The Art of Writing a Cover Letter
Writing a cover letter for a job application
In an interconnected world, career opportunities often span borders. Whether you are targeting a role in London, Dubai, Riyadh, or Paris, one thing remains constant: your cover letter can make - or break - your application. Too many candidates completely overlook this part of the application process, and it is a huge mistake!
But here is the challenge: what works in one country may feel completely out of place in another. A conversational tone appreciated in the UK might be considered too casual in Saudi Arabia, while overly formal language in France might sound stiff. The secret? Adaptation.
This guide breaks down the essentials of international cover letter writing and provides country-specific examples so you can craft a letter that resonates wherever you apply.
Why the Cover Letter Still Matters
Despite the rise of automated recruitment systems (the ATS systems covered in earlier blogs), cover letters remain a key differentiator. They:
Give personality to your application
Show you have researched the company and culture
Prove that you really want this job - not just clicking on ‘easy apply’!
Demonstrate communication skills - a universal employer priority
Give you an opportunity to explain some of the choices you have made in your career and perhaps to confront any ‘elephants in the room’
Globally, employers look for clarity, conciseness, and customization. But beyond that, cultural norms and business etiquette play a huge role in what is considered “a great cover letter.”
5 Core Principles for Writing International Cover Letters
Research Local Norms
What tone is expected? How formal should you be? Should you include salary expectations or not? (Hint: In Saudi Arabia and the UAE, mentioning expected compensation is common, but not 100% necessary.)
Tailor Your Message
Use the company's name, reference their mission, and align your strengths to their goals.
Prove that you know what they want by tailoring your skills/experience to match the job description.
Respect Language and Structure
For English-speaking countries, stick to concise paragraphs. For France, polish your French or hire a translator - sloppy language is a deal-breaker.
Remember that, until recently, in France, graphology was used to assess handwriting and attempt to understand the kind of person one would be.
Emphasize International Competence for Global Positions
Highlight adaptability, cultural awareness, and include language skills in cover letters. Global employers value this.
Follow Local Business Etiquette
For example, in France, addressing hiring managers as 'Madame' or 'Monsieur' is standard; in Dubai and Saudi Arabia, use formal titles (Mr., Mrs., Dr.).
It is my opinion that a formal tone should be adopted in all cover letters, which includes such things as:
> No contractions (I'll / we'd / can't)
> No phrasal verbs (break up / tone down / mess up)
> No exclamation marks
> No SMS Language
Cultural differences in cover letters
Cover letter examples by country
1. The UK: Professional, Polished, and Personable
UK employers appreciate professionalism with a hint of personality. The tone should be formal yet not rigid, and the letter should ideally fit on one page. Try to use the same format as your CV so that they are super consistent.
Key Tips:
Use British English (e.g., "organise," not "organize").
Avoid overly salesy language - modesty counts.
Mention why you admire the company and how your skills fit their needs.
Example opening for a cover letter for UK job applications:
Dear Ms. Taylor,
I am writing to express my interest in the Marketing Coordinator role at Green & Co. Having followed your sustainability initiatives, I am inspired by your commitment to reducing environmental impact - a mission that aligns closely with my experience leading eco-focused campaigns at XYZ Ltd.
2. Dubai & Saudi Arabia: Formality and Precision Matter
In the Middle East, particularly in Dubai and Saudi Arabia, a cover letter should be formal, respectful, and achievement driven. Employers often expect:
A clear subject line in emails (e.g., Application for Marketing Manager).
Mentioning the position title prominently.
Sometimes salary expectations (check the job ad first).
Highlighting regional experience or understanding of local business culture.
Tone : Direct, professional, with strong emphasis on qualifications and achievements. Avoid humour or casual expressions.
Cultural Note: When applying in Saudi Arabia, be especially mindful of a conservative tone and use respectful language.
Example opening for a cover letter for Saudi Arabia and Dubai job applications :
Dear Mr. Al-Faisal,
I am pleased to submit my application for the Senior Project Manager position at [Company Name]. With over eight years of experience in managing large-scale infrastructure projects across the GCC, I have developed expertise in delivering results within complex regulatory environments and multicultural teams.
3. France: Formal, Elegant, and Language-Sensitive
French cover letters (lettres de motivation) are generally shorter and more formal than Anglo-American ones. Employers expect:
Polished French (or impeccable English for international roles).
A clear structure: Introduction → Motivation → Why You → Closing.
A courteous closing phrase such as: Veuillez agréer, Madame, Monsieur, l’expression de mes salutations distinguées.
Cultural Note: Avoid being overly self-promotional - strike a balance between confidence and humility.
Example opening for a cover letter for France job applications
Madame Dupont,
Je souhaite vous exprimer mon intérêt pour le poste de Responsable Marketing au sein de votre entreprise. Votre engagement envers l’innovation et la créativité correspond à mes propres ambitions professionnelles, et je suis convaincu(e) de pouvoir contribuer à vos objectifs stratégiques.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
● Using a generic letter for all countries and/or companies. Recruiters spot this instantly.
● Overusing templates without personalisation. They make you look lazy.
● Avoid clichés.
● Ignoring language nuances. For example, addressing a French recruiter with "Hi" or an Emirati recruiter without a formal title is a major faux pas.
● Exceeding one page. Across most markets, brevity wins.
Checklist for Writing an International Cover Letter
Tailor for the specific country and company.
Use the appropriate cover letter tone and formality
Include examples of achievements relevant to the role.
Respect cultural expectations for greetings and closings.
Proofread - errors kill credibility globally.
In Summary
A cover letter is not just a document - it's your voice in a different cultural context. Mastering the art of adaptation shows more than your qualifications; it demonstrates cultural intelligence, which is priceless in today's global economy.
Finally, do not underestimate this step in the process. It is your one opportunity to introduce yourself and make a great first impression.
Additionally, a cover letter will help establish rapport and endear you to the hiring manager.
Good luck!
For a sample cover letter and skeleton design you can use to create an effective cover letter when you add your own details, email me at yourconsultant@candehrconsultancy.com