sample application letter to work abroad

How to write a CV and a cover letter to work internationally?

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How to make a CV to work internationally?

There is no single template for international applications. On the other hand, it is wise to adapt to the recruitment methods of the countries you contact.

• First of all, the language used to write a CV must be that of the host country. Thus, the formulations must be mastered, the syntax and spelling without mistakes. Any unclear and poorly written application will be overlooked by the competition. At the same time, writing a CV in English (American or British, be sure to adapt to the recipient’s origin. The choice of words or expressions may differ greatly) is an additional asset to convince and show your motivation to work internationally.
• Germany appreciates having as much information as possible on the civil status (parents’ profession, religious denomination, family situation…) in order to better target the candidate’s profile. The organization should remain basic, without layout effects. The past of employees is of great interest to German recruiters. It is therefore important to present, without too much detail, all experiences and training since college (dates of activities, job title). The CV must be signed and dated by hand to attest to the veracity of the information.
• In the United States, on the other hand, discrimination law requires that personal information be kept to a minimum. The candidates maintain a certain discretion, the description must remain more standard (Name, first name, address, telephone). American recruiters appreciate direct and incisive wording, especially through the use of action verbs. It is strongly recommended that personal goals be mentioned to understand the candidate’s motivation. The highlighting of any publications in the context of your studies is a very good indicator for the recruiter.
• Halfway between American and French customs, the Quebecers do not include any elements relating to private life, and no photograph either. On the other hand, mentioning your goals and career plan is essential for your application. Quebec recruiters will be more interested in describing your skills than in listing your diplomas.
• As for Japan, it has very strict conventions. As such, it offers predefined structures. It is called Rirekisho. The models can be found in bookstores or supermarkets. The CV must be handwritten, in black ink. It is sent by mail, and not by email as is customary. The use of a large envelope is also required. Indeed, folding documents is extremely badly perceived on this side of the world. Photocopying is also a very bad signal to recruiters.

What are the elements to avoid in an international CV?

The first mistake to avoid when writing a resume is word-for-word translation. The risk is to give the impression of a too fragile mastery of the English language. A recurring trap is also that of “false friends”.

• The Curriculum Vitae is translated as “Resume”. However, it is by no means a simple summary.
• The term Grande école is the perfect example. It does not translate to “High school” (this term refers to high school). The French term is kept in this case. Example, “Grande école of Engineering”.
• In the United States, “company” is the term used to describe a business, while the British use the term “entreprise” or “business”.

Beware of the equivalence of diplomas. Understanding and targeting language equivalencies is necessary before writing an international CV.

• The BTS will be translated as “2 year technical degree”.
• The master degree will be translated as “Master degree” or “Bachelor”.

Depending on the country, the use of the photo can be divisive. In the past, it was not acceptable to send a CV without a photo. Today, this is much more likely to be considered, especially because of the fear of companies to be accused of discrimination in hiring. However, some countries are still resisting and perceive the use of photography badly:

• United States
• New Zealand
• United Kingdom

Example of an international CV

First and last name Full address Email Phone number

Brief description of the objective and profile of the candidate

Title of the job

• List of positions
• Year of activity and country of residence.
• Brief description of positions held
• Name of the company

A map of the world with colored areas to locate the spaces in which you have worked allows you to focus your resume towards a mobile and international profile.

• Years of degree obtained
• Type of diploma
• University of graduation
• Brief summary of skills obtained.

At the bottom of the page, describe any additional skills that may complement your profile. Mastery of foreign languages, computer tools, various hobbies…

How to write a cover letter for an international career?

The cover letter is not mandatory, but let’s face it, it would be a shame to skip over such a crucial element for the recruiter. It makes the difference between the two. Even if it has elements in common with a classic cover letter (diplomas, objectives, hobbies…), facing an international audience adds an extra challenge to the task.

• The first essential point concerns the candidate’s motivation to work abroad rather than in his or her country of origin. The question may seem perfunctory, but the reasons for studying elsewhere are of real importance to schools or companies. It must appear as a conscious and thoughtful choice.
• Chances are you will not be the only international student in your program. Therefore, it is important to emphasize your interest in the exchange and in meeting new people. Shy or extroverted, recruiters want to see your ability to adapt to multicultural interactions. This should be a major motivation in your application.

What are the elements to avoid in an international cover letter?

• A common mistake is to turn the focus of the cover letter on yourself. Mentioning one’s aspirations may seem legitimate, but the recruiter wants above all to know what the candidate can bring to the company. What is the point of selecting one student over another? It is important to put yourself in the recruiter’s shoes.
• There is no need to copy what you have already mentioned in your CV. The cover letter should be complementary and provide new information about your application.
• Too much neutrality can be discriminatory. The cover letter remains a space for expression, the recruiter wants to get a glimpse of your personality. Don’t stick to a standard, administrative style. Make the recruiter want to meet you.

Sample cover letter to work internationally

Here is a synthetic example of a cover letter for international work:

• Fill in the subject of your application.
• Madam, Sir,

After doing a lot of research on the possibilities of working abroad, I decided to put together an international mobility file. I chose your company because it corresponds in every way to my objectives and skills. My past experiences in the field make my application particularly legitimate for this position. I am convinced that my previous trainings as well as my experience in companies will bring a lot to your company.

My choice of residence is your country because multicultural exchange is at the heart of my professional orientation. It is a great source of interest and enrichment for my future employment.

Yours sincerely

• Master International Business: program, opportunities, eligibility
• International Bachelor’s degree: specialties, opportunities, prices
• Making a career in an international organization
• Everything you need to know about the international degree: validity abroad, double degree
• International political science: definition, opportunities, training

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Writing a Cover Letter That Stands Out for international jobs

Mar 10, 2021 by Monica Garcia

Now that you have perfected your CV , you are ready to dive into your cover letter! This document works as a complement to your CV and will help you stand out even more in the pile of job seekers. It is also a way for you to naturally include your skills and accomplishments while telling the recruiter or hiring manager some more details about you as a person. 

Not every job ad requires you to add a cover letter but, in some cases, the company you are applying to might want you to include it. This letter should not tell your life story or describe your hobbies but should describe your professional career and highlight why you want the position you are applying for, and why you think you would be the right fit for it.

Tailor the cover letter for the job you are applying for

Just like with your CV, you want your cover letter to be unique to every job you apply for! Even if it is tempting to re-use an old version of the letter, you should tailor it for every new position. This will be a bit more time-consuming, but since it will be personalized for the company, it can make a considerable difference in the end. 

In the letter, we recommend avoiding generic sentences like “Dear sir/madam, I am excited to apply for this role". This does not show the recruiter that you are interested in that specific role. Do some extra research on who will read the cover letter and address it specifically to that person. For example: “Dear Janet Andersen, I saw that you are looking for a new customer support agent at Number One Gaming, and I am very interested in the role ”. 

What to include in a cover letter

Since most recruiters will probably only skim it, your cover letter doesn’t have to be longer than half a page. Having about three paragraphs is enough if you use them wisely. As mentioned before, this document should focus on your character, personality, and what accomplishments you have made in your career. Bring up previous jobs or internships that are relatable to the position you want, and mention qualifications, diplomas, or volunteer work that strengthens you as a valid candidate. 

You can search and download a template if you are unsure about the structure or design of your cover letter. However, make sure you personalize it and make it your own. 

1. Start strong

The first paragraph of your cover letter needs to grab the attention of the recruiter straight away. In other words, it has to be captivating, inviting them to read more. Try to think outside of the box . Instead of the classic “Hello, I want to apply for this job” try something like; “I have always loved problem-solving, and if I may say so myself I am immaculate at it. In fact, that is why I was attracted to a job within customer service in the first place”. 

After a strong opening, continue to explain why you are writing this letter. For example, you found the available position, and you were immediately intrigued. Then, give a clear motivation as to why you believe you would be an excellent fit for the role. Highlight the skills and qualities that you have and that you think the company needs. Since you have probably already done this in your CV, this is your chance to explain it more thoroughly. 

2. Why this job?

The most important part of your cover letter is to include why you are applying for that job . The company wants to know why you are passionate about what they do and how you could fit in their team. Research about the company to find out more about their mission, vision, and goals. You may relate to how their story or how they came up with that business idea, or you feel like the direction they are taking the business is in line with your plans for your career. This part has to be genuine and personal so that the employer can tell that you are interested in their company and what it represents. 

Something else that is important to do is to add some of the key terms and phrases that are used in the description of the job ad. If the company is looking for someone efficient, social, and a fast learner - you should include all of these words somewhere in your cover letter when you describe yourself or your skills. 

You can also add a sentence or two to explain why you want to work in the country where the job is. Maybe because you know the language, or it has always been your dream to live and work there. Explain that you are open to new adventures and that moving to another country is not a problem for you. 

3. Finish it with a thank you 

Finally, you want to add a closing paragraph with a final sales pitch and a summary explaining why you are genuinely interested in the role and that you would be happy to discuss it further in an interview . 

At the very end, thank the employer for taking the time to read your CV and cover letter and mention you look forward to hearing from them.  

Quick tips for your cover letter

• Format and presentation - your cover letter should be neat and tidy, use the same font as in your CV and make sure it’s uncluttered and has all the proper paragraphs. 
• Check for grammar or spelling mistakes - it’s easy to miss even the most obvious mistakes when you’ve stared at the same document for a while, so make sure someone else reads your cover letter before you send it out. 
• Use examples - Add your portfolio - if you have examples of previous work you have done, you can add them here to back up your claims. 
• If you feel stuck - sometimes it might be hard to know what words or phrases you should use to describe yourself, and you might feel like it comes off as bragging. A tip is to ask a colleague to give you some examples - how would they describe you and sing your praises?  

What to avoid in your cover letter

Just as in your CV, there are some elements that you should avoid when it comes to your cover letter. Here are some examples: 

Giving too much praise - You should not focus only on how good that company is and how well they do. Find areas of improvement and tell them how you can help. For example, it might be the case that the company is not so strong on social media. Then you could mention how you increased your current company’s visibility on Facebook or Instagram. 

Don’t add all your education - If you don’t have any work experience yet, you might think you need to add all your previous education to your cover letter. However, you should instead focus on your achievements and add your most recent educational accomplishments. Think of skills you learned from your education and find a way to connect them to the required skills for the role. 

Being too formal or too enthusiastic - The tone of voice in your cover letter is relevant, but sometimes it can be tricky to know which one is better to use. However, even if you want to sound professional, you should avoid being overly formal in your letter. You want to come across as likable and approachable and not sound like a robot. On the other side of the spectrum, you should also avoid being too enthusiastic or informal. 

If you don’t have any work experience yet 

Many candidates feel like they have to include an apology or an explanation for not having work experience. A sentence like “Although I only have limited experience in this field, I am excited to learn more” is a great way to explain that you don’t meet all the requirements yet, but you are willing to make up for it !

In other words, it is about focusing on your strengths rather than your weaknesses! Maybe you have studied abroad and can bring this up. For example, you can phrase it differently; “I know already what it is to move and live abroad, and I am ready to take the next step in my career”. If you make it to the interview stage and get asked about the previous experiences, you can elaborate your answer based on this point and be honest about how you plan to translate the skills you have for the position. 

Applying for a job today takes some extra effort from your side, but if you are willing to put in the time, you will be rewarded in the end. Having the perfect cover letter will get you miles ahead of other applicants, and if you manage to find a unique way to describe yourself and your skills, you pretty much have the job in the bag. Think of it as a puzzle where every piece must fit - the structure, the powerful introduction, describing yourself and your skills, the length, and the closing paragraph.  

And when you are finished, check out the open positions we are listing here to find your next job abroad. Good luck! ?.

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Letter Templates & Example

Crack Your Dream Job Abroad with Our Cover Letter for Overseas Job Template

Are you in search of an overseas job, but struggling to craft the perfect cover letter? Not to worry, we’ve got you covered! Our cover letter for overseas job template is available for you to use, edit, and personalize to fit your specific needs. Say goodbye to the stress and frustration of trying to create a cover letter from scratch. With our easy-to-use template, you can focus your attention on showcasing your skills and experience. Our examples provide a framework that you can adapt to meet the unique requirements of your desired job. So, take advantage of our resources and kickstart your job search today!

The Best Structure for a Cover Letter for an Overseas Job

If you’re planning to apply for an overseas job, you must present an exceptional cover letter that suits the standard requirements of the job application. A cover letter must be crafted thoughtfully and tailored to the job description to grab the attention of the employer. From my observation, the best structure for a cover letter for an overseas job should have four essential elements: an introduction, a paragraph on your skills and qualifications, a paragraph on what you can offer to the company, and a conclusion.

Introduction

The introduction of a cover letter is the first and an essential part of getting your foot in the door. It must be captivating enough to make the employer want to read on. At the beginning of your cover letter, introduce yourself by mentioning your name, the position you are applying for, the company, and why you were interested in the job. Also, provide the employer with a brief summary of your qualifications or skill level to show them your suitability for the job.

Skills and Qualifications

The body of your cover letter should consist of a paragraph on your skills and qualifications. This is the section where you highlight your work experience, education, and any other skills that might be relevant to the job. Showcase your credentials and why you are the ideal candidate for the job. Emphasize how your skills match the job requirements and how you can be an asset to the company.

What You Can Offer to the Company

The third paragraph is where you show the employer what you can offer the company. Talk about your achievements, what contribution you can make, and how you can bring value to the team. Highlight your unique selling points over other candidates who might have applied for the same job. Show the company how you can make a difference and help make their organization even more successful.

The conclusion is the last section of the cover letter. It should be written in a way that leaves the employer with a positive note. Summarize why you are the right fit for the job, reiterate your enthusiasm for the company, and thank the employer for taking the time to read your application.

In conclusion, a cover letter for an overseas job should be written with care and conveyed in a professional yet personable tone. Remember, you are not only showcasing your qualifications, but you also need to convince the employer that you are the right fit for the job. By following the structure mentioned above, you can draft an outstanding cover letter that will help you stand out from the crowd in your job application.

7 Sample Cover Letters for Overseas Job Application

Sample cover letter for overseas job due to personal interest.

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am excited to submit my application for the [Position] role at [Company Name]. I have always been interested in [Industry or Company], and I am specifically drawn to the innovative work your team is doing in [Specific Project or Initiative].

With [Number] years of experience in [Related Field], including [Specific Project or Accomplishment], I believe I would make a valuable contribution to your team. I am confident in my abilities to [Skill or Competency Required for Position] and am eager to learn and grow in this challenging new role.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.

[Your name]

Sample Cover Letter for Overseas Job due to Relocation

I am thrilled to submit my application for the [Position] role at [Company Name]. I am in the process of relocating to [City or Country], and I am eager to join a dynamic and innovative team in the area.

With [Number] years of experience in [Related Field], including [Specific Project or Accomplishment], I am confident in my abilities to excel in this challenging new role. [Company Name]’s commitment to [Company Mission or Value Proposition] aligns with my own values, and it would be an honor to contribute to your team in this capacity.

[Your Name]

Sample Cover Letter for Overseas Job due to Professional Growth Opportunity

I am excited to submit my application for the [Position] role at [Company Name]. As an experienced [Related Position], I am actively seeking new opportunities for professional growth and development, and I believe that [Company Name] is the ideal place for me to achieve this.

With [Number] years of experience, including [Specific Project or Accomplishment], I have developed a strong skillset in [Skill or Competency]. I am eager to apply my expertise to the challenging work your team is doing and to continue learning and growing in this exciting new role.

Sample Cover Letter for Overseas Job due to Language Fluency

I am thrilled to submit my application for the [Position] role at [Company Name]. As a fluent speaker of [Language], I am excited for the opportunity to apply my language skills to a professional context and to collaborate with colleagues from diverse backgrounds.

With [Number] years of experience in [Related Field], including [Specific Project or Accomplishment], I am confident that I possess the skills and expertise necessary to excel in this challenging new role. I am eager to apply my fluency in [Language] to support [Company Name]’s initiatives in [Specific Market or Context] and to contribute to your team’s ongoing success.

Sample Cover Letter for Overseas Job due to Research Interest

I am excited to submit my application for the [Position] role at [Company Name]. I am particularly drawn to [Company Name]’s innovative and cutting-edge research in [Research Area or Initiative], and I am eager to contribute my own research expertise to your team.

With [Number] years of experience in [Related Field], including [Specific Project or Accomplishment], I have developed a strong skillset in [Skill or Competency]. I am confident in my ability to collaborate with colleagues, to communicate complex ideas clearly and succinctly, and to contribute to the ongoing success of your research initiatives.

Sample Cover Letter for Overseas Job due to Cultural Exchange

I am thrilled to submit my application for the [Position] role at [Company Name]. As an individual with a passion for cultural exchange and international collaboration, I am excited for the opportunity to work with [Company Name] and to contribute to your team’s ongoing success.

With [Number] years of experience in [Related Field], including [Specific Project or Accomplishment], I have developed a strong skillset in [Skill or Competency]. I am confident in my ability to work effectively in diverse groups, to adapt to new cultural contexts, and to contribute meaningfully to your team’s collaborative work.

Sample Cover Letter for Overseas Job due to Desire for New Experiences

I am excited to submit my application for the [Position] role at [Company Name]. As an individual with a thirst for new experiences and challenges, I am eager for the opportunity to work with [Company Name] and to contribute to your team’s ongoing successes.

With [Number] years of experience in [Related Field], including [Specific Project or Accomplishment], I am confident in my ability to excel in this challenging new role. I am eager to learn and grow as a professional, and I believe that [Company Name] offers the ideal environment for me to do so.

Tips for Writing an Effective Cover Letter for Overseas Job

If you are planning to apply for a job overseas, writing a cover letter is an essential requirement. A cover letter gives you the chance to introduce yourself and discuss your qualifications and experience. By writing a strong cover letter, you can increase your chances of getting noticed and stand out from the other candidates.

Here are some tips for writing an effective cover letter for an overseas job:

• Research the company and the culture – Before you start writing your cover letter, make sure to research the company and the culture of the country you are applying to. This will help you tailor your cover letter and show the potential employer that you have put effort into understanding their business.
• Highlight your skills and experience – Your cover letter should showcase your skills and experience that make you a good fit for the job. Make sure to provide specific examples of how your skills match the requirements of the job.
• Use a professional tone – While it’s important to show your personality and enthusiasm in your cover letter, make sure to use a professional tone. Avoid using slang or informal language.
• Proofread and edit – Make sure to proofread your cover letter and edit it carefully. Typos and grammatical errors can make a bad impression on a potential employer.
• Keep it concise – Your cover letter should be no more than one page long. Keep it concise and to the point.

By following these tips, you can write an effective cover letter for an overseas job and increase your chances of landing your dream job abroad. Good luck!

FAQs related to Cover Letter for Overseas Job Template

What should be the length of my cover letter?

Your cover letter should be concise and to the point. Try to limit it to one page or less.

How should I begin my cover letter?

You can begin by introducing yourself and mentioning the position you are applying for

What should I include in the first paragraph of my cover letter?

In the first paragraph, you should explain why you are interested in the job and how you found out about it.

How do I highlight my qualifications in my cover letter?

You can use bullet points or a summary of your qualifications that match the job requirements mentioned in the job posting.

What should I mention in the conclusion of my cover letter?

In the conclusion, you can thank the employer for considering your application and express your enthusiasm for the opportunity to work with them.

Should I write a separate cover letter for each job application?

Yes, it is best to write a separate cover letter for each job application as it allows you to customize the content according to the job requirements.

How can I make sure my cover letter stands out?

You can make your cover letter stand out by highlighting your unique qualifications, personalizing it for the company and job, and showing your enthusiasm and passion for the role.

Thanks for Checking Out Our Cover Letter for Overseas Job Template!

We hope you found our template helpful in crafting your own standout cover letter for an overseas job. Don’t forget to tailor it to the specific job and company you are applying to! As always, we’ll have more resources and tools coming your way, so be sure to check back in with us. Thanks for stopping by and good luck in your job search!

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