Words (Core Vocabulary)
- job ad / posting / requisition / req ID
- minimum requirements / nice-to-haves / assets
- full-time / part-time / contract / term / internship / co-op
- hybrid / remote / on-site / location requirement
- salary range / pay band / pay transparency
- benefits (health, dental, vision), RRSP match, bonus
- resume / CV / cover letter; ATS (applicant tracking system)
- portfolio / work samples / writing sample
- references / referees / reference check
- eligibility to work / work permit
- screening questions / knockout questions
- closing date / application deadline
Phrases (Scan → tailor → submit)
Understanding the ad
- What are the must-haves vs. nice-to-haves for this role?
- Is the role hybrid, and how many on-site days are expected?
- Is a portfolio or writing sample required at application?
Tailoring your resume
- I aligned my bullets with the core requirements and keywords.
- I quantified impact (e.g., increased signups by 28%).
Cover letter/email
- Please find attached my resume and tailored cover letter.
- I’m excited about [company] because [mission/impact].
- My background in [skill] matches [requirement].
Submitting & follow-up
- Could you confirm receipt of my application?
- I’d appreciate an update on the timeline for next steps.
Contextual Examples (Natural, everyday)
- Email: Please find attached my resume, cover letter, and portfolio link. I meet the must-haves and can start in two weeks.
- Note in portal: Completed screening questions and uploaded work samples as requested.
- Follow-up: Hi [Name], checking in on the application status for Req #1234—thanks for your time.
Collocations & Phrases (bold the key words)
Reading & planning
- identify must-haves
- map skills to requirements
- research the company
- note the closing date
Resume craft
- use action verbs
- quantify impact
- mirror keywords
- tailor bullets to the ad
- keep to one or two pages
Application hygiene
- attach documents (PDF)
- provide references (on request)
- include portfolio links
- answer screening questions
Canadian Cultural Context (How to sound natural & polite)
- Many employers use ATS—mirror keywords from the ad and save as PDF.
- You usually don’t share SIN or banking info until after accepting an offer.
- References are commonly checked late in the process—ask permission in advance.
Extra Mini-Patterns (plug-and-play)
- Subject line: “Application – Project Coordinator – Req 1234 – [Your Name]”
- Tailored bullet: “Reduced onboarding time by 35% by standardizing SOPs across three teams.”
- Polite follow-up: “Could you please confirm if additional materials are needed?”