tip: The reverse chronological resume is the most popular format in the Canadian job market. Most employers and recruiters are used to and prefer a resume in this format.
2. Functional resume
The functional resume focuses on your overall skills and qualifications instead of specific professional experiences. The employment history is still included, but it is usually listed after skills and education.
When to use a functional resume?
If you’re looking to switch roles and/or industries and start your career in a new field. It may also be ideal for recent college graduates .
3. Combination or hybrid resume
A combination resume is a mix of the reverse-chronological layout and the functional layout and is ideal for showcasing transferable skills along with professional experience. In this format, work experience is usually outlined in a reverse chronological format, and the skills section includes a summary of qualifications and technical skills (or core competencies).
When to use a combination or hybrid resume?
It is commonly used by a variety of job seekers ranging from experienced workers to recent graduates to those with limited experience, multiple short-term work stints, or those having significant work gaps.
Need more guidance on how to write a Canadian-style resume? For a stepwise approach, check out: How to write a resume for the Canadian job market 10 resume mistakes to avoid when applying for jobs in Canada
Download the free Resume and cover letter templates to craft your Canadian resume
Mastering the art of writing a flawless and impactful Canadian-style resume takes practice and patience. Here are a few tips to help you improve your resume-writing skills.
1. Adapt your resume to each job listing and keep it relevant
Having a generic resume and sharing it with multiple employers for a variety of positions/roles may not yield the best result for you. It is essential to customize your resume to each position that you’re applying for. Tailor your work experience, skills, and any additional information to the role. Include keywords from the job posting and always start your sentence with relevant action verbs like spearheaded, achieved, managed, trained, etc. Craft a compelling summary for your resume. Avoid including very detailed information for each position you have held; you can share relevant details in the interview instead.
Job interview resources: How to prepare for a job interview 10 common job interview questions and how to answer them
2. Optimize for Applicant Tracking System (ATS) but write for humans
Many companies use an ATS to pre-screen resumes and then involve recruiters and hiring managers later in the process. You need to keep both in mind when writing your resume.
What is an ATS?
An ATS is a software that scans resumes to determine if it is a good match for a specific job listing. Parameters such as work experience, skills, and education are usually considered during the ATS screening process. Resumes that match the pre-defined criteria are forwarded to hiring managers or recruiters, while human eyes never see those rejected by the system. Therefore, even though you may be qualified for the position, if your resume isn’t optimized for an ATS, it may end up being rejected. An ATS is widely used by organizations, recruiters, and job placement agencies in Canada.
How to optimize a resume for ATS
- Use standard formatting and don’t include images, designs, charts, and tables.
- Use correct headers and include keywords that match the job description and desired core competencies and skills.
- Send your resume as a Microsoft Word (.doc or .docx) document. Most ATS systems tend to process Word files better than PDF.
- Spell out abbreviations at least once on your resume.
- Include experience, skills, and qualifications relevant to the position.
- Avoid long paragraphs and font size less than size 10.
- Convert technical terms, grades, and scores to their Canadian equivalents.
3. Check spelling, grammar, punctuation, and proofread your resume
It’s always a good idea to proofread your resume and check grammar, spelling, punctuation, and sentence formation, especially if English isn’t your first language or mother tongue. There are many free tools that can help you with proofreading: Grammarly as well as the in-built grammar and spelling tool in Microsoft Word, are good starting points. You can also ask a native English speaker to review your resume for language fluency.
To help you finesse your English language skills and get more tips and advice from an experienced teacher, Karen Thomson, read How to improve your English and adapt to Canadian culture .
4. Quantify your accomplishments
Many job seekers make the mistake of outlining roles and responsibilities instead of achievements. Recruiters and hiring managers prefer seeing quantified accomplishments on resumes. The ‘CAR’ approach is a good way to help you structure individual sentences:
C = what was the Challenge , A = what Action did you take, and R = what was the Result .
Some examples to consider:
- “Reached eBay Power Seller status within one year by auctioning over 400 items per month, an exceptional accomplishment reached by only 4 per cent of the 29 million eBay sellers at that time.”
- “Designed and built statistical analysis models on large data sets (e.g. Aster, Teradata) that helped increase online sales (up to 15 per cent per product) and lowered cart-abandonment rate by 23 per cent.”
5. Include a cover letter
A cover letter is a formal one-page document that accompanies a resume. It is not a rephrased or concise version of your resume, but it is mainly supposed to talk about how you fit the role you’re applying for and why the organization should hire you. The cover letter is also a good way to justify any gaps in your resume or provide any additional info that your resume can’t.
Note that a cover letter doesn’t have to be a separate document but can also be included in the body of an email when applying for a job. Adding a custom, well-written cover letter to your resume can make you stand out from the crowd, thus improving your chances of being approached for an interview.
Tips for writing an impressive Canadian-style cover letter
- Limit the length to one page.
- Tailor your cover letter to suit each job application.
- Proofread your cover letter; check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling, especially since it serves as a reflection of your communication skills.
- Use a standard font size (10 or 12 points, in a font style such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri). Avoid using special effects (bold/underline/italics, different fonts, and colour).
- Weave in information you know about the company, their recent projects, or organizational culture and values.
Looking for more guidance on cover letters? Read How to write an effective cover letter for advice and insights from recruiters.
6. Show off your skills with unpaid or local volunteer work
This is a good way for newcomers to show Canadian experience on their resume. If your volunteer work requires you to use skills that may also be valued in the position that you are applying for, adding the volunteer experience to your resume may work to your advantage.
Tip: Volunteering can help you build your network and earn Canadian experience. To discover the importance of volunteering in Canada, and learn how to find volunteering opportunities, read The benefits of volunteering as a newcomer in Canada .
7. Double check your contact information
Newcomers sometimes have temporary phone numbers and addresses during their initial months in Canada and occasionally forget to update their contact when they get a permanent one. Before submitting your resume to an employer or a recruiter, do check all your contact information, including social media links, to ensure they are up-to-date.
Tip: LinkedIn is extensively used in Canada by recruiters and job seekers, making it an excellent tool to get started on your job search journey. Read Top 10 tips to optimize your LinkedIn profile for a job search in Canada for easy-to-follow advice to optimize your LinkedIn profile and build your professional network strategically.
A well-crafted resume and cover letter are strong marketing tools to help you get the job you desire. Being familiar with the best practices and employer expectations in Canada will better your chances of securing an interview and landing an offer.
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Suggested Cover Letter Format
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Apply to healthcare jobs April 1, 2007 Lee Jones Human Resources Manager St. Marie's Hospital 1200 Main St Winnipeg, Manitoba A1A 1A1 Dear Mr. Jones, I was pleased to learn of your need for an ICU Staff Nurse, as my career goals and expertise are directly in line with this opportunity. My experience and eduation have provided me w...
Sales Cover Letter Example
March 1, 2007 John Smith Vice President, Sales InfoTech Inc. 8855 Main St Toronto, ON M9M 9M9 Dear Mr. Smith: In today's highly competitive and fast-paced market, organizations need strong and aggressive sales leadership to meet ever-changing business development goals. I am certain I can contribute this level of performance to y...
Teacher Cover Letter
This example of a teacher cover letter was written by Martin Buckland, Resume Expert for Monster.ca. Jill Buckingham, M.Ed. 2205 Wiarton Way, Mississauga, Ontario L5L 3Z9 Phone: 905.668.9999 Cell: 416.668.9999 E mail: [email protected] January 18, 201X Human Resources Manager Pilgram School Board 123 Main Street Pilgram, On...
Purchasing Assistant Cover Letter Sample
This Purchasing Assistant cover letter example is by Martin Buckland, Resume Expert for Monster.ca. Jill Rodgers 3777 Cabot Trail Court Ingonish, Nova Scotia B0C 1KO H: (902) 285-1234 C: (902) 285-9999 [email protected] July 5, 201X Ms. Tricia Lambton Controller Shoppers Drug Mart, East Coast Division 4493 Fen...
Finance Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Template
Apply to administrative assistant jobs This example cover letter for an Administrative Assistant specializing in finance is by Martin Buckland, Resume Expert for Monster.ca. Eva North, Q.A.A 2345 Humber Trail Etobicoke, Ontario L4J 1A3 Phone: 905.888.1234 Email: [email protected] August 16, 201X Human Resources Manager President...
Professional Cover Letter Example
A cover letter isn't ever going to win you a job by itself, but a badly worded letter is going to cause doubts in the employers mind right from the start. A good cover letter explains why you, over all the other candidates, are worth taking the time to find out more about. This sample cover letter for job application is designed for professional...
Tricky cover letter mistakes to avoid
Your cover letter is like a handshake—it’s how you introduce yourself to employers when you apply for a job. Like a good handshake, you want your cover letter to be sharp, concise, and make a great first impression. Your cover letter isn’t a part of the job application process you want to skimp on, either. A cover letter allows you to go into mo...
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If you do business in Canada, Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) requires you to do GST or HST returns. Luckily, the process is fairly straightforward, and you can usually file online. GST stands for “goods and service tax.” It’s a federal sales t...
If you have a friend or family member living north of the United States, chances are you’ve wondered about postage to Canada. So, how many stamps do you need to mail a letter to Canada? Generally, it takes three regular postage stamps to ma...
Although the time frame may vary, on average, letters traveling through standard mail from the United States to Canada take four to seven days to reach their destination. The variables that may affect the delivery include the customs proces...
How to Format a Cover Letter for a Job in Canada in 2023 · 1. Create a Cover Letter Header · 2. Greet the Hiring Manager and Choose an Opening Strategy · 3.
What Should I Include in a Cover Letter? · What job or position you are applying for, as well as your name · Information about any professional skills or
Don't forget that you will need two documents — a resume and cover letter — for a successful job application in Canada. Keep your resume brief and then craft a
Note the date · Include your name and address · Include the recipient's name and address · Introduce yourself · Make your opening paragraph about
A Canadian cover letter acts as an introduction to your resume and is tailoured to a particular role you wish to apply in Canada. A cover letter's primary
It contains information on why you are applying for the job, a short summary of your career background, and what qualifies you for the role.
A cover letter is a short document written in response to a specific job prospect and addressed directly to the department or individual in charge of hiring for
A cover letter introduces you and your resumé or application form. Your goal is to get the employer's attention by showing how your skills and
Tips for writing an impressive Canadian-style cover letter · Limit the length to one page. · Tailor your cover letter to suit each job application
A cover letter isn't ever going to win you a job by itself, but a badly worded letter is going to cause doubts in the employers mind right from the start. A
Your cover letter should have three main thoughts. The first is to introduce yourself, and the position you are applying for. The second should be about your