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Canada Cover Letter Format And Free Samples (2023)

In Canada, a well-written cover letter can be just as important as a strong resume when it comes to landing your dream job.

While cover letters may seem daunting, they are an essential component of the job application process. A well-crafted cover letter can set you apart from other applicants and demonstrate your professionalism, attention to detail, and passion for the position.

In this article, we’ll provide tips and guidelines to help you create a compelling Canada cover letter that will impress employers and increase your chances of landing an interview.

Canada Cover Letter Font

6. signature, researching the company, proofreading and editing, cover letter sample 3 (fresher), canada cover letter basics.

A cover letter is a document that introduces you to potential employers and highlights your qualifications, skills, and experience. It is your chance to make a great first impression and convince hiring managers that you are the right person for the job.

Canada Cover Letter Format

In Canada, a cover letter should follow a standard format that includes your contact information, the date, and the recipient’s contact information. Begin with your name, address, and contact details, followed by the date and the recipient’s name, and address. Use a clear and organized layout to ensure your cover letter is easily readable.

Canada Cover Letter Length

A Canadian cover letter should be concise and limited to one page in length . This allows you to effectively showcase your qualifications and experiences without overwhelming the reader.

It is crucial to choose a professional-looking font for your cover letter. Common font choices include Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri. Be consistent with your font selection throughout the cover letter to maintain a polished appearance.

When it comes to font size, aim for a balance between readability and space efficiency. A font size of 10 to 12 points is generally considered appropriate in a Canadian cover letter. This ensures the text is large enough to be easily readable, but not too large that it takes up excessive space on the page.

Canada Cover Letter Structure

The structure of a Canadian cover letter typically consists of an introduction, body, and conclusion .

• In the introduction , you should introduce yourself and express your interest in the position.
• In the body , focus on your qualifications, relevant skills, and experiences that make you a valuable candidate for the job.
• Conclude by thanking the reader for their time and consideration.

Canadian cover letters typically begin with a header containing the applicant’s name, job title, city and province, phone number, and email address.

It’s also essential to include the current date . The header should be consistent with the one used in the applicant’s resume for a cohesive presentation.

2. Greeting

In the greeting section, address the hiring manager by their full name and title. If the name is not available, use a generic salutation such as “Dear Hiring Manager” or “To Whom It May Concern.”

Personalization is preferred, so make an effort to find the hiring manager’s name when possible.

The opening paragraph serves as an introduction and an opportunity to grab the hiring manager’s attention. Applicants should briefly mention the job title and company they’re applying to, and express enthusiasm for both the position and the organization.

Including keywords from the job posting and aligning personal skills with the employer’s requirements will make the opening more impactful.

In the body of the cover letter, applicants should elaborate on their relevant skills, experiences, and achievements. It’s necessary to make connections between the job requirements and the applicant’s qualifications.

• When discussing experiences, be specific and focus on accomplishments rather than just listing responsibilities.
• Use bullet points or short paragraphs to present the information in a clear and easy-to-read manner.

The body of the letter should effectively convey the applicant’s background and qualifications while demonstrating a genuine interest in the role and the company.

The closing section is the final opportunity to leave a positive impression on the hiring manager. Here, applicants should reiterate their enthusiasm for the position and summarize their qualifications .

It’s also appropriate to politely request an interview and express gratitude for the manager’s time and consideration. End the closing paragraph with a professional and respectful closing such as “Sincerely” or “Best Regards.”

Lastly, include a signature in the cover letter which may consist of the applicant’s full name and any relevant professional designation or certification.

If the cover letter is being sent electronically, either type the full name or use an electronic/digital signature as a more personal touch.

Customizing Your Cover Letter

Tailoring to the job.

When customizing your cover letter, it is essential to tailor it to the specific job you are applying for. Start by carefully reviewing the job description and noting the key requirements, responsibilities, and qualifications mentioned.

Then, in your cover letter, emphasize how your skills and experiences align with these aspects of the job. In doing so, be sure to use relevant keywords and phrases from the job description to demonstrate your understanding of the role.

Split your text into concise paragraphs that focus on different aspects of the job, such as your relevant experience, technical skills, and soft skills. You may also consider using bullet points to highlight specific achievements that directly relate to the position.

In addition to tailoring your cover letter to the job, you should also research the company and demonstrate how your values and goals align with theirs . This shows that you have taken the time to understand the organization’s culture and objectives and that you would be a good fit for the team.

You can find information about a company’s values and goals on its website or through news articles, press releases, and social media accounts.

Remember, customizing your cover letter for each position you apply to and researching the company can make a significant difference in making a positive first impression on a recruiter or hiring manager. By focusing on these aspects, you demonstrate your attention to detail and genuine interest in the job and company, improving your chances of landing an interview.

Writing Tips for a Canadian Cover Letter

Highlighting achievements.

When crafting a Canadian cover letter, it is essential to focus on the tangible accomplishments in your career. Mention specific achievements  that demonstrate your capabilities and experiences relevant to the job you are applying for.

Include quantifiable results, such as increased sales or improved customer satisfaction, to clearly showcase your successes. Use active verbs and concise language to communicate your achievements in a compelling manner.

Focusing on Skills and Qualifications

Employers want to see that you have the necessary skills and qualifications to succeed in the role. Align your skills with the requirements listed in the job description , and provide examples of how you have applied these skills in previous positions. Include both technical and transferable skills that will make you an asset to the company.

Providing specific examples can help create a strong connection between you and the organization, increasing your chances of being invited for an interview.

In addition, mention any relevant education or certifications that demonstrate your qualifications for the position.

Emphasizing Value

An effective cover letter should articulate the  value  you would bring to the company. Explain how your skills, achievements, and experiences will contribute to their success.

Relate your accomplishments to the goals and objectives of the company, and demonstrate your understanding of their priorities and challenges. By doing this, you will show potential employers that you can make a positive impact on their organization.

As a final step before submitting your cover letter, make sure to proofread and edit your work thoroughly. This includes checking for proper grammar, spelling, and formatting.

Ensure that your cover letter is one page long, left-aligned with single spacing , and has one-inch margins .

Use a professional font, such as Arial or Helvetica, at a size between 10 and 12 points. Double-check your work to eliminate any errors, as these may create a negative impression on potential employers.

With a well-written cover letter, applicants can confidently present themselves as an attractive candidate, ultimately improving their chances of career success.

Canada Cover Letter Examples

Cover letter sample 1.

Here’s a sample cover letter for a job in Canada:

Cover Letter Sample 2

Here’s another sample cover letter for a job in Canada:

Here’s another sample cover letter for a job in Canada, more suitable for freshers:

Writing an effective cover letter is a critical component of a successful job search in Canada. A well-written cover letter can demonstrate your interest in the position, showcase your qualifications and skills, and distinguish you from other applicants.

When writing your cover letter, it is essential to customize it for each position, research the company, and carefully proofread it to avoid any errors.

Remember to keep your cover letter concise, relevant, and professional, and highlight your unique skills and experiences that make you the ideal candidate for the position.

With these tips in mind, you can create a compelling cover letter that will capture the attention of potential employers and help you stand out in a competitive job market. Good luck with your job search!

Related Articles

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• How To Tailor Your Canadian Resume To Job Description
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Canadian Cover Letter Guide

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A Canadian cover letter is a short document written in response to a specific job prospect and addressed directly to the hiring manager or individual in charge of hiring for the position. It should add to the information contained in your resume and resent you to the employer as a candidate.

Cover letters are essential in the hiring process as they provide candidates with the opportunity to introduce themselves, demonstrate their qualifications, and show enthusiasm for a specific role and company.

They serve as a personalized communication tool, allowing candidates to make a positive first impression, tailor their message to the job, and address potential concerns or unique situations.

A well-written cover letter enhances a candidate’s chances of standing out and securing an interview in Canada .

The following are general guidelines only. You must tailor your cover letter to suit your own experiences, and to suit the specific position you are applying for.

Before You Begin

Once you find a specific job posting that you want to apply for, you can begin to work on your application cover letter. Following these steps before you begin will help you write the best cover letter possible.

1. Do Your Research

Before you begin to write your cover letter, learn everything that you can about the company or organization you are applying to. Check out their website and social media pages, research their top competitors, and read recent industry news articles. Learn the name(s) of the individual(s) who will be in charge of hiring for the position you want, as well as the head(s) of the company.

Also, keep in mind the job description and requirements for the role. it allows you to create a cover letter that showcases your qualifications, aligns with the company’s needs, and demonstrates your genuine interest in the position. This, in turn, increases your chances of being noticed and considered for the role.

Doing this research will help you decide what you should include. Do your research for every cover letter you write. It may take some time, but you have a much better chance of being granted an interview if you have tailored your cover letter to the individual who will be reading it.

2. Check for Instructions

Some employers include instructions in their job postings. They might ask you to include specific information or answer certain questions, in your cover letter. Check whether the employer has left any specific instructions for your cover letter. If they have, follow them carefully.

3. Save time by using a Master Template:

Creating a separate cover letter for every job application can be exhausting. Instead, develop a comprehensive cover letter template that highlights your key qualifications, skills, and experiences.

Keep a library of snippets or bullet points highlighting your achievements, skills, and relevant experiences. You can easily insert these into your cover letter as needed. This template can serve as a foundation for various job applications, making the process more efficient.

Formatting Guidelines

There is a standard cover letter format that most Canadian employers will expect you to follow. However, depending on your industry and the specific job posting you are responding to, you may have to change the formatting of your cover letter.

1. Length  Your cover letter should be no more than one page in total.

2. Font  Your font should be consistent throughout your cover letter, and you should choose a professional-looking font. Your font size should be big enough that it is easy to read when your cover letter is printed.

3. Spacing  Your cover letter should be appropriately spaced. The main body should be single-spaced, with sufficient space left between each new paragraph and section.

What to Include

There are seven sections in a cover letter.

1. Your Information  Your name and contact information should be at the top of your cover letter. Include your:

• First and last name
• Current residential address
• Phone number
• Email address

2. Date  Below your information, write the date that you are sending your cover letter.

3. Employer Information  Below the date, include the contact information of the individual, department, or company you are addressing in the cover letter. If you know the name of the individual, include their:

• Position title
• Company or organization name
• Commercial address of the company or organization

If you do not know the name of the individual, include:

• Department in charge of hiring decisions (if known)
• Commercial address of company or organization

4. Greeting  Use a formal greeting to open your letter. If you know the name of the individual making hiring decisions, address them directly with their prefix and full name. If you don’t know the name of the individual, use a formal, generic greeting like ‘To whom it may concern,’.

5. Main Text:  There are three parts to the main text of your cover letter: the introduction, body, and conclusion.

Introduction  In the first paragraph of your cover letter, you should introduce yourself as a candidate . Include your first name and the position you are applying for. You can also include your post-relevant qualification and how you found the job posting. If you have a contact at the company who referred you to the job, you may want to mention him or her by name and department. Your introduction should be no more than two to three sentences.

Body  In the next couple of paragraphs, you want to convince the employer that you are the best candidate for the job position. Tell them why they should invest in you. If you’re not sure what to include, try to answer these questions:

• What projects have you worked on that are relevant to this position? What did you learn from them? Why does this make you a better candidate?
• What responsibilities have you held that are relevant to this position? What did you learn from them? Why does this make you a better candidate?
• What do you intend to do if you are hired? What benefit does the employer get if he or she hires you instead of someone else?

The body of your cover letter should be one or two paragraphs.

Conclusion  The conclusion is the final paragraph in the main text of your cover letter. It is your opportunity to tell the employer how you feel about potentially working for the company, thank them for the opportunity to apply, and invite them to respond to your application. It should be no more than three or four sentences.

6. Signature  There are two parts to your cover letter signature: the closing line and your full name.

• Closing Line  Your cover letter must include an appropriate closing line. This is the line right before your name.
• Full Name  Your full name follows the closing line. It is not necessary to print and physically sign your cover letter since more job applications are done electronically.

Final Revision

Carefully review your cover letters to make sure you have not made any mistakes.

1. Proofread

Check your cover letter for any spelling or grammar mistakes. If possible, have someone else proofread it for you, or come back to it after a night’s sleep. Be sure that you have not made any mistakes in:

• Your name and contact information
• The employer’s name and contact information
• The name of the company or organization you are applying to

2. Check Instructions

Go over any instructions for your cover letter given by the employer and make sure you have followed them carefully.

Make sure that you have the correct date on your cover letter. The date should be the day that you send your cover letter to the potential employer.

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Cover Letter Format that Employers Notice

by Corinna Frattini | Feb 9, 2021 | Crafting Your Job Search Action Plan to Work in Canada

Your cover letter for a Canadian job will help employers notice you! And importantly, it can help determine whether or not a recruiter contacts you for an interview. While there is some debate over the need for a cover letter, it’s absolutely essential. Your cover letter format can help you to stand out among other candidates and give you a key advantage. With a cover letter for a Canadian job, hiring managers will notice a compelling story about your skills and achievements. On the other hand, a poorly written letter reflects a casual attitude that may affect your ability to land a job.  

Often, newcomers spend much time and energy writing a strong resume but not enough time on writing a persuasive cover letter.  This approach can often lead to nowhere. Without a compelling cover letter, it’s easy to get caught in a spiral of rejection from employers or settle for a job that isn’t well suited to you.

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While it can be time-consuming to write a letter that is worthy of notice, you’ll find that it’s time well spent. Many Canadian employers will agree that a great letter can make all the difference when selecting who they will interview. However, if the job posting clearly states that a cover letter is not required, you can avoid it. This will also show that you can follow instructions. S o if you’re wondering if you need a cover letter to include with your resume the answer is yes!

Related Posts:

Working in Canada | A Guide to Land Your Dream Job

Eight Tips to Write a Canadian-Style Resume

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Crafting Your Job Search Action Plan to Land Your Dream Job!

What is a Cover Letter?

It’s an important element when you apply for a job in Canada. A proper cover letter format allows you to share information about yourself that goes beyond what’s on your resume or CV.

A strong cover letter uses clear and concise language and states what is relevant to the job posting. It’s like a sales pitch to convince an employer that you are the right candidate for the position.

The Cover Letter Format

While you can find many generic cover letter samples to use, it’s best to write your own cover letter. And tailor your letter to the specific job and company that you are applying to.

No doubt, tailoring a cover letter for each job is time-consuming. However, it’s time well spent.

Do your research to identify why you want to work at that company. Take the time to express it in every cover letter that you write. If you can’t express why you want to work for the company in your cover letter, you’ll struggle to answer that question in an interview. As well, thorough research will help you to identify if your past experience, career goals, and values align with that of the company and the position.

Your research will also help you to identify what you admire about the company. For example, has the company successfully expanded in the marketplace? Has the company won a coveted award? Or it is an industry leader in an area that you are passionate about?

Cover Letter Sample

This cover letter sample includes six main sections:

Section 1: Contact Information:

Include your:

• phone or cell phone number
• email address
• LinkedIn Address

Tip You can create a personal LinkedIn profile URL that will look professional and current.

Section 2: Employer Contact Information

Include this address format for the employer:

• Name of the contact (if you have it)
• Title of the contact
• Company name
• Company address

Section 3: Salutation (or greeting)

If the job description mentions the name of the hiring manager, begin with Dear Ms. (or Mr.) followed by their surname. If you’re unsure of the person’s gender, it’s best to use Dear followed by their first and last names.

When the name of the hiring manager is not provided, you could try to find their name on the company website or through LinkedIn. Alternatively, it’s appropriate to use “Dear Hiring Manager” for the salutation. But, do make an effort to find a name. It’s that much more personal and your effort will show.

Avoid using “To Whom It May Concern” or “Dear Sir/Madam”.

Section 4: Introduction

A great cover letter format will grab the hiring manager’s eye with a compelling opening statement. Explain why you are interested in the position. Show that you want to work for that specific organization. Convey that you’re excited about the role. Employers love to hear that you’re excited about the company and that you have done your research.

Answer these questions:

• Why do you want to work for this company?
• What excites you about the opportunity?

Section 5: Body

Describe what you can offer the employer. Draw on your past experience and results that relate directly to the job. And help the reader to see why you’re the best candidate.

Make it easy for the reader to connect the dots. For example, your ability to speak multiple languages makes you an ideal candidate for a customer service role. Describe what makes you different from every other qualified applicant. Ideally, this section should be one to two paragraphs.

• What challenges or pain points is the hiring manager or company facing?
• How have you solved similar challenges in the past?
• How are you qualified and why are you the right person to solve their challenges?
• What are three to five qualities that you would bring to this employer or job? For example are you creative, collaborative, or innovative?

Asking yourself these questions will help you to build a foundation for your cover letter format and make it easier to write it.

There are many personality assessments that can help you to identify your strengths. For example, you can complete our free  Drake P3® Assessment . Highlight the strengths that are directly related to the role and convey your passion.

To read more about discovering your strengths, check out this post: Self-Awareness is Key to Your Job Search. When you know your strengths, you show confidence in your unique ability to succeed in the role.

Section 6: Closing

This final section is more than just closing your letter. It’s about opening the door to further contact. This is where you state what your next action will be. For example, you could state that you will phone or email the reader to follow up or arrange a time to meet.

It’s also a great opportunity to express your genuine excitement for the role along with your initiative.

Cover Letter for a Canadian Job | Do’s and Dont’s

• Research the company before you write your cover letter
• Grab the reader’s attention within the first few sentences
• Personalize your letter for each job you apply for
• Explain how you can help the company achieve its goals
• Be concise and clear
• Keep your letter to a half-page or two-thirds of a page to keep the reader’s attention
• Proofread your letter to avoid spelling and grammar errors.

Don’t:

• Use a generic cover letter
• Repeat what’s on your resume
• Cut and paste the job description into your cover letter
• Provide unnecessary details (i.e. recent struggles, or why you were laid off from a job).

Writing a great cover letter for a Canadian job is a time-consuming process, but the reward it pays is worth your effort. As a result, a well-written cover letter will pave the way for more job interviews and give you a greater chance to secure a job in Canada that’s perfect for you!

First 90 Days in the Canadian Workplace | Success Tips

For more helpful information, free resources, and tools to help you resume your career in Canada, visit our Finding a Job in Canada resource page. Get the help you need to achieve your career goals!

Corinna Frattini is the content marketing strategist at Prepare for Canada and contributes articles related to working in Canada. With a background in human resources and leadership development, her articles focus on what Canadian employers seek and how newcomers can continue their careers in Canada.

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Professional Cover Letter Samples Canada

Discover our collection of 500+ professional cover letter templates designed to help you make a memorable first impression. With a range of meticulously crafted examples, each template is tailored to meet Canadian job market standards, ensuring HR approval and effectiveness in Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Whether you're just starting your career or seeking advancement, these expertly curated templates cover diverse job roles and industries. Elevate your Canadian job applications with these ATS-friendly, HR-approved cover letter templates. Your journey to success begins here.

Accounting resume examples

An accountant’s primary duties include analyzing financial data and budget forecasts, creating balance sheets, profit and loss and taxation reports, and assisting organizations in finance management, tax strategies and effective use of resources. Accountants also work in specialized areas such as tax, cost, investment or management accounting.

• Cost Accountant
• Accounting Assistant
• Accounting Administrator
• Accounting Manager
• Assistant Corporate Controller
• Project Accountant
• Staff Accountant
• Staff Auditor
• Accounting Clerk

Administrative resume samples

Review some of these samples of a resume for administrative work for resume ideas to feature your organizational and collaboration skills.

• Administrative Assistant
• Office Assistant
• Assistant Front Office Manager
• Office Manager
• Administrative Assistant Manager
• Administrative Officer
• Administrative Coordinator
• Procurement Analyst
• Executive Assistant
• Procurement Specialist
• Facilities Manager
• Receptionist
• Administrative Front Desk Clerk
• Front Office Assistant

Billing and collections resume examples

In addition to our featured example resume for billings and collections, we offer more examples of a resume for a job to help you shine in this industry. .

• Accounts Payable Clerk
• Debt Collection Manager
• Accounts Payable Manager
• Night Auditor
• Accounts Receivable Clerk
• Payroll Analyst
• Accounts Payable Receivable Manager
• Payroll Manager
• Accounts Payable Specialist
• Collections Representative
• Collections Team Lead
• Accounts Payable Supervisor
• Billing Specialist

Business operations resume samples

Examples of resumes for jobs in your field can help you write a Ats Resume Canada. These professional resume examples for leadership jobs show how to display your interpersonal skills.

• Business Development Associate
• Business Management
• Enterprise Management Trainee
• General Manager
• Iso Management Representative
• Liaison Officer
• Operations Manager
• Pmo Analyst
• Risk Analyst
• Salon Manager

Child care resume examples

Use these samples of resumes as guides for displaying your ability to keep the household organized and your interpersonal skills.

• After School Teacher
• Daycare Teacher Assistant
• After School Program Director
• Daycare Worker
• Playground Supervisor
• Child Care Center Administrator
• Day Care Center Administrator

Computer software resume samples

As detailed in the examples of good resumes for computer software jobs below, list programs required for the position and any additional certifications or training you have in software.

• Cloud Computing Engineer
• Java Developer
• Software Engineering Manager
• Ecommerce Qa Tester
• Sql Developer
• Remote Software Engineer

Construction resume examples

Let our construction work resume examples help you stress special skills like specialties, such as plumbing or electrical systems.

• Flooring Installer
• Certified Crane Operator
• General Laborer
• Chief Estimator
• Construction Manager
• Construction Chief Executive Officer
• Project Manager
• Construction Laborer
• Construction Safety Officer
• Construction Worker
• Construction Site Supervisor

Culinary resume samples

Find a resume example for a job in the culinary field from these sample resumes and grab some ideas on showing your expertise with specific cuisines and ability to collaborate with others.

• Bakery Assistant
• Food Service Specialist
• Personal Chef
• Restaurant Assistant Manager
• Restaurant Chain Manager
• Restaurant General Manager
• Restaurant Manager
• Restaurant Shift Leader
• Restaurant Shift Manager
• Restaurant Shift Supervisor
• Junior Sous Chef

Customer service resume examples

Use an example of a resume to apply to a job in customer service, emphasizing intangible qualities such as communication, teamwork and flexibility.

• Customer Service Advisor
• Banking Representative
• Call Center Manager
• Call Center Representative
• Call Center Team Leader
• Camp Counselor
• Client Service Specialist
• Customer Experience Manager
• Customer Relationship Officer
• Customer Service Assistant Manager
• Customer Service Representative
• Customer Success Manager
• Customer Service Supervisor
• Director Of Member Services

Data & systems administration resume samples

Use these Ats Resume Canada examples for guidance on how to feature your key soft skills such as collaboration and problem-solving.

• Backup Administrator
• Control Systems Engineer
• Cyber Security Specialist
• Data Analytics Manager
• Network Admin
• Entry Level Network Engineer
• Salesforce Administrator
• Salesforce Developer
• Solutions Architect
• Telecommunication Project Manager

Fitness and nutrition resume examples

Follow our resume samples to see how to best display your fitness training experience and any knowledge or training you’ve had in diet and nutrition programs.

• Dietary Aide
• Exercise Physiologist
• Fitness And Personal Trainer
• Gym Assistant
• Nutritionist
• Personal Trainer
• Yoga Instructor

Food service resume samples

Note how these professional resume examples feature skills such as a strong work ethic, the ability to work well with others, multitasking and flexibility.

• Bar Supervisor
• Cafeteria Worker
• Catering Server
• Cocktail Server
• Crew Member
• Fast Food Server
• Food And Beverage Manager
• Food And Beverage Server
• Restaurant Server

Healthcare Support Resume Examples

These professional healthcare support examples for a resume cover major health support fields. Use one of these sample resumes as a guide to writing a Ats Resume Canada.

• Assisted Living Coordinator
• Assisted Living Executive Director
• Companion Caregiver
• Direct Support Professional
• Healthcare System Administrator
• Healthcare Operations Manager
• Healthcare Program Manager
• Home Health Aide
• Intensive Care Nurse
• Medical Assistant
• Occupational Therapist
• Patient Coordinator
• Personal Care Assistant
• Personal Support Worker
• Phlebotomist

Information technology resume samples

Take a cue from some of the best resume examples from My Perfect Resume and show off your problem-solving abilities. Let these examples of a good resume be your guide.

• Agile Project Manager
• Assistant Project Manager
• Contracts Manager
• Devops Engineer
• Global Project Manager
• Help Desk Support
• Project Management Director
• Technical Project Manager
• Technical Support Engineer

Medical resume examples

Highlight specialized medical training and certifications using these medical job resume examples as a guide. Include experience in hospitals and private practice.

• Anesthesia Technician
• Clinical Director
• Dialysis Technician
• Ekg Technician
• Hospital Volunteer
• Intensive Care Physician
• Medical Coding Specialist
• Medical Records Specialist
• Certified Lactation Consultant
• Nuclear Medicine Technologist
• Optometrist
• Pediatrician
• Physician Assistant
• Registered Mri Technologist
• Speech Language Pathologist
• Ultrasound Technician

Nursing resume samples

We have the perfect resume examples to help you display your interpersonal and communication skills, time management, attention to detail and empathy. Choose a nursing job resume example below to get started!

• Acute Care Nurse
• Advanced Practice Rn
• Chief Nursing Officer
• Geriatric Nurse Practitioner
• Labor And Delivery Nurse
• Nurse Practitioner
• Nursing Assistant
• Oncology Nurse
• Pediatric Nurse
• Registered Nurse
• Public School Nurse
• Trauma Nurse

Production resume examples

A professional experience resume example from the following list of resume examples for jobs in production can show how to display licenses for operating specialized equipment.

• Apparel Production Manager
• Assembly Line Operator
• Chemical Plant Operator
• Forklift Operator
• Machine Operator
• Picker And Packer
• Pipeline Inspector
• Pipeline Welder
• Plant Manager
• Production Manager
• Supply Chain Manager
• Telecommunications Technician
• Logistics Assistant Manager

Retail resume samples

Use the example resumes below as guides to showcase your customer service skills and experience managing products and services on your retail employee resume.

• Retail Assistant Manager
• Sales Associate
• Bookstore Clerk
• Clothing Sales Associate
• Convenience Store Clerk
• District Manager
• Fine Watches Sales Specialist
• Retail Management Professional
• Retail Manager
• Retail Parts Pro
• Store Manager
• Walgreens Service Clerk

Sales Resume Examples

Like the resume samples below, it’s important to provide details on experiences where you’ve hit sales targets. You’re sure to find a good resume sample among the professional experience resume examples below to help you do so.

• Sales Assistant Manager
• Channel Sales Manager
• Direct Sales Representative
• Franchise Owner
• Independent Sales Representative
• Inside Sales Representative
• Sales Account Executive
• Outside Sales Representative
• Sales Representative
• Experienced Telemarketer

Social Services resume samples

Show you can relate well with others and have a strong problem-solving approach,like the professionals in the social services job resume examples below.

• Case Manager
• Case Worker
• Child Protection Social Worker
• Community Outreach Specialist
• Community Service Coordinator
• Domestic Violence Counselor
• Human Service Worker
• Humanitarian Aid Worker
• Juvenile Probation Officer
• Social Worker
• Drug And Alcohol Counselor
• Medical Social Worker

Teaching resume examples

The following professional resume examples for teaching job resumes focus on important intangible skills such as communication, enthusiasm and patience.

• Preschool Teacher
• Adjunct Professor
• Assistant Teacher
• Early Childhood Teacher
• Elementary Teacher
• Esl Teacher
• High School Teacher
• Homeschool Teacher
• Language Professor
• Middle School Teacher
• Nurse Educator
• Piano Teacher
• Summer Teacher
• Administrative
• Billing and collections
• Business operations
• Computers software
• Construction
• Customer service
• Data & systems administration
• Fitness & nutrition
• Food service
• Healthcare and support
• Information technology
• Social services

500+ Cover Letter Samples for Canada

Explore our collection of carefully curated cover letter samples designed to make a strong impression in the Canadian job market. Our samples are crafted to reflect the specific expectations of Canadian employers and hiring managers. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career, these samples provide valuable guidance on creating a compelling cover letter that complements your resume. With recruiter-approved formats and content, you'll be well-equipped to showcase your qualifications and enthusiasm for the Canadian job opportunities you seek.

Thanks to Our Site by the help of their services I got job offer within a week.

Very Quick and explained my past better than even I could have, Thank You!

Thanks to atsresumecanada.com. They made my Cover Letter Precise and meaningful. Loved the work done

How to write an effective cover letter

In my previous post, I provided tips and techniques on how to write a resume for the Canadian job market. Now, I am going to take us a step further and share my experiences in writing cover letters. In a majority of situations, while applying for a job, candidates are required to provide a cover letter supporting their resume. Most newcomers are not familiar with this concept as in countries like India, the use of cover letters for a job application is very rare.

Let’s begin with understanding what exactly is a ‘cover letter’ and why you should have one while applying for a job in Canada.

What is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a formal one-page letter that accompanies a resume. It is NOT a rephrased or concise version of your resume but it is mainly supposed to be about how you fit the potential role on offer.

Why should you have a Cover Letter?

Through the cover letter, the expectation is for you to enable the hiring manager/recruiter to see the match between your skill set, qualifications, and the employer’s needs. In Canada, employers expect to receive a resume supported by a cover letter that identifies yourself with the position you are applying for and also summarizes your relevant experience. One of the main objectives of the cover letter is to bridge the gap between the resume and the specific job along with highlighting your education, skills, experience, and demonstrating the value you bring to the position. Cover letters are usually not mandatory but good-to-have.

Anika Diachuk, Senior Digital Recruitment Lead at RBC says:

I feel incredibly fortunate as often times I receive fascinating data filled cover letters/profile presentations with some of my applications. Cover letters can come in all shapes and forms: a software engineering portfolio or creative presentation, product management map or smartly written letter showcasing a great deal of interest in the role, line of business, opportunity as a whole as well as determining one’s eligibility for the position. Immediately, it creates a strong sense of integrity and targeted career effort professionalism. It is not all about a cover letter; I don’t believe it is mandatory (particularly when candidates have one canned version that they never tailor to be job specific and just change company names in it). But it definitely is a nice touch, and a great way to diversify your application.

According to a Robert Half survey, cover letters are known to better your chances of being shortlisted; 90% of executives say writing a cover letter is valuable. Vivian Li, Senior Manager, Inclusive Recruitment at RBC says, “ A cover letter is like a ‘cherry on top’. It allows you the additional opportunity to express your strong interest in the role and highlight why you are the ideal candidate. Also, for roles that are looking for exceptional communication skills, your cover letter can be a great example of your written communication capability. ”

What are the key elements of a Cover Letter?

Generally speaking, a cover letter has the following sections:

1. Name and Contact Information: As a best practice, it’s good to match the details in this section with the content in the same section on your resume. Using a similar header for your cover letter and resume looks both, professional and consistent. Greeting or Salutation: It’s always good to address the cover letter to a specific individual. If the name of the hiring manager is not mentioned in the job posting, it is okay to call the employer’s main phone line and ask for the name. If you must keep the greeting/salutation generic, you can address it as “Sir/Madam” or “Human Resources Department” or “Hiring Committee.” Introductory Paragraph: This opening paragraph largely talks about:

2. Greeting or Salutation: It’s always good to address the cover letter to a specific individual. If the name of the hiring manager is not mentioned in the job posting, it is okay to call the employer’s main phone line and ask for the name. If you must keep the greeting/salutation generic, you can address it as “Sir/Madam” or “Human Resources Department” or “Hiring Committee.”

3. Introductory Paragraph: This opening paragraph largely talks about:

• The name of the position you are applying for (better to include any identification/reference number/s for the job posting, if there was one)
• How you learned about this position
• Some insights into your motivation for applying for the position at that particular organization/company

4. The First Paragraph: The first paragraph typically provides insights into your professional background and education. It also highlights some of your accomplishments.

5. The Second Paragraph: In the following paragraph, it is ideal to do a deep dive and explain why you are a good fit with the help of specific examples from your professional experience. It is also an opportunity to summarize relevant skill sets that qualify you for the role. Best practice suggests using an active voice and taking ownership for your accomplishments; don’t start every sentence with “I”. Use facts to elaborate on your experience more than qualitative information. Visually, bullet points help to better emphasize your experience.

6. The Concluding Paragraph: The ending/concluding paragraph should be used to thank the employer for the opportunity, demonstrating enthusiasm to work for the organization, and thank them for their time in reviewing your application. It is recommended to end the letter by indicating that you’ve attached your resume and that you are interested in an interview to learn more about the position.

7. Signing off: Finally, sign off using the more professional sounding – “Sincerely”, followed by your full name.

What are some additional tips for building a good Cover Letter?

• Keep the cover letter concise and limited to one page.
• Tailor your cover letter to suit each job application.
• Proofread your cover letter multiple times; check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling, especially since it serves as a reflection of your written communication skills.
• Use a standard font size (10 or 12 points, in a font style such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri). Avoid the use of special effects (bold/underline/italics, different fonts, and colour).
• The cover letter is also a good way to justify any gaps in your resume or provide any additional info that your resume can’t.
• Include keywords/action verbs from the job description.

As we end this blog, here’s a downloadable template for a cover letter that you can use to customize and make it your own.

About the Author:

Nerissa is a business research and management consulting professional with over a decade of experience working with clients in IT, Telecom, Retail, Banking/Finance, Retail, Pharmaceuticals, and Healthcare across global geographies. In her current role at Arrive, she works as a content specialist leveraging her first-hand experience as a newcomer in Canada to write relevant blogs and assist other immigrants to ease their transition into the Canadian life.

Things our lawyers want you to know

This article offers general information only and is not intended as legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. While information presented is believed to be factual and current, its accuracy is not guaranteed and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the author(s) as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by Royal Bank of Canada or its affiliates.

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Canada Style Resume: How Should A Cover Letter Be Formatted?

Finding work as soon as possible after arriving in Canada is a top aim for most immigrants. Applying for a job needs your resume and cover letter. Is your resume all set to apply for a job, but you are still seeking some valuable tips to make a cover letter? You can steal these tips from here.

You can make your cover letter by adjusting your Canadian templates and formats. Add your name, address, phone number, and email in the heading. Don’t forget to mention a formal greeting to the recruiter. Introduce yourself, your skills, and your experience. Be confident about getting an interview call. Moreover, add a goodbye at the end of your cover letter.

Your job application may not be chosen due to the wrong email address, ridiculous font sizes, incorrect language, and typos in your cover letter and resume. So, there are some guidelines that you might find helpful to avoid these mistakes in your cover letter.

Let’s cover some tips for writing an effective cover letter.

What Is A Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a piece of writing often included with a job application that summarizes your qualifications and enthusiasm for the post. A cover letter is sometimes one of two documents given to a hiring manager. Therefore, its quality may determine your eligibility for an interview call.

A strong cover letter introduces you well and enhances a resume by elaborating on essential points of the position . Essentially, it is a sales technique outlining why the candidate is the most qualified for the job. Professionals encourage job searchers to individually tailor cover letters for specific opportunities rather than sending out a mass mailing.

Even though it takes more work, it may be beneficial in helping a candidate differentiate themselves from others. It tells the hiring manager more about your experience and personality. It comprises your:

• Objectives for your career
• Information
• Skills you have acquired over time
• Accomplishments

It must be a one-page document explaining in plain English why you are a strong fit for a particular post. It would be best if you highlighted your intellectual; compatibility as well.

Importance Of A Cover Letter

Your first and last chance to impress a potential employer is in the cover letter. It is a crucial business strategy to get the company to overview your resume. Consider it as the “fish” to catch the reader.

Don’t forget that the recruiting managers at law firms are always looking for an excuse to reject your application. So don’t ever give them a chance to do so by giving them a clumsy, badly written cover letter full of errors and grammar mistakes.

You pair your cover letter with your resume to secure an interview call. It is also attached to convey the intellectual assets which are harder to understand from your resume. It must be written in an enthusiastic, straightforward, yet modest style .

Necessary Information on a Cover Letter

It’s crucial to keep in mind that success may be achieved by following the strategy while writing a cover letter. Your introduction should include information about the position and yourself. 

Secondly, be very certain about your skills and abilities that must correspond with the demands specified in the job ad. Lastly, explain why you are the best candidate for a certain job, but avoid being impatient.

Now, take a deeper look at the strategy below:

• Make sure you leave a strong first impression by doing your homework on the business and firm and demonstrating it in your letter. Could you not assume it to be true? Do not be cocky about your knowledge, but do emphasize it
• In Canada, a cover letter shouldn’t be solely about you. Make sure you discuss everything about the firm, its recent initiatives, corporate values, and company news. This information must hold about 30% of your letter. You’ll increase your chances of getting an interview invitation if you make the employer feel unique
• Concentrate on demonstrating your qualifications for the position that suits the post. In this way, you’ll be successful in explaining that you have much knowledge about the post and firm

How To Write A Cover Letter In Canada?

Sometimes, recruiters list all the requirements for a cover letter in the job description. Hence, you have to create your letter according to those requirements. They may set a word restriction or ask candidates to respond to specific queries. Following these guidelines is crucial since it shows how well-versed and obedient the candidate is. 

If there are no requirements from the company, a normal cover letter with one page containing a salutation, your contact details, and direct links to your portfolio . In case of no requirements, you must put your qualifications and draw attention to your unique abilities.

By presenting a strong cover letter, you can impress an employer. If your resume needs certain qualities that a recruiter is looking for, an attractive cover letter may help you look different from others in competition for a certain job.

Moreover, there is a limit on the length of your cover letter and the amount of information you may include. Most letters submitted to companies are given a cursory read, so a lengthy essay may finish at the end of the sack.

You may present yourself in the best possible light by outlining your talents and abilities in a few concise phrases, along with why you choose that particular job. 

Documents 

Following are the documents you need for a cover letter:

Resume Builder: Using your working experience, abilities, and hobbies, you may generate a uniquely designed CV using a program called a resume builder.

Letter Of Recommendation: It is a written evaluation of your employment or academic study qualifications.

A Formal Letter Of Resignation: You must take this letter from your employer and inform him that you are quitting the position. 

Check the following tutorial for writing a cover letter for a resume in Canada :

Canada Cover Letter Format

Tired of creating formats and templates for a winning cover letter? Don’t worry! We’ll provide you all the formatting guidelines for cover letters that you must adhere to while creating your ideal cover letter:

• Use margins of 1 inch
• The line spacing should be 1.15 or a little more
• There must be double spaces between paragraphs
• Alignment should be left
• You may select fonts among Arial, Calibri, Verdana, and Helvetica
• The size of the font should be 10 to 12
• The number of pages should be one or only half of a page
• Your resume and a well written cover letter must be submitted in a PDF file or any other asked via the job description
• Your PDF file name should be like this: JobTitle_Your Name_CoverLetter.pdf

Stick to the precise layout of your templates for every section of your job application.

Canada Cover Letter Template

A perfect template should comprise the following:

• Header with your complete name, postal address, contact information, and email
• It should contain the date of publication
• You should also mention the address of the recruiter
• Add some greetings
• It must contain at least three to 4 paragraphs
• Add your signature at the end

Sometimes, things are straightforward. We are delighted since being straightforward is the purpose of the cover letter heading. The heading contains brief details about you. Make sure these details are entirely accurate.

If you are unlikely to receive a callback, you shouldn’t be glued to your phone. Do you want your chance at a prosperous career taken by someone else? No? Then do not skip the detailed info about what to add in your cover letter heading.

The heading template should look like the following:

• Your full name
• Mailing or postal Address
• Phone number
• Email address

Feel free to emphasize your name if that’s what you like. Adjust the maximum text size to 14 to get the recruiter’s undivided concentration.

Addressing the Recruiter

It would be best if you knew the recruiter’s name and address. If you mention “to whom it may concern” or “ Dear sir/madam,” you will undoubtedly lose the opportunity of being a candidate chosen for an interview call.

Furthermore, no one owns communications or paperwork without any name. Thus regardless of what justification you accept, both weaken the argument. You are correct in seeing that the address doubles as a greeting.

Always use Mr. or Mrs. with the recruiter’s name . If you couldn’t discover the recruiter’s name, write “dear hiring manager” in the salutation. 

Introducing Yourself

You must now perform to the very best of your ability. You may land a job because of the opening paragraph of your cover letter. Its fascinating quality is what keeps the reader turning the pages.

You may control it by turning your character, accomplishments, or shared ideas into commanding statements. You may use the following tips to ensure that you produce a strong introduction for your cover letter:

• Cite your commitments and goals
• Discuss the recent activities of the firm
• Be a problem-solver for the business
• Express your excitement and enthusiasm
• Demonstrate the value of hiring you
• Mention one of your largest and most relevant accomplishments to the company

Talk About Relevant Skills & Experience

The second paragraph of your cover letter serves your prior experiences and skills regarding a particular job post. Do well on the work at hand to be given a seat. This paragraph should be something other than a google spreadsheet of the things you already own or can offer.

It should be a list of accomplishments that explains how the outcomes relate to the past work your company expects of you. Discuss your pertinent abilities and how they contribute to the job post.

However, provide three to four bullet points with the achievements that correspond to the skills or characteristics of the job posting lists as essential. 

Proving Your Motivation to Join

The recruiters and hiring manager have finished chatting now about you. Now it’s your turn. Use the 3rd paragraph to elaborate on why you picked the particular firm . Again, this is your time to express how motivated and keen you are to join this firm.

However, since you can demonstrate your passion doesn’t imply that you can entirely ignore the opportunity to make the most of the cover letter. You may really pick one of the approaches and really push it for the introductory paragraph by reading the job description .

Asking For An Interview

Write “I am interested in getting a call from you” to show your confidence. Keep your composure till the end and generate a response from the reader. For example, you can write, “Let’s have a coffee date and discuss how I can be a good fit for your company.”

Leaving A Formal Sign-Off

You can end your cover letter on a formal note by saying something like:

• Best or Warmest regards
• Please accept my deepest thanks and best wishes

Lastly, include your real name as a signature , or you may also add a scanned signature over your name.

Check Out Canadian Cover Letter Format – How To Write A Cover Letter For a Job Application

Tips For Creating Cover Letters In Canada

It might appear to be a headache to write a cover letter, but it does not need to be. The following are some easy suggestions you might need to take into account while writing your cover letter:

Conduct Research

Before drafting a letter, you must know the job criteria, corporate culture, goals and objectives, and the most recent market trends. You may definitely benefit from customizing your letter and showcasing your enthusiasm in the post by learning more about the role, business, and firm.

Adapt To The Chosen Format

Although a cover letter is in a specific format, you may alter it according to the particular job you are interested in. it must include the following information:

• Your desired position and why it intrigues you
• Talents and work history that are relevant
• Your work for the firm
• Requesting an interview

Create A Unique Letter For Each Position

Only send a cover letter that is basic and exciting . This implies that you must create a new letter for every job post. Add your accomplishments and qualifications and elaborate on the reason for your best fit for a job.

Adapt Your Header To The Format Of Your Application

Your headings of the cover letter and resume must be in accordance if you submit them online. You do not need to add your name, address, and phone number in the header, as this information is already on your application. If you are attaching a cover letter separately with your Canadian style resume, it is necessary to provide your contact details on the letter. 

Use An Appropriate Greeting

If the recruiter’s name is missing from the job advertisement, contact the firm or look it up online . Adding the recruiter’s name to the cover letter offers a formal hello and demonstrates your efforts. Otherwise, start with “Hey, Hiring Manager.” 

If you need help making your welcome professional, obtaining a sense of the workplace mission is crucial. “Hello” and “Hi there” salutations are typically too informal for a cover letter.

Make Your Letter Simpler

Be concise and straightforward while communicating. By using difficult phrases and sentences, you may fail to communicate your goals to the organization, and the reader will leave the remaining letter unread.

Be Specific And Short

Concentrate on the information most crucial for the position when deciding the length of your letter. Always overview the job description carefully to find the finest opportunity to highlight your skills.

Do not restate your resume! For example, elaborate on your marketing expertise in the letter by stating that you boosted your income to $15,000 while bringing in 250 more clients monthly. This might help you stand out from those that provide unclear personal details. 

Add Relevant Details

There are 3, 4, or even 5 paragraphs in the body of a cover letter. Following are some suggestions for each paragraph’s content:

• Initial And First Paragraph

As well as explaining the reason for writing a cover letter, this section must urge the reader to continue reading throughout the letter. Don’t forget to mention the job you are applying for. 

• Second Paragraph

Include extra details about your educational history and job-relevant abilities in this section. Avoid repeating information from your resume. Instead, elaborate more on anything that wasn’t adequately covered by the brief words on your resume.

Give more details about your unique achievements. Explain the relation between your achievements and the job post and how these achievements can benefit the organization.

• Third Paragraph

The third paragraph allows you to demonstrate your business and sector expertise. Describe your reasons for wanting a job for the firm and how you may help it succeed.

You might also emphasize why you believe you would fit within the company’s ideas and goals. Employers sometimes state soft talents and personality attributes in the job description. To demonstrate how you suit the listed soft abilities, choose a narrative from your experiences.

• Final Paragraph

To complete your tale, connect and link your ending to your beginning . Thank the firm for choosing you. Include information about your next plan. You can make a call for further information.

It will also be fantastic to let the recruiters know you are open to a response. Your letter should be signed with a formal closure like “sincerely” to seal it. If you are submitting your job application online, your name will be worked as your signature.

Embrace Keywords

When submitting your resume online, be careful to include pertinent keywords. A candidate monitoring system is frequently used by recruiters to identify your resume and cover letters that most closely match the job specifications.

Before sending it, go through your letter numerous times. Overview of vocabulary, grammatical, or punctuation mistakes . You can spot problematic wording or sentences by reading them in a louder voice.

Moreover, ask the other person to read it once so that you may correct the mistakes according to his mindset. If your welcome has your recruiter’s name , be sure about its spelling . 

  Cover Letter Sample

Let’s have a look at an effective cover letter sample:

What makes it good? This sample expresses all the necessary tips that it must contain. Moreover, add your name, mailing address, and contact number as required in the heading section. Follow all the steps described above to write a whole letter according to a certain job description. 

How Do You Sell Yourself In A Cover Letter With No Experience?

Submitting a cover letter with your expertly crafted resume demonstrates to companies that you need help to create your application. But what if you have never done a job before? Not to worry. 

A cover letter can still be effective even if you have never written one before. Here are some pointers to help you create your cover letter without any experience:

– Add your contact details. – Call the recruiter manager’s name. – Create a compelling beginning sentence – Explain your skills and the reason you are the best fit for a job effectively so that it may overcome the fear of being an un-experienced entity – Add your top achievements. – Add relative material and then the best closing of your cover letter.

What Is The Best Opening Line For A Cover Letter?

Your cover letter’s introductory paragraph should be no longer than one paragraph. You can fill the crucial opening with one of the following compelling materials:

Be Direct: Clearly state the post for which you are applying. Your objective should be clear by identifying the business or organization and job title. Because recruiters frequently deal with applicants who are applying for numerous open opportunities.

Express Passion: Display some excitement and passion for the position, the business, the goods, and the products it offers. It is one of the greatest methods to get started because it frequently results in devoted and productive workers.  Moreover, it gives the recruiters a boost of energy and makes them want to read your remaining letter.

Mention Your Connections And Contacts: If the position was referred to you, make sure to bring that up right away. Social proof and a powerful method of argument rely heavily on recommendations. 

Grab Them With Outstanding Achievements: Write a statement highlighting a noteworthy career achievement. Make it tangible with data and demonstrate how you would be a true asset to the company if recruiters hire you.

Put Your Beliefs In Writing: You can use a belief assertation rather than an achievement statement. Demonstrate that your aims and beliefs align with the organization and the job. Please do not write the company’s purpose statement. Instead, make it seem genuine.

Demonstrate Your Understanding Of News And Current Affairs: Finding out more about the business is a proven approach to impress hiring managers. Look for a guide or magazine on the corporate website.

Apply Keywords: Whatever method you use to begin your letter, keywords are essential. 90% of large businesses scan your job applications via ATS. These tools go through applications for keywords and disqualify those who do not use them.

How Do You Introduce Yourself in a Resume?

A professional pitch is a brief and impactful technique to make a great introduction. It is also known as a thirty-second ad, your intro, an elevator pitch etc. Moreover, you can utilize your own identity at an interview or live session.

You should outline your professional background in your introduction. Add the name of your present employer. It rapidly lets the reader know how much working experience you have. Your resume introduction should contain an illustration of a professional achievement that exemplifies those abilities. 

The aim of your resume should be apparent in your introduction. These might be both short-term and long-term aims. 

What Is The Best Greeting For A Cover Letter?

“Dear” is the most formal greeting for a cover letter. 

The best cover letter greeting is “hello” or “dear” with the names of recruiters. You can find their name in a job description or search for it from the particular firm you are applying for.

Moreover, if you know the gender of your recruiter, then use “Dear Mr/Mrs.” But if you don’t know the gender, saying this lessens the chance of mistakenly addressing someone as the wrong gender.

If you have done your homework and need help identifying a single candidate to hire, the business has probably put together a team to handle the hiring duties . Determine which division or unit the position belongs to before addressing a letter.

So, do you now know how to make a cover letter for a resume in Canada ? A resume is a marketing device that can only be used to request an interview . On the other hand, a cover letter exposes you to a hiring manager together with your resume. It is also your first impression as the recruiters read it first.

Moreover, it enables the company to learn more about you and your qualifications for the post. We hope you are familiar with the Canadian cover letter formats via this guide. Getting familiar with the resume format is compulsory as it can be your first encounter with Canadian companies.

Do not feel hesitation if you have any queries regarding this guide. Feel free to ask us on OnTheMoveCanada . Have a good day! 

Updated on 02-10-23

Resume & Cover Letter Writing: Canadian Formats

Grace Wilson

4 Sep 2021, 9:30 am

The Canadian resume format is a bit different when compared to some resumes and cover letters from other countries.

Keep reading to learn how to prepare the resume and the cover letter that will get you the best jobs in Canada . 

What is a CV Like in Canada? 

The key to finding a job in Canada is your Canadian cover letter. The format is quite straightforward, where you mention the main qualities that an employer is looking for while mentioning it in a specific layout that catches their eyes. 

The Canadian resume format includes:

• contact information
• professional skills
• career summary
• work experience

Candidates can also add specific skills including technical experience, volunteering, or community involvement.

Precision is key when finding a job in Canada as an immigrant. Make sure that your skillset is clearly listed and matches the job description. 

Why Would You Think about the CV and Job Hunting Before the Immigration?

A long way of successful immigration may start with a great CV and, thus, a job in Canada.

Later, on your immigration path, if you choose to immigrate through the Express Entry , you will be assessed based on the CRS pointing system . The higher you rank, the more chances you’ll have to be granted a permanent residency.

The great news is, the job offer can give you from 50 to 200 CRS points and that will accelerate the immigration process big time by providing you with almost guaranteed success.

To get an idea of your eligibility for immigration you may use this tool:

Note that this too is used to assess initial eligibility for immigration to Canada in general. However, it gives an idea on the CRS points you may get later.

We explain how the assessment systems work here .

Make Your Resume Canadian-Like

In order to get a job in Canada, follow these tips to have your CV up-to-date in the correct Canadian resume format. 

• Keep your resume precise and to the point. It shouldn’t have unnecessary details, especially if it doesn’t correlate to your current skill levels for a particular job. 
• Keeping the resume interesting is an art. Recruiters skim through most CVs, so make sure that you have highlighted your expertise and achievements. 
• Make use of a professional template and avoid excessive writing or unprofessional font style. 
• Use short and concise sentences, and according to the Canadian resume format, the CV should typically be summarized in two pages. However, for those with 10+ years of experience, three page Canadian cover letter is also acceptable for jobs in Canada for immigrants.
• Mention everything in Canadian equivalent and terms.
• Employers gravitate towards resumes tailored to a specific skill rather than generic interests. 
• Your Canadian resume format shouldn’t include your signature, date or the word ‘CV’ or ‘Resume’ mentioned in it. 

Writing a Cover Letter: Tips for Success

The most important factor when finding a job in Canada as an immigrant [link to the main article] is your cover letter, as it represents your skills and experiences before you are considered for an interview.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind for the perfect Canadian cover letter. 

• First step is introducing yourself in a way that’s concise but catches the eye. This can be done by being specific about your expertise to grab the attention of the recruiter. The Canadian cover letter isn’t all about the candidate. A part of it should cover the information you know about the company, so that they know that you’ve done your homework. 
• Make sure that your skills match the requirements of the job. Instead of mentioning your set of skills, be assertive about how those skills fit the job description well and will benefit the employer in long term. Doing so will assure the recruiter that you understand the demands of the job. 
• Enlist the reasons that make you a well suited candidate for the given position.
• Make sure that you have all the necessary information about the company, including its background and highlights.

How to Use LinkedIn for Job Hunting 

LinkedIn is a powerful online tool for finding a job in Canada as an immigrant. This is because it allows foreigners to look for international jobs and find employers who are looking for the same skill sets and expertise that the applicant has.

LinkedIn also gives you a platform to build contacts and resources that greatly help speed up your career by specifically targeting the companies and people you need. 

Do You Prefer Communication and Creativity to Standard Interviews?

Then you may get the most from LinkedIn. A lot of potential employers use it for networking and could be willing to discuss opportunities for you.

And what makes LinkedIn even more amazing – you can find connections using it beforehand, when you are outside of Canada!

Of course, you don’t want to be too persistent. But trying to reach out to people from the companies in Canada could be worth a try.

Sometimes it takes just one text to catch the attention of someone who can change your life. Just stay polite and be creative!

We’ve created a checklist on how to prepare for a job-hunting with the use of LinkedIn:

• create and maintain a detailed profile
• use the professional profile image
• post relevant articles
• join LinkedIn groups that tailor to your sector, industry, and professional organization
• be positive in your communication and engagement
• when reaching out to people, keep a professional yet friendly tone
• don’t send bulk messages – try to show why you are interested in a specific job opportunity and why you are the one right for i

Finally, we all spend lots of time browsing Social Media. So, why not use it to find opportunities for a job?

Video Resume

Finding a job isn’t easy. It requires patience, commitment, and determination.

However, there are many ways to speed up the process and bring your profile to the top. Video resumes are quite common these days, and it not only reflects on your skills and experience but also your personality and communication skills.

All of these factors can help make your resume stand out and leave a lasting impression. 

Finding a job in Canada could be challenging. We hope that this post has helped you to learn more about how to prepare a CV and cover letter for a Canadian employer.

We have gathered more information about job hunting for immigrants in this article .

To make sure you prepared all documents accordingly we recommend to consult a professional – an RCIC . With consultants, chances for successful job hunting are definitely higher!

Grace was born in Birmingham, England, and moved to Canada with her family when she was five. She graduated from the University of British Columbia in 2015 and since then she has been working as a recruitment consultant for 10+ companies. In her spare time, Grace writes about her professional experience with winning job offers for immigrants. She also shares tips about employment that could be useful for both immigrants and local job seekers.

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You can trust the integrity of our balanced, independent immigration advice. We may, however, receive compensation from the issuers of some products mentioned in this article. Opinions are the author's alone. This content has not been provided by, reviewed, approved or endorsed by any advertiser, unless otherwise noted below.

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Cover letter for Canada – A guide to write the perfect one

How should you create a cover letter for a Canadian job? In this article, we will give you advice on the best way to write a Canadian cover letter and provide you with sample cover letters to help you get started.

Let’s get started creating a cover letter for Canada in order to apply for professional jobs there.

Ways to format a cover letter for a job in Canada

A cover letter for Canada should take three steps to success, and this is one of the most crucial things to remember.

You and the position you are looking for should be introduced in the first section of your application.

In addition, you need to clearly demonstrate that your skills correlate with the job description’s requirements.

If you wish to be considered for an interview, state why you are a great candidate without being pushy.

Taking a closer look at these three topics now will help us understand them better.

• Make a strong case for your profile and demonstrate the reason, why you are the perfect person for the job. Including this explanation, much earlier in the cover letter will be helpful. In addition to information about yourself, your cover letter should contain information about the company for which you are applying. Your cover letter should contain at least 30% content related to the organization’s goals, policies, and latest updates. Describe what makes the business unique. Your chances of being invited for the interview will undoubtedly rise if you use this strategy.
• Your resume should not be merely restated. Concentrate instead on explaining how your knowledge and expertise are relevant to the position. In order to demonstrate to the hiring manager that you are well-versed in the role and can fill it.  You should respond to each criterion in turn.
• Make a subtle reference to your company’s knowledge without sounding boastful. Potential employers and recruiters will be most interested in the aspects of your business that they can relate to.
• It is crucial to submit both a CV and a cover letter if you wish to land a job in Canada. A concise and accurate resume is essential. A cover letter can be written after that by highlighting your strengths and skills that will make you a valuable asset to the company.
• Check if you’ve highlighted the skills required for the position based on the job description after you’ve compiled a list.

Is a cover letter always required when applying to Canada?

Depending on the circumstance, a cover letter might not always be needed. For example, if a company employee recommends you, a cover letter might not be needed. It is essential to write a Canadian cover letter for every job application in order to demonstrate your knowledge of the role. As well as your ability to meet the company’s requirements. In order to succeed in your career, you will need to take the steps necessary to get the job of your dreams.

Discover how you can assist the company by learning about it. A strong first impression starts with an effective cover letter. Cover letters that begin, “Always wanted to work with… (company’s name)” do not cut it, so demonstrate your interest in a company by demonstrating that you are passionate about them.

As a response to a particular job posting, a cover letter is a short, one-page letter addressed to the department or person responsible for hiring. Your cover letter should reinforce your relevancy for the position and complement your CV. Whenever you find a specific job ad that you wish to apply for, you can begin putting together your application cover letter.

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FREE Canadian Cover Letter Template

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A Canadian cover letter acts as an introduction to your resume and is tailoured to a particular role you wish to apply in Canada. A cover letter's primary purpose is to introduce you to the Canadian employer and urge them to read your resume. It should demonstrate that you are the ideal candidate for their firm. Your cover letter should highlight your relevant qualifications, experience, and favourable work characteristics. Download your Free Canadian Cover Letter Sample and Template below on your laptop/desktop.

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Whether you are applying to a job posting in Canada or anywhere in the rest of the world, you must ensure that a cover letter accompanies your resume when you send it out to a potential employer.

A cover letter is that vital first impression. This is the best chance you will get to explain to the reader why you are the best fit for the role.

Before you begin crafting a cover letter, read up all you can about the listed job posting and the employing firm. Including a few relevant details will show your seriousness regarding the job to the reader.

For this, you can check the company’s website to check their policies, vision and mission statements, recent developments, and more.

The header of the letter should have:

• Your name and address
• The employers name and address

If possible, address the letter to a specific person; else, you can just say Sir/Madam and address it to the HR (Human Resources) department of the company.

In the Middle

Moving on to the body of the letter, here is where you explain your interest in the post, your skills apropos the job, and your relevant experience. Remember, you dont have to repeat your resume here as the potential employer will peruse that anyway. Here, you just have to emphasize on your skills and explain how they match the requirements. Towards the end of this, add a short note on your soft skills to show your complete fit for the post.

Bring this to an end by stating your resumes attachment and thanking the reader for their interest in your candidature.

Sign off by saying ‘Sincerely and place your full name after that. For a paper copy, sign the letter. For an online application, you can omit it.

Factors to remember:

• Keep consistency and professionalism in mind while creating the letter. Use the same header for your letter and resume.
• Keep the length of the cover letter short – just one page. You wouldnt want to overwhelm the employer with pages upon pages of text.
• Dont load up your application with text galore. Leave blank or ‘white space so that the reader can pay attention to the important parts. For this, you can use lists and headings.
• Use the same font style and size throughout. For emphasis, use an enlarged size or bold the font. Consistency is key here. Use the same bullet point style throughout so that the reader is not confused unnecessarily at superfluous variety.
• You must remember to use Canadian spelling in your cover letter and resume. For this, you can set a spell-check in Canadian English in your software.
• The entire world prefers online applications these days. In case there is a specific file format the employer prefers, you must use that. If this hasnt been mentioned, just combine your cover letter and resume into a single PDF file and submit that. This is standard practice as it can be easily opened by most programs.
• Name your file in a professional manner. Add your name to your file name.
• Some employers may ask for a hard copy. Print your cover letter and resume out on good-quality paper and submit them in a large envelope without folding them up.

Sending a cover letter is important as it adds weight to your application. If possible, you should write a new cover letter for each position you are applying for. Also, try to customize it for each company. This will help the employer to imagine you in the role and jump-start the process of interviewing.

We are ready to help you with the crafting of a superb cover letter and resume so that you can apply to your dream jobs in Canada. Just get in touch with us and see your career soar.

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Discover how to write the perfect CV for work in Canada and land your dream job in just 10 simple steps!

• Work in Canada

How to Write the Perfect CV for Work in Canada

Shireen Fisher

Shireen Fisher is a widely-published writer with nine years of experience. She started her media career in radio before heading back to university to pursue her National Diploma and BTech Degree in Journalism.

So you've decided to embark on a new chapter in the Great White North. And with a new setting comes that new job. Fortunately, nearly one million Canada jobs are just waiting to be filled. But before you break out your briefcase, you'll have to go through the process of applying for a job. When you apply for jobs in Canada , you must submit your Curriculum Vitae (CV), which summarizes your work experience, skills, and other career and personal information. This article gives you a breakdown of how to write the perfect CV for work in Canada.

Finding a Job in Canada as a Newcomer

When looking for your ideal job in Canada , you'll find that vacancies are spread across sectors in this second-largest country in the world. With ongoing labor shortages due to a large retiring population and low birth rate, there is a huge demand for foreign workers - skilled, semi-skilled, and low-or unskilled. To find vacancies, You can browse several job sites. These include the following:

• Indeed Canada

The Difference Between a CV and a Resume

If you're a bit confused about whether you'll need a CV or resume for applications for Canada jobs, here's what you need to know:

• Both of these are used to showcase professional work experience
• In Canada, CVs are used primarily only for academic positions, fellowships, grants, postdoctoral positions, teaching or research positions, or high-level positions
• Most other positions in Canada require a resume
• CVs are usually around two pages long, while a resume is relatively short
• A CV will usually give more detail on your experience, education, skills, publications, awards, research, etc. A resume, on the other hand, is made up of a summary of work experience, education, and skills relevant to the role

Not sure how to go about writing the perfect CV? Then follow these steps below.

Step 1 - Be Truthful

Do not lie or embellish your CV. Your Canadian employer will double-check the important facts you have listed on your application. This does not mean that you cannot list your achievements. Keep to the facts and provide dates, documents, or other evidence to support your claims.

If you are caught lying about your qualifications, your visa application could be rejected by the Immigration office. This could lead to a five-year ban, which means you won't be able to apply for any Canadian immigration program.

Step 2 - Choose a Clear Layout

The layout is critical, so ensure your CV is arranged neatly. Choose a reader-friendly font like Lato or Arial. Also, make sure that you make your font at least size 11, as your recruiter may not enjoy having to squint while reading your CV.

Spacing is also important. This helps your reader go through your CV with ease. Consider 1.15 line spacing for a great layout of information.

Also, ensure your CV has clear headings to break it down into easily readable bits. Headings you can use are:

• Contact Information
• Achievements

Note: The use of graphs or other images can also help break down an otherwise boring CV into something exciting. But don't forcibly add them if they don't work with your information.

Step 3 - Choose a Great CV Design

Choose your CV design wisely. There are many different CV designs and templates to work with, but ensure that your CV design matches your job. For example, choose a more classic design if you have a more serious occupation like an administrator. However, if you belong to a more creative profession, your CV aesthetic can showcase this.

Step 4 - Ensure you have clear contact details on your CV

Recruiters hate having to try and contact an applicant only to realize that they have neglected to leave their contact information. So if they cannot locate your information or contact you, they'll simply skip your CV, and you'll lose out on that job in Canada.

Also, make sure that your address is professional sounding. An inappropriate-sounding email address may leave a lasting bad impression.

Additionally, always double-check your contact information to make sure there are no mistakes and that you have your latest physical address on your CV.

Step 5 - Keep it Short, Clear, and Concise

Most of the time, recruiters prefer that your CV should be at most two pages. Yes, that may seem short. But imagine it this way: A Canadian company human resources manager may get over 200 applicants for one job position and probably has learned how to skim over information to find the right candidate quickly. You may have written a fantastic background of your work experience, but the HR may only spend 30 seconds skimming your CV before moving on. So keep it short and simple, highlighting the most important information.

Step 6 - List Your Educational Qualifications

Your educational qualifications should be listed from high school onwards. You can add any certificates, degrees, diplomas, or other qualifications you have received. You could scan these documents for a more professional touch and then create links on your CV. So when potential interviewers open your CV, they can verify your qualifications. You may also need an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) , to verify your qualifications.

Step 7 - Update Your Work Experience

Remember, the whole point of a CV is to provide a summary of your work experience. Make sure you add your most recent work experience at the top of your list. Then move on to the least recent jobs. This is to keep the attention of your potential employer. If you have all the relevant information at the bottom of the page, they are less likely to read it all and rather skip over you as an unsuitable candidate.

Always remember that your CV is designed to be easy to read and user-friendly to whoever reads it.

If you don't have work experience, learn more about how to move to Canada without work experience.

Step 8 - Add References

Prospective employers and recruiters will want at least three contactable references to contact should you be up for consideration for the position you applied to. So list appropriate individuals who can vouch for your skills and character. You can include a former employer, line manager, supervisor, or even lecturer if you are a recent graduate. It's a good idea to inform anyone you list as a reference that you are adding them to avoid surprises when they receive a call from a recruiter.

Step 9 - Highlight Your Ability to be a Team Player

While companies review your CV to learn more about you, you should also remember that in the grand scheme of things, companies want to hire people that work well within a team. It's a good idea to demonstrate your ability to work as a team player by mentioning areas in which you have do so.

Step 10 - Double Check the Document

Before sending your CV and accompanying documents to a hiring Canadian company, have some of your friends or relatives read over them to double-check your spelling and grammar. You can hire an editor to professionally check your CV and cover letter to avoid embarrassing mistakes that could hinder your success. You could also have an immigration specialist check it for you.

Note:  If you are applying for a Canadian job, make sure that your application is either in French or English by hiring a professional translator.

Get Ready to Work in Canada

Now that you know which jobs in Canada require the submission of a CV and how to put together the perfect one, you can take the time to either update the CV you already have or produce a flawless one from scratch. Remember to be honest and accurate when noting down your qualifications and experience, pay attention to the layout and design of the document, add your contactable references, and make sure that all the boxes are ticked once your CV is complete. Having the best possible CV will help you stand the best chance of landing your ideal job at a Canadian company.

Need help getting ready to work in Canada? Then reach out to one of our Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants, standing by to get you on your way to a job amongst the maple leaves.

What Types of Resumes Are Used in Canada?

There are three types of resume people use to apply for jobs in Canada:

• A Reverse chronological resume outlines your work experience in reverse chronological order, so you would list your most recent experience first. This is the most popular type of resume in Canada.
• A Functional resume highlights all your skills and qualifications instead of just certain experiences. You would still include your work history, but it will appear after your skills and academic history.
• A Hybrid resume combines the two resumes mentioned above. It is perfect for anyone wishing to highlight transferable skills and professional experience. Work experience is usually displayed in a reverse chronological format, and the skills section includes a summary of qualifications and technical abilities.

Do I Need to Write a Cover Letter to Submit With my CV or Resume?

Yes, you should. This is the perfect opportunity to grab the recruiter's attention and sell your skills. Here, you'll introduce yourself and provide some information on your employment history. Most importantly, it's a great place to tell the recruiter how you will add value to the company hiring.

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Backgrounder: Canada Summer Jobs 2024

From: Employment and Social Development Canada

Backgrounder

Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ) is part of the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy, a horizontal federal initiative that supports youth aged 15 to 30—particularly those facing barriers to employment— to gain work experience and develop the skills they need to successfully transition into the labour market.

Program overview Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ) is part of the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy, a horizontal federal initiative that supports youth aged 15 to 30—particularly those facing barriers to employment— to gain work experience and develop the skills they need to successfully transition into the labour market. CSJ is delivered by Employment and Social Development Canada. The program supports employers to create summer jobs for youth in the not-for-profit, public, and private sectors. It includes a focus on small businesses with 50 or fewer full-time employees. CSJ provides youth with opportunities to develop and improve their skills. For some, it will be their first job experience, and it will inform their future education, training and career choices.  The program is responsive to national and local priorities as well as labour market needs. CSJ 2024 youth hiring period The hiring period for CSJ 2024 is underway and will run until July 22, 2024. More than 70,000 jobs that matter to young people and to our communities will be posted on the Job Bank website and mobile app , and will be updated on a regular basis. Young people are encouraged to keep checking for updates on placements available in their communities. Eligibility criteria Youth participants:   Eligible participants must be:

• between 15 and 30 years of age (inclusive) at the start of employment;
• Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or persons on whom refugee protection has been conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act; and
• legally entitled to work according to the relevant provincial or territorial legislation and regulations.

International students are not eligible. Recent immigrants are eligible if they are Canadian citizens or permanent residents . Employers : Eligible Canadian employers can be from the not-for-profit, public and private sectors. Private sector employers must have 50 or fewer full-time employees across Canada to be eligible (full-time employees are those working 30 hours or more per week).

The employer application period is now closed for CSJ 2024. Employers interested in applying for CSJ funding next year are encouraged to open an account on the secure Grants and Contributions Online Services portal. Ineligible projects and job activities

Ineligible Canadian employers include members of the House of Commons and the Senate, federal government departments and agencies, and provincial departments and agencies.

Projects and job activities are ineligible if they:

• have activities that take place outside of Canada;
• include activities that contribute to the provision of a personal service to the employer;
• involve partisan political activities;
• involve fundraising activities to cover salary costs for the youth participant;
• restrict access to programs, services or employment, or otherwise discriminate, contrary to applicable laws, on the basis of prohibited grounds, including sex, genetic characteristics, religion, race, national or ethnic origin, colour, mental or physical disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity or expression;
• advocate intolerance, discrimination or prejudice; or
• actively work to undermine or restrict a woman’s access to sexual and reproductive health services.

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‘Coldest Regards’ — Job Applicant’s Hilariously Passive-Aggressive Cover Letter Goes Viral Because Every Worker Can Relate

Strap in, folks, because the brutal reality of job hunting in the modern era is about to get a cheeky makeover. Picture applying to a staggering 200 jobs, and maybe—just maybe—hearing back from a humble five. Sounds fun, right? Yet, the good old days of storming into an office and flinging your CV at the unsuspecting manager like a paper ninja star are sadly long behind us. Despite your grandpa’s stories, we’re pretty sure that method wasn’t as foolproof as he’d like you to believe.

Now, in a world where most of your applications will meet with a wall of silence, one bold Redditor has discovered a way to lighten the mood. Enter u/rainingmafackas , our job-seeking hero, who has unleashed a flurry of deliciously passive-aggressive cover letters to some rather questionable job listings.

Read on to see the full cover letter and the reactions from the r/AntiWork community. Next, check out this genius resignation letter that sparked a viral conversation.

3. Redditors are calling the OP a legend, and taking inspiration

Jason Mustian

Jason is a Webby winning, Short-Award losing humor writer and businessman. He lives in Texas with his amazing wife and four sometimes amazing kids.

More From Forbes

Taylor swift’s new album is here, and it’s selling incredibly well.

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TORONTO, ONTARIO - SEPTEMBER 09: (NO COVERS) Taylor Swift attends 'In Conversation With... Taylor ... [+] Swift' during the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival at TIFF Bell Lightbox on September 09, 2022 in Toronto, Ontario. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images)

Taylor Swift’s new album The Tortured Poets Department has finally arrived, and as was expected, it’s become a massive success right out of the gate. A quick look at iTunes shows how huge the songs featured on the set have become immediately after being released, and this is only the beginning for the project and its many, many tunes.

The Tortured Poets Department arrived at midnight EST, and instantly became a streaming and sales win. Then, a few hours later, Swift shocked her fan base by announcing that the title is actually a double album, and she expanded the tracklist to include a total of 31 songs—with many being offered in different versions (like clean and explicit).

Swift dominates iTunes in the U.S. thanks to the release of The Tortured Poets Department . This isn’t surprising, as she always reaches No. 1 with a new album, but the sheer number of spots she occupies on the ranking of the top-selling individual tunes in the U.S. at the moment is amazing.

As of the time of writing, Swift fills 43 spaces inside the top 100 on iTunes’ U.S. store. Her reach expands beyond the top 100, though that’s where the majority of her cuts land—and most of them are climbing.

Swift almost completely owns the top 10 on iTunes at the moment, though she so far hasn’t been able to beat every other musician. The superstar occupies nine of the 10 rungs in that tier. “The Black Dog” rules at the moment, landing at No. 2.

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The only musician who has been able to top Swift today is Nicki Minaj. At the same time that The Tortured Poets Department arrived, the rapper dropped a new version of her single “FTCU,” with some famous friends in tow. That cut, which now features Travis Scott, Chris Brown, and Sexxy Red, bolted to No. 1 and is holding court there.

Of course, The Tortured Poets Department also sits at No. 1 on iTunes’ albums chart. In fact, Swift rules that ranking, sitting in several of the highest spaces—and all with different versions of the same project. The longer edition, known as The Anthology, appears at No. 1, while the shorter full-length is just behind.

The Tortured Poets Department is all but assured to debut at No. 1 on the Billboard charts next week. The title will likely open atop the Billboard 200, the ranking of the most-consumed albums in America with more than one million units, and its final may be much higher. Most, if not all, of the songs from the set will also hit the Hot 100, though how many spaces she’ll fill is yet to be seen.

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Budget 2024 Fairness for every generation

The 2024 federal budget is the government’s plan to build more homes, faster, help make life cost less, and grow the economy in a way that helps every generation get ahead.

How our economic plan can help you

Buy or rent a home.

We’re turbocharging the construction of homes across the country, and protecting the rights of renters, first-time buyers, and homeowners.

Tax-free First Home Savings Account

Over 750,000 Canadians have opened an account to save for their first down payment, and save faster with the help of tax relief.

Protecting Renters’ Rights

Our new Canadian Renters’ Bill of Rights will protect renters from unfair practices, make leases simpler, and increase price transparency.

Enhancing the Canadian Mortgage Charter

The Canadian Mortgage Charter is helping to protect homeowners who are struggling with rising mortgage payments. We are enhancing it to make it easier for younger Canadians to buy their first home, by making sure renters get credit for their rent payments and allowing up to 30-year mortgage amortizations on new builds for first-time home buyers.

Raise your family

Transforming Canada’s social safety net to help young parents with the cost of raising a family.

National School Food Program

A new National School Food Program will ensure that children have the nutritious meals they need to succeed and get a fair start in life.

More $10-a-day Child Care Spaces

We’re on track to securing Canada-wide $10-a-day child care in every province and territory by 2026, and fees have already been cut by 50 per cent everywhere, saving families thousands of dollars. We’re building more spaces and training more early childhood educators to ensure every family can access affordable child care.

Dental Care for Canadians Who Need It

The Canadian Dental Care Plan is already rolling out for uninsured Canadians with a family income of less than $90,000, to ensure everyone can afford the dental care they deserve. By 2025, nine million Canadians will be covered.

Get a good-paying job

Creating new opportunities for younger Canadians to get the education and skills they need for good-paying jobs.

Increasing Interest-Free Student Loans

Increasing Canada Student and Apprentice Loans and Grants, because everyone who wants to go to school should have the support they need to cover the costs.

More Work Experience and Skills Training for Youth

Helping young Canadians develop the skills and gain the work experience they need to achieve their dreams and get a good-paying job.

Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy

Supporting skilled trades workers by tooling up training programs and creating more apprenticeship positions to ensure young apprentices succeed.

Afford everyday essentials

Helping Canadians keep more of their money and build a better life by stabilizing the cost of everyday essentials.

Stabilizing the Cost of Groceries

Enhancing competition and monitoring grocers’ work to help stabilize prices, and lowering costs for the farmers who grow our food.

National Pharmacare Program

New programs to help with the cost of going to the dentist and pharmacy, including the cost of contraceptives and insulin, will further ease the financial burden on Canadians.

Cheaper Internet, Home Phone, and Cell Phone Plans

Lowering costs of plans, reducing junk fees, and giving Canadians more choice to switch providers and find better deals.

Retire safely and securely

After a lifetime of working hard—Canadians deserve to know they will be secure and comfortable in retirement.

A Stronger Canada Pension Plan

Enhancing the CPP to increase pension benefits by up to 50 per cent.

Supporting Long-Term Care

Advancing the Safe Long Term Care Act to support new national long-term care standards.

Bigger Benefits for Seniors

Increased Old Age Security and Guaranteed Income Supplement ensures seniors have the financial support they need in retirement.

Budget 2024 highlights

750,000+ Tax-Free First Home Savings Accounts opened by Canadians

Solving the Housing Crisis: Canada’s Housing Plan

Unlocking 3.87 million net new homes by 2031, to ensure everyone can find an affordable place to call home. And, we’re making it easier to rent while saving for that first home.

• Changing how we build homes
• Unlocking 250,000 new homes on public lands
• The strengthened Canadian Mortgage Charter

Learn more about making homes more affordable .

Fairness for younger generations

The government is helping restore fairness for Millennials and Gen Z by making education, housing, and the everyday costs of living more affordable.

• Increasing student grants and loans to keep up with the costs of an education
• Launching a new Youth Mental Health Fund for access to support they need
• Providing job placement and employment support opportunities through the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy

90,000 new job opportunities for youth

Investing $2.4 billion to secure Canada’s AI advantage

Economic growth and productivity

Budget 2024 makes investments in innovation, growth, and increased productivity in Canada.

Budget 2024 includes new measures to accelerate job growth in Canada’s AI sector and beyond, boost productivity by helping researchers and businesses develop and adopt AI, and ensure this is done responsibly.

• Investing in Canada’s AI ecosystem
• Enhancing research support with $1.8 billion more in core research grant funding
• Creating the Canadian Entrepreneurs’ Incentive

Learn more about the government’s plan to enhance innovation and productivity in Canada .

Unlocking 3.87 million new homes by 2031.

Over 1.1 million more Canadians employed today than before the pandemic.

Affordable child care is supporting a record high 85.4% labour force participation rate for working aged women.

Economic and Fiscal Overview

The state of canada’s economy.

The Canadian economy is outperforming expectations. Both the IMF and the OECD project Canada to see the strongest economic growth in the G7 in 2025. In the face of higher interest rates, Canada has avoided the recession that some had predicted. Headline inflation has fallen significantly from its June 2022 peak of 8.1 per cent to 2.8 per cent in February 2024.

Chart 6 Consumer Price Inflation Outlook

Note: Last data point is 2024Q4.

Sources: Statistics Canada; Department of Finance Canada March 2024 survey of private sector economists.

Economic and Fiscal Projections

We’re asking the wealthiest to pay a bit more, their fair share, to keep taxes lower on the middle class, and ensure the next generation inherits not more debt, but Canada’s prosperity.

Budget 2024 is investing in fairness for every generation while delivering on our fiscal objectives. Canada is maintaining the lowest net debt- and deficit-to-GDP ratios in the G7, preserving Canada’s long-term fiscal sustainability.

Chart 21 Federal Debt-to-GDP Ratio Under Economic Scenarios

Sources: Department of Finance Canada March 2024 survey of private sector economists; Department of Finance Canada calculations.

Improving Tax Fairness for Every Generation

Tax fairness is important for every generation, and it is particularly significant for younger Canadians.

To make the tax system more fair for 99.87 per cent of Canadians, the inclusion rate for capital gains—the portion on which tax is paid—for the wealthiest with more than $250,000 in capital gains in a year will increase from one-half to two-thirds. Only 0.13 per cent of Canadians with an average income of $1.42 million are expected to pay more personal income tax on their capital gains in any given year.

Principal residences will continue to be exempt from capital gains.

Chart 8.4 Canada Has the Lowest Marginal Effective Tax Rate in the G7

Backgrounders

• Key Measures (available in non-official languages)
• Key Measures
• More Affordable Homes
• A Stronger Social Safety Net
• Fairness for Younger Generations
• Economic Growth and Productivity
• Growing Small Businesses
• Safer, Healthier Communities
• A Fair Future for Indigenous Peoples
• Tax Fairness for Every Generation
• The New Canadian Entrepreneurs' Incentive

Related documents

• News Release
• Address by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance
• Canada’s Consumer-Driven Banking Framework
• Statement and Impacts Report on Gender, Diversity, and Inclusion
• Legislative Measures
• Tax Measures: Supplementary Information

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Freeland's new federal budget hikes taxes on the rich to cover billions in new spending

With interest rates running high, cost to service the national debt surpasses federal health care spending.

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HIGHLIGHTS:

• Ottawa to spend $52.9 billion more than planned over the next five years.
• Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland projects Ottawa will post a $40 billion deficit this fiscal year.
• The budget includes $8.5 billion in new spending for housing.
• Other major budget items include a $6 billion Canada Disability Benefit, a $1 billion national school food program and a $500-million fund for youth mental health.
• Freeland will hike capital gain taxes paid by the rich and corporations to collect an estimated $19 billion in new revenue.
• The cost to service the growing national debt has increased substantially — it's now about $2 billion more than it was projected to be just a few months ago.
• The government will spend more on servicing its debt than on health care this year.

Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland's fourth budget delivers a big-ticket housing program for millennials and Generation Z voters — a multi-billion dollar commitment to be paid for in part with a tax hike on the rich and corporate Canada.

Freeland's document calls for about $52.9 billion in new spending over the next five years — a significant jump over what Ottawa had said it would spend in the fall economic statement released just a few months ago.

To offset some of that new spending, Freeland is pitching policy changes the government says will generate roughly $21.9 billion in new revenue. That money is to come in part from higher capital gains taxes and a hike to excise taxes on cigarettes and vaping products.

"We are making Canada's tax system more fair by ensuring that the very wealthiest pay their fair share," Freeland said Tuesday after tabling her budget in Parliament.

"We are doing this because a fair chance to build a good, middle class life — to do as well as your parents, and grandparents, or better — has always been the promise of Canada."

• 2024 federal budget's key takeaways: Housing and carbon rebates, students and sin taxes
• Are you renting with no plans to buy? Here's what the federal budget has for you
• Updated Federal budget's funding boost for defence spread out over multiple years

The result is a projected budget deficit of about $40 billion in the 2024-25 fiscal year — roughly what Freeland had predicted.

While the government is spending more overall, it says that better-than-expected economic growth and higher taxes will keep the deficit under control.

The Liberal government's preferred "fiscal anchor" — the budget benchmark that guides its decisions — has long been to keep the net debt-to-GDP ratio on a declining trend, with debt levels closely tracking the overall size of the economy.

The budget document says the government must meet that benchmark in the years ahead to retain Canada's triple-A credit rating.

Debt charges soar

Deficits eventually roll over into long-term debt. The cost to finance Canada's growing debt pile — which has more than doubled over the last nine years to $1.4 trillion — is eating up more and more taxpayer dollars as the government is forced to refinance its borrowing at higher rates.

Public debt charges will cost $2 billion more this year than the forecast in November as the Bank of Canada keeps rates relatively high to tame inflation — which has shown signs of slowing down.

• Liberals pledge $9B in new money for Indigenous communities in 2024 budget

With interest rates at a 20-year high, Ottawa's cost to borrow has spiked from $20.3 billion in 2020-21 to $54.1 billion in 2024-25.

That means Ottawa will spend more to service its debt than it will on health care this year — and the debt charges will march even higher in the years ahead.

Carrying the debt is expected to cost the federal treasury $64.3 billion in 2028-29 — more than double what Ottawa sends to the provinces through equalization payments.

"The interest rates are hurting the government just as much as they're hurting us consumers," said Sahir Khan, a former deputy parliamentary budget officer and the executive vice-president of the uOttawa Institute of Fiscal Studies and Democracy.

"It's now a meaningful amount relative to other spending pressures and it's going to start squeezing other programs. The government built up a stock of debt subject to prevailing interest rates and that creates a risk."

Billions more for housing

The budget allocates $8.5 billion more to housing to help alleviate a crisis that has locked a generation of young people out of the dream of home ownership. The government maintains its housing measures will drive the creation of roughly four million more homes by 2031.

New investment to lead 'housing revolution in Canada,' Freeland says

Freeland has freed up money to send more cash to municipalities through the Housing Accelerator Fund, build more homes on underused public lands and at Canada Post outlets, cut cheques for new water and solid waste infrastructure in growing communities , offer tens of billions of dollars in loans to spur new rental construction and secondary suites, and help non-profits acquire existing rental homes and keep them affordable.

"We are moving with purpose to help build more homes, faster. We are making life cost less," Freeland said. "Millennial and Gen Z Canadians, we want them to look forward to the future with a sense of anticipation, not angst."

The government also has committed to maintaining the already well-subscribed tax-free savings account , extending mortgage amortization terms and increasing the RRSP withdrawal limit for some first-home buyers, among other measures.

The housing program is a "home run," said Armine Yalnizyan, a progressive economist and the Atkinson Fellow on the Future of Workers.

Yalnizyan said Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre's early focus on housing hurt the Liberals' standing among some millennial voters.

Now, the Liberals are trying to reclaim some of those votes with an ambitious program which, if it's carried out as planned, will meaningfully increase the country's housing supply, she said.

"It's really an attempt to stop the Conservatives from eating their lunch," she said.

A tax hike on the rich

As Ottawa moves to remake the housing landscape, roll out a national dental care program and launch pharmacare , Freeland's budget includes a number of targeted tax hikes that it says will yield some $21.9 billion in new revenue over the next five years.

The biggest windfall will come from an increase to the capital gains inclusion rate.

Under the current regime, only 50 per cent of capital gains are taxable. If a taxpayer sells an asset like a cottage, an investment property, a stock or mutual fund for $100,000 more than they paid, they are taxed only on $50,000 of that profit.

With this new budget, the "inclusion rate" will increase from one-half to two-thirds on capital gains above $250,000 per year for individuals, and on all capital gains realized by corporations and trusts.

The move is likely to be seen by business-friendly groups as an attack on the people and businesses that create jobs.

Freeland said she anticipates some blowback.

"I know there will be many voices raised in protest. No one likes paying more tax, even — or perhaps particularly — those who can afford it the most," she said.

"Tax policy is not only, or chiefly, the province of accountants or economists. It belongs to all of us because it is how we decide what kind of country we want to live in and what kind of country we want to build."

The NDP — the government's partner in the supply-and-confidence agreement — likely will welcome the change; party leader Jagmeet Singh has said the wealthy and big corporations should shoulder more of the country's tax burden.

"We are asking the wealthiest Canadians to contribute a bit more, so that we can make investments to ensure a fair chance for every generation," the budget document says. "Canada's tax system can be more fair."

The change will not apply to any capital gains from the sale of a primary residence. Investment income earned in an RRSP or TFSA, including capital gains, also will not be taxed.

According to government data, only 0.13 per cent of Canadians — people with an average income of about $1.4 million a year — are expected to pay more in personal income tax on their capital gains as a result of this change.

Jimmy Jean, an economist at Desjardins who tracks Ottawa's spending, said the federal government's goal of collecting about $19 billion from the capital gains measure may be difficult to achieve.

"The jury's out on whether they can get that much," Jean said.

"Targeting the income and wealth of the wealthy — it's difficult because it's more mobile, they can move it around. I'm skeptical."

Other new revenue-generating measures in the budget include a promise to crack down on bankruptcy fraud and tackle "aggressive tax planning schemes."

Beyond housing, there's also a promise to top up the incentives for zero-emission vehicles, deliver a new carbon tax rebate for small businesses, stand up an $800-million energy efficiency retrofit program, increase student grants, create a $500-million fund for youth mental health , launch a $6 billion Canada Disability Benefit, fund a $1 billion national school food program and deliver a $900-million top-up to the Indigenous infrastructure program .

CBC/Radio-Canada will get a one-off $42 million budget boost for news and entertainment programming — a cash injection that will help the company avoid some of the previously announced layoffs .

VIA Rail Canada stands to gain about $400 million over the next few years to turn the dream of high-frequency rail in central Canada into a reality.

What's in the new federal budget?

Poilievre blasts budget, singh stays noncommittal.

Poilievre pilloried the budget and said his party would vote against it.

Speaking in the House of Commons, the Conservative leader said the Liberal government has never presented a balanced budget in all the years it's been in office and the promised $40 billion in new spending will drive inflation higher.

"This is the ninth deficit. The ninth deficit after the prime minister promised the budget would balance itself and what did he do with the money? Everything he spent it on has become more expensive," Poilievre said.

"This is like a pyromaniac spraying gas on the inflationary fire that he lit. It is getting too hot and too expensive for Canadians and that's why we need a carbon tax election to replace him with a common sense Conservative government."

Conservative leader rises in House of Commons to reject Liberal budget

Singh, meanwhile, said it's too early to say if his party will support the budget.

While he praised some measures he said his party forced the government to include, such as dental care, pharmacare and a national school food program, Singh said he wants to meet with Trudeau to raise some other "concerns" before making a final decision.

Singh said he's not onside with a plan to cut about 5,000 public servants through attrition — the federal bureaucracy has grown to about 357,247 workers under Trudeau — and he said there's inadequate funding for Indigenous peoples.

Liberals 'ignored opportunity' in budget to tackle corporate greed, NDP says

If Singh and his NDP MPs withhold their votes, the minority government could lose the confidence of the House of Commons, tipping the country into an early election.

While the capital gains tax increase will cost the country's big businesses billions more than what they pay now, Singh said "the Liberals ignored the opportunity to take on corporate greed."

Singh said the companies he blames for inflation — grocery store chains, telecommunications companies and "housing and corporate landlords" — should have faced tax hikes.

Green Party Leader Elizabeth May said her caucus will vote against Freeland's budget.

She said the government's planned disability benefit, which amounts to about $200 a month for eligible Canadians, is too low.

May also said there's not enough money earmarked for social housing — just more loans for developers to build more affordable homes.

"The budget falls far short of our hopes," May said. "It's not meeting the moment. We need dramatic, transformative changes to our society to be able to afford the things we need."

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Senior reporter

J.P. Tasker is a journalist in CBC's parliamentary bureau who reports for digital, radio and television. He is also a regular panellist on CBC News Network's Power & Politics. He covers the Conservative Party, Canada-U.S. relations, Crown-Indigenous affairs, climate change, health policy and the Senate. You can send story ideas and tips to J.P. at [email protected].

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