Once you've crafted an impressive TEFL CV, it's time to create an equally impressive cover letter. This letter is pivotal in the job application process, serving as the determining factor between being a suitable candidate and a standout one.
Your cover letter presents a prime opportunity to persuade potential employers that you're the ideal match for the position. Therefore, it should vividly showcase your strengths and passion for teaching English as a foreign language.
Expressing oneself in writing can be challenging, which is why we've compiled these tips to help you craft a stellar cover letter for any teaching position.
1. Conduct Research
Conducting thorough research is fundamental when applying for a position at a company. Demonstrating your understanding of their operations and offerings is essential to convince them of your suitability for the role.
Tailoring each cover letter to the specific position is imperative. A generic and vague letter is likely to be disregarded. Delving into background research enables you to articulate what attracted you to the role and why you believe you are a fitting candidate.
Before commencing your cover letter, carefully examine the job description. Continuously assess whether you align with the role and consider the relevant experience you possess.
2. Personalize the Salutation
It is advisable to ascertain the name of the individual responsible for reviewing job applications. If not provided in the job advertisement, you can reach out to the company directly or utilize online resources to obtain this information.
In cases where the name is unknown, alternatives such as 'Dear Hiring Manager' or 'Dear Sir/Madam' can be used. Initiate the communication on a friendly note, perhaps with a casual greeting like "Hope you’re having a nice day," to establish a positive impression.
Clearly state your purpose in the letter, specifying that you are applying for the advertised position and where you encountered the job listing.
3. Substantiate Your Qualities
Articulate how your skills align with the requirements outlined in the job description. Highlight key qualities mentioned in the advertisement and provide concrete evidence to support them.
For instance, if emphasizing your 'excellent communication skills,' cite instances from previous roles or academic endeavors where you effectively communicated, whether through presentations or collaborative team efforts. Avoid merely reiterating information from your resume.
Approach the cover letter as a puzzle, fitting together pieces of your qualifications and experiences that correspond with the job description. Let the job requirements serve as your compass throughout the writing process.
4. Expand Beyond Your Qualifications
While qualifications are undoubtedly important for most positions, employers also value hearing about your skills and experiences. Remember, your qualifications are already detailed in your CV, so there's no need to reiterate them unless you're elaborating further.
If you hold a TEFL certification and have undergone classroom training, highlight the specific skills acquired from the course. Do you possess experience working with children? Have you delivered presentations or conducted training sessions? Incorporate any relevant experiences that align with the job requirements.
5. Emphasize Neatness
Ensure that both your cover letter and CV are neatly typed in a legible font (avoid overly decorative fonts). Present them in a clear and organized manner. When composing your cover letter, use proper paragraph structure. If your content exceeds the allotted space, don't resort to shrinking the font size to cram it all in.
Neatness also entails coherence in your writing. If you find your text becoming overly verbose, consider eliminating unnecessary sentences. We'll delve into this further in point 7.
6. Proofread
It's crucial to meticulously check your spelling and grammar multiple times – even if you've relied on a spell checker or tools like Grammarly!
Imagine the disappointment of an employer receiving a cover letter from an English teacher filled with errors. What impression does that give of the candidate's attention to detail? It's not a promising sign at all!
7. Keep it brief
Your cover letter should be succinct and focused – avoid unnecessary rambling!
Limit it to one page and ensure every detail serves a purpose, avoiding repetition from your CV. Remember, you're pitching yourself for a specific role, not narrating your life story. Treat the job description as a checklist – once you've addressed all the points, you're good to go.
8. Customize each cover letter
As mentioned earlier, tailoring your letter to each position is essential. Demonstrating this effort is crucial – employers can easily spot generic letters sent en masse.
While using a template isn't inherently wrong, if you're not getting interviews, it's likely because your letters lack personalization. Despite the extra effort required, it significantly enhances your chances.
Put yourself in the employer's shoes – you'd want a captivating letter that aligns with your company's values and mission.
9. Be authentic
In a sea of uniform applications, stand out by showcasing your true self. A cover letter should reflect your personality – it doesn't have to be mundane!
10. Provide contact information
Place your contact details prominently at the letter's beginning, including email, phone, Skype, etc. Omit your age and home address.
Cover Letter Structure for TEFL Positions:
Introduction: Keep this concise and clear. State the purpose of your letter, the position you're applying for, and where you came across the job listing.
Body: In the following paragraphs, explain your motivation for applying. Highlight what drew you to the role and why you're keen on joining the company. Emphasize how your skills and qualifications align with the job requirements, referencing specific aspects mentioned in the job description.
Conclusion: Conclude with a reaffirmation of your interest in the position and why you believe you're a suitable candidate. Express your eagerness for an interview, indicating your availability and potential start date. Lastly, express gratitude to the employer and convey your anticipation for their response.
