An English cover letter is essential when applying for a training program or job abroad. Also called a "cover letter," it should allow the recruiter to quickly understand why you are applying and what sets you apart from other candidates. Structure to follow, useful expressions, and pitfalls to avoid... Here are some tips to strengthen your English applications.
How is an English cover letter structured?
With a few differences, the structure of an English cover letter is similar to that of a French letter: a clear layout and a text organized into three paragraphs to explain the reasons for your application, your skills, and what you can bring to the company.
The layout of a cover letter
In English, the cover letter follows the same layout as in French and fits on a single page. It includes several elements:
- Your contact details at the top left (your first and last name, postal address, phone number with country code, and email address);
- The recipient's contact details at the top right (the recruiter's name, address, and company);
- The location and date (below the recipient's contact details);
- The subject;
- Salutations;
- The body of the letter with short, airy paragraphs;
- A conclusion with a polite closing and your availability for an interview.
A three-paragraph body text
A cover letter generally follows a three-part logic.
In the first paragraph, specify the training program or position you are targeting, as well as the context of your approach (a spontaneous application, a response to an offer, a recommendation, etc.). In a few sentences, introduce yourself and indicate what you are looking for.
In the second paragraph, show that your application is targeted and personalized. Explain why this particular company or training program attracts you, citing one or two specific elements (its values, projects, sector of activity, program, etc.).
In the third paragraph, highlight your most relevant skills for the targeted position or training program. Support this with concrete examples (a mission you led, results obtained, a responsibility, etc.) and explain how this meets the recruiter's expectations. Even with little experience, you can highlight an internship, a study project, volunteer work, or a student job. The goal is to demonstrate the link between what you can do and what the recruiter is looking for.
Conclude with an opening sentence for an interview, indicating your availability and your desire to discuss further. Now that you have the structure, all you need to do is find the right phrases.
English cover letter: ready-to-use key expressions
The salutations of a cover letter
Ideally, address the recruiter directly (by looking up their name in the advertisement or on the company's website). If you know their identity, use a simple formula, such as Dear Mr Smith (for a man) / Dear Mrs Smith (for a woman).
If you don't know their name, use a more neutral formula (Dear Sir or Madam). Preferably, avoid overly familiar or imprecise salutations, such as Hi, Hello, or To whom it may concern.
The opening of the body text
In one or two sentences, the opening should make the recruiter want to read on by providing context and clearly stating what you are aiming for.
For a job or internship application:
- I am writing to apply for (position title) advertised on (source of the advertisement).
- I am applying for the role of (position title) at (company name).
For a spontaneous application: I’m writing to express my interest in any open position at (company name).
For an application to a higher education program: I am writing to apply for the (program name) at (university or school name) starting in (month and year).
Your motivation to join the company or training program
In an English cover letter, the recruiter wants to understand the reasons why you are applying to their company or training program. To show that you understand its mission, values, or objectives, here are some phrases to use:
- I am particularly interested in joining (company name) because of its focus on (its sector, values, etc.).
- Your work on (service, product, etc.) is the reason why I would like to join the firm.
Highlighting your skills and experience
In this paragraph, you should select two or three relevant skills for the position or training program, supported by concrete examples:
- During my internship at (company name), I gained experience in (area of activity) by working on (project, mission, etc.).
- I am confident in my ability to (skills) thanks to my experience in (sector of activity).
- I have developed strong skills in (skills), through (experience, project led, etc.).
To link your skills to the job's expectations:
- I believe my skills in (skills) would allow me to contribute to (company missions or objectives).
- I am excited about the opportunity to apply my (skills, experiences, etc.) to support (company missions or objectives).
In the body of the text, prioritize action verbs (to manage, to coordinate, to design, to implement, to improve, to support, to deliver, etc.) to make your English cover letter more dynamic and professional.
Conclusion and polite closings
In conclusion, propose an interview and indicate your availability with the following expressions:
- Thank you for taking the time to review my application.
- I would be happy to provide any additional information if needed.
- I look forward to hearing from you.
Finally, end your English cover letter with an appropriate closing:
- If you know the recruiter's name, use Yours sincerely,;
- If you don't know their name, prefer Yours faithfully,.
What are the common mistakes to avoid in a cover letter?
When writing, a common mistake is to translate your French letter word for word. An English cover letter adopts a more direct style with simple phrases and no technical jargon.
Similarly, avoid repeating information from your CV. The cover letter is not meant to list your experiences, but to explain your approach, namely why you want this job, to work for this company, and why your skills are relevant to the position.
Also remember to personalize your cover letters as much as possible. Adapt the job title, the company or training program name, and add a few elements that show you understand the recruiter's expectations.
Also pay attention to the length of the text. In English, a cover letter that is too long risks diluting your message. Space out the body of the letter, write short paragraphs, and remove any elements that do not add value.
Finally, even if you have carefully structured the letter, be vigilant with spelling and grammar. A letter full of errors can seriously damage your credibility. Always reread your letters with a fresh mind and check sensitive points (irregular verbs, agreements, capitalization, punctuation, etc.). If possible, have it proofread by someone who is comfortable (or a native speaker!) in English.
And if you need to strengthen your basics before writing, you can take an online English course to gain fluidity and precision!