how to write a cover letter in french

Write a cover letter in French

• February 9, 2022
• , A2 , B1 , B2 , Tips

Table of contents

In today’s lesson, let’s take a look at what a cover letter in French looks like. This lesson can be useful for A2 to B2 students (but if you are still wondering at C1 and C2, please feel free to stick around).

How to write a cover letter in French – Écouter

La lettre de motivation en français – cover letter in french, la structure de la lettre de motivation en français.

Expéditeur : Le nom et l’adresse de la personne qui envoie la lettre / Name and address of the person sending the letter

Destinataire : Le nom et l’adresse de la personne qui reçoit la lettre / Name and address of the person receiving the letter

Par exemple, le nom de la personne et son poste:

Monsieur Dupont

Directeur des ressources humaines

[Nom de l’entreprise]

Si vous ne connaissez pas le destinataire, écrivez directement le poste: 

À l’attention du directeur des ressources humaines

Date : La date de rédaction / Date of writing

Objet : L’objet, le titre de la lettre / The subject, the title of the letter

Généralement, vous allez y écrire une phrase simple, sans verbes, comme : 

Candidature pour un poste de cuisinier

Candidature pour l’offre d’emploi ABC25X

Formule d’appel : Les salutations / Greetings.

Si vous connaissez le destinataire, écrivez directement: 

Madame (si c’est une femme)

Monsieur (si c’est un homme)

Si vous ne connaissez pas le destinataire, vous pouvez y écrire: 

Madame, Monsieur,

Contenu de la lettre : Le contenu de votre lettre de motivation / The content of your cover letter

Formule de politesse : Avant de signer, une formule pour prendre congé / Before signing, an expression to say goodbye

Signature : La signature de l’expéditeur / Sender’s signature

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Le plan de la lettre de motivation en français

Pour le contenu de votre lettre de motivation en français, il est généralement conseillé de l’écrire en trois parties: MOI, VOUS, NOUS . 

For the content of your cover letter in French, it is generally advised to write it in three parts: ME, YOU, US .

Moi : le candidat. Il doit se présenter d’une manière intéressante pour l’employeur (ou le recruteur). Il doit mettre en avant ses points forts : expérience professionnelle, cursus universitaire, études, formations… Il faut savoir se mettre en valeur (sans en faire trop !).

Moi : the candidate. They must present themselves in an interesting way for the employer (or recruiter). He/she must put forward his/her strong points: professional experience, academic background, studies, training… You have to know how to highlight yourself (without doing too much!).

Vous : L’entreprise. Il faut mettre en avant les aspects positifs de l’entreprise. Pourquoi répondez-vous à l’annonce de l’offre d’emploi ?  Ceci n’est pas “juste une candidature”. Vous visez  le poste que vous rêvez de décrocher ! Pour réussir cette partie, il est indispensable de d’abord faire quelques recherches sur l’entreprise et son secteur d’activité.

Vous : The company. You should highlight the positive aspects of the company. Why are you responding to the job posting? This is not “just an application”. You are aiming for the job you dream of getting! To succeed in this part, it is essential to first do some research on the company and its sector of activity.

Nous : La collaboration. Il faut synthétiser votre collaboration avec l’entreprise. Que pouvez-vous vous apporter mutuellement ? Soulignez la compatibilité de votre profil avec le poste recherché, le domaine d’activité. Le candidat mettra au service de l’entreprise toute son expérience. C’est l’idée qu’il faut appuyer afin d’encourager l’employeur à rencontrer le candidat.

Us : Collaboration. You need to synthesize your collaboration with the company. What can you bring to each other? Emphasize the compatibility of your profile with the position that they’re trying to fill in, the field of activity. The candidate will put all their experience at the service of the company. This is the idea that must be supported in order to encourage the employer to meet the candidate.

La formule de politesse

Saying goodbye  

Il existe énormément de formules de politesse pour terminer une lettre de motivation en français. N’oubliez pas de remercier le destinataire ! 

Je vous remercie de l’attention que vous avez porté à ma candidature.

Je vous remercie de l’attention que vous avez accordé à ma candidature.

(Vous pouvez aussi les écrire au futur simple)

Je vous remercie de l’attention que vous porterez à ma candidature.

Je vous remercie de l’attention que vous accorderez à ma candidature.

Pour prendre congé, celles que j’utilise le plus souvent sont: 

Veuillez agréer, Madame, Monsieur, l’expression de mes sentiments distingués.

Je vous prie de croire, Madame, Monsieur, à ma considération distinguée.

Je vous prie de recevoir, Madame, Monsieur, mes salutations distinguées.

Dans l’attente de votre réponse, je vous prie d’agréer, Madame, Monsieur, l’expression de mes sincères salutations.

Let’s now take a look at an example of cover letter in French. 

An example of cover letter in French

Mme. Marie Dupont

35 avenue de la Liberté 

M. Jean Martin

Agence ML Communications

23 rue des Lilas 69004 Lyon

Le 5 décembre 2022

Objet : Candidature pour le poste d’assistante de direction

Je me permets de vous soumettre ma candidature pour un poste d’assistante de direction au sein de votre entreprise. Je suis actuellement titulaire d’un diplôme professionnel d’Assistante de Direction.

Grâce à mon expérience professionnelle de 5 ans, j’ai acquis et développé des compétences que je souhaite mettre à votre disposition, notamment en informatique et comptabilité.

Mes années d’expérience en tant qu’assistante de direction ont également contribué à renforcer mon sens de l’organisation mais aussi mon sens de l’anticipation et ma réactivité, des compétences que je juge indispensables dans ce domaine.

J’ai donc l’habitude de collaborer avec un grand nombre de services et de directions. J’ai entendu parler de votre agence spécialisée dans la communication et l’histoire de votre entreprise ainsi que votre façon de travailler m’ont fortement interpellée. Votre expertise et votre professionnalisme ont su former votre réputation.

C’est pour cette raison que je pense que mon profil pourrait convenir au poste d’assistante de direction. Je souhaiterais intégrer votre équipe afin de vous apporter mon expérience au profit de votre agence.

Je souhaite ainsi vous rencontrer afin de vous faire part plus longuement de mes motivations et de ce que je pourrais vous apporter dans le cadre de futures collaborations.

Je vous remercie de l’attention que vous porterez à ma candidature.  Dans cette attente, je vous prie de recevoir, Monsieur, mes salutations distinguées.

Marie Dupont

How to write a cover letter in French – Conclusion

I hope that you enjoyed today’s lesson on how to write a cover letter in French ! 

À bientôt ! 

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Learn To French

French Cover Letter: Lettre De Motivation

If you’re applying for jobs in France as a student, immigrant, or ex-pat, you need a perfectly written French CV. But, that only will not get you a job in France. Most companies expect a cover letter written in French STYLE – a well-written French Cover Letter that complements your resume.

All cover letter examples in this guide

French Cover Letter Example

Jason Shah Assistant administratif [email protected] 01 34 75 83 51 Paris 20 juin 2022

Manon Lavigne Premier Contenx Paris, France

Lettre de motivation pour le poste d'assistant administratif

Monsieur Dupont,

Je suis une assistante administrative dévouée avec plus de 5 ans d'expérience dans l'administration générale et l'acquisition de talents - diplômée de l'Université de San Francisco avec une licence de première classe en RH et lisant pour le Master en Administration des Affaires en France.

Dans mon précédent poste d'assistante administrative pour Groupon à New York, je me suis occupée de l'acquisition de talents, de la formation et du développement, et de l'administration générale - j'ai travaillé pour le PDG en gérant son agenda, en programmant ses réunions et en l'aidant à gérer l'équipe.

J'ai toujours été passionnée par le fait de travailler pour une agence de marketing basée en France et j'ai été particulièrement amusée par le travail et la clientèle de Premier Contenx.

C'est avec plaisir que je discuterai de ce poste lors d'un entretien et j'espère pouvoir démontrer en quoi mes qualifications et mon expérience correspondent à vos exigences pour le plus grand succès de l'entreprise.

Salutations distinguées,

We’ve created this comprehensive guide to writing a French le modèle cover letter with plenty of examples tailored to different professions.

The article also includes:

• French cover letter styling guide to impress the native hiring managers.
• A step-by-step guide to writing each section of the cover letter.
• Pro tips to make your cover letter better than 95% of the other applications.

Here’s the good news. Our resume builder is capable of creating your French cover letter in less than 10 minutes – starting with a modern cover letter template that you could tailor to your requirement.

Meantime, let’s dive into writing the best version of your lettre de motivation.

How to Write a French Cover Letter

Writing a cover letter for a French hiring manager would have significant differences in the style and the content of the letter. French hiring managers always prefer well-structured formal letters.

As in any other region, a cover letter in France should demonstrate the applicant’s academic and professional background and their ability to meet the roles and responsibilities of the job.

Here’re some general guidelines for writing your cover letter:

• Keep your cover letter to a single page
• Avoid using too complicated words and long sentences
• Avoid being too salesy and self-promoting
• Keep your content to 3-4 short paragraphs
• Use conventional fonts such as Arial or Times

French cover letter structure

The content on a French cover letter is quite different from an American cover letter – especially the order in which the content is written.

Here’s the structure we recommend for a French-style cover letter:

• Opening greeting
• First Paragraph: Introduction
• Second Paragraph: key skills and experience
• Third Paragraph: why you’re interested in the job/ company
• Fourth Paragraph: Call to Action (CTA)
• Complimentary close

📌 Tip: A general French cover letter should sound polite, cautious, and formal. For example, when addressing someone, use “vous” instead of “tu” which is the formal version of the word “you”.

Now, let’s break down how to write your cover letter step by step.

Start with the Header

French recruiters consider your cover letter as a formal letter – therefore, start your header with the information of the sender (the applicant) and the receiver (the hiring manager) – the same way you start any formal letter.

Sender Information

Start with your name followed by the position you’re applying for. Put your contact information including your personal e-mail address, telephone number, and the physical address (only if applicable). Put the date on which you’re writing the letter.

Garry Smith

Directeur du magasin

[email protected]

01 56 67 82 45

12 août 2022

Receiver Information

Put the name of the hiring manager or the person who reads your application – their position – company name – and the address.

Juliette Zoe

Responsable du recrutement

Techno Care

Paris, France

You won’t find out details about the recruiters on some occasions – then, use the company name and the address.

However, if the company has posted the job advertisement on LinkedIn, you’ll probably be able to find the hiring manager’s information. Addressing the hiring manager by their name is a great way to show that you have done your research.

Put the Letter’s Subject

As in any formal letter, you should write the subject of your cover letter. In this case, the subject should be the job and the position you’re applying for.

Lettre de motivation pour le poste de responsable de l'ingénierie

Lettre de motivation pour le poste d'assistant administratif

Lettre de motivation pour le poste de comptable financier

Opening Greeting

We recommend using a formal French greeting in your letter. Address the reader with Madame or Monsieur without mentioning their name again. When you are unsure of the gender of the person you address, use both.

Madame/ Monsieur,

Refer to this article for more greeting styles and important French resume phrases.

Paragraph 01: Start by Introducing Yourself

In American-style cover letters, the first paragraph is often a sales pitch to the hiring manager explaining the key achievements and accomplishments of the candidate.

French recruitment practices are a little different – the job market is academic-focused, whereas your degree has more value than your achievements in a previous job. If your degree matches the job requirements set by the employer, you’ll have a great chance of getting an interview.

Therefore, highlight the relevant educational background in the first paragraph itself – give a brief introduction to your academic and professional experience – show that you have the basic qualifications listed on the job description.

See the following example first paragraph for a store manager position.

Nach meinem Bachelor-Abschluss in Marketing an der University of Massachusetts in Boston, den ich mit Auszeichnung bestanden habe, absolvierte ich einen Zertifikatskurs für fortgeschrittene Einzelhandelsoperationen an der Eastern Finland University, der es mir ermöglichte, bei Carrefour in Paris als Filialleiter zu arbeiten.

Ich habe 2015 meinen Bachelor-Abschluss in Marketing gemacht und 2019 meinen Master abgeschlossen. Danach habe ich bei der Supermarktkette Carrefour als Betriebsleiter in einer ihrer Filialen angefangen.

Be specific about your academic qualifications – state the name of the degree, the year you graduated, and the university or institution name.

If you possess a couple of key technical skills required to perform the job duties, you could mention them in the first paragraph.

Paragraph 02: Key Experience that Makes You the Best

Demonstrate your key experience and skills relevant to the job in the second paragraph. In this, you do not have to limit yourself to your most recent work experience – instead, pick the right information from your career and compose them into a couple of sentences.

Always focus on putting the most demanding skills for the job. Read the job posting and find out the objectives of the employer in making this hire – address those issues and show them how your expertise could help solve those problems.

Use this space to showcase one or two of your greatest and most relevant achievements – add numbers to demonstrate the impact of your decisions on key business metrics such as profit, sales, annual target, employee turnover, customer satisfaction, etc.

light your skills and expertise without overdoing it. French hiring managers hate to see job candidates trying to oversell them on their cover letters. In fact, they expect raw facts on the cover letter instead of boasting about the brilliance of the candidate.

Bei meiner früheren Tätigkeit bei Carrefour in Paris war ich an der Durchführung von Marketing- und Werbekampagnen in den einzelnen Filialen beteiligt, habe Kundenanfragen und Beschwerden bearbeitet und Strategien zur Steigerung der Produktivität der Mitarbeiter entwickelt. Meine Vorschläge zum bestehenden Ladenplan haben dem Geschäft geholfen, seinen Umsatz im Jahr 2021 um 6 % zu steigern.

Bei Carrefour habe ich vor allem Erfahrungen in der Kundenbetreuung und im Einzelhandel gesammelt. Ich war auch an der Planung von Marketingkampagnen für besondere Anlässe beteiligt.

Paragraph 03: Express Your Interest in Joining the Firm

Though you’re sending your CV to multiple employers, you can’t send your cover letter to two different vacancies – the cover letter addresses the particular employer, the job, and the industry.

One of the main objectives of your cover letter is to convey your interest in the firm and the position – this is especially important for the candidates who are applying for their first jobs and for those who are in career transitions.

Research about the industry, the company, and the job you’re applying for, and establish what makes you interested in applying for the position. Employers love to hire candidates who have a genuine passion for the job.

Talk about the company’s mission, vision, purpose, or the strategies they used and align them with your personal career objectives.

Als leidenschaftlicher Einzelhandelskaufmann und Logistiker möchte ich mein Interesse bekunden, das Carrefour-Team bei seiner Mission zu unterstützen, ein großartiges Kundenerlebnis zu schaffen.

Ich möchte mich dem Carrefour-Team anschließen, um meine Karriere im Einzelhandel in einer gut bezahlten Position als Leiter eines etablierten Geschäfts in Paris auszubauen.

Paragraph 04: Finish with a Call to Action (CTA)

In your last paragraph, you should tell the hiring manager what to do next – the Call to Action.

This does not mean that your hiring manager doesn't know what to do next – but, you should know what to expect. In most cases, there will be a couple of interviews in the hiring process. French recruiters often call the shortlisted candidates for formal interviews instead of informal chats or meetings.

By stating your CTA, you should manifest your interest and readiness to meet them and talk about the specifics.

Es wird mir ein Vergnügen sein, mit Ihnen über meine Rolle als Filialleiter in Ihrer neuen Filiale zu sprechen und Ihnen zu zeigen, wie meine bisherigen Erfahrungen problemlos in Ihr Projekt einfließen können, um einen größeren Erfolg zu erzielen.

Falsches Beispiel

Ich freue mich darauf, bald von Ihnen zu hören

The French Cover Letter Closing

End your cover letter with a salutation. Be respectful and use a standard closing statement as in a formal letter.

How to Finish Your Letter?

Consider using the following closing sentences based on the situation.

• Yours faithfully: Veuillez agréer mes l'expression de mes salutations distinguées
• Yours sincerely: Salutations distinguées
• Respectfully yours: Veuillez agréer l'expression de mes sentiments respectueux

All above salutations are used in formal conditions while “Yours Faithfully” is used when the recipient's name is not known.

🛑Vermeiden Sie informelle Anreden wie "Mit freundlichen Grüßen" oder "Beste Wünsche".

Tips to Improve Your Cover Letter in French

Take your French cover letter to the next level using these tips:

• Get your French cover letter proofread by a native French speaker.
• Find out who reads your cover letter so that you can personalize it with their name.
• Identify the most troubling questions your potential employer faces and address them in your cover letter.
• Keep the French cover letter formal all the time.
• Consider using a modern cover letter template to make your application stand out.
• For consistency, use the same or similar template for the CV and the cover letter.

Key Points: Writing a Perfect French Cover Letter

• Follow the time-tested cover letter structure we recommended.
• Avoid casual and informal language – maintain a formal and respectful tone throughout.
• Tailor your cover letter to the firm, job, and the industry you’re applying for.
• Use 3 to 4 short paragraphs with clear objectives.
• Include a CTA.
• Showcase your excitement for the job throughout the letter.

Complement Your Cover Letter with the Right Resume

A French resume is a one or two page comprehensive document highlighting the candidate’s education, previous experience, and skills.

The resume is a part of every job application. You can send your resume without a cover letter, but not the other way around.

The resume draws an overall picture of the candidate while the cover letter addresses a specific job or an employer.

Create a great resume and a cover letter that complement each other. Pick a matching template and start creating both your resume and the cover letter on our ready-to-fill resume builder . Apply to hundreds of jobs in France faster than ever.

Do cover letters necessary for jobs in France?

Most job advertisements in France require you to submit a cover letter along with your resume. Even if the job posting does not explicitly mention the requirement of a cover letter, it's always safe to send one.

A cover letter conveys your interest to the hiring manager in the job. There is a clear difference between sending a generic CV to 100 job postings and sending a tailored cover letter with each application.

Should I include a photo on my French cover letter?

Not necessary, but there’s no harm in doing so. Candidates often include a picture on French resumes. If you’re using the same template for your cover letter, you may include one.

Most companies established in France are fine with candidates’ pictures on resumes and cover letters. However, if you’re applying for a USA, UK, Australia, or Ireland company based in France, consider not including a photo.

Read our complete guide to including pictures on your resume .

Should I include personal qualities in my cover letter?

You’re not required to include your personal qualities in the cover letter. However, you can write them on your resume as an additional section. You should only focus your cover letter on the specific job you’re applying for – the qualifications, experience, and the skills required to perform the tasks on the job.

Tasuta allalaetav kaaskirja mall

Motivatsioonikiri, millele on enamikul juhtudel lisatud CV, on iga töötaotluse põhielement. Seda tüüpi kiri peab lühidalt kirjeldama oskusi, võimeid ja teadmisi, mis teil on ja mis on teatud huviga seoses otsitava ametikohaga. Selles mõttes peab kaaskiri lihtsalt sisaldama sellele ametikohale kandideerimise motivatsiooni ja põhjendusi. See peab äratama värbajas huvi ja panema ta pidama teid selle töö jaoks parimaks võimaluseks.

Kuidas koostada lihtsat kaaskirja

• 1 Valige oma valitud CV mall.
• 2 Austab ühtset struktuuri. Näiteks kasutage kaaskirja struktuuriga "Sina-Mina-Meie".
• 3 Lisage järgmised osad, apellatsioonivorm, lühitutvustus, kirja sisu ja järeldus
• 4 Ärge unustage viimast viisakusvalemit. Vaadake kaaskirja viisakusvalemite näiteid.
• 5 Isiklikuma ja formaalsema ilme lisamiseks lisage lehe allossa oma allkiri
• 6 Kui soovite saata selle meili teel, eksportige oma kaaskiri PDF-vormingus.

Teised kaaskirjade näidised

Kaaskirja struktureerimise nõuanded.

Kaaskirja kirjutamise hõlbustamiseks pidage meeles, et koguge eelnevalt kogu vajalik teave. Näidake toimetaja loovust, järgides samal ajal tüpograafiliste reeglite õiget kasutamist ja jälgides, et ei tekiks kirjavigu. Sest hea kaaskiri peegeldab teie kuvandit inimese ja professionaalina. Olge oma kirjutamisel loominguline ja originaalne, jäädes samas lihtsaks, kokkuvõtlikuks ja täpseks. ‍ Näidake läbitud punktide ohutust, enesekindlust ja meisterlikkust. Rõhutage, mida saate ettevõttesse tuua ja mainige oma erialast kogemust vastavas valdkonnas. Märkige ka kõik põhipunktid, mis panevad teid end uute ideedega täitva transformeeriva agendina ilmuma. Täpsustage oma võimet saavutada kavandatud eesmärgid ja kohaneda uute suundumustega.

Näita ennast positiivselt. Ärge langege sellesse viga, et kasutate sama kaaskirja mitme ettevõtte jaoks. Koostage kaaskiri iga taotletava töö kohta. Seda tüüpi kiri võimaldab tööandjal kujundada teie isiksuse kohta arvamust, sest see annab teile võimaluse täpsustada oma motivatsioone, mida lihtsas CV-s tegelikult ei kirjeldata.

Lihtsa ja tõhusa kaaskirja kirjutamise soovitused

• Laiendage Intro ‍ Pidage meeles, et pärast kõne valemit peate välja töötama sissejuhatuse, kus tutvustate end ametlikult ja isiklikult. Ärge unustage märkida peamist eesmärki, mis ajendas teid seda kirja kirjutama.
• Struktureerige oma kirja sisu Laske end juhinduda järgmistest küsimustest: – Miks?, Mis eesmärgil?, Kuidas?, Miks soovite selles ettevõttes töötada? → selles osas peate kirjeldama, mida saate ettevõttele tuua. – Rõhutage, kuidas teie teadmised võivad oluliselt mõjutada ettevõtte funktsioonide arengut ja majandussektorit, kus ta tegutseb. - Kuidas te seda teeksite tee seda? → lihtsalt rõhutab teie teadmisi ja võimeid professionaalina – Rõhutage oma õnnestumisi, varasemaid kogemusi, diplomeid, saadud tunnustusi või auhindu.
• Olge oma järeldustes otsekohene Andke teada, et olete vestluseks saadaval, esitades kontaktteabe, näiteks oma e-posti aadressi, telefoninumbri ja postiaadressi. Kui need kontaktandmed muutuvad, ärge unustage uuendada oma CV-d ja kaaskirja ning saata need uuesti ettevõtetele, kes on need juba saanud.
• Hoolitse paigutuse eest Teie kaaskiri peab olema kooskõlas teie CV-ga. Värbaja peab esmapilgul nägema, et need 2 dokumenti moodustavad ühe taotluse. Kasutage oma kaaskirjas samu värve, fonti, ikoone jne, mis oma CV-s. See väike näpunäide aitab teil luua tõhusa ja professionaalse rakenduse.

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Domande frequenti sulle lettere di accompagnamento

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Static and dynamic content editing

A rich text element can be used with static or dynamic content. For static content, just drop it into any page and begin editing. For dynamic content, add a rich text field to any collection and then connect a rich text element to that field in the settings panel. Voila!

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Our free collection of expertly designed cover letter templates will help you stand out from the crowd and get one step closer to your dream job.

Sample letters to download

Cover Letter

Advice for getting a job, instructions.

What is a cover letter/motivational letter in France?

In France as in many other countries, it is very usual and almost a must, to send a cover letter with you CV, when you apply for a job.

A cover letter, are used to introduce yourself to the persons that are hiring personnel for a job. In this letter, the candidate should explain reason why he/she considers that he/she is an appropriate candidate for the job offered.Employers or HHR personnel are looking for letter written by the candidate for the specific position, in a polite way, and showing good attitude and interest in the job offered.

These letters of introduction are used as first filter for the employers. That will discard anyone that doesn´t show interest, or have not the required communication skills required to write an appropriate letter.

Note that when you apply for a paid job, the letter used to be called “ Cover letter “. While when apply for an internship, master, university, etc. The kind of letter used is a “ Motivational letter “. In this articicle, we will focus in cover letters for job applications.

Cover letter in French examples

In the following list you can find examples of cover letters (In French “Lettres de motivation” ) written in French. Some on them generic, and other ones specific for different job positions or sectors.

French “lettres de motivación” (cover letters) has a tipical paragraph structure. Here you can find some classical templates of cover letters

• Cover letter / Classical model
• Classical cover letter II
• Classical cover letter III
• Cover letter IV
• Cover letter / Direct introduction
• Motivational cover letter
• Cover letter V

Cover letters by job position / economic sector

Are you looking to apply for a job in a specific position and you need a cover letter in French ? In France it´s very usual to be required to send a cover letter with your CV, and to explain in this letter why you consider you are the appropiate person for the job

Cover letter samples for the Restaurant / Catering Industry in France

• Restaurant / catering industry general cover letter
• Cover letter for fast food industry
• Cover letter for waiter/waitres positions
• Cover letter for restaurant manager positions
• Cover letter for dining room manager
• Cover letter for Sommelier (sumiller)
• Cover letter for pastry baker positions
• Cover letter for kitchen head chef positions
• Cover letter for fast food delivery positions
• Cover letter for dining room assistant

Cover letter examples for Hotel & Tourism industry

Hotel and tourism industries in France are important economic activities and generated thousand of jobs each year.

• Recepcionist
• Manager assistant
• Room service waiter/waitress
• Hotel porter (bellman)
• Retirement Village worker
• Tourism office director
• Tourism consultant
• Cleaning personnel

Cover letter examples for Engineering / Industrial sector

In the engineering and industrial sector, a cover letter can make the difference when applying for a job. In the following list you can download cover letter for different positions in these sectors, and customize them for your specific job application.

• Agricultural Engineer
• IT Engineer
• Engineering assistant
• Industrial Designer
• Logistic Coordinator
• Food Industry worker

Making a cover letter in French

A well-crafted cover letter is an essential component of your job application — especially in French-speaking markets, where a personalized letter can make a significant difference. In a competitive job market, an impressive cover letter highlights your qualifications and communicates your enthusiasm in a way that resonates with French-speaking employers. Understanding how to present your skills in a French cover letter can be the key to standing out.

Do French-speaking markets need a letter?

A cover letter isn’t mandatory for all applications. However, it is pretty common to attach a cover letter when applying for jobs in French-speaking markets. Professional and white-collar roles often require that cover letters and resumes be included with your application. 

Expectations around cover letters vary by country. For example, in France, a cover letter is a standard part of most applications and is valued for how it showcases motivation and writing skills. Some nations where French is commonly spoken (e.g., Morocco and Belgium) may be more flexible regarding formatting requirements and tone. 

Some French recruiters may even require a handwritten cover letter in French.(1) Why a handwritten cover letter? French recruiters may use this approach to analyze your handwriting to detect personality traits. 

If you apply for a job that requires a handwritten cover letter, take your time so you can create a legible document and carefully review the letter for grammar and syntax. You may want to type your cover letter first and then transcribe it. This way, you can ensure that the letter has flawless grammar and spelling. 

Even if an employer doesn’t require a cover letter, you may want to include one. Doing so can differentiate you from other candidates and give you a chance to introduce yourself. Keep the letter concise and focused, just in case the hiring manager skims through the document or is inundated with applications. 

Understand the structure of a French cover letter

The first step to learning how to write a French cover letter (lettre de motivation) involves familiarizing yourself with the structure of the document. French cover letters have a structured format designed to make your points clear and concise. Here’s a breakdown of the main sections:

• Header (En-tête) : Include your contact information (vos coordonnées), the date (la date), and the employer’s information ( les coordonnées de l'employeur)
• Salutation (Salutation): Begin with a formal greeting (formule de politesse) like “Madame”/“Monsieur” — or, if possible, include the hiring manager’s name for a personal touch 
• Introduction (Introduction): Capture the reader’s attention by briefly introducing who you are and why you’re interested in the role (le poste) — for example, “Je me permets de vous écrire afin de postuler pour le poste de …” (“I am writing to apply for the position of …”) 
• Body (Corps de la lettre): Elaborate on your skills (compétences) and experience (expérience professionnelle) — aim for one to two paragraphs to summarize your qualifications and explain how you are a perfect fit for the role 
• Closing (Conclusion): Conclude your letter with a brief, polite closing statement (formule de clôture) expressing your hope for a meeting or interview (un entretien)

Each section should be clear and cohesive. You want the reader to understand your suitability and qualifications for the role. A well-structured letter demonstrates professionalism and makes a strong impression. 

While a resume (curriculum vitae) uses bullet points, a French visa cover letter uses a traditional paragraph structure. Look at cover letter examples to better understand the structural and formatting differences between the two documents. Pay close attention to the length of each section so your letter is balanced and focused. 

Language and tone

When writing a cover letter in French, maintaining a formal and professional tone is vital. French cover letters typically avoid slang (argot) and informal expressions. Instead, you need to use a polished, respectful tone (ton poli et respectueux) that conveys confidence and enthusiasm without coming across as boastful. Politeness (politesse) is key, so keep the tone courteous and focused on the employer’s needs. 

In French-speaking markets, using formal language shows respect and seriousness. Avoid cliches and focus on the concrete ways your background makes you suitable for the role. Instead of making generalized claims, support your statements with hard data. 

Keep in mind that direct, word-by-word translations can lead to syntax issues. To avoid this, use common phrases like “Je vous remercie de l’attention que vous porterez à ma candidature,” which means “Thank you for considering my application.”

You’ll also need to carefully read the job description (description de poste) and make note of any keywords. You should weave some of those keywords into your application so your cover letter demonstrates that you’ve reviewed the responsibilities of the position. If the hiring team scans your letter with an applicant tracking system ( ATS ), your application might never be seen if it lacks important keywords.

Expert tip:

When adapting your language to French formalities, avoid directly translating phrases from your native language. Direct translations can lead to grammatical or syntax issues that create confusion. Instead, choose expressions commonly used in French cover letters, as this shows cultural awareness and professionalism.

Highlighting relevant skills and experiences

When learning how to write a French cover letter, it’s vital to make your skills and experiences foundational parts of your document. Don’t just translate your skills to French. You need to prioritize abilities that are relevant to the job’s requirements. Start by identifying which skills are relevant to the role. If your previous experience was in a different industry, make note of the transferable skills you have that apply. 

Suppose that you worked in customer service but are applying for an administrative role. Emphasize skills like communication and problem-solving. Use French equivalents of these terms to illustrate your proficiency in the language. Employers value transferable skills because they show adaptability and the potential to succeed in new environments. 

When describing your experiences, be specific and give examples. Quantifiable achievements stand out and provide a clearer picture of what you bring to the table. 

Remember that your French resume needs to complement your cover letter. While both documents should highlight your skills and experiences, the documents must also provide new and varied information. Your resume should be a highlight reel of your professional journey, while your cover letter should link your skills and achievements to specific outcomes and your suitability for the role. 

"In French-speaking markets, using formal language shows respect and seriousness. Avoid cliches and focus on the concrete ways your background makes you suitable for the role."

Advice for creating a French cover letter

Here are a few tips to help you create a polished and professional cover letter.

Review grammar and spelling

French grammar can be challenging, especially if you’re not a native speaker. Proofreading is crucial. Spelling or grammar mistakes may suggest a lack of attention to detail, so double-check each section carefully. 

Even a seemingly small mistake can affect how the hiring team perceives you. Your cover letter is a chance to make a great first impression. Don’t waste this opportunity by cutting corners during your editing and grammar review process. 

Customize each letter for the role

Avoid sending a generic cover letter to multiple employers. Hiring managers want to see that you took the time to create a personalized document for that role. Subtly mention the company by name and weave a few important keywords from the job description into your letter. You can even include the hiring manager’s name to give your letter a personal touch. 

Check for market-specific requirements

Cultural nuances vary across French-speaking markets. A cover letter suitable for Canada may differ from one for France. Research the job market norms in the country you’re applying to, as they can influence how your cover letter is received. 

Use a formal template

Templates can save you a lot of time and ensure your document has a professional, crisp format. Choose a cover letter template to create a positive first impression and make your document easier to read. Make sure to select a template that aligns with the preferences and expectations of the company you are applying to. 

You can also choose a complementary resume template . Both documents should have the same font and general layout. 

Optimize your French cover letter with Jobseeker 

Creating a French cover letter requires attention to cultural expectations and proper use of formal language. You’ll need to follow a cohesive structure that effectively communicates your skills and experiences. By crafting a letter that leverages these best practices, you can demonstrate your qualifications and show respect for the language and professionalism valued in French-speaking markets. 

Jobseeker provides a wealth of resumes to help you create a great French cover letter and resume. Explore our cover letter templates and simplify the process of creating a great letter for your next job application. Make sure to check out our resume examples for inspiration about how you can create complementary documents that make you stand out. 

(1) University of Exeter: Global Employability  

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How to write a french cover letter.

Writing a French cover letter, or “lettre de motivation,” can be a daunting task, especially for international students aiming to study and live in France. Just like your resume , your cover letter is a vital part of your application package. This guide will help you craft an impressive French cover letter, step by step.

How to Find a Job

For job search, we recommend you check the platform Jobaviz: https://www.jobaviz.fr and our blog article here: https://gogofrance.com/en/blog/how-to-get-a-part-time-job-in-france/

This platform is the go-to site for student employment! It lists job offers from a wide range of employers. Aimed at a student audience, the job offers found on the platform are compatible with your student schedule. Many students successfully find jobs teaching their native language to French locals. Other part-time opportunities include working in restaurants, cafes, hotels, local stores, and more. 

Format & Content of a French Cover Letter

A French cover letter follows a specific structure, often more formal than what you might be used to in other countries. Here’s a basic outline:

• Header : Include your contact information at the top left (name, address, phone number, and email). The recipient’s information goes below on the right (name, title, company or institution, and address).
• Date : Write the date on the right below the recipient’s information.
• Salutation : Start with a formal greeting such as “Madame, Monsieur,” or “Monsieur [Last Name]” or “Madame [Last Name]” if you know their name.
• Introduction : Briefly introduce yourself and state the purpose of your letter.
• Body : Explain why you are a good fit for the position or program. Highlight your qualifications, experiences, and motivation.
• Conclusion : Reiterate your interest and express a desire for an interview or further discussion.
• Signature : Close with a formal sign-off like “Je vous prie d’agréer, Madame, Monsieur, l’expression de mes salutations distinguées” followed by your signature.

Get a Template

Use letter-building tools and resources to create a polished and professional cover letter. Websites like Canva offer valuable insights and templates that can help you structure your letter effectively.

Tips to Make Your Cover Letter Stand Out

Highlight your work experience.

French employers value experience highly. Even if you don’t have a long work experience or direct experience for the job you apply for, always try ton include any relevant work experience, internships, or volunteer work. Explain how these experiences have prepared you for the role you are seeking.

Use Formal Language

French cover letters tend to be more formal than those in other countries. Use polite and respectful language throughout. Avoid contractions and slang. Proofread your letter multiple times to ensure there are no grammatical or spelling errors.

Keep It Concise

While it’s important to be thorough, French cover letters should not exceed one page. Be concise and to the point. Focus on the most relevant information and avoid unnecessary details.

Now that you’ve written your French cover letter and sent it off, you just have to wait for an interview. Get ready with some key phrases for a job interview . Good luck!

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Job application letter of Motivation in France

A letter of motivation is an essential component of the job application process in France.

Formality is the absolutely order of the day, extreme politeness is required. If you are not fluent in French or familiar with formal French greetings and sign offs, get help to make sure you do this right.

Get it wrong and your CV and letter are likely to at best go to the bottom of the pile, or more likely straight into the bin.

You can get free help with writing a letter of motivation from Pôle Emploi, the French employment agency (they also run free courses on how to create a French CV).

If you know the name of the person you are writing to start it Madame XX or Monsieur XX. Never Cher or Chère (as in Dear). If you don’t know the name write Madame, Monsieur.

Always use the formal “vous” form, never address someone with “tu” or by their first name unless specifically told to do so – it is considered rude in France.

Don’t be surprised if you are advised to use a very formal sign off like “je vous prie d’agréer, Madame, Monsieur, l’expression de mes sentiments distingués” – Please accept, Madame, Sir, the expression of my very highest regards.

It may seem old fashioned but it is necessary.

Plain paper, plain font – conservative approach.

The website http://www.letudiant.fr/ has lots of example letters and CVs that you may find useful.

Example letter de Motivation in French:

Grégoire Nom de Plume

44, rue Diane-de-Furstenberg, 38000 Grenoble

Tél. 06.00.00.00.00

[email protected]

À l’attention du responsable recrutement

Paris, le 28/04/2009

Objet : recherche d’un emploi saisonnier ou à temps partiel

Madame, Monsieur,

Suite à votre offre d’emploi pour des postes de conseillers presse étudiants pour l’OFUP Éducation, je me permets de vous proposer ma candidature.

En effet, étudiant à l’ISG, je souhaite approfondir mes connaissances acquises durant ma formation et lors de mes stages, et les consolider au sein d’une de vos équipes.

La discrétion, la rigueur, la facilité d’adaptation et le travail en équipe sont mes qualités pour mener à bien ce travail.

Je me tiens à votre disposition pour un entretien éventuel. Dans l’attente de votre réponse, je vous prie de croire, Monsieur, en l’expression de mes sentiments distingués.

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