Advice and opinions please?

Question

Hi you guys i really need some advice and opinions on something.

I'm a young female 20 years of age, i've been working within clerical/ administration for a few years now (reception, administration, secretary, P.A ect) and would like to start a new chapter in my life by relocating to Canada from UK (still within the same field) and so far i have been job searching, sending out resumes and cover letters.

So how does this sound for an entrance to a cover letter, "To whom this may concern,

I am replying in request to the interest of the receptionist position.

Please regard this letter as my formal application enclosed is my resume for your review"

Please feel free to comment both negative and positive helps and please add how i can improve it or change it.

P.S any other advice on how i can find a job/employer abroard.

Thanks for your time

Answer 1

The adage from the commercials is true: You never get a second chance to make a first impression.

It is important that your cover letter be clear, and concise. There must be no grammatical errors or typos, especially since you are applying for a position that may involve typing up memos, cover letters, or responses to vendors/customers.

You may want to prepare a basic template to use for your cover letter, and then make sure to change the name based on each company you are applying to. I would avoid saying "To whom it may concern" and instead direct your letter to the Human Resources department and use "Dear Sir/Madam,"

Avoid getting too flowery and don't try to be fancy by using special colored paper or such, these are gimmicks and your letter should stand out on its own.

A good cover letter will help to sell your product (AKA you!) and make the reader want to look at your resume. It should not be longer than a single page, as many people will see all that writing and feel it is a waste of time to read.

Since you are looking for employment in Canada from the UK, it makes it difficult for any company to have you come in for an interview. They will need to speak with you over a phone, or find some way to get a feel for your skills. One option is to get a PC web camera, attach it to your computer, and offer interviews via webcam at their convenience. This shows you are computer savvy as well as gives them the opportunity to see how you respond to any live questions they may have for you. (Remember to be dressed appropriately for an interview, and make sure that anything that will show in the background of your camera is neat and shows you in a good atmosphere. They may be more prone to hire someone with an organized bookcase or filing cabinet behind them instead of a poster of Ozzy Osbourne!)

Finally, I would suggest checking with employment agencies both in UK and Canada. The agents in UK may have clients that have offices in Canada, while the ones in Canada may have customers who are looking for someone who has experience with European life.

And if you speak/write French or languages other than English, this is definitely a plus and should be promoted both on the cover letter and in the resume.

Whatever you decide, I would urge you to try and get a contract or job offer BEFORE coming to Canada. This will make it easier to get in here as an immigrant, and less stressful for you. After moving across the pond, the last thing you want to do is spend a month trying to find a job once you get here.

Hope this helps, and good luck to you.

Answer 2

I am a recruiter, and you need some more depth to your cover letter. Talk breifly about your past experienced, your strengths and desribe your ideal position.  Also state you salalry expectation, and your Visa staus.