how to make a cover letter for a resume in canada

Canada Cover Letter Format And Free Samples (2023)

In Canada, a well-written cover letter can be just as important as a strong resume when it comes to landing your dream job.

While cover letters may seem daunting, they are an essential component of the job application process. A well-crafted cover letter can set you apart from other applicants and demonstrate your professionalism, attention to detail, and passion for the position.

In this article, we’ll provide tips and guidelines to help you create a compelling Canada cover letter that will impress employers and increase your chances of landing an interview.

Canada Cover Letter Font

6. signature, researching the company, proofreading and editing, cover letter sample 3 (fresher), canada cover letter basics.

A cover letter is a document that introduces you to potential employers and highlights your qualifications, skills, and experience. It is your chance to make a great first impression and convince hiring managers that you are the right person for the job.

Canada Cover Letter Format

In Canada, a cover letter should follow a standard format that includes your contact information, the date, and the recipient’s contact information. Begin with your name, address, and contact details, followed by the date and the recipient’s name, and address. Use a clear and organized layout to ensure your cover letter is easily readable.

Canada Cover Letter Length

A Canadian cover letter should be concise and limited to one page in length . This allows you to effectively showcase your qualifications and experiences without overwhelming the reader.

It is crucial to choose a professional-looking font for your cover letter. Common font choices include Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri. Be consistent with your font selection throughout the cover letter to maintain a polished appearance.

When it comes to font size, aim for a balance between readability and space efficiency. A font size of 10 to 12 points is generally considered appropriate in a Canadian cover letter. This ensures the text is large enough to be easily readable, but not too large that it takes up excessive space on the page.

Canada Cover Letter Structure

The structure of a Canadian cover letter typically consists of an introduction, body, and conclusion .

• In the introduction , you should introduce yourself and express your interest in the position.
• In the body , focus on your qualifications, relevant skills, and experiences that make you a valuable candidate for the job.
• Conclude by thanking the reader for their time and consideration.

Canadian cover letters typically begin with a header containing the applicant’s name, job title, city and province, phone number, and email address.

It’s also essential to include the current date . The header should be consistent with the one used in the applicant’s resume for a cohesive presentation.

2. Greeting

In the greeting section, address the hiring manager by their full name and title. If the name is not available, use a generic salutation such as “Dear Hiring Manager” or “To Whom It May Concern.”

Personalization is preferred, so make an effort to find the hiring manager’s name when possible.

The opening paragraph serves as an introduction and an opportunity to grab the hiring manager’s attention. Applicants should briefly mention the job title and company they’re applying to, and express enthusiasm for both the position and the organization.

Including keywords from the job posting and aligning personal skills with the employer’s requirements will make the opening more impactful.

In the body of the cover letter, applicants should elaborate on their relevant skills, experiences, and achievements. It’s necessary to make connections between the job requirements and the applicant’s qualifications.

• When discussing experiences, be specific and focus on accomplishments rather than just listing responsibilities.
• Use bullet points or short paragraphs to present the information in a clear and easy-to-read manner.

The body of the letter should effectively convey the applicant’s background and qualifications while demonstrating a genuine interest in the role and the company.

The closing section is the final opportunity to leave a positive impression on the hiring manager. Here, applicants should reiterate their enthusiasm for the position and summarize their qualifications .

It’s also appropriate to politely request an interview and express gratitude for the manager’s time and consideration. End the closing paragraph with a professional and respectful closing such as “Sincerely” or “Best Regards.”

Lastly, include a signature in the cover letter which may consist of the applicant’s full name and any relevant professional designation or certification.

If the cover letter is being sent electronically, either type the full name or use an electronic/digital signature as a more personal touch.

Customizing Your Cover Letter

Tailoring to the job.

When customizing your cover letter, it is essential to tailor it to the specific job you are applying for. Start by carefully reviewing the job description and noting the key requirements, responsibilities, and qualifications mentioned.

Then, in your cover letter, emphasize how your skills and experiences align with these aspects of the job. In doing so, be sure to use relevant keywords and phrases from the job description to demonstrate your understanding of the role.

Split your text into concise paragraphs that focus on different aspects of the job, such as your relevant experience, technical skills, and soft skills. You may also consider using bullet points to highlight specific achievements that directly relate to the position.

In addition to tailoring your cover letter to the job, you should also research the company and demonstrate how your values and goals align with theirs . This shows that you have taken the time to understand the organization’s culture and objectives and that you would be a good fit for the team.

You can find information about a company’s values and goals on its website or through news articles, press releases, and social media accounts.

Remember, customizing your cover letter for each position you apply to and researching the company can make a significant difference in making a positive first impression on a recruiter or hiring manager. By focusing on these aspects, you demonstrate your attention to detail and genuine interest in the job and company, improving your chances of landing an interview.

Writing Tips for a Canadian Cover Letter

Highlighting achievements.

When crafting a Canadian cover letter, it is essential to focus on the tangible accomplishments in your career. Mention specific achievements  that demonstrate your capabilities and experiences relevant to the job you are applying for.

Include quantifiable results, such as increased sales or improved customer satisfaction, to clearly showcase your successes. Use active verbs and concise language to communicate your achievements in a compelling manner.

Focusing on Skills and Qualifications

Employers want to see that you have the necessary skills and qualifications to succeed in the role. Align your skills with the requirements listed in the job description , and provide examples of how you have applied these skills in previous positions. Include both technical and transferable skills that will make you an asset to the company.

Providing specific examples can help create a strong connection between you and the organization, increasing your chances of being invited for an interview.

In addition, mention any relevant education or certifications that demonstrate your qualifications for the position.

Emphasizing Value

An effective cover letter should articulate the  value  you would bring to the company. Explain how your skills, achievements, and experiences will contribute to their success.

Relate your accomplishments to the goals and objectives of the company, and demonstrate your understanding of their priorities and challenges. By doing this, you will show potential employers that you can make a positive impact on their organization.

As a final step before submitting your cover letter, make sure to proofread and edit your work thoroughly. This includes checking for proper grammar, spelling, and formatting.

Ensure that your cover letter is one page long, left-aligned with single spacing , and has one-inch margins .

Use a professional font, such as Arial or Helvetica, at a size between 10 and 12 points. Double-check your work to eliminate any errors, as these may create a negative impression on potential employers.

With a well-written cover letter, applicants can confidently present themselves as an attractive candidate, ultimately improving their chances of career success.

Canada Cover Letter Examples

Cover letter sample 1.

Here’s a sample cover letter for a job in Canada:

Cover Letter Sample 2

Here’s another sample cover letter for a job in Canada:

Here’s another sample cover letter for a job in Canada, more suitable for freshers:

Writing an effective cover letter is a critical component of a successful job search in Canada. A well-written cover letter can demonstrate your interest in the position, showcase your qualifications and skills, and distinguish you from other applicants.

When writing your cover letter, it is essential to customize it for each position, research the company, and carefully proofread it to avoid any errors.

Remember to keep your cover letter concise, relevant, and professional, and highlight your unique skills and experiences that make you the ideal candidate for the position.

With these tips in mind, you can create a compelling cover letter that will capture the attention of potential employers and help you stand out in a competitive job market. Good luck with your job search!

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Canada Style Resume: How Should A Cover Letter Be Formatted?

Finding work as soon as possible after arriving in Canada is a top aim for most immigrants. Applying for a job needs your resume and cover letter. Is your resume all set to apply for a job, but you are still seeking some valuable tips to make a cover letter? You can steal these tips from here.

You can make your cover letter by adjusting your Canadian templates and formats. Add your name, address, phone number, and email in the heading. Don’t forget to mention a formal greeting to the recruiter. Introduce yourself, your skills, and your experience. Be confident about getting an interview call. Moreover, add a goodbye at the end of your cover letter.

Your job application may not be chosen due to the wrong email address, ridiculous font sizes, incorrect language, and typos in your cover letter and resume. So, there are some guidelines that you might find helpful to avoid these mistakes in your cover letter.

Let’s cover some tips for writing an effective cover letter.

What Is A Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a piece of writing often included with a job application that summarizes your qualifications and enthusiasm for the post. A cover letter is sometimes one of two documents given to a hiring manager. Therefore, its quality may determine your eligibility for an interview call.

A strong cover letter introduces you well and enhances a resume by elaborating on essential points of the position . Essentially, it is a sales technique outlining why the candidate is the most qualified for the job. Professionals encourage job searchers to individually tailor cover letters for specific opportunities rather than sending out a mass mailing.

Even though it takes more work, it may be beneficial in helping a candidate differentiate themselves from others. It tells the hiring manager more about your experience and personality. It comprises your:

• Objectives for your career
• Information
• Skills you have acquired over time
• Accomplishments

It must be a one-page document explaining in plain English why you are a strong fit for a particular post. It would be best if you highlighted your intellectual; compatibility as well.

Importance Of A Cover Letter

Your first and last chance to impress a potential employer is in the cover letter. It is a crucial business strategy to get the company to overview your resume. Consider it as the “fish” to catch the reader.

Don’t forget that the recruiting managers at law firms are always looking for an excuse to reject your application. So don’t ever give them a chance to do so by giving them a clumsy, badly written cover letter full of errors and grammar mistakes.

You pair your cover letter with your resume to secure an interview call. It is also attached to convey the intellectual assets which are harder to understand from your resume. It must be written in an enthusiastic, straightforward, yet modest style .

Necessary Information on a Cover Letter

It’s crucial to keep in mind that success may be achieved by following the strategy while writing a cover letter. Your introduction should include information about the position and yourself. 

Secondly, be very certain about your skills and abilities that must correspond with the demands specified in the job ad. Lastly, explain why you are the best candidate for a certain job, but avoid being impatient.

Now, take a deeper look at the strategy below:

• Make sure you leave a strong first impression by doing your homework on the business and firm and demonstrating it in your letter. Could you not assume it to be true? Do not be cocky about your knowledge, but do emphasize it
• In Canada, a cover letter shouldn’t be solely about you. Make sure you discuss everything about the firm, its recent initiatives, corporate values, and company news. This information must hold about 30% of your letter. You’ll increase your chances of getting an interview invitation if you make the employer feel unique
• Concentrate on demonstrating your qualifications for the position that suits the post. In this way, you’ll be successful in explaining that you have much knowledge about the post and firm

How To Write A Cover Letter In Canada?

Sometimes, recruiters list all the requirements for a cover letter in the job description. Hence, you have to create your letter according to those requirements. They may set a word restriction or ask candidates to respond to specific queries. Following these guidelines is crucial since it shows how well-versed and obedient the candidate is. 

If there are no requirements from the company, a normal cover letter with one page containing a salutation, your contact details, and direct links to your portfolio . In case of no requirements, you must put your qualifications and draw attention to your unique abilities.

By presenting a strong cover letter, you can impress an employer. If your resume needs certain qualities that a recruiter is looking for, an attractive cover letter may help you look different from others in competition for a certain job.

Moreover, there is a limit on the length of your cover letter and the amount of information you may include. Most letters submitted to companies are given a cursory read, so a lengthy essay may finish at the end of the sack.

You may present yourself in the best possible light by outlining your talents and abilities in a few concise phrases, along with why you choose that particular job. 

Documents 

Following are the documents you need for a cover letter:

Resume Builder: Using your working experience, abilities, and hobbies, you may generate a uniquely designed CV using a program called a resume builder.

Letter Of Recommendation: It is a written evaluation of your employment or academic study qualifications.

A Formal Letter Of Resignation: You must take this letter from your employer and inform him that you are quitting the position. 

Check the following tutorial for writing a cover letter for a resume in Canada :

Canada Cover Letter Format

Tired of creating formats and templates for a winning cover letter? Don’t worry! We’ll provide you all the formatting guidelines for cover letters that you must adhere to while creating your ideal cover letter:

• Use margins of 1 inch
• The line spacing should be 1.15 or a little more
• There must be double spaces between paragraphs
• Alignment should be left
• You may select fonts among Arial, Calibri, Verdana, and Helvetica
• The size of the font should be 10 to 12
• The number of pages should be one or only half of a page
• Your resume and a well written cover letter must be submitted in a PDF file or any other asked via the job description
• Your PDF file name should be like this: JobTitle_Your Name_CoverLetter.pdf

Stick to the precise layout of your templates for every section of your job application.

Canada Cover Letter Template

A perfect template should comprise the following:

• Header with your complete name, postal address, contact information, and email
• It should contain the date of publication
• You should also mention the address of the recruiter
• Add some greetings
• It must contain at least three to 4 paragraphs
• Add your signature at the end

Sometimes, things are straightforward. We are delighted since being straightforward is the purpose of the cover letter heading. The heading contains brief details about you. Make sure these details are entirely accurate.

If you are unlikely to receive a callback, you shouldn’t be glued to your phone. Do you want your chance at a prosperous career taken by someone else? No? Then do not skip the detailed info about what to add in your cover letter heading.

The heading template should look like the following:

• Your full name
• Mailing or postal Address
• Phone number
• Email address

Feel free to emphasize your name if that’s what you like. Adjust the maximum text size to 14 to get the recruiter’s undivided concentration.

Addressing the Recruiter

It would be best if you knew the recruiter’s name and address. If you mention “to whom it may concern” or “ Dear sir/madam,” you will undoubtedly lose the opportunity of being a candidate chosen for an interview call.

Furthermore, no one owns communications or paperwork without any name. Thus regardless of what justification you accept, both weaken the argument. You are correct in seeing that the address doubles as a greeting.

Always use Mr. or Mrs. with the recruiter’s name . If you couldn’t discover the recruiter’s name, write “dear hiring manager” in the salutation. 

Introducing Yourself

You must now perform to the very best of your ability. You may land a job because of the opening paragraph of your cover letter. Its fascinating quality is what keeps the reader turning the pages.

You may control it by turning your character, accomplishments, or shared ideas into commanding statements. You may use the following tips to ensure that you produce a strong introduction for your cover letter:

• Cite your commitments and goals
• Discuss the recent activities of the firm
• Be a problem-solver for the business
• Express your excitement and enthusiasm
• Demonstrate the value of hiring you
• Mention one of your largest and most relevant accomplishments to the company

Talk About Relevant Skills & Experience

The second paragraph of your cover letter serves your prior experiences and skills regarding a particular job post. Do well on the work at hand to be given a seat. This paragraph should be something other than a google spreadsheet of the things you already own or can offer.

It should be a list of accomplishments that explains how the outcomes relate to the past work your company expects of you. Discuss your pertinent abilities and how they contribute to the job post.

However, provide three to four bullet points with the achievements that correspond to the skills or characteristics of the job posting lists as essential. 

Proving Your Motivation to Join

The recruiters and hiring manager have finished chatting now about you. Now it’s your turn. Use the 3rd paragraph to elaborate on why you picked the particular firm . Again, this is your time to express how motivated and keen you are to join this firm.

However, since you can demonstrate your passion doesn’t imply that you can entirely ignore the opportunity to make the most of the cover letter. You may really pick one of the approaches and really push it for the introductory paragraph by reading the job description .

Asking For An Interview

Write “I am interested in getting a call from you” to show your confidence. Keep your composure till the end and generate a response from the reader. For example, you can write, “Let’s have a coffee date and discuss how I can be a good fit for your company.”

Leaving A Formal Sign-Off

You can end your cover letter on a formal note by saying something like:

• Best or Warmest regards
• Please accept my deepest thanks and best wishes

Lastly, include your real name as a signature , or you may also add a scanned signature over your name.

Check Out Canadian Cover Letter Format – How To Write A Cover Letter For a Job Application

Tips For Creating Cover Letters In Canada

It might appear to be a headache to write a cover letter, but it does not need to be. The following are some easy suggestions you might need to take into account while writing your cover letter:

Conduct Research

Before drafting a letter, you must know the job criteria, corporate culture, goals and objectives, and the most recent market trends. You may definitely benefit from customizing your letter and showcasing your enthusiasm in the post by learning more about the role, business, and firm.

Adapt To The Chosen Format

Although a cover letter is in a specific format, you may alter it according to the particular job you are interested in. it must include the following information:

• Your desired position and why it intrigues you
• Talents and work history that are relevant
• Your work for the firm
• Requesting an interview

Create A Unique Letter For Each Position

Only send a cover letter that is basic and exciting . This implies that you must create a new letter for every job post. Add your accomplishments and qualifications and elaborate on the reason for your best fit for a job.

Adapt Your Header To The Format Of Your Application

Your headings of the cover letter and resume must be in accordance if you submit them online. You do not need to add your name, address, and phone number in the header, as this information is already on your application. If you are attaching a cover letter separately with your Canadian style resume, it is necessary to provide your contact details on the letter. 

Use An Appropriate Greeting

If the recruiter’s name is missing from the job advertisement, contact the firm or look it up online . Adding the recruiter’s name to the cover letter offers a formal hello and demonstrates your efforts. Otherwise, start with “Hey, Hiring Manager.” 

If you need help making your welcome professional, obtaining a sense of the workplace mission is crucial. “Hello” and “Hi there” salutations are typically too informal for a cover letter.

Make Your Letter Simpler

Be concise and straightforward while communicating. By using difficult phrases and sentences, you may fail to communicate your goals to the organization, and the reader will leave the remaining letter unread.

Be Specific And Short

Concentrate on the information most crucial for the position when deciding the length of your letter. Always overview the job description carefully to find the finest opportunity to highlight your skills.

Do not restate your resume! For example, elaborate on your marketing expertise in the letter by stating that you boosted your income to $15,000 while bringing in 250 more clients monthly. This might help you stand out from those that provide unclear personal details. 

Add Relevant Details

There are 3, 4, or even 5 paragraphs in the body of a cover letter. Following are some suggestions for each paragraph’s content:

• Initial And First Paragraph

As well as explaining the reason for writing a cover letter, this section must urge the reader to continue reading throughout the letter. Don’t forget to mention the job you are applying for. 

• Second Paragraph

Include extra details about your educational history and job-relevant abilities in this section. Avoid repeating information from your resume. Instead, elaborate more on anything that wasn’t adequately covered by the brief words on your resume.

Give more details about your unique achievements. Explain the relation between your achievements and the job post and how these achievements can benefit the organization.

• Third Paragraph

The third paragraph allows you to demonstrate your business and sector expertise. Describe your reasons for wanting a job for the firm and how you may help it succeed.

You might also emphasize why you believe you would fit within the company’s ideas and goals. Employers sometimes state soft talents and personality attributes in the job description. To demonstrate how you suit the listed soft abilities, choose a narrative from your experiences.

• Final Paragraph

To complete your tale, connect and link your ending to your beginning . Thank the firm for choosing you. Include information about your next plan. You can make a call for further information.

It will also be fantastic to let the recruiters know you are open to a response. Your letter should be signed with a formal closure like “sincerely” to seal it. If you are submitting your job application online, your name will be worked as your signature.

Embrace Keywords

When submitting your resume online, be careful to include pertinent keywords. A candidate monitoring system is frequently used by recruiters to identify your resume and cover letters that most closely match the job specifications.

Before sending it, go through your letter numerous times. Overview of vocabulary, grammatical, or punctuation mistakes . You can spot problematic wording or sentences by reading them in a louder voice.

Moreover, ask the other person to read it once so that you may correct the mistakes according to his mindset. If your welcome has your recruiter’s name , be sure about its spelling . 

  Cover Letter Sample

Let’s have a look at an effective cover letter sample:

What makes it good? This sample expresses all the necessary tips that it must contain. Moreover, add your name, mailing address, and contact number as required in the heading section. Follow all the steps described above to write a whole letter according to a certain job description. 

How Do You Sell Yourself In A Cover Letter With No Experience?

Submitting a cover letter with your expertly crafted resume demonstrates to companies that you need help to create your application. But what if you have never done a job before? Not to worry. 

A cover letter can still be effective even if you have never written one before. Here are some pointers to help you create your cover letter without any experience:

– Add your contact details. – Call the recruiter manager’s name. – Create a compelling beginning sentence – Explain your skills and the reason you are the best fit for a job effectively so that it may overcome the fear of being an un-experienced entity – Add your top achievements. – Add relative material and then the best closing of your cover letter.

What Is The Best Opening Line For A Cover Letter?

Your cover letter’s introductory paragraph should be no longer than one paragraph. You can fill the crucial opening with one of the following compelling materials:

Be Direct: Clearly state the post for which you are applying. Your objective should be clear by identifying the business or organization and job title. Because recruiters frequently deal with applicants who are applying for numerous open opportunities.

Express Passion: Display some excitement and passion for the position, the business, the goods, and the products it offers. It is one of the greatest methods to get started because it frequently results in devoted and productive workers.  Moreover, it gives the recruiters a boost of energy and makes them want to read your remaining letter.

Mention Your Connections And Contacts: If the position was referred to you, make sure to bring that up right away. Social proof and a powerful method of argument rely heavily on recommendations. 

Grab Them With Outstanding Achievements: Write a statement highlighting a noteworthy career achievement. Make it tangible with data and demonstrate how you would be a true asset to the company if recruiters hire you.

Put Your Beliefs In Writing: You can use a belief assertation rather than an achievement statement. Demonstrate that your aims and beliefs align with the organization and the job. Please do not write the company’s purpose statement. Instead, make it seem genuine.

Demonstrate Your Understanding Of News And Current Affairs: Finding out more about the business is a proven approach to impress hiring managers. Look for a guide or magazine on the corporate website.

Apply Keywords: Whatever method you use to begin your letter, keywords are essential. 90% of large businesses scan your job applications via ATS. These tools go through applications for keywords and disqualify those who do not use them.

How Do You Introduce Yourself in a Resume?

A professional pitch is a brief and impactful technique to make a great introduction. It is also known as a thirty-second ad, your intro, an elevator pitch etc. Moreover, you can utilize your own identity at an interview or live session.

You should outline your professional background in your introduction. Add the name of your present employer. It rapidly lets the reader know how much working experience you have. Your resume introduction should contain an illustration of a professional achievement that exemplifies those abilities. 

The aim of your resume should be apparent in your introduction. These might be both short-term and long-term aims. 

What Is The Best Greeting For A Cover Letter?

“Dear” is the most formal greeting for a cover letter. 

The best cover letter greeting is “hello” or “dear” with the names of recruiters. You can find their name in a job description or search for it from the particular firm you are applying for.

Moreover, if you know the gender of your recruiter, then use “Dear Mr/Mrs.” But if you don’t know the gender, saying this lessens the chance of mistakenly addressing someone as the wrong gender.

If you have done your homework and need help identifying a single candidate to hire, the business has probably put together a team to handle the hiring duties . Determine which division or unit the position belongs to before addressing a letter.

So, do you now know how to make a cover letter for a resume in Canada ? A resume is a marketing device that can only be used to request an interview . On the other hand, a cover letter exposes you to a hiring manager together with your resume. It is also your first impression as the recruiters read it first.

Moreover, it enables the company to learn more about you and your qualifications for the post. We hope you are familiar with the Canadian cover letter formats via this guide. Getting familiar with the resume format is compulsory as it can be your first encounter with Canadian companies.

Do not feel hesitation if you have any queries regarding this guide. Feel free to ask us on OnTheMoveCanada . Have a good day! 

Updated on 02-10-23

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Canadian Cover Letter Guide

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A Canadian cover letter is a short document written in response to a specific job prospect and addressed directly to the hiring manager 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.

Cover letters are essential in the hiring process as they provide candidates with the opportunity to introduce themselves, demonstrate their qualifications, and show enthusiasm for a specific role and company.

They serve as a personalized communication tool, allowing candidates to make a positive first impression, tailor their message to the job, and address potential concerns or unique situations.

A well-written cover letter enhances a candidate’s chances of standing out and securing an interview in Canada .

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.

Also, keep in mind the job description and requirements for the role. it allows you to create a cover letter that showcases your qualifications, aligns with the company’s needs, and demonstrates your genuine interest in the position. This, in turn, increases your chances of being noticed and considered for the role.

Doing this research will help you decide what you should include. Do your 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 your cover letter. If they have, follow them carefully.

3. Save time by using a Master Template:

Creating a separate cover letter for every job application can be exhausting. Instead, develop a comprehensive cover letter template that highlights your key qualifications, skills, and experiences.

Keep a library of snippets or bullet points highlighting your achievements, skills, and relevant experiences. You can easily insert these into your cover letter as needed. This template can serve as a foundation for various job applications, making the process more efficient.

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. Your 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 in the cover letter. 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.

Body  In the next couple of paragraphs, you want to convince the employer that you are the best candidate for the job position. Tell them why they should invest in you. If you’re not sure what to include, try to answer these questions:

• 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?

The body of your cover letter should be one or two paragraphs.

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 letters 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 sure that you have not made 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.

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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How to write the perfect cover letter for Canada

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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.
• Also, we have listed some common interview questions and how to answer them.

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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Resume & Cover Letter Writing: Canadian Formats

Grace Wilson

4 Sep 2021, 9:30 am

The Canadian resume format is a bit different when compared to some resumes and cover letters from other countries.

Keep reading to learn how to prepare the resume and the cover letter that will get you the best jobs in Canada . 

What is a CV Like in Canada? 

The key to finding a job in Canada is your Canadian cover letter. The format is quite straightforward, where you mention the main qualities that an employer is looking for while mentioning it in a specific layout that catches their eyes. 

The Canadian resume format includes:

• contact information
• professional skills
• career summary
• work experience

Candidates can also add specific skills including technical experience, volunteering, or community involvement.

Precision is key when finding a job in Canada as an immigrant. Make sure that your skillset is clearly listed and matches the job description. 

Why Would You Think about the CV and Job Hunting Before the Immigration?

A long way of successful immigration may start with a great CV and, thus, a job in Canada.

Later, on your immigration path, if you choose to immigrate through the Express Entry , you will be assessed based on the CRS pointing system . The higher you rank, the more chances you’ll have to be granted a permanent residency.

The great news is, the job offer can give you from 50 to 200 CRS points and that will accelerate the immigration process big time by providing you with almost guaranteed success.

To get an idea of your eligibility for immigration you may use this tool:

Note that this too is used to assess initial eligibility for immigration to Canada in general. However, it gives an idea on the CRS points you may get later.

We explain how the assessment systems work here .

Make Your Resume Canadian-Like

In order to get a job in Canada, follow these tips to have your CV up-to-date in the correct Canadian resume format. 

• Keep your resume precise and to the point. It shouldn’t have unnecessary details, especially if it doesn’t correlate to your current skill levels for a particular job. 
• Keeping the resume interesting is an art. Recruiters skim through most CVs, so make sure that you have highlighted your expertise and achievements. 
• Make use of a professional template and avoid excessive writing or unprofessional font style. 
• Use short and concise sentences, and according to the Canadian resume format, the CV should typically be summarized in two pages. However, for those with 10+ years of experience, three page Canadian cover letter is also acceptable for jobs in Canada for immigrants.
• Mention everything in Canadian equivalent and terms.
• Employers gravitate towards resumes tailored to a specific skill rather than generic interests. 
• Your Canadian resume format shouldn’t include your signature, date or the word ‘CV’ or ‘Resume’ mentioned in it. 

Writing a Cover Letter: Tips for Success

The most important factor when finding a job in Canada as an immigrant [link to the main article] is your cover letter, as it represents your skills and experiences before you are considered for an interview.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind for the perfect Canadian cover letter. 

• First step is introducing yourself in a way that’s concise but catches the eye. This can be done by being specific about your expertise to grab the attention of the recruiter. The Canadian cover letter isn’t all about the candidate. A part of it should cover the information you know about the company, so that they know that you’ve done your homework. 
• Make sure that your skills match the requirements of the job. Instead of mentioning your set of skills, be assertive about how those skills fit the job description well and will benefit the employer in long term. Doing so will assure the recruiter that you understand the demands of the job. 
• Enlist the reasons that make you a well suited candidate for the given position.
• Make sure that you have all the necessary information about the company, including its background and highlights.

How to Use LinkedIn for Job Hunting 

LinkedIn is a powerful online tool for finding a job in Canada as an immigrant. This is because it allows foreigners to look for international jobs and find employers who are looking for the same skill sets and expertise that the applicant has.

LinkedIn also gives you a platform to build contacts and resources that greatly help speed up your career by specifically targeting the companies and people you need. 

Do You Prefer Communication and Creativity to Standard Interviews?

Then you may get the most from LinkedIn. A lot of potential employers use it for networking and could be willing to discuss opportunities for you.

And what makes LinkedIn even more amazing – you can find connections using it beforehand, when you are outside of Canada!

Of course, you don’t want to be too persistent. But trying to reach out to people from the companies in Canada could be worth a try.

Sometimes it takes just one text to catch the attention of someone who can change your life. Just stay polite and be creative!

We’ve created a checklist on how to prepare for a job-hunting with the use of LinkedIn:

• create and maintain a detailed profile
• use the professional profile image
• post relevant articles
• join LinkedIn groups that tailor to your sector, industry, and professional organization
• be positive in your communication and engagement
• when reaching out to people, keep a professional yet friendly tone
• don’t send bulk messages – try to show why you are interested in a specific job opportunity and why you are the one right for i

Finally, we all spend lots of time browsing Social Media. So, why not use it to find opportunities for a job?

Video Resume

Finding a job isn’t easy. It requires patience, commitment, and determination.

However, there are many ways to speed up the process and bring your profile to the top. Video resumes are quite common these days, and it not only reflects on your skills and experience but also your personality and communication skills.

All of these factors can help make your resume stand out and leave a lasting impression. 

Finding a job in Canada could be challenging. We hope that this post has helped you to learn more about how to prepare a CV and cover letter for a Canadian employer.

We have gathered more information about job hunting for immigrants in this article .

To make sure you prepared all documents accordingly we recommend to consult a professional – an RCIC . With consultants, chances for successful job hunting are definitely higher!

Grace was born in Birmingham, England, and moved to Canada with her family when she was five. She graduated from the University of British Columbia in 2015 and since then she has been working as a recruitment consultant for 10+ companies. In her spare time, Grace writes about her professional experience with winning job offers for immigrants. She also shares tips about employment that could be useful for both immigrants and local job seekers.

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Canada IMS Immigration Consultants in Review

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A developing country, Pakistan suffers from a low unemployment rate and overpopulation. It has also lived through its fair share of strife, political disputes and wars. When people choose to leave the country they do so in search of a better life. 

What is the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Program?

CEC represents the way to go permanent residency for immigrant workers. They are seen as valuable assets by the government of Canada since they contribute in both economic and cultural manners to country's development.

What is the Federal Skilled Trades Class (FSTC) Program?

The Federal Skilled Trades Class (FSTC) allows potential candidates qualified in a skilled trade to settle in Canada and become permanent residents.

Editor’s Note

You can trust the integrity of our balanced, independent immigration advice. We may, however, receive compensation from the issuers of some products mentioned in this article. Opinions are the author's alone. This content has not been provided by, reviewed, approved or endorsed by any advertiser, unless otherwise noted below.

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How to write an effective cover letter

In my previous post, I provided tips and techniques on how to write a resume for the Canadian job market. Now, I am going to take us a step further and share my experiences in writing cover letters. In a majority of situations, while applying for a job, candidates are required to provide a cover letter supporting their resume. Most newcomers are not familiar with this concept as in countries like India, the use of cover letters for a job application is very rare.

Let’s begin with understanding what exactly is a ‘cover letter’ and why you should have one while applying for a job in Canada.

What is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a formal one-page letter that accompanies a resume. It is NOT a rephrased or concise version of your resume but it is mainly supposed to be about how you fit the potential role on offer.

Why should you have a Cover Letter?

Through the cover letter, the expectation is for you to enable the hiring manager/recruiter to see the match between your skill set, qualifications, and the employer’s needs. In Canada, employers expect to receive a resume supported by a cover letter that identifies yourself with the position you are applying for and also summarizes your relevant experience. One of the main objectives of the cover letter is to bridge the gap between the resume and the specific job along with highlighting your education, skills, experience, and demonstrating the value you bring to the position. Cover letters are usually not mandatory but good-to-have.

Anika Diachuk, Senior Digital Recruitment Lead at RBC says:

I feel incredibly fortunate as often times I receive fascinating data filled cover letters/profile presentations with some of my applications. Cover letters can come in all shapes and forms: a software engineering portfolio or creative presentation, product management map or smartly written letter showcasing a great deal of interest in the role, line of business, opportunity as a whole as well as determining one’s eligibility for the position. Immediately, it creates a strong sense of integrity and targeted career effort professionalism. It is not all about a cover letter; I don’t believe it is mandatory (particularly when candidates have one canned version that they never tailor to be job specific and just change company names in it). But it definitely is a nice touch, and a great way to diversify your application.

According to a Robert Half survey, cover letters are known to better your chances of being shortlisted; 90% of executives say writing a cover letter is valuable. Vivian Li, Senior Manager, Inclusive Recruitment at RBC says, “ A cover letter is like a ‘cherry on top’. It allows you the additional opportunity to express your strong interest in the role and highlight why you are the ideal candidate. Also, for roles that are looking for exceptional communication skills, your cover letter can be a great example of your written communication capability. ”

What are the key elements of a Cover Letter?

Generally speaking, a cover letter has the following sections:

1. Name and Contact Information: As a best practice, it’s good to match the details in this section with the content in the same section on your resume. Using a similar header for your cover letter and resume looks both, professional and consistent. Greeting or Salutation: It’s always good to address the cover letter to a specific individual. If the name of the hiring manager is not mentioned in the job posting, it is okay to call the employer’s main phone line and ask for the name. If you must keep the greeting/salutation generic, you can address it as “Sir/Madam” or “Human Resources Department” or “Hiring Committee.” Introductory Paragraph: This opening paragraph largely talks about:

2. Greeting or Salutation: It’s always good to address the cover letter to a specific individual. If the name of the hiring manager is not mentioned in the job posting, it is okay to call the employer’s main phone line and ask for the name. If you must keep the greeting/salutation generic, you can address it as “Sir/Madam” or “Human Resources Department” or “Hiring Committee.”

3. Introductory Paragraph: This opening paragraph largely talks about:

• The name of the position you are applying for (better to include any identification/reference number/s for the job posting, if there was one)
• How you learned about this position
• Some insights into your motivation for applying for the position at that particular organization/company

4. The First Paragraph: The first paragraph typically provides insights into your professional background and education. It also highlights some of your accomplishments.

5. The Second Paragraph: In the following paragraph, it is ideal to do a deep dive and explain why you are a good fit with the help of specific examples from your professional experience. It is also an opportunity to summarize relevant skill sets that qualify you for the role. Best practice suggests using an active voice and taking ownership for your accomplishments; don’t start every sentence with “I”. Use facts to elaborate on your experience more than qualitative information. Visually, bullet points help to better emphasize your experience.

6. The Concluding Paragraph: The ending/concluding paragraph should be used to thank the employer for the opportunity, demonstrating enthusiasm to work for the organization, and thank them for their time in reviewing your application. It is recommended to end the letter by indicating that you’ve attached your resume and that you are interested in an interview to learn more about the position.

7. Signing off: Finally, sign off using the more professional sounding – “Sincerely”, followed by your full name.

What are some additional tips for building a good Cover Letter?

• Keep the cover letter concise and limited to one page.
• Tailor your cover letter to suit each job application.
• Proofread your cover letter multiple times; check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling, especially since it serves as a reflection of your written communication skills.
• Use a standard font size (10 or 12 points, in a font style such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri). Avoid the use of special effects (bold/underline/italics, different fonts, and colour).
• 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.
• Include keywords/action verbs from the job description.

As we end this blog, here’s a downloadable template for a cover letter that you can use to customize and make it your own.

About the Author:

Nerissa is a business research and management consulting professional with over a decade of experience working with clients in IT, Telecom, Retail, Banking/Finance, Retail, Pharmaceuticals, and Healthcare across global geographies. In her current role at Arrive, she works as a content specialist leveraging her first-hand experience as a newcomer in Canada to write relevant blogs and assist other immigrants to ease their transition into the Canadian life.

Things our lawyers want you to know

This article offers general information only and is not intended as legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. While information presented is believed to be factual and current, its accuracy is not guaranteed and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the author(s) as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by Royal Bank of Canada or its affiliates.

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Arrive makes it easier for newcomers and international students to make a smooth landing in Canada by providing the information and guidance they need. Arrive provides up to date, informative articles, guides, webinars, digital tools and expert advice to help newcomers prepare for their arrival, and adapt to the Canadian job market and cultural landscape. Students can get ready for their Canadian studies, so that they are set up for academic and professional success in Canada.

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FREE Canadian Cover Letter Template

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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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Newcomers to Canada: Guide to Writing an Effective Cover Letter

The candidate cover letter, often seen as being supplementary to the resume, can be an effective tool in helping a new immigrant or Newcomers to Canada land meaningful employment in Canada. Many candidates place emphasis on the resume, making sure that the formatting and content of the resume is up to standard. However, often times there is not as much thought put into the cover letter. Newcomers to Canada need to think differently.

It is important to note that many employers value a greatly written cover letter. Employers gain more insight into the candidate, and their professional career, through the cover letter. This letter helps the candidate better personalize their application with the company.

With the number of candidates in the job market, the competition calls for applicants to stand out in order to be recognized by employers. One way to do so is by generating a unique cover letter. When drafting your cover letter, do not follow generic templates that you may see online – be original. Customize the cover letter so that it is specific to, not only you as a candidate, but for the company and role you are applying to. It is important to create an individual cover letter for the specific role and company, rather than sending the same cover letter to multiple employers across the board.

The next step is understanding what a great cover letter entails. An ideal cover letter includes additional information that you may not have included in your resume. It is also used to expand on points in your resume. With limited space on your resume, you may not be able to include or highlight all of your skills and qualifications. When you do mention certain skills and qualifications, the cover letter is a great tool to elaborate on them. How have you demonstrated the skills that you have in previous roles? How will you apply the knowledge you have if given the opportunity? Why do you feel that you are the most qualified candidate for this role, given your experience, skill set and abilities? These are all questions you can seek to answer in your cover letter. Essentially, you want to address what you can do for the company and why you are suitable for the role. In order to do so, it is imperative that you fully understand the requirements for the role and touch on how you will deliver in order to meet those requirements.

When writing the cover letter, ensure that you demonstrate knowledge about the company and its culture. Indicate how you would align your professional goals with the mission and objectives of the organization. Research the company, its history, business trends, future plans and other relevant information. Address the cover letter to a specific person (i.e., the hiring manager), rather than using headers like “To Whom It May Concern” or using the company name itself. It shows that you took the initiative to learn about the company and have taken the time to get familiar with the organizational climate.

Lastly, edit your cover letter. Go over for any spelling, grammar and punctuation errors. Also, read over the cover letter to see whether there are areas where you would like to rephrase or exclude.

These useful tips will help better a Newcomers to Canada increase ones chances in ensuring that you stand out as a viable candidate for the next Canadian employer you apply to.

Do you operate any other specialized job boards in Canada?

In addition to the partnerships mentioned above, we also share resources with two other targeted job boards.

www.aboriginaljobboard.ca is a national resource for first nation job seekers looking to work across Canada.

www.canadayouthworks.ca is a national job board for youth with barriers to the job market.

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Canadian Resume [Format, Tips & Examples for 2024]

Canada is a unique country that combines some traits you’ll find in the USA with some you’ll find in Europe.

This goes for resumes, too.

That’s why, when applying for a job in Canada, you have to make sure your resume conforms to Canadian application standards.

Naturally, you might be wondering - what does a Canadian resume even look like?

If you’re a foreigner, you’re likely drawing a blank trying to figure out what makes a Canadian resume different from the one in your own country. Even if you’re Canadian, you might still need to brush up on your resume writing skills.

Luckily for you, we’re here to show you how to write a compelling Canadian resume.

Here’s what we’re going to go over:

• Differences Between Canadian, US, and European Resumes
• Canadian Resume Formatting
• A Step-By-Step Breakdown on How To Write A Canadian Resume

And more!  Let’s get started!

Canadian Resume Example

Let’s take a look at a Canadian resume example:

Here’s what this resume does right:

• Reverse-chronological format. This format highlights your most recent work experience first and is a recruiter favorite all around the world.
• Relevant contact details. This resume example highlights the candidate’s first and last name, phone number, email address, location, and LinkedIn URL.
• Captivating resume summary. The paragraph nested in the header summarizes the candidate’s most essential skills and accomplishments.
• Action words. The candidate uses action verbs and power words to describe work responsibilities.
• Bullet points. The resume leverages bullet points to appear easy to read, organized, and reader-friendly.
• Additional sections. Language proficiency, certifications, awards, and interests all give a holistic view of the candidate and add value to their application.

Free Canadian Resume Templates

Creating a resume from scratch is time-consuming work. 

You need to twitch the margins, keep the fonts uniform, carefully align every element you add, and make sure it never spills over to page two.

But you can skip all that hassle if you use a resume template .

Novoresume’s templates are created in collaboration with recruiters and meet all job market requirements. 

Any template you use can save you time and let you write your resume in minutes.

Canadian Resume Specifics

There are a few basic things to keep in mind when crafting your Canadian resume. First things first:

The terms resume and CV can be used interchangeably in parts of Canada. In Quebec, for example, both terms refer to a one or two-page-long summary of a candidate’s career that’s tailored to the job they’re applying for.

Outside of Quebec, however, a CV is different from a resume in that it’s far more detailed and appropriate for academic positions or specific senior-level applications. 

Most job postings will ask for a resume unless explicitly stated otherwise.

Some other things to keep in mind about Canadian resumes include:

• Keep your resume one to two pages . A one-page resume is more than enough if you’re a recent graduate or new to the job market. Two-page resumes are recommended for seasoned professionals, and in certain cases, a three-page resume can be acceptable.
• Write your resume in the same language as the job offer. If you’re going for a position in Quebec and the advertisement is in French, then use French. Don’t assume they’ll accept a resume in English unless it’s explicitly written so on the job posting.
• Skip personal information and photos. Your resume should never give away your appearance, gender, age, ethnicity, nationality, religion, marital status, number of children, or any personal identification numbers.
• Don’t list references with your application unless the employer has requested them. Assumably, you can provide references if requested, so dedicating space on your resume when you’re not asked to is a waste.

Canadian Resume vs. US Resume

Both the USA and Canada prefer using resumes over CVs. In fact, Canadian and US resumes are almost identical.

The biggest difference? The language the document is written in.

You might be thinking - wait, I thought Canada used English?

Only partly.

Canada has two official languages - English and French. Both of these languages have standardized Canadian spellings, so that means they are not 100% the same as American English or European French.

Most of the terminology on your Canadian resume will be just about the same as it would be on its US equivalent. The biggest difference will probably be the added “u” to words like colour, and favourite , and the spelling of words like catalogue, centre, and cheque, as opposed to catalog, center, and check.

Before submitting your application, consider using a grammar checker like Grammarly or QuillBot to make sure your resume is up to par with Canadian spelling conventions .

Canadian Resume vs. European Resume

Typically, a resume in most of Europe, Asia, and the Pacific is referred to as a CV. The term resume in Canada refers to the same document that a CV refers to in Europe.

Both documents are meant to be one to two pages long, and list skills and experience relevant to the position you’re applying for. So in this sense, a European CV is actually different from a Canadian CV.

In Canada, a CV is an extensive document and is usually required in academic settings rather than for corporate job applications. The CV can be anywhere from two to ten pages long since it’s meant to list everything - from work experience to projects to publications.

European resumes also tend to be more detailed. For example, they can include details on high school education and grades, even if the candidate has a college degree. In Canada, that’s not the case. Your high school education is irrelevant if you have a higher degree of education.

The biggest difference between Canadian resumes and European ones is the amount of personal information you’re allowed to give away. For example, in Germany including a picture of yourself on your resume is common, but that’s absolutely not the case in Canada. There, your date of birth and nationality are a no-go.

These bits of information can be used to discriminate against you, so you’re supposed to keep them out of your resume as a precaution to give everyone a fair chance. Recruiters often consider resumes that overshare details of the candidate’s life (e.g.: race, age, date of birth, religion, political affiliation, etc.) unprofessional.

Step-By-Step Guide to Writing Your Canadian Resume

You’ve seen what a Canadian resume looks like. Now it’s time to write your own.

If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry -  we’ve here to help you get it right.

Just follow these steps:

#1. Use the Correct Format

The most popular resume format in Canada is the reverse-chronological format (which is also called the chronological format).

It’s so widely used that it’s expected by most recruiters. The chronological format puts your most recent work experiences first and then goes back in time.

Here’s an example of what it looks like:

One of the other formats is the functional resume format , also known as the skills-based resume format, which focuses on your key strengths and abilities. It’s recommended for career changers or recent graduates with little-to-no experience in the field they’re applying for.

Then, we have the combination resume format . As the name suggests, it mixes elements of both the chronological and functional format. This format gives equal attention to a candidate’s experience and skills. It provides a detailed skill summary and is a good choice for applicants who have a noticeable employment gap but plenty of work experience nonetheless.

#2. Follow These Layout Tips

If your resume looks cluttered and unorganized, the hiring manager is less likely to want to read it.

But paying attention to your resume’s layout can get you a better chance.

Stick to these formatting tips when building your Canadian resume:

• Have separate sections for all the information you want to add.
• Use a professional and easily legible resume font . 
• Let your resume breathe - leave in enough white space so the contents are easier to read, by setting your resume margins to 1” on all sides. 
• Save your resume in the correct document size. Canadian resumes use a standard North American letter size (8.5 x 11 inches), instead of the A4 size common elsewhere. You can do this easily in the Novoresume editor by choosing “Layout” in the top menu and choosing “US Letter Format”.

#3. List the Right Contact Information

Once you’ve sorted out your resume layout, it’s time to start filling in its content.

The contact information section is the first thing you should list. Here’s what to include:

• Name and surname
• Canadian phone number
• Address (City and Province)
• Professional email address

Optionally, you can include a link to your LinkedIn profile, a personal website, or an online portfolio. Just make sure they’re updated and relevant to the application.

#4. Write Your Resume Summary

Each resume only has a few seconds to catch a recruiter’s attention, so you have to make yours eye-catching and easy to read.

Here’s where a resume summary comes in. 

Going at the top of your resume, a resume summary is a two or three-sentence-long summary of your career. It includes:

• Your professional title and years of experience. 
• Two-three of your biggest achievements.
• One-two of your top relevant skills for the position.

If you’re less experienced, you can opt for a resume objective instead. A resume objective focuses on your skills and motivation to grow in your chosen field, rather than on prior experience and professional achievements.

When applying for a remote job for a company based in Canada, mention this in your resume summary. If you’re looking for a company that’s going to relocate you to Canada , make sure to mention that in your resume instead, so you don’t waste time for yourself or the hiring manager.

#5. Include Your Work Experience

Work experience is the most important section on a Canadian resume . 

It lets you expand on your past achievements and responsibilities, proving to the hiring manager you’re the best candidate for the job.

Here’s how you should structure this section:

• Start with your most recent job and go back in time. That said, don’t go back more than ten or 15 years ago, even if you’re a senior professional. The hiring manager doesn’t care about your job as a server from back in college.
• Start with your job title. The recruiter will immediately know if you have the necessary experience for the job from reading your job title.
• Add your company name and location. Sometimes you can even add a brief description of your former employer, particularly if it’s a smaller business that isn’t well-known.
• Include your dates of employment. There’s no need to be super detailed, so just stick to the mm/yyyy format.
• List your job responsibilities and achievements. Provide 4-6 bullet points for your most recent position and 2-3 bullets for older jobs.

Structuring your work experience the right way is only half the work. To stand out from the competition, you want this section to be as impressive as possible.

Here are a few tips and tricks to help with that:

• Reference the job ad, and focus on the top skills and qualifications required from candidates. Tailor your work experience around the skills that you do have to draw attention away from the ones you don’t.
• Focus more on achievements over day-to-day responsibilities. The hiring manager already has an idea of what your responsibilities for a certain job were. What they’re interested to know is what you achieved while doing it.
• Quantify your accomplishments as often as possible. Use the Laszlo Bock formula ( “accomplished X as measured by Y by doing Z” ) to provide a timeframe, scale, and results for what you’ve achieved. e,g: “ Increased annual revenue growth from 5% to 10% through the implementation of a financial roadmap. ” 
• Use powerful words and action verbs . Recruiters hate hearing generic phrases like “responsible for” or “team player,” so using the right vocabulary can help you stick out. 

Are you a recent graduate with no work experience on your resume ? Don’t sweat it - we’ve got a guide to help you find your first job .

#6. Add Your Education

In Canadian resumes, the education section typically goes right under your work experience.

Here’s how you should format this section:

• Program Name. E.g: “B.A. in Computer Science”
• University Name. E.g: “Ohio State University”
• Years Attended. E.g: “08/2018 - 06/2022”
• Achievements (optional). E.g. “Minor in Linguistics” 

It should look something like this:

B.A. in Computer Science

Concordia University

08/2019 - 06/2023

• Summa Cum Laude
• Minor in Business Analytics

Follow these tips to make this section pop:

• Don’t describe your high school education if you have a university degree.
• Mention courses you’ve taken that are relevant to the industry you’re applying to. (E.g: Statistics and Probability for a Data Analyst)
• Stick to a reverse chronological format when listing your degrees. E.g: A Ph.D. is listed above a Master’s Degree, which is listed above a Bachelor’s degree, etc.
• If you don’t have work experience, you can emphasize your academic background. Just list your education at the top of your resume instead of the work experience.

#7. Highlight Your Greatest Skills & Strengths

The skill section shows which candidates have the necessary expertise for the job, and no Canadian resume is complete without it.

Skills are typically divided into two categories:

• Soft skills consist of personality traits and characteristics developed in your personal and professional life. They involve communication skills , people skills, interpersonal skills , etc.
• Hard skills, or technical abilities, are skills you can gain from experience, training, or education. These can include computer skills or proficiency in the use of specific tools.

The trick here is, don’t list every skill you’ve ever learned, just the ones relevant to the job you’re applying for.

If you’re going to be a graphic designer, your Photoshop skills are more important than your forklift certification. Recruiters want to know which skills make you the right candidate for them, not which skills make you the most well-rounded individual.

Scan the job description and jot down which of your skills the company is looking for. Then add them to your Canadian resume.

Just make sure you don’t focus solely on one type of skill over the other. A good application covers both soft skills and hard skills, depending on the job requirements.

Here’s an example:

#8. Leverage Additional Sections

If you’ve covered all the essential resume sections and have some space left, consider adding some optional resume sections.

These sections aren’t as vital as the ones we’ve covered so far, and they won’t do as much heavy lifting on your resume as your work experience, skills, or education.

However, they can help set you apart from candidates with similar work experience and skills as yours. 

For example, if choosing between two equally qualified professionals, and the position includes collaboration with French-speaking employees or business partners, the hiring manager is likely to choose a candidate who can speak French.

Here are the additional sections you can include on your resume:

• Languages . Being able to communicate in more than one language gives you an advantage over other candidates.
• Internships. Adding any relevant internships to your resume shows you have some experience that’s prepared you for the job you’re applying to.
• Volunteer experience . Any experience volunteering is a great addition to any resume since it shows you’re a caring person who wants to give back to your community.
• Hobbies and interests . Certain hobbies or interests might give the hiring manager a look into who you are as a person, and work in your favor.
• Certifications and awards. Any relevant qualifications or awards, such as online classes, can go here.
• Publications. If you’ve published anything, ranging from magazines to research articles, you can add it to your resume.
• Projects. Interesting projects you’ve worked on can show the hiring manager your passion and dedication to your field.

#9. Include a cover letter

Cover letters are still an essential companion piece to any resume.

Adding a cover letter to your application shows the hiring manager you’re ready to take all the necessary steps to land the job.

Cover letters also complement resumes by allowing you to elaborate on things you don’t have the space for in your resume, such as certain achievements or employment gaps.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what your cover letter should include:

• Header. As with your resume, include your updated contact information with your name, surname, Canadian phone number, and professional email address. Be sure to include the employer’s contact information as well.
• Greeting line. Make sure you address the cover letter correctly with a greeting line like “ Dear John Doe, ” or “ Dear Mr. Doe, ”. If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, just use something like “ Dear [Department] Team. ” 
• Introduction. Start off with a brief summary of why you’re writing the letter and which position you’re interested in. To grab the hiring manager’s attention, use your opening paragraph to also describe two or three of your top achievements.
• Qualifications and motivation. The body of your cover letter should emphasize your skills, experience, and enthusiasm for the position. Use it to explain exactly what makes you the right candidate and how you’re the right fit for the company.
• Closing paragraph . Wrap up your letter with a call to action and an official signature line.

Struggling to write your cover letter? Check out these cover letter examples to get inspired.

FAQs About Canadian Resumes

Do you still have any questions? Check out the answers to the most frequently asked questions about Canadian resumes.

1. How can I create a Canadian resume as an international student?

Whether you’re looking to apply to a university in Canada, secure an internship , or land your first job after your graduation, your main focus should be on your academic achievements.

Education is highly valued in Canada and your credentials and relevant coursework will boost your resume, so long as you keep it relevant to the position you’re applying for.

When describing your education, you can also add the location next to your school or university’s name. E.g.: “Marmara University, Turkey” instead of just “Marmara University”.

2. Should the Canadian resume be in a PDF or Word file format?

Generally speaking, a PDF is the preferred format for resumes since it remains the same regardless of what operating system or device you use to open it. Moreover, it keeps your formatting and illustrations in place, and can’t be edited by accident when a recruiter mislicks.

Most career websites in Canada accept resumes as both PDF and Word files. Nonetheless, we recommend you have your Canadian resume exported to PDF unless the job ad specifically requests Word.

3. Do Canadians say CV or resume?

Depending on what part of Canada you’re in, people might say CV and resume interchangeably. However, outside of Quebec, these are two different documents.

Resumes are typically not longer than two pages and are meant to be tailored to the job you’re applying for. CVs, on the other hand, are far more detailed and appropriate for academic settings or specific senior-level applications.

4. What should you NOT include on a Canadian resume?

As an anti-discrimination measure, pictures of yourself and personal information, are legally prohibited from job applications. This means your nationality, age, gender, religion, immigration status, political affiliation, marital status, and social insurance number, have no place on your resume.

Another thing to keep in mind is that it’s taboo for applicants to include their salary expectations on a Canadian resume. Salary expectations should only be provided if requested by the employer, and even then, they are best included in a cover letter, never on your resume.

Key Takeaways

And that’s a- boot it for Canadian resumes!

Let’s recap the main things you need to know on the subject:

• Canadian resumes are essentially the same as US resumes. You won’t have any difficulties applying with a US resume for a position in Canada, but Canadian English is preferred over standardized American English.
• A Canadian resume is the equivalent of a CV in Europe and most other parts of the world. However, a CV in Canada is a much longer document that’s used mostly to apply for jobs in academia.
• Keep your formatting clear, and use separate sections and legable fonts when building your resume.
• When applying to jobs in Canada, you should never include anything that could be used to discriminate against you, such as information about your age, nationality, and immigration status, or pictures of yourself.

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How to Write a Cover Letter: A Comprehensive Guide with Examples (2024)

Crafting a compelling cover letter is the first step towards landing an interview. It’s usually the first impression an employer gets before even seeing your resume, and it will help to set the tone and establish your personality before getting into your qualifications and suitability for the position.

Whether you're applying for a job, internship, or generally submitting your resume for consideration, understanding how to write a cover letter can significantly enhance your chances of success.

What is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a formal document accompanying your resume that introduces yourself to potential employers, highlighting your qualifications, experiences, and interest in a specific job or internship. It offers you the opportunity to showcase your personality and passion for the role in a more personalized manner than a resume alone.

Cover Letter Format

The format of a cover letter typically follows a standard business letter structure. It includes your contact information, the date, the recipient's contact details, a salutation, body paragraphs, and a closing. Ensure that your cover letter is concise, well-organized, and visually appealing, using a professional font and maintaining consistent formatting throughout.

As your cover letter will often be sent as an email, check this guide on how to write an email for some general tips on subject lines, email greetings, structuring the main content, and signing off.

Cover Letter for a Job

When applying for a job, a cover letter for your resume is often expected, and it serves as your initial introduction to potential employers. It should be customized for each position, showcasing how your skills and experiences fit the job requirements. A well-crafted cover letter can distinguish you from other applicants and increase your chances of securing an interview, especially if you can show that you’re genuinely aligned with the company’s goals.

Cover Letter for an Internship

For internship applications, a cover letter is equally essential. It allows you to convey your enthusiasm for the opportunity, relevant skills, and willingness to learn. Even if you have limited professional experience, your cover letter can highlight academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and relevant coursework that demonstrate your potential value to the organization.

Writing a Cover Letter

Let’s get into how to write a cover letter, step by step:

Step 1: How to Address a Cover Letter

When addressing your cover letter, it's essential to find out the name and title of the hiring manager or recruiter whenever possible. Addressing the letter to a specific individual adds a personal touch and demonstrates your initiative. A quick note on how to address a cover letter without a name. If you're unable to identify the recipient, you can use a general greeting such as "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Company Name] Recruiting Team."

Step 2: What to Include in a Cover Letter

Writing a compelling cover letter requires careful attention to detail and a strategic approach. Begin by thoroughly researching the company and the position to tailor your letter accordingly. Highlight your most relevant experiences and accomplishments, using specific examples to demonstrate your qualifications. Keep your language professional, yet engaging, and avoid using generic templates or clichés. Instead, strive to make a memorable impression that sets you apart from other candidates by showing you understand what the company is about.

Structure-wise, a well-written cover letter should include the following elements:

Introduction : Start by stating the position you're applying for and how you learned about it. Express your enthusiasm for the opportunity and briefly introduce yourself.

Body Paragraphs : Use one or two paragraphs to highlight your relevant experiences, skills, and achievements. Provide specific examples that demonstrate your qualifications and fit for the role. Tailor your content to align with the job description and company's needs.

Closing Paragraph : Summarize your interest in the position and reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity. Thank the employer for considering your application and express your willingness to discuss further in an interview.

Closing : End your cover letter with a professional closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your name and contact information.

By using this kind of cover letter template, you can keep a clear and structured approach whilst also easily adjusting your content each time to customize it for each specific contact.

Before you send

Remember maintain professionalism throughout and always proofread your cover letter before you send it off. Check this quick list of cover letter dos and don’ts so you can ensure you’ve done everything you can and haven’t made any glaring errors along the way.

Note for students: While it may be reasonable to apply for internships with your university email, it probably won’t come across as particularly professional for proper job applications. Contacting an employer from a free email account with a funny name you made when you were an adolescent also won’t be particularly impressive. You may want to use a service like Inbox.com and create a business email account that shows you’re a serious professional.

Cover letter examples

Here are some short cover letter samples that you can use as templates for your own letter. Note that although the content should be adapted both to you and to the company you’re applying to, a similar structure applies in all cases.

1. Marketing Manager Cover Letter:

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the Marketing Manager position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. With over five years of experience in marketing strategy development, campaign management, and brand positioning, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and drive results for [Company Name].

In my previous role at [Previous Company], I led cross-functional teams to develop and execute innovative marketing campaigns that resulted in a 30% increase in brand awareness and a 25% boost in lead generation. My ability to analyze market trends, identify customer insights, and leverage data-driven strategies has consistently delivered impactful results and exceeded organizational objectives.

I am particularly drawn to [specific aspect of the company or job description], and I am eager to bring my expertise in digital marketing, social media management, and content development to support [Company Name]'s mission of [mention company mission or values].

Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the possibility of joining [Company Name] and contributing to its continued success. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address].

Sincerely, [Your Name]

2. Software Engineer Cover Letter:

I am writing to apply for the Software Engineer position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. With a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and three years of hands-on experience in software development and coding, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and develop innovative solutions for [Company Name].

In my previous role at [Previous Company], I played a key role in designing and implementing scalable software solutions that optimized workflow efficiency and enhanced user experience. My proficiency in programming languages such as Java, Python, and JavaScript, coupled with my strong problem-solving skills, has enabled me to deliver high-quality software solutions that meet and exceed client expectations.

I am impressed by [specific aspect of the company or job description], and I am eager to leverage my technical skills and passion for innovation to support [Company Name]'s goals of [mention company goals or objectives].

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to further discuss how my background and expertise align with the needs of [Company Name] and am available for an interview at your earliest convenience. Please feel free to contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address] to schedule a discussion.

3. Graphic Designer Cover Letter:

I am thrilled to apply for the Graphic Designer position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. With a strong background in visual communication, brand identity development, and multimedia design, I am excited about the opportunity to bring my creativity and expertise to your team and contribute to [Company Name]'s success.

In my previous role at [Previous Company], I collaborated with cross-functional teams to create visually compelling designs that effectively communicated brand messages and engaged target audiences. My proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, coupled with my attention to detail and passion for design, has allowed me to deliver innovative solutions that align with client objectives and exceed expectations.

I am particularly drawn to [specific aspect of the company or job description], and I am eager to leverage my design skills and artistic vision to support [Company Name]'s mission of [mention company mission or values].

Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the possibility of joining [Company Name] and contributing to its creative endeavors. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address].

What is a cover letter for a job?

A cover letter for a job is a formal document submitted alongside a resume during the application process. It introduces the applicant to the potential employer and highlights their qualifications, experiences, and interest in the specific job position.

What is a cover letter for a resume?

A cover letter for a resume is a document that accompanies a resume when applying for a job. While the resume provides a summary of the applicant's skills and experiences, the cover letter offers additional context and insight into their suitability for the position.

What is the purpose of a cover letter?

The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce the applicant to the potential employer, showcase their qualifications and experiences, and express their interest in the job position. It allows applicants to personalize their application and demonstrate their enthusiasm and suitability for the role.

What does a cover letter look like?

A cover letter typically follows a formal business letter format, including the sender's and recipient's contact information, a salutation, body paragraphs, and a closing. It should be well-organized, concise, and visually appealing, with a professional tone and consistent formatting.

How long should a cover letter be?

A cover letter should be concise and to the point, typically no longer than one page. It should provide enough information to highlight the applicant's qualifications and interest in the position without overwhelming the reader with unnecessary details.

What should be in a cover letter?

A cover letter should include the sender's and recipient's contact information, a formal salutation, an introduction stating the position being applied for and how the applicant learned about it, body paragraphs highlighting relevant qualifications and experiences, and a closing expressing gratitude and interest in further discussion.

How to Start a Cover Letter

To start your cover letter effectively, consider using a strong opening sentence or attention-grabbing statement that immediately captures the reader's interest. You can mention a mutual connection, reference a recent company accomplishment, or highlight a specific aspect of the job that excites you.

How to End a Cover Letter

Ending your cover letter on a high note is crucial to leave a lasting impression. In the closing paragraph, reiterate your interest in the position and express your gratitude for the opportunity to apply. Convey confidence in your ability to contribute to the company's success. Finally, use a professional closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your name.

Updated: April 10, 2024 at 4:33 PM

Published: April 10, 2024 at 4:33 PM

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How to Write a Cover Letter That Will Get You a Job

I ’ve read thousands, maybe tens of thousands, of cover letters in my career. If you’re thinking that sounds like really boring reading, you’re right. What I can tell you from enduring that experience is that most cover letters are terrible — and not only that, but squandered opportunities. When a cover letter is done well, it can significantly increase your chances of getting an interview, but the vast majority fail that test.

So let’s talk about how to do cover letters right.

First, understand the point of a cover letter.

The whole idea of a cover letter is that it can help the employer see you as more than just your résumé. Managers generally aren’t hiring based solely on your work history; your experience is crucial, yes, but they’re also looking for someone who will be easy to work with, shows good judgment, communicates well, possesses strong critical thinking skills and a drive to get things done, complements their current team, and all the other things you yourself probably want from your co-workers. It’s tough to learn much about those things from job history alone, and that’s where your cover letter comes in.

Because of that …

Whatever you do, don’t just summarize your résumé.

The No. 1 mistake people make with cover letters is that they simply use them to summarize their résumé. This makes no sense — hiring managers don’t need a summary of your résumé! It’s on the very next page! They’re about to see it as soon as they scroll down. And if you think about it, your entire application is only a few pages (in most cases, a one- or two-page résumé and a one-page cover letter) — why would you squander one of those pages by repeating the content of the others? And yet, probably 95 percent of the cover letters I see don’t add anything new beyond the résumé itself (and that’s a conservative estimate).

Instead, your cover letter should go beyond your work history to talk about things that make you especially well-suited for the job. For example, if you’re applying for an assistant job that requires being highly organized and you neurotically track your household finances in a detailed, color-coded spreadsheet, most hiring managers would love to know that because it says something about the kind of attention to detail you’d bring to the job. That’s not something you could put on your résumé, but it can go in your cover letter.

Or maybe your last boss told you that you were the most accurate data processor she’d ever seen, or came to rely on you as her go-to person whenever a lightning-fast rewrite was needed. Maybe your co-workers called you “the client whisperer” because of your skill in calming upset clients. Maybe you’re regularly sought out by more senior staff to help problem-solve, or you find immense satisfaction in bringing order to chaos. Those sorts of details illustrate what you bring to the job in a different way than your résumé does, and they belong in your cover letter.

If you’re still stumped, pretend you’re writing an email to a friend about why you’d be great at the job. You probably wouldn’t do that by stiffly reciting your work history, right? You’d talk about what you’re good at and how you’d approach the work. That’s what you want here.

You don’t need a creative opening line.

If you think you need to open the letter with something creative or catchy, I am here to tell you that you don’t. Just be simple and straightforward:

• “I’m writing to apply for your X position.”

• “I’d love to be considered for your X position.”

• “I’m interested in your X position because …”

• “I’m excited to apply for your X position.”

That’s it! Straightforward is fine — better, even, if the alternative is sounding like an aggressive salesperson.

Show, don’t tell.

A lot of cover letters assert that the person who wrote it would excel at the job or announce that the applicant is a skillful engineer or a great communicator or all sorts of other subjective superlatives. That’s wasted space — the hiring manager has no reason to believe it, and so many candidates claim those things about themselves that most managers ignore that sort of self-assessment entirely. So instead of simply declaring that you’re great at X (whatever X is), your letter should demonstrate that. And the way you do that is by describing accomplishments and experiences that illustrate it.

Here’s a concrete example taken from one extraordinarily effective cover-letter makeover that I saw. The candidate had originally written, “I offer exceptional attention to detail, highly developed communication skills, and a talent for managing complex projects with a demonstrated ability to prioritize and multitask.” That’s pretty boring and not especially convincing, right? (This is also exactly how most people’s cover letters read.)

In her revised version, she wrote this instead:

“In addition to being flexible and responsive, I’m also a fanatic for details — particularly when it comes to presentation. One of my recent projects involved coordinating a 200-page grant proposal: I proofed and edited the narratives provided by the division head, formatted spreadsheets, and generally made sure that every line was letter-perfect and that the entire finished product conformed to the specific guidelines of the RFP. (The result? A five-year, $1.5 million grant award.) I believe in applying this same level of attention to detail to tasks as visible as prepping the materials for a top-level meeting and as mundane as making sure the copier never runs out of paper.”

That second version is so much more compelling and interesting — and makes me believe that she really is great with details.

If there’s anything unusual or confusing about your candidacy, address it in the letter.

Your cover letter is your chance to provide context for things that otherwise might seem confusing or less than ideal to a hiring manager. For example, if you’re overqualified for the position but are excited about it anyway, or if you’re a bit underqualified but have reason to think you could excel at the job, address that up front. Or if your background is in a different field but you’re actively working to move into this one, say so, talk about why, and explain how your experience will translate. Or if you’re applying for a job across the country from where you live because you’re hoping to relocate to be closer to your family, let them know that.

If you don’t provide that kind of context, it’s too easy for a hiring manager to decide you’re the wrong fit or applying to everything you see or don’t understand the job description and put you in the “no” pile. A cover letter gives you a chance to say, “No, wait — here’s why this could be a good match.”

Keep the tone warm and conversational.

While there are some industries that prize formal-sounding cover letters — like law — in most fields, yours will stand out if it’s warm and conversational. Aim for the tone you’d use if you were writing to a co-worker whom you liked a lot but didn’t know especially well. It’s okay to show some personality or even use humor; as long as you don’t go overboard, your letter will be stronger for it.

Don’t use a form letter.

You don’t need to write every cover letter completely from scratch, but if you’re not customizing it to each job, you’re doing it wrong. Form letters tend to read like form letters, and they waste the chance to speak to the specifics of what this employer is looking for and what it will take to thrive in this particular job.

If you’re applying for a lot of similar jobs, of course you’ll end up reusing language from one letter to the next. But you shouldn’t have a single cover letter that you wrote once and then use every time you apply; whatever you send should sound like you wrote it with the nuances of this one job in mind.

A good litmus test is this: Could you imagine other applicants for this job sending in the same letter? If so, that’s a sign that you haven’t made it individualized enough to you and are probably leaning too heavily on reciting your work history.

No, you don’t need to hunt down the hiring manager’s name.

If you read much job-search advice, at some point you’ll come across the idea that you need to do Woodward and Bernstein–level research to hunt down the hiring manager’s name in order to open your letter with “Dear Matilda Jones.” You don’t need to do this; no reasonable hiring manager will care. If the name is easily available, by all means, feel free to use it, but otherwise “Dear Hiring Manager” is absolutely fine. Take the hour you just freed up and do something more enjoyable with it.

Keep it under one page.

If your cover letters are longer than a page, you’re writing too much, and you risk annoying hiring managers who are likely sifting through hundreds of applications and don’t have time to read lengthy tomes. On the other hand, if you only write one paragraph, it’s unlikely that you’re making a compelling case for yourself as a candidate — not impossible, but unlikely. For most people, something close to a page is about right.

Don’t agonize over the small details.

What matters most about your cover letter is its content. You should of course ensure that it’s well-written and thoroughly proofread, but many job seekers agonize over elements of the letter that really don’t matter. I get tons of  questions from job seekers  about whether they should attach their cover letter or put it in the body of the email (answer: No one cares, but attaching it makes it easier to share and will preserve your formatting), or what to name the file (again, no one really cares as long as it’s reasonably professional, but when people are dealing with hundreds of files named “resume,” it’s courteous to name it with your full name).

Approaching your cover letter like this can make a huge difference in your job search. It can be the thing that moves your application from the “maybe” pile (or even the “no” pile) to the “yes” pile. Of course, writing cover letters like this will take more time than sending out the same templated letter summarizing your résumé — but 10 personalized, compelling cover letters are likely to get you more  interview invitations  than 50 generic ones will.

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