How to write a cover letter for temporary work?

Why Write a Cover Letter?

Temporary Work Cover Letter: What Should It Contain?

1. A catchy introduction: Start by briefly introducing yourself and explaining your interest in the temporary assignment. Quickly mention what attracts you to the company or the assignment, showing that you have done your research.
2. Highlighting relevant skills: Identify and emphasize the skills that are directly related to the position. For example, if the assignment concerns logistics, highlight your skills in inventory management or forklift driving if you have the CACES certification.
3. Adapted professional experiences: Choose the most relevant experiences that prove you have the necessary skills to succeed in the position. Rather than listing all your experiences, focus on those that are directly related to the targeted assignment.
4. Availability and flexibility: Mention your immediate or rapid availability, often an essential criterion in temporary work. Also specify if you are flexible in terms of working hours or locations, which is an asset for temporary assignments.
5. An engaging conclusion: End with a sentence that invites the recruiter to meet you to discuss your profile in more detail. Thank them for their attention to your application and express your motivation to contribute to the company's objectives.

What Should My Cover Letter Look Like?

• Use a clear and structured format: The letter should fit on one page and be well-spaced for easy reading. Opt for a classic font, such as Arial or Times New Roman, in size 11 or 12, and leave sufficient margins for a clean look.
• Start with your contact information: At the top of the letter, include your contact information (name, address, phone, email) as well as that of the company and the recruiter if known. This gives a neat appearance and facilitates the tracking of your application.
• Adopt a professional and direct tone: Write simply and effectively. Avoid overly long sentences or complex jargon. Clear and concise language gives an impression of confidence and mastery.
• Structure the letter into three parts:
  • An introduction that briefly presents your application and motivations.
  • A body that details your skills and experiences related to the assignment.
  • An engaging conclusion that expresses your availability and invites an interview.
  • Use short paragraphs: Each idea should be clearly separated into distinct paragraphs for easy reading. A recruiter should be able to quickly grasp your strengths without getting lost in a dense block of text.

Adapt Your Letter to Each Assignment

Highlight Your Flexibility and Adaptability

What Mistakes Should You Avoid?

Spelling and Grammar

Ensure Your Sentences Are Clear and Well-Structured

Lack of Personalization

Absence of Connection to the Position

Not Stating Your Availability

Some Examples:

For a warehouse worker position in the logistics sector:

With several successful temporary assignments in the logistics sector, I am particularly interested in the warehouse worker position you are offering. During my previous assignments, I have gained solid experience in inventory management and optimizing reception and shipping processes. I also hold the CACES certification, which allows me to operate forklifts safely.

I am available immediately for an immediate start and am willing to work flexible hours, including weekends, according to your needs. Motivated and rigorous, I am convinced that my logistics skills will be an asset to your company. Thank you for your attention to my application.

Example for a sales assignment:

Passionate about customer contact and with several experiences in sales, I am very interested in the temporary sales position in your store. During my previous assignments, I have developed excellent interpersonal skills and an ability to advise customers effectively. I have also contributed to the organization and presentation of products in the store, thus increasing sales.

I am available immediately and flexible regarding hours, including evenings and weekends. My dynamism and ability to adapt quickly will be assets to your team. I am certain that my experience and enthusiasm for sales will allow me to contribute to the success of your store. Thank you in advance for your consideration of my application.