Business English: 5 Tips for Cover Letter Writing

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In last week’s Business English segment, we explored effective tips for writing impressive resumes. Your resume is the primary piece of information in a job application as it includes all necessary background information in an organized and easy to read manner. However, there is another integral element to the job application process, the cover letter. Unlike a resume, a cover letter is written in a- you guessed it- letter format. It should be formal and professional and include more in-depth explanation than your resume. Here are some helpful hints to remember when writing your cover letter:

1) Always Tailor it: When applying to several jobs it’s easy to create one cover letter to send to all your potential employers, this is a rookie mistake. Generalized cover letters are often viewed as impersonal and moreover, that you aren’t serious about the job. It is okay to create a cover letter template, but you should personalize each one to include information about the company, organization and job for which you are applying.
2) Nix Fancy Formatting: While it’s important not to submit a general cover letter, it is ironically, imperative that you ensure the structure and format of your cover letter is standardized. It should be black ink on white paper, 12 point font in Ariel or Times New Roman. Similarly, it should follow a set structure like this:

Top: Include your name, contact information and the date
Beginning: Keep it formal. Always address your potential employer by their name and job title
Body: Cover all the basics. Address what position you are applying to and why you’re interested, your relevant job experience, education, qualifications and what you can bring to the position
Conclusion: End the letter by thanking the employer for their time and re-instate your interest in the position and having an interview. Make sure to end it with something sincere like “I hope we can both agree on the potential success of this opportunity” or “Thank you for your time and consideration,” etc.

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3) Content cut-backs: Much like with a resume, an employer is busy and often doesn’t have time to read about your entire life experiences. While you want to include important information and expand on the details of your resume, you should still remain relevant and succinct. It is best to include only your most recent experience and qualifications.
4) Don’t re-write your resume: You already have a resume, so use the cover letter as an opportunity to explain, in detail, about experiences, qualifications and accomplishments you’ve achieved in previous positions. Build upon what you have stated in a bullet point on your resume but don’t merely repeat all the same information.
5) Always Proofread: I don’t think this can be stressed enough; proofreading is essential to success. After you’ve reviewed your letter extensively, have others read it to give a second opinion. Ensure your cover letter does not extend one page.

To become more confident in your Business English abilities book a Business English course through ESL Explorer to save 50%!

Business English: 8 Tips for Resume Writing

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One of the most popular ESL course types is Business English which helps you hone your communication skills for the purpose of work. It can help you gain knowledge into industry-specific vocabulary, learn acceptable Western business and cultural practices and effective communication methods like emailing, telephoning, giving presentations or contributing to meetings. It is imperative to have these skill sets in order to transcend your knowledge by making it effective in another language. This also opens up endless job possibilities and many opportunities for career advancement. In this first installment of Business English tips, we will start at the very beginning of any job application process, resume writing.

*Refer to this sample resume

(Sample Resume)

1) Visuals are important: Though the quality of resume content is key, never underestimate the importance of design. Font should be a standard 12 point font, usually in Times New Roman. It is acceptable to adapt the header (the top section that includes your name and contact information) to a larger font size in boldface, though you should still avoid any colour besides black. Overall you want your resume to be clean and well-structured, making it easy for a potential employer to read.
2) Organization: The truth is, most employers are too busy to dig for important information on hundreds of resumes. Therefore, it is important that you ensure your information is accessible. Always place your most recent jobs at the top of the resume and work down in chronological order. Boldface your job position or title and use bullet points to summarize the details of the position. This should not exceed 5 lines. Make sure there is consistency in your design and structure. For example, if one job title is bolded make sure you bold all your listed job titles.
3) Highlight your skills: Naturally you’ve accomplished lots at your previous places of employment, so much that you may not have room to include everything. Maximize this by creating a “Skill Section” or “Competencies” at the beginning or end of your work experience category. List the numerous qualities and skills you’ve learnt that are applicable and beneficial to the job you are applying for.
4) Numbers are important: Numbers create interest on a resume as they are very specific. So instead of stating, for example, that you wrote a bi-weekly blog which reached numerous people say: I managed a blog in which I wrote 2 articles a week reaching over 200,000 people. (I wish)
5) Proofread. Then proofread again: If an employer is looking over hundreds of resumes, and spots a spelling error, they are not going to invest the time in continuing reading that application. In addition to proofreading it is also helpful to have a friend or relative edit your resume to give advice or catch any mistakes you may have made.
6) Include only relevant information: It is important to include only relevant job experience and community engagement. A part-time retail job you worked at in high school is not likely related to the position you are applying to now. Similarly, instead of listing numerous hobbies consider listing only your volunteer or charity work experience.
7) Education: Recent grads should list degrees at the top of your resume including any awards, certificates, etc. If you have been graduated for over five years consider moving that section to the end of your resume (after your work experience).
8) Keep it Short & Sweet: The challenge of resume writing is to provide as much information about yourself and your qualifications in as minimal a space as possible. Summarize, use bullet points and include only important information. Ideally, your resume should not exceed 2 pages.

IELTS in Vancouver: A Guide to Studying in Western Canada

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We previously looked at studying in Toronto and examined the basics of living in an exciting, multi-cultural metropolis. Part of the beauty of studying in Canada is that it is vastly different depending on which part or province you visit. While there are overarching customs and beliefs that tie this nation together, Toronto and Vancouver still differ.

Life in Vancouver:
For nearly 52% of Vancouver residents, English is not their first language. Not only does this demonstrate the diverse range of ethnicities in Vancouver, but also, speaks to the extensive ESL communities, courses and support that’s available. Similarly, living in Vancouver provides numerous opportunities for weekend fun. There are plenty sites to see like the Vancouver Art Gallery, Sports Hall of Fame, Historic Chinatown and Granville Street. Similarly you can explore the 2010 Winter Olympic Sites, catch a Canuck’s game at the Rogers Arena or go whale watching! Being in such close proximity to the Pacific Ocean creates a plethora of opportunities to enjoy the 18 kilometer stretch of beaches right outside your door. With so much to see and do in Vancouver you can forget there are plenty of things to explore outside the metro area. Day trips can be taken to Victoria, The Sunshine Coast or Harrison Hot Springs. In just 30 minutes you can be at the base of some of the best skiing areas in the world, like Cypress Mountain, Grouse Mountain, and Mount Seymour.

Getting Around:
Translink Vancouver is the primary transportation system in central Vancouver which includes buses, trains and even ferries.

Weather:
Welcome to Canada’s warmest city. Don’t let the Canadian winter stereotypes mislead you; Vancouver has an incredibly mild climate. Instead of snow however, rain is plentiful. For this reason, it is still necessary to bring warm clothes and waterproof gear. If you are craving a picturesque Canadian landscape, remember that just outside the city are skiing ranges which offer a multitude of winter activities.

University TOEFL/IELTS requirements:
Vancouver is home to some of the highest ranked universities in the world. All universities have English language requirements and these are no exception. Before you begin studying for the IELTS in Vancouver, it is important to know what your university of choice requires.

University of British Columbia (UBC): Minimum 6.5 with a 6.0 in each component of the Academic Version
Simon Fraser University (SFU): Minimum 7.0 with a 6.5 in each component of the Academic Version
Fairleigh Dickinson University: Minimum 6.0
Emily Carr University of Art & Design: Minimum 6.5

Testing Centers:
You’ve studied, explored and experienced all Canada’s pacific coast has to offer and now, it is time for your final IETLS test in Vancouver. The official testing centre in Vancouver is at The Global Village, located at 888 Cambie Street. There are also two other locations for your convenience in Gastown at 220 Cambie Street and in Richmond. Similarly, UBC and SFU also arrange test days on their campuses to make taking your IELTS in Vancouver more accessible.

Best Schools to Study English:
ESL Explorer only matches you with schools that have been accredited by National Accrediting Boards such as Languages Canada, British Council and NEAS. Courses include TOEFL preparation, Business English, General English and IELTS preparation.

Getting to know: IELTS

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The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is an internationally recognized test designed to assess the level of English speaking ability of ESL students and international citizens. Unlike the TOEFL, which is designed for university admissions, the IELTS is used for those who want to not just study, but work in a country where English is the official language. With over 1 million candidates taking the IELTS annually, it is apparent this test is integral to achieving success in an English speaking country.

Types of Tests:
Academic Version: For those wishing to enroll in university or other post-secondary institutions of higher education. This can also be used for those seeking professional certificate or degree programs such as nursing.
General Training Version: This is for those who are not intending on attending school but rather need to undergo career training, job hunting or want to garner experience in order to immigrate to an English-speaking country.

Breakdown of Test Format
Regardless of which test version you are taking, all tests include four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. The test versions will only differ in subject material and level of difficulty. The test will take about 3 hours to complete. Let’s look at these components more in-depth.
1) Listening: This section features four parts which gradually increase in difficult. You will answer 40 questions overall. You will listen to pre-set conversations and be asked questions based on the material you hear. Remember that you will be able to hear each part only once. You will be assessed on your understanding of the main ideas, important information, differentiating opinions and main argument.
2) Reading: This section features three parts with 40 questions overall. You will be assessed on how well you can identify important ideas and details, as well as the author’s thesis and opinions.
3) Writing: This section features two tasks which differ based on the version you are taking. Both versions will assess you on your ability to understand content, organize your ideas and use grammar and vocabulary properly

Academic version: You will be required to describe and interpret a graph, chart or diagram and respond to an academic argument.
General version: You will be required to write a letter explaining a specific situation as well as write an essay.

4) Speaking: This final section will contain three parts. The first will be in the form of an interview in which you will be asked about personal experiences like your interests, family, hobbies, etc. In the second part, you will be assigned a topic and given a minute to prepare a brief speech on that general topic. The final part builds upon this speech where you will be asked questions based on what you talked about in this speech. In each of these portions the examiner will be assessing you on your ability to communicate effectively by expressing opinions, organizing information, speaking for long periods of time and confidently articulating an argument.

Tips & Tricks
Review our blog post on Getting to Know: TOEFL which can also be applied to studying for the IELTS. These include connecting with others, practicing, reviewing the requirements and format of the test and practicing listening to English by watching movies and television and listening to the radio. It is also extremely worthwhile to take a preparation course. Check out ESL Explorer frequently for discounted deals on all TOEFL preparation courses!

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IELTS in Toronto: A Guide to IELTS Exam prep in Canada

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Taking the IELTS can be a nerve-wracking experience so it’s imperative that you feel confident in your ability to read, speak and live in an English-language environment. The best way to ensure you improve your skills is to take an immersive language training course in which you both study and live in an Anglophone country. Perhaps one of the best cities to do this in is Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Toronto is a metropolitan, multi-cultural haven that provides unlimited activities, restaurants, shopping and new experiences. Let’s breakdown what studying for the IELTS in Toronto entails.

Life in Toronto:
One of the benefits of immersive language training is that you get the experiences of living abroad. Since Toronto is known for its multi-culturalism (Read more about that here) it provides numerous opportunities for activities and events.There are also plenty of things to do and see on your free-time including Casa Loma, Shopping at the Eaton Centre, Touring the CBC, Visiting the Hockey Hall of Fame, ROM (Royal Ontario Museum) or Ontario Place as well as catching one of the many plays in the Theatre district or a baseball game at the Rogers Centre. If you are lucky enough to be in Toronto during the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) you can wander through Yorkville and try to spot as many celebrities as you can. Don’t forget you are also only about an hour away from one of the natural wonders of the world, Niagara Falls.

Getting Around:
Toronto has an excellent transportation system called the TTC which consists of buses, streetcars and subways making it easy and affordable to get around.

Weather:
Don’t fear the infamous Canadian winter. I assure you, it is not that bad. In fact, it can provide opportunities for fun winter activities like Skating in front of city hall. The Canadian winter lasts about 4 months, leaving you to enjoy the remainder of the year’s beautiful seasons.

University TOEFL/IELTS requirements:
Toronto is a great city not just for its lively atmosphere, but for its numerous educational institutions. Toronto is home to 3 top universities and dozens of smaller reputable colleges. All universities have English language requirements and these are no exception. Before you begin studying for the IELTS in Toronto, it is important to know what your university of choice requires. Here is a breakdown of IELTS requirements:

University of Toronto: Minimum of 6.5
Ryerson: Minimum of 6.5
York University: Minimum of 6.5 in Arts, 7 in Nursing and 7.5 in Business and Engineering
Humber College: Minimum of 6.5

Testing Centre:
You’ve studied, shopped and experienced all Toronto has to offer and now, it is time for your final IETLS test in Toronto. The official testing centre in Toronto, The Global Village, is located on the 2^nd floor of 180 Bloor St West. This newly renovated building was the 2009 winner for Best New Test Centre. The Global Village is also partnered with the Alpha International Academy in Scarborough, Oxford College of Canada in North York and Eurocentres Toronto located downtown where you can also take your IELTS in Toronto.