cover letter for job application first time

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First Time Job Cover Letter Example

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Searching for your first job can be an exciting yet daunting task. Crafting a compelling application letter for a first time job seeker is the key to landing the dream job, as it offers a unique opportunity to introduce yourself beyond your resume. In this article, we’ll explore seven powerful examples of first-time job cover letters that effectively capture attention, showcase relevant skills, and highlight your enthusiasm for the position. Whether you’re entering the workforce for the first time or transitioning to a new field, these cover letters without experience examples will guide you in making a memorable impression on potential employers.

What To Consider Before Writing No Experience Cover Letter Examples?

Cover letter is like a marketing tool that enables you to do wonders! So, before writing a cover letter, know the ABC of writing a cover letter:

Analysing the job description

A cover letter should always be written from the start. Applying to five suitable jobs with a cover letter that fits the role is preferable to applying to fifty jobs and not doing any study beforehand.

Identifying what to include in your cover letter

Construct a two-column table. Write down the talents you identified in the above section that are underlined in the left column. Now begin jotting down in the right column how you can meet the stated requirements.

Why do you want to work here?

To help you do research, ask yourself the following questions:

• What is the company’s mission?
• What problem are they trying to solve?
• What’s the product?
• What’s unique about this company compared to its competitors?
• What are some policies or values that the company has that they feature on their homepage?
• Describe any of the organisation’s community engagement projects or employee development programs.

Writing the cover letter

Here’s a basic structure and example of a cover letter for a first-time job application, following the guidelines you provided:

• Include your contact information (name, email, phone number) in the header
• Address the hiring manager by name and job title in the greeting
• Keep it to one page, 3-4 paragraphs
• Use a professional font like Arial or Times New Roman, size 10-12pt
• Proofread for spelling and grammar errors

Learn about other essential ingredients on how to find a job fast.

Why Is A Cover Letter For A First Job Important?

A cover letter for a first job is important for several reasons:

• Introduction: It introduces you to the employer, providing a glimpse of who you are beyond your resume.
• Personalisation: It allows you to tailor your application to the specific job and company, demonstrating your genuine interest.
• Showcasing Skills and Experience: It gives you the opportunity to highlight relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that may not be detailed in your resume.
• Demonstrating Communication Skills: Writing a compelling cover letter showcases your ability to communicate effectively, a valuable skill in any job.
• Differentiation: It sets you apart from other candidates who may only submit a resume, showing your initiative and enthusiasm for the position.

In essence, a well-crafted cover letter complements your resume by providing context and showcasing your personality and suitability for the job.

Application Letter Sample For First Time Job Seeker

Here are a few cover letter examples no experience:

Cover Letter 1: Digital Marketing Assistant Covering Letter Template

Cover Letter 2: Junior Graphic Designer First Job Cover Letter

Cover Letter 3: Trainee Accountant First Time Cover Letter

Cover Letter 4: IT Support Technician First Time Job Application Letter

Cover Letter 5: Customer Service Representative Position Job Application 

Cover Letter 6: Sample Cover Letter For First Time Job Application 

Cover Letter 7: Sales Assistant Cover Letter No Experience

Cover Letter 8: Retail Cover Letter No Experience

How To Write A Cover Letter For Freshers?

How to start .

Introduce yourself and specify the position you are applying for. Mention how you found out about the role like a job board, networking event, advertise, or referral. Express enthusiasm for the company and job. To learn more check out our CV Writing services .

“As a recent marketing graduate passionate about social media, I was eager to find the Digital Marketing Assistant role at Company XYZ on Handshake. After researching your award-winning campaigns, I believe my skills in content creation and analytics align well with your team.”

Highlight Skills Relevant To The Role

In the absence of direct work experience, highlight skills relevant to the job or transferable skills and attributes gained from academics, internships, volunteer work, local charity events, or even personal pursuits. Illustrate instances where you applied such skills in a context that aligns with the job in question. If possible, back up your claims with quantifiable achievements.

“Through my summer internship at ABC Marketing Agency, I leveraged analytical skills to grow social media followers by 15% over 3 months. This contributed to a 5% increase in website clicks from social traffic. I’m confident I can support your digital marketing efforts through data-driven content strategy and community engagement.”

Demonstrate Motivation

Convey passion for the industry and eagerness to learn. Seek opportunities that match your capabilities but also offer growth. Mention specific aspects of the role you find appealing.

“I thrive in creative environments that value collaboration. Though I don’t have relevant experience yet, I’m driven to apply my design skills in a marketing role. I’m excited about the opportunity to manage projects end-to-end, from ideation to execution.”

Close With a Call to Action

Thank the reader for their time and consideration. Include your name and contact details again. Request an interview to further discuss your qualifications and interest.

“I thank you for taking the time to consider my application. I am confident my abilities would enable me to add value to your marketing team as the Digital Marketing Assistant. Please contact me by phone or email to arrange an interview at your earliest convenience. I look forward to hearing from you.

[Your name]

[Contact info]”

Additional Tips For Sample Application Letter For First Time Job Seeker

• Research the company beforehand and reference things that interest you
• Customise each cover letter for a first time job using keywords from the job description
• Keep tone formal but conversational to connect with the reader
• Focus on potential, not lack of experience
• Highlight related coursework, activities or hobbies
• Have someone proofread to catch mistakes
• Follow up after submitting your application

Why Choose iCover for Your Cover Letter Writing Service?

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The team of dedicated Cover Letter writers know how to drive success with an effective cover letter. Our in-depth skills make your cover letter stand out and help you land that dream job.

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Your privacy is our priority. We follow strict guidelines for data protection and security. Hire the ironclad protected professional Cover Letter writing service and fulfil your career goals.

Unlimited Revisions

Do you want us to revamp the resume? Do you want an ATS optimised Cover Letter? Our professional editors are always there for you. Call us to get the first draft of your resume instantly.

Round The Clock Cover Letter Help

Our professional Cover Letter writing services are available 24/7. That makes us the leader among Cover Letter writing companies. Contact our customer reps for a free Cover Letter review of your current Cover Letter.

Improved Visibility & Relevance

Our eye-catching templates and professionally written Cover Letter reflects your true potential. Now get more interviews and impress potential employers with our Cover Letter writing help.

Harnessing the skills of a cover letter writing service can help, but a personally crafted cover letter for a first job can truly capture your spirit. By underscoring your competencies, zeal, and a growth-centric attitude, you can position yourself as an aspirant worth considering, even if you don’t boast of hands-on experience. With each tailored letter of intent for a first time job seeker, you edge closer to securing your dream introductory job.

Whether you’re drafting a first time job applicant cover letter for warehouse picker packer or any other position, this guide can be your foundation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the format of cover letter for first time job seekers.

Cover letter for first time job format:

• Contact Information and Date
• Employer’s Contact Information
• Introduction
• Body Paragraph(s)
• Closing Paragraph

What Do You Write In A Cover Letter If You Have No Experience?

Do thorough research on the company and role. Have thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer. Convey genuine enthusiasm and passion for the opportunity to learn and develop.

Is It Okay To Apply Without A Cover Letter?

Even though it is okay it is not advisable as recruiters might not get time to go through your entire CV thus a cover letter is mandatory.

How Do You Convey Willingness To Learn Without Experience?

Use phrases like “cover letter no experience but willing to learn”, “eager to learn on the job,” “excited to gain hands-on experience” and “confident ability to quickly pick up new skills.” Give examples of being a quick study.

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FREE Cover Letter for First Time Job Seekers [ Tips, Samples ]

A well-written cover letter is the perfect partner to your first job resume . However, since it is your first time to apply for jobs, you might be confused as to what you need to write on your application documents, especially with your cover letters. You have to figure out a way to structure it properly in a way that would complement what you have stated in your resume.

First Time Job Seeker Cover Letter

5 frequently asked cover letter questions—with samples, tips ..., how to write an entry-level cover letter—tips, guides, and ..., how to start your cover letter sample templates.

You might not think about it much, but when it comes to cover letters, the tiniest details matter. Take for example the formatting. Job applicants tend to overlook this aspect of the resume, but you have to remember that  resume formatting does matter . We will talk more about how to format your resume and other aspects that you should consider when it comes to writing your very first resume. Keep reading to know more about the guidelines and tips we have prepared.

No Work Experience Sample Cover Letter

Size: 64 KB

Painting Trade Assistant Cover Letter

Size: 150 KB

School Leaver Cover Letter Template

Sample Cover Letter for Freshers

Size: 265 KB

Cover Letter for Freshers Example

Size: 42 KB

What Constitutes a Good Cover Letter?

• You are able to introduce yourself properly to the employer.
• You are able to answer accordingly to the job posting.
• You are able to pique the interest of the reader and you are able to convince them to look at your resume and contact you for further information.
• You are able to avoid making use of the word  I  and refer to yourself in another manner.

Cover Letter Writing Basics

One of the most basic things that should be considered when you are writing a cover letter is the format. This is true whether you are a first-time applicant or an applicant with extensive work experience. Always remember that a cover letter should not exceed one page. Any more than one page means that you have to rethink what you have included. A few paragraphs, about 3 to 5, would be enough. You have to make sure that it is informative without being too long and boring. Each paragraph of your  entry-level cover letter  should be straight to the point but still be giving out all the necessary information to prove that you are a good candidate for the available position.

A standard cover letter format starts with the following:

• mobile/telephone number,
• present address, and
• email address.

Make sure you write down all the correct information as this will be how the recruiter will be able to get in touch with you. One wrong number or letter on your contact information can make you lose an opportunity for a great career.

You may also opt to make use of a personal letterhead  that reflects all of the information about you. Make sure that this is placed at the topmost part of the letter. In case you do not have your own letterhead just yet and want to make one for your personal stationary, you may want to check out our  sample personal letterhead templates .

• The date and the recipient’s information.  Two spaces after your contact information, the date will reflect and another two spaces after the date, you will write down the contact information of the company.
• Salutation.  Just like any  formal letter format , a cover letter will start with a salutation. The typical,  “Dear [Name of Recipient],”  will be used. Make sure that you address the person properly and use the appropriate titles such as  Ms., Mr., Dr., Atty., etc. 
• Paragraph #1.  Start strong! Your first few words must directly capture the attention of the recruiter. Introduce yourself and make sure that you describe the position you are applying for.
• Paragraph #2.  In this paragraph, take the opportunity to let the recruiter know how interested you are about the job opportunity. Highlight your skills and qualifications that you have and describe how these will benefit the company. Also, do not forget to research about the company and the vacant position they are offering.
• Paragraph #3 and #4.  This is where you will talk about your certifications, achievements, and the training you have undergone in order to be considered as a qualified candidate. Any clarifications you might also have about the company and the job can be stated in this section of the letter.
• Final Paragraph.  Wrap up your letter. This is the part where you express your gratitude and where you will invite them to get in touch with you in case they want to clarify anything about you and what you have stated in your application documents.
• Complimentary close and signature.  End the letter in a respectful manner (i.e.  Sincerely, Respectfully yours, Yours truly, etc.).   Leave a few spaces then type your name and affix your signature above your name.

Formal Cover Letter Sample for Entry-Level Job

Size: 97 KB

Sample Cover Letter for Recent Graduate

Less Experience Sample Cover Letter

Size: 15 KB

Additional Reminders Regarding the Cover Letter Format

• Make sure you know who you are sending your letter to. A quick research about the company and who is in charge of the recruitment is recommended. The more specific, the better.
• RE: Job Application for Marketing Assistant Position
• your contact information will be found  after your typed name;
• you need not include the date because the email timestamp will serve as the date; and
• if you are going to use a subject line instead of a salutation, write it down on the subject line section of the email.

What to Include If You Do Not Have Any Experience

Since this is your first time applying for a job, the employer will clearly understand why you do not have any relevant experience just yet. Instead of focusing on the relevant experiences, there are other factors that you can include in your cover letter.

• The skills that you have learned in school or from your summer job that makes you a good team player
• Attributes that you think is a good fit for a professional environment
• Qualifications that make you unique from the other applicants who are vouching for the same position
• School or volunteer work where you showcased your skills and qualifications
• Hobbies and interests that you feel are relevant to the vacant position

Finance Student Cover Letter Example

Size: 63 KB

No Work Experience Cover Letter

Size: 20 KB

A Few Reminders about Job Application Cover Letters

• One page is enough for a cover letter. We cannot emphasize it enough but a one-page cover letter should contain all the necessary information you need to relay to the employer. The more concise, the better.
• Highlight your strengths and give specific examples to make your claims more solid.
• A targeted cover letter is the best one to go for. One of the  reasons why you should customize your cover letter  is the fact that it gives a better impression to the employer. Speak the company’s language. Watch out for a few keywords in the job posting and try to incorporate them into your cover letter.
• Address your letter to the correct contact person. Make sure you spell his/her name correctly.
• Proofread your letter. Your letter is less likely to be thrown away or shredded if there are no to minimal misspelled words and grammatical mistakes. Read through your letter multiple times. Have someone else read your letter too, just to make sure.
• Since your cover letter is considered to be a formal letter , make sure that the language you will be using will also be formal and, at the same time, professional.
• Send a  follow-up email  or letter a few days after you send your job application. This shows dedication and it also shows that you are an eager and enthusiastic potential employee.

Focus on your skills and personal characteristics that will be a good fit for what the company is currently looking for. Be honest and avoid making false claims just to make you look good.

We are hoping that we have helped you with regards to making the task a whole lot easier for you. If you follow the guide, reminders, and tips we have presented, you are sure to end up with a well-written and job-ready cover letter. The examples we also have are going to help you get a better hold of how to present your first cover letter. One more thing about the samples we have? They are all downloadable at no cost! So, you can definitely enjoy going through each sample without any hassle and without burning your pockets.

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07 Best Cover Letter For First Job [Free Samples]

A cover letter is an important part of any job application, and your first job is no exception. While your resume may highlight your education and qualifications, a cover letter gives you the chance to tell prospective employers why you’re the perfect candidate for the position. To help you get started, we’ve created seven free cover letter templates that you can customize for your own use.

Simply choose the template that best fits your needs, and then follow the instructions to fill in your personal information and details about your experience. With a little effort, you can create a compelling cover letter that will help you land your first job. Good luck!

How To Write a Cover Letter For First Job?

A cover letter is an important part of any job application, and your first job is no exception. Even if you don’t have much (or any) work experience, a well-written cover letter can give you a chance to stand out from the crowd and get your foot in the door. Here are some tips to help you write a great cover letter for your first job:

• Start by researching the company and the specific job you’re applying for. This will help you tailor your letter to the organisation and make it clear that you understand what they’re looking for.
• Next, take some time to think about what makes you a good fit for the role. What skills and experience do you have that would make you successful in the job? Be sure to mention any relevant coursework or extracurricular activities, as well as any part-time jobs you may have held.
• Once you’ve identified your key strengths, it’s time to start writing. Begin by introducing yourself and explain why you’re interested in the role. Then, use specific examples to show how your skills and experience match up with what the employer is looking for. Finally, wrap up by thanking the employer for their time and consideration.

By following these simple tips, you’ll be on your way to writing a great cover letter that will help you land your first job!

Related: How To Write a Cover Letter (And Get Hired in 2022!)

Cover Letter Examples For First-Time Teachers

Dear Hiring Manager,

As a first-time teacher, I am excited to have the opportunity to apply for a teaching position at your school. I am committed to providing my students with a high-quality education and believe that I have the skills and experience needed to be an excellent addition to your team.

In my previous role as a teaching assistant, I gained valuable experience working with students of all ages and ability levels. I am confident that I can use my skills to create a positive learning environment in your classroom.

In addition to my teaching experience, I have also completed coursework in curriculum development and instructional methods. The familiar with best practices for designing and delivering instruction and am committed to using these methods to help my students succeed.

Believe that I can be an asset to your school and am eager to put my skills to work in a new environment. I look forward to discussing my qualifications further with you and thank you for your consideration.

Related: Teacher Cover Letter:10 Examples & Sample Included

Cover Letter For First-Time Job

I am interested in the open position of ___________ at your company. Based on what I know and my research, I believe that I have the skillset required for this job.

Though I may not have previous experience working in this field, I am a fast learner and have a genuine interest in ___________. Additionally, I have _____ years of experience in customer service/sales, which I believe has helped me develop strong communication and interpersonal skills.

I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss my qualifications and abilities further with you. Please do not hesitate to contact me at ___________ to arrange a time for an interview.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Related: Part Time Job Cover Letter: 09 Sample Examples

Cover Letter For Teenagers First Job

To Whom It May Concern,

The writing in regards to the open position for a summer job at your company. It is a highly motivated and hardworking teenager who would love to have the opportunity to gain some valuable work experience.

Have attached my resume for your review and I am confident that you will find me to be a qualified candidate. I would appreciate the chance to come in for an interview at your earliest convenience.

Related: 107+ Unique Objective for Teenager Resume ideas & Examples

Cover Letter Examples For First Job

My name is ____________ and I am a recent graduate of ___________. I am interested in obtaining a position as a ___________ in your company.

I have enclosed my resume for your review and would appreciate any opportunity to discuss my qualifications further with you.

Enclosure: resume

Related: Generic Cover Letter: 09 Samples & Examples

Cover Letter For First Time Manager Position

I am writing to apply for the position of Manager at XYZ Company. This is my first time applying for a management position, but I believe that my qualifications and experience make me the perfect candidate for the job.

I have a degree in Business Administration from ABC University, and I have been working in customer service for the past five years. In my current role, I am responsible for handling customer complaints and ensuring that they are resolved in a timely and satisfactory manner. The have also been training new employees for the past two years.

Believe that my skills and experience will be an asset to XYZ Company. I am confident that I can successfully manage a team and meet the expectations of the company. I am eager to put my skills to work in a new environment and contribute to the success of XYZ Company.

Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Related: 07 Best General Manager Cover Letter Samples

First-Time Supervisor Cover Letter

The writing to apply for the position of First-Time Supervisor at your company. Have a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and several years of experience working in customer service. The confident that I have the skills and qualifications needed to be a successful supervisor.

It is motivated, detail-oriented, and able to work well under pressure. I am also excellent at problem-solving and have a proven track record of providing excellent customer service. I am confident that I can lead a team and help contribute to the success of your company.

Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Related: Data Entry Cover Letter: 07 Sample ideas

5 Things To Include In a Cover Letter For First Job

When applying for your first job, it’s important to include a well-written cover letter. The cover letter gives you an opportunity to introduce yourself and explain why you’re the perfect candidate for the job. Here are 5 things to include in your cover letter:

• Relevant experience – If you have any relevant experience, be sure to mention it in your cover letter. Even if it’s not directly related to the job you’re applying for, any experience you have will be helpful in demonstrating your skills and abilities.
• Reasons for wanting the job – In your cover letter, be sure to explain why you’re interested in the position. Include specific examples of what appeals to you about the job and the company. This will show that you’re not just applying for any old job, but that you’ve thoughtfully considered why this particular position is a good fit for you.
• Skills and qualifications – Take some time to highlight your skills and qualifications that make you perfect for the job. Even if they’re not directly related to the position, any relevant skills and qualifications will help demonstrate your suitability for the role.
• Enthusiasm – Be sure to show some enthusiasm in your cover letter! This will help demonstrate that you’re excited about the opportunity and motivated to do a great job.
• professionalism – Last but not least, remember to keep your cover letter professional throughout. Avoid using informal language or making any mistakes that could give a negative impression of you as a candidate. proofread your letter carefully before sending it off, and ask someone else to check it over too if possible.

Related: What is Cover Letter? Complete Guide To Get any Job.

When you’re applying for your first job, it’s important to put your best foot forward with a great cover letter. Not sure where to start? Check out our free samples below.

Your cover letter is your opportunity to introduce yourself to a potential employer and explain why you’re the perfect person for the job. In just a few paragraphs, you need to capture their attention and demonstrate why you’re the right candidate. This can be a challenge, especially if you don’t have much work experience.

But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. Our free cover letter samples will give you an edge over the competition and help you land that dream job. Simply choose from one of the templates below, customize it with your own information, and you’ll be on your way to writing a winning cover letter in no time!

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How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter for Your First Job

Introduction

What is a cover letter, and why does it matter, how to write a cover letter for your first job, step 1: understand the purpose of a cover letter, step 2: structure your cover letter, opening paragraph:, body paragraph(s):, closing paragraph:, step 3: tailor your cover letter to the job description, step 4: highlight your skills and experiences.

• Internships: Even if you have limited work experience, internships offer valuable hands-on learning. Describe the tasks you took on, how you contributed to the team, and the skills you gained.
• Volunteer Work: Volunteering can demonstrate qualities like leadership, empathy, and community involvement.
• Projects and Coursework: If you’ve worked on academic projects that are relevant to the role, discuss those in your cover letter. Mention any specialized coursework or achievements that apply.
• Soft Skills : Communication, teamwork, and adaptability are often just as important as technical skills in entry-level roles. Don’t hesitate to discuss these in your cover letter.

Step 5: Keep it Concise but Powerful

Step 6: proofread and edit, step 7: make it easy to submit, key takeaways:.

• Understand the purpose of a cover letter and its role in your application.
• Structure your cover letter with a clear header, opening, body, and closing.
• Personalize your content by matching the job description’s keywords.
• Showcase your transferable skills and relevant experiences.
• Proofread to eliminate any errors and ensure professionalism.

Applications

Opportunities

• Find a company

Writing your first cover letter: what information can you include?

Jun 21, 2023

Freelance writer and translator, ex-recruiter

Writing a cover letter might seem like a whole lot of pointless hard work, especially when you’re writing your first cover letter. You might even wonder if you really need to include one, does anyone still read cover letters anyway? Heidi Giusto , a career consultant and Resume Writer , says yes. As long as the instructions don’t tell you not to write one (always follow the instructions in a job application), then it’s worth spending some time crafting a killer cover letter. It may not be the first thing a potential employer looks at but when it comes to narrowing down the field of applications for potential interview, it could just be what sets you apart.

When you have little or no work experience and you’re applying for your first job, it can be hard to think of things to say in your cover letter. But the chances are you have more transferable skills than you think. Here are Giusto’s top tips for writing a cover letter for your first job.

What are you trying to achieve?

When you start planning your first cover letter, you need to consider what you’re trying to do with it. Giusto reminds us that, “ Your resume and cover letter are strategic marketing documents , you never share anything just for the sake of it. Think about what the cover letter should be doing, it should not simply restate the resume.” Your first cover letter is about forging a different type of relationship with the reader, giving them a way to get to know you from different angles. It’s your chance to address things that aren’t in your resume , tell them why you’re looking for a new role, show how excited you are to work for the company or industry, and demonstrate your alignment with their mission and values .

Giusto suggests you think about it like dating: the cover letter is just one of the tools you’re using. “When you’re dating someone, you don’t want them to feel you’re dating them simply because they’re available or good enough, you want to show excitement. It’s not, ‘I’m applying because you have a job opening and I need money,’ it’s, ‘ I’m excited about you, about your company, about the really cool things you’re doing. ’ That’s what you can include in a cover letter in addition to making it clear that you’re qualified and you’re the solution to their problem.”

Now let’s break that down into practical steps to make writing your first cover letter a cinch.

Include the essentials

• The job title and the company you are applying to.
• Evidence of why you’re a good fit for their needs. Giusto explains that “A cover letter that states, ‘I’ve done this, I’ve done that,’ and a whole ton of other ‘I’ doesn’t necessarily connect the dots for the reader that they’re good fit for the employer’s needs, or the solution to their problem.”
• Explanation of why THIS role at THIS company.

Find inspiration

You still might be none the wiser about what exactly to include in your cover letters. Giusto says, “You can leverage almost anything you have as a transferable skill if it’s something that the employer is going to value.” Here are her top suggestions for cover letter content for candidates with little or no experience .

Projects and coursework: Your resume won’t go into detail about any projects you’ve undertaken as part of your course, Giusto explains that most recent grads should aim for a one-page resume. The cover letter is your chance to talk about a relevant project in detail, providing the hiring manager with more insight into how you might work for them.

Hobbies and volunteering: The caveat with this one is only if it is relevant. Giusto says, “I joke that you never need to tell someone about what you’ve binge-watched on Netflix, but what if your hobby is selling things you’ve designed and 3D printed, or you run marathons?” The idea is to show relevant information. “What if the job requires you to manage a budget? It’s not something you’ve ever done in a work capacity but you’ve been treasurer of a club—you should include that in your first cover letter.”

Leadership skills : Giusto always encourages college grads to think about any time they have shown leadership skills, it could be as the captain of your ultimate frisbee league, or in a group project. It won’t necessarily be something they are asking for in a first job but it’s certainly something a lot of businesses value.

Interpersonal skills: Are you a strong communicator? When have you communicated with diverse people in a variety of capacities? Giusto advises, “Don’t say your top skills are using the phone, or ‘I’m a people person.’ You need to connect that for the reader with a specific instance, otherwise, it’s just a baseless claim.”

Write it well

• Address your cover letter to a specific person if you can. Use LinkedIn or your connections, or even pick up the phone and call the company’s reception to ask. That said, Giusto adds, “Don’t delay your application because you can’t figure this out. It’s ok to use a generic term like ‘Dear Hiring Manager’ or ‘Dear Hiring Team’ as there may well be more than one person that reads your letter.”
• Make it engaging. AI is now everywhere; you want to make it clear that a real human wrote this cover letter. Show the recruiter that you know about their company and some of their business priorities. It will demonstrate that you’ve put some thought into your application.
• Use AI with caution. The skeleton might look good, but you run the risk of it looking and feeling like a template and completely missing out on the engagement part. Giusto also adds that you may be doing yourself a disservice if you don’t use this as an opportunity to learn how to present yourself. If the application proceeds you’re setting yourself up for a potentially difficult interview.
• Incorporate keywords to the best of your ability and what you can figure out from the job ad. But avoid what Giusto refers to as ‘keyword vomit’. Keywords might help with tracking programs but appealing to the reader is more important as things progress.
• Avoid errors. Giusto explains, “I see silly mistakes all the time, proofreading errors where you’ve made changes and extra spaces aren’t deleted, templates that aren’t properly customized, the wrong company name, and so on.”
• Don’t self-sabotage. Don’t highlight what you don’t have in this one-page document, highlight what you do have. Don’t invite bias by revealing something about yourself that could prompt someone to weed you out consciously or unconsciously, and don’t reveal anything that comes under a protected category in the US legal system.
• Don’t embellish. It will come back to bite you in the butt. You might be able to argue you were being strategic but it could mean a job offer is withdrawn or you end up in a role you simply can’t perform well.

A final piece of advice

Landing your first job can be tough and the whole application process can be demoralizing, but Giusto says, “Don’t let rejections bring you down. For every no you get, statistically speaking you are one step closer to getting the yes.” Keep putting in the work and tailor your cover letter for success every single time.

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8+ First Job Cover Letters

A first job cover letter templates are used by applicants who would like to apply for a job position without having prior professional work experiences. Cover letter format for the first job is commonly used by new graduates as they are the individuals who are already equipped to look for a job but lack the experiences in actual work environments and processes.

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What Should be Included in a First Job Cover Letter?

• An elaborate discussion of the skills and other qualifications presented in your resume.
• Real life instances in which your abilities and competencies were applied.
• The technical knowledge of the individual about the processes involved in the daily operations of the business.

Create an Effective First Job Cover Letter

• Assess your qualifications and interests and look for jobs that match.
• Look for Sample Cover Letter templates that you can use as reference.
• From the selection of our Free Cover Letter Templates, identify the format and content guide you would like to follow.
• List down all the items that you want to showcase in your cover letter.
• Review the cover letter content and look for missing information, grammatical errors and format inconsistencies
• Decide whether you will hand over your first job cover letter manually or through e-mail (we also have Email Cover Letter Templates available).

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10 Essential Tips in Creating a First Job Cover Letter

• Capitalize on the qualifications that you have: your skills, talents and abilities.
• Properly format your application cover letter for the first job.
• Make sure that your educational attainment and achievements are highlighted.
• You can list your co-curricular as well as extra-curricular activities for additional credentials.
• Do not copy the items in your resume. However, you can further explain them.
• Discuss your qualifications in a professional manner.
• Share what you know about the company where you are applying.
• Identify the additional value that you can provide the company if you are given the chance to work for them.
• Organize your thoughts. Map out ideas before writing the actual letter.
• Create a strong ending statement which can convince your prospective employer to hire you.

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