How to write a cover letter in English?

A letter of motivation or cover letter is now an essential part of an application. Often attached to the CV, it allows, at first glance, to reveal the candidate’s motivations. A cover letter, or LM, actually conveys many things: composition, structure, and spelling, which reflect several criteria. Today, some recruiters require this letter in English to highlight the international dimension of the company or to test the candidate’s skills. This is useful if you want to apply abroad.

Rules of cover letter in English

Commonalities Between Cover Letters in French and English

It is necessary to provide a cover letter, in French or English. This is the first approach the recruiter has and will allow him to identify your personality traits. It is therefore important to appear rigorous and organized qualities that are respected in the professional world.

To achieve this, your cover letter should be divided into several distinct paragraphs that present different aspects of yourself and your background. As with a letter written in French, it is essential to present your background, your motivations and your skills related to the position you are applying for. In particular, you can illustrate your skills through your professional experience (internships, previous positions, student jobs) or personal experience (sport, instrument, association). These unique examples will allow you to stand out from other candidates and make your cover letter more lively.

A long cover letter is not always synonymous with a good cover letter, quite the contrary. In fact, a recruiter has little time to read a cover letter because he receives multiple applications for the same offer. It is therefore important that your letter be brief and not exceed one page. This will especially reflect your sense of integration.

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Specifics of a cover letter in English

Whether your cover letter is in French or English, the content and presentation are generally the same. Nevertheless, you can pay particular attention to certain details so as not to give the impression that you have only translated your letter into English.

The company will look at spelling and especially in English in a cover letter. In fact, your spelling reflects your level of English, which is essential if the tasks you are applying for are in English. Therefore, it is important to check yourself several times and have your relatives or friends also check your LM to ensure that there is nothing wrong with it.

Syntax can also be a way to differentiate yourself. A mistake to make is to translate your cover letter word for word into French or worse, use a translator. This type of translation can lead to typographical errors or wrong turns of phrase, which the company will detect directly. Also, apart from your letter being riddled with typos or grammatical errors, this approach shows a certain laziness that will not please the recruiter who may not follow up on your application. Therefore, the aim is to use fluent English regularly, and some specific formulas will show that you have really tried to adapt to this other language.

Finally, in English, there are some differences in tone and style. Actually, cover letter in English is very short. You should come straight to the point. The tone is generally less formal. If you are applying for a job abroad, it is also crucial to convincingly demonstrate your knowledge of the position and company you are applying for.

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Formulas to use in a cover letter in English

As with a cover letter in French, it’s important to be polite to your interviewer. Whether it’s at the beginning or end of your LM, there are a few things you can use to show your respect for the employer.

At the beginning of your letter, you write “Dear Mrs X” or “Dear Mr X” depending on the gender of the person you are addressing. If you use this formula, it is important to include the name of the recruiter. It also shows that you took the time to get to know your interlocutor, which can earn you points. If necessary, it is fine to use “Dear Sir” or “Dear Madam”. Nevertheless, in the context of a cover letter in English we prefer to use the addressee’s first and last name directly.

In conclusion, there are many forms of politeness. In English, the final formula depends on what you used to start your letter. Therefore, if you know the identity of your interlocutor, you will use “Yours faithfully”, perhaps “Sincerely” or “Regards”. Conversely, if you don’t know it, you should support “your truth.” In a more relaxed setting, for example, during an email exchange, it is possible to use formulas such as “best wishes” or “all the best”.

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Sample Cover Letter in English

Last Name First Name

address

Postal code

Mailing address

phone number

Name of recipient

Address Postal Code / City

Date

Dear Mr/Mrs X,

I am currently writing to apply for a post at (target position) after completing my Master’s degree at (name of school/university). My studies and my many work experiences motivated me to work (in the target sector). Joining (company name) will be an opportunity to develop my skills in (name skills) and (name of business features or new skills).

During my internship at (example of a company), I had the opportunity to discover the industry of (specify field of activity). I collaborated with (include details of collaboration) (specify tasks or activities undertaken). During this internship (Name Skills), I developed many skills that would be useful if I joined (Company Name).

In (name of company), working in (specify industry) sector, I was in charge of (key tasks), which (name skills) developed my skills.

I would appreciate the opportunity to join your organization in a role (indicating intended function) using the skills and experience I have gained during my work experience. I am particularly interested in working for (Company Name). In fact, your company has (list company qualities/strengths/values), and I am confident that I can put my skills at the service of your teams.

For more information about my career you can find my CV attached. If you have any questions, please contact me at (phone number) or (email address). I am also available for interview at your convenience.

I am looking forward to your reply.

yours truly,

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