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In brief
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Duration: Draft — 1–2 h by post
Cost: Free
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Who this guide is for

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  • All candidates in France
  • Foreigners who write their first letter in French
  • Those who adapt the same base to several positions

To be prepared in advance

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  • Job offer
  • Some information on the company and its activity

Step-by-step procedure

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  1. 1Start with the header: your contact information, company contact information, date and subject matter, for example, "Applicant for the position of...".
  2. 2In the first paragraph, say why this position and why this undertaking. Show that you really read the offer.
  3. 3In the second paragraph, take 2 or 3 concrete examples of your useful experience. Don't just copy your resume.
  4. 4In the third paragraph, explain what you will bring to the company. The idea is simple: the job, the company and your profile must go together.
  5. 5Finish with a sentence that opens the door to an interview. Stay simple and direct.
  6. 6Read the text several times. Sometimes a fault is enough to give an impression of negligence.

Common mistakes

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  • Copy the CV instead of explaining why you are targeting this position.
  • Write phrases too general that could go to any company.
  • The wrong company name or position in the letter.

Official sources

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Show sources in this section

Useful links

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Important remark

Labour law has many nuances and evolves regularly. This information is general in nature. For specific situations (litigations, suspicions of irregular dismissal), contact the Labour Inspectorate, a trade union or a labour law lawyer.

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