cover letter resume for fresh graduate

Recent Graduate Cover Letter Examples and Templates for 2024

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How To Write a Recent Graduate Cover Letter

A great recent graduate cover letter can help you differentiate yourself from the competition during the job search. Even if you lack hands-on experience, you can still make a lasting impression on prospective employers by highlighting your academic achievements and industry knowledge. This guide provides examples and expert tips to help you build a winning recent graduate cover letter and land your first entry-level job.

Recent Graduate Cover Letter Templates and Examples

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Recent Graduate Text-Only Cover Letter Templates and Examples

Curtis Jones Software Developer | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | Portland, OR 12345 | LinkedIn

Jan. 1, 2024

Caroline Matthews Hiring Manager Solaris Software Inc. (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Ms. Matthews,

As an intern at Portland Technology Inc., I collaborated with a dynamic team of software developers and engineers to design innovative mobile applications for the education industry. While supporting the development of three separate applications, I gained valuable knowledge and training in Agile methodology and software development lifecycles. My internship and academic experience will allow me to deliver valuable contributions to your organization.

Solaris Software Inc.’s reputation for creating value for users draws me to apply for this position. My bachelor’s degree in software engineering from the University of Portland and my experience as a software developer intern will allow me to aid your teams in designing scalable applications based on the following achievements from my career:

• Supported the software development team in designing a mobile Android application to aid college students in comparing prices for used college textbooks and subscription services, which garnered over 500,000 downloads following the launch
• Executed an academic project to design an application platform for users to improve vocabulary across 10 different languages by providing a database of common colloquial phrases
• Completed coursework in Python, Ruby on Rails, SQL, Jira, and JavaScript, graduated with summa cum laude distinction, and achieved a 3.8 GPA

I look forward to speaking with you further regarding how my application development experience can aid Solaris Software Inc. in continuing to create value for users. You may contact me via phone or email at your earliest convenience. I appreciate your time and consideration.

Curtis Jones

Jessica Adams Financial Analyst | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | New York, NY, 12345 | LinkedIn

Raymond Johnson Hiring Manager Cohen Financial Partners (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Johnson,

During my internship with Brooklyn Financial Services, I interacted with a team of financial analysts to evaluate investment opportunities for a multimillion-dollar firm. This experience gave me valuable knowledge of business models, product use cases, and financial forecasting, which makes me the ideal candidate for the financial analyst position with your company.

Cohen Financial Partners has a reputation for ethical business practices, which strongly aligns with my core values as a finance professional. I can continue to help your organization grow your investment portfolio based on my previous achievements from my work experience and academic career:

• Conducted financial analysis of investment opportunities for new products in coordination with a team of economists and analysts, which included evaluating long-term financial outlook, product use cases, and long-term growth potential
• Supported the team in creating financial models and PowerPoint presentations on investments
• Wrote a 15-page research paper evaluating financial projections for the housing market and the impact of COVID-19 on first-time homebuyers

I would like to schedule an interview to discuss further how my experience in financial analysis and risk management can benefit your organization. Feel free to contact me at your earliest convenience with any additional questions you may have about my background. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Jessica Adams

Arthur Morris Marketing Professional | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | Boston, MA 12345 | LinkedIn

January 1, 2024

Sarah Taylor Hiring Manager New England Marketing Inc. (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Ms. Taylor,

As a marketing intern with the Falmouth Marketing Consulting Agency, I coordinated with a team of specialists to enhance social media presence and web marketing for clients. I also attended meetings with creative teams to define brand messaging based on target audiences. Through these experiences, I developed an advanced understanding of social media marketing, which will allow me to thrive in the marketing specialist position with your organization.

New England Marketing Inc.’s reputation for driving customer success draws me to apply for this position. My expertise in brand messaging and social media marketing will allow me to provide valuable contributions to your organization based on my career achievements:

• Supported the marketing team in executing social media campaigns on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter platforms and utilized Hootsuite to schedule posts based on key performance indicators (KPIs), resulting in a 500% increase in followership on LinkedIn
• Collaborated with copywriters and search engine optimization (SEO) specialists to create engaging copy and brand messaging for clients, which resulted in a 10% increase in page views for a customer website
• Served on a student marketing team to manage Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn social media pages for the University of Columbia under the supervision of the marketing manager

I hope to speak with you further regarding my expertise in social media marketing and how it can benefit your organization. You may contact me via phone or email at your convenience. I appreciate your time and consideration.

Arthur Morris

To write a great recent graduate cover letter that can truly help you break into your industry, the key is to show the most compelling aspects of your academic career and internships. Carefully analyze the role you’re applying for and identify how your unique skill sets align with the company’s needs. By tailoring your document towards individual opportunities, you’ll maximize your chances of landing an entry-level position. Below, we’ll walk you through each step of building your recent graduate cover letter:

1. Contact information and salutation

List all essential contact information at the top of your recent graduate cover letter, including your name, phone number, email, and LinkedIn URL. Be sure to address the hiring manager by name — Mr. or Ms. [Last Name]. If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, use a variation of “Dear Hiring Manager.” This is preferable to salutations such as “To Whom It May Concern,” as these types of greetings are largely considered outdated.

2. Introduction

Open your recent graduation cover letter with a powerful introduction to grab the hiring manager’s attention and convey your interest in the job. Feature an eye-catching achievement from your resume and highlight key skills the organization is looking for. If you don’t have an internship you can point to, showcase academic achievements that demonstrate your qualifications for the job.

In the example below, the candidate has a unique advantage due to their experience interning at a large financial institution. This adds a certain level of credibility to the knowledge and skills they gained. That said, even if you haven’t had a similar opportunity, you can still hook the reader in the opening paragraph of your recent graduate cover letter by carefully tailoring it toward the job description.

3. Body paragraphs

In the body paragraphs of your recent graduate cover letter, continue to focus on achievements from your internships. If you haven’t had the opportunity to work in your field, draw attention to your academic projects. Using a list of bullet points to break up the monotony of the text on the page is helpful here, as this will improve the overall readability of your document. It’s also important to mention the organization’s reputation or mission statement and how it aligns with your background and professional values.

• Supported the marketing team in executing social media campaigns on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter platforms and utilized Hootsuite to schedule posts based on KPIs, resulting in a 500% increase in followership on LinkedIn
• Collaborated with copywriters and SEO specialists to create engaging copy and brand messaging, which resulted in a 10% increase in page views for a customer website
• Served on a student marketing team to manage Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn social media pages for Columbia University under the supervision of the marketing manager

4. Recent graduate cover letter skills and qualifications

To compensate for a lack of hands-on industry experience, leverage the skills and knowledge you’ve gained from your academic career in your recent graduate cover letter. Instead of providing a comprehensive list, focus on integrating relevant key terms from the job description into your paragraph. Emphasize how you’ve utilized these skill sets in your internships and academic projects. Below, you’ll find a range of potential skills across a variety of industries:

5. Closing section

Include a call to action in the conclusion of your recent graduate cover letter. Invite the hiring manager to bring you in for an interview or reach out for more information on your background. Emphasize how your skill sets can translate effectively to a professional industry setting. Be sure to thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration in the last sentence.

Recent Graduate Cover Letter Tips

1. leverage your internships.

One of the best ways to grab the hiring manager’s attention is by leveraging your internships. This shows potential employers you’ve acquired hands-on experience, which can be exactly the type of information that advances you to the next phase of the hiring process. Be sure to provide context and numbers for any notable achievements, as this will heighten the impact of your positive contributions.

2. Feature academic achievements and certifications

If you haven’t had the opportunity to pursue an internship, you can still make a strong impression on the hiring manager by featuring your academic achievements. Instead of only mentioning coursework, call out impressive projects that demonstrate how you’ve applied industry skills while completing your degree.

3. Showcase volunteerism and community service

Another way to compensate for a lack of hands-on work experience is by highlighting community service and volunteerism on your cover letter. Even if this isn’t relevant to your field, in some instances, this can help show potential employers you’re the right culture fit for their organization. It also sends a positive message in regard to your personal values.

Recent Graduate Cover Letter FAQs

Why should i include a recent graduate cover letter -.

While not every job will require a cover letter during the application process, including one can help bolster your chances of landing the interview, especially as a recent graduate. This allows you to make a strong introduction and display your most relevant qualifications using a more personal approach than you would on your resume.

How do I make my cover letter stand out? -

To make your cover letter stand out, carefully research the company you’re applying to. Think about how your academic background and experience match the needs of the organization. Mention something specific about the company and why it drew you to pursue the opportunity. This shows you’re a serious candidate who’s truly engaged in the hiring process.

How long should my cover letter be? -

Keep your cover letter concise and focused, limited to no more than three or four paragraphs. This ensures your document is centered on your most relevant academic achievements, internships, and industry-related skills. Avoid padding your cover letter with fluff and generic buzzwords, as this doesn’t provide any valuable information that would interest the hiring manager.

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Frank Hackett

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Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).

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Graduate cover letter example

A few writing rules

Getting the tone right, cover letters examples for:, resumes examples for:.

Congratulations on finishing your college degree! Patience, determination and years of hard work have culminated in this moment of success. Now, it’s time for your next challenge: landing a job, fellowship or other opportunity. 

One of the first tools you’ll need for success as a recent grad is a highly-polished resume and the knowledge of how to write an exceptional graduate cover letter. If you haven’t finished perfecting your resume, we’ve got you covered. Check out resume.io’s tips and tricks in our profession-specific resume examples , templates and general resume writing guide .

Once you’ve got your resume in top shape, this guide will show you how to knock your cover letter out of the park. We’ll focus primarily on the right qualities to convey for entry-level positions and how to beef up your resume when you’re just starting out. Since “recent graduate” isn’t actually an occupation, it’s a good idea to check out our other profession-specific cover letter guides for even more useful tips in your field of interest. This guide, along with an effective cover-letter example will:

• Explain the importance of creating a knockout cover letter when it comes to landing your first position
• Outline the details of professional cover letter formatting and provide free examples, samples and templates to work from
• Teach you how to use persuasive psychology to boost the body of your letter
• Help you convey the personality traits applicable to entry-level jobs in ANY field.

What is the purpose of a fresh graduate cover letter?

A cover letter for a fresh graduate, also called an application letter or letter of interest, is one of the most commonly requested job application materials. The primary purpose of your graduate cover letter is to work alongside your resume to create a complete picture of personality, experience and strengths as a candidate. 

Whereas a resume has clearly defined sections that are constructed based on your actual education and work history, a cover letter is a bit looser. While this can be overwhelming for some recent grads, flexibility is one of the application letter’s biggest advantages. You’re encouraged to discuss your goals, perspectives and successes and let your charisma shine.

One of the biggest challenges recent graduates face when applying for positions is a lack of concrete or relevant work experience. It can be hard to convince an employer that you have the skills for the job if you don’t have much on your resume to prove it. That’s where an exceptional cover letter can work wonders. A well-organized and deliberate application letter for a fresh graduate lets you highlight the qualities you do have to convince an employer that you’re worth a shot.

A cover letter is usually between 200 and 400 words long, or the length of one page. Recent graduates often try to make up for a lack of resume experience by writing long, expounding cover letters that dive into every possible corner of their educational journey. Unfortunately, this can be an automatic “out” in the eyes of many employers. 

Instead, focus on creating a strong argument by selecting only a handful of convincing points and carrying these themes throughout the letter. It’s also very important to adhere to the right formatting and font principles when drafting your cover letter. Stick to trusted font styles like Georgia, Calibri, Helvetica and Arial with a size between 10 and 12 points. A whimsical font like Comic Sans might seem tempting, but it’s a big no-go. You can find more details about style in this general cover letter writing guide.

Remember, at the end of the day a cover letter is all about maximizing your chances. Any spelling or grammar errors, wacky fonts or messy formatting will distract a hiring manager from your main purpose and bring down the likelihood of landing the position. 

Do I NEED a cover letter?

We’ve all been there – an online application offers a spot to upload a cover letter, but the description doesn’t specify whether it’s truly a requirement. Technically, you could just upload your resume and move on with your life, right? That would be a big mistake.

If you truly want a position, why would you throw away one of your biggest chances to make a great first impression for success? Unless a posting specifically asks you NOT to submit a cover letter, you should always write and send one. You never know – your letter just might make all the difference when it comes time for a hiring manager to make some decisions.

It takes the average recent grad three to six months to find a job after graduation. Moving back home with your parents might seem cliché, but a lot of other graduates are in the exact same position. Today’s recent graduates are more likely to be underemployed (i.e. working at a job that doesn’t require a college degree) than they were in 1990, according to the Harvard Business Review . Recent grads are also more likely to be clustered in certain roles, primarily as advertising managers, actuaries, news reporters and law clerks. Add to that the fact that the average starting salary in 2020 was more than $5,000 below that of 2019, CNBC found , and it may look bleak. It doesn't help that hat figure has risen 2.5 percent in 2022, much lower than the rate of inflation, according to a National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) survey .

But there’s also some positive news: More and more students are opting to major in creative fields and fields that interest them. And people with college degrees are much better protected against economic recessions than their degree-less counterparts. This data points to two things: 1. you’re not alone in this potentially confusing post-grad phase and 2. the job search hunt, especially for fresh graduates, takes patience and positivity. A strong cover letter and resume are essential tools to landing not just any job, but the job YOU want.

Best format for a graduate cover letter

The good news is that no matter which field you studied or plan to work in, the format for a great graduate cover letter is roughly the same. While an application letter might seem  structureless, these sections can help you stay on track and make the most of your one-page allowance. 

Plus, these are the sections hiring managers expect to see so you can rest assured you haven’t thrown the employer any curveballs. Key components include:

• The cover letter header
• The greeting
• The introduction
• The letter body
• The conclusion
• The signature

Let’s take a look at each of them, but first, here is a graduate cover letter example to give you an idea of how to write your own letter:

Dear Mrs. Lastwell,

As a recently graduated biotechnology major at the University of California, I am excited for the opportunity to work with you at PreGen. My university biotech assignments centered around the food production industry and I firmly believe that technology will help to feed the world of the future. After leaving with a GPA of 3.8 from Jefferson College, I immersed myself in the academic side of college life. We enjoyed close research links with the local agritech community, and I undertook five separate work placements. I was fascinated by molecular diagnostics and even worked part-time on a project to improve crop yields in Kenya. Your international focus is exactly where the world needs to be focusing its efforts right now. A junior research associate role with you would provide an ideal starting point. Your track record of developing the brightest of young scientific minds is unmatched in the industry and I yearn to follow in the footsteps of your award-winning agritech magicians. My education and work experience have combined to give me a solid understanding of laboratory procedures and industry best practice including greenhouse operations and the maintenance of research and chemical application equipment. I saved one work experience employer over $240k by creating a unified operational manual for all employees. I have spent years immersing myself in the theory of genomics and I look forward to putting my knowledge to use. I enclose a portfolio of my academic research work and have over 20 letters of recommendation from the scientists that I have assisted. I can’t wait to hear about the potential projects where my contribution may make a difference – an interview to explore the possibilities would be a dream. Yours sincerely, Christine Holtz

Cover letter header

The header can be one of the most challenging sections for recent graduates. It can be difficult to decide what information is necessary. When mailing a letter, the name and address of the company and date the letter was written are essential. For online applications, including your graduate cover letter, brief is better. 

The more you pack into your header, the less space you have to convince an employer of your unique qualities in the rest of the letter. Keep in mind that the primary purpose of the header in an online application will be to identify the document and keep your contact information at the hiring manager’s fingertips. 

In large companies, an applicant’s folder can circulate within the HR department, making the header even more important. In the past, headers contained the applicant and company address. Now, information like your email, phone number and even your LinkedIn account is much more useful.

Getting creative with your header

In addition to conveying your identifying information, the header also serves a role in the formatting of your document. It allows for some white space so the letter doesn’t start abruptly at the top of the page.

If you want to present an even more polished look, you might opt to use a cover letter template. A template has the advantage of being professionally designed, and can even allow you to align the formatting of your resume and cover letter for maximum visual appeal.

The goal of this section: Identify the document, keep your name and contact info easily accessible and create visually appealing formatting.

Cover letter greeting

As a fresh graduate, you’ll most likely start your career by working your way up from junior level positions. That means you’ll need to use a greeting in your graduate cover letter that is respectful and mindful of the organization’s hierarchy. 

There are some exceptions, however. A growing number of youthful brands and startups are opting for a more familiar tone both internally and externally. In these rare circumstances, it may be appropriate to use a greeting like “Hi” or “Hello” along with a first name instead of the more traditional “Dear Mr./Mrs./Ms” Informal greetings often work much better if you’re submitting your cover letter via email. 

The goal of this section: Start the letter off right with a warm and friendly salutation greeting that’s also professionally appropriate for your field and experience level.

When you have a name – and when you don’t

Addressing the recipient by name is one of the best strategies for catching a hiring manager’s attention right from the start of your letter. Many job postings even list the name of the hiring manager or contact person giving you every reason to include it in your letter. 

However, in some large companies or organizations hiring is done by a large team and it may be impossible to figure out who will be reading your letter. In this case, you might have to opt for a general greeting like “Dear XYZ Company Hiring Manager.” “Team” can also be a great non-specific word to use when a name is not an option.

After a few minutes poking around the internet searching for the hiring manager’s name, you might be tempted to throw your hands up in the air and go with “To Whom It May Concern:” However, this greeting is not just impersonal, it feels outdated and even cold. Using the company name, even in a general greeting, conveys that you are a human being speaking to other real people.

Cover letter introduction

Getting your graduate cover letter introduction off to an attention-grabbing start is one of the best things you can do to set your application up for success. By using a personal anecdote, emotive sentence or definitive statement, you’ll be miles ahead of candidates who opted for “I am writing to inquire about your recent vacancy for…” 

You get the idea – if you haven’t already fallen asleep. 

One of the biggest advantages a company gains when hiring recent grads is the creativity and innovation that comes from young minds. Simply put, a boring introductory paragraph introduction is selling yourself short. Convey your personality, spunk and unique qualities, just make sure to keep the tone professionally appropriate for your field and prospective employer. 

The goal of this section: Introduce yourself in a unique and exciting way, set yourself up for success in the body section.

Dear Mrs. Lastwell, As a recently graduated biotechnology major at the University of California, I am excited for the opportunity to work with you at PreGen. My university biotech assignments centered around the food production industry and I firmly believe that technology will help to feed the world of the future.

Cover letter body (middle part)

The body section of your graduate cover letter is the meat and potatoes. It should provide enough detail that the hiring manager feels satisfied after reading it, but it should also leave them wanting to get in touch to take the conversation further. 

What you choose to highlight in the body of your cover letter will depend somewhat on the most desirable skills and experiences in your field. However, a good strategy is to use the STAR/CAR method (Situation, Task, Action, positive Result) to convey your successes in previous work experiences. As a recent grad, you’ll likely need to talk about your previous internships and on-campus experiences. Focus on the most professionally-relevant activities and responsibilities to convey just how transferable your skills are. 

There are some skills that are applicable across entry-level jobs. The ability to take feedback and learn from others and your mistakes is invaluable in any job. Depending on the position, teamwork may also be of the essence. 

The goal of this section: Use anecdotes and examples of your strengths and skills, as related to your field, to highlight your professional competence. Prove that you have the right personality traits to be a good listener, quick learner and great team member.

After leaving with a GPA of 3.8 from Jefferson College, I immersed myself in the academic side of college life. We enjoyed close research links with the local agritech community, and I undertook five separate work placements. I was fascinated by molecular diagnostics and even worked part-time on a project to improve crop yields in Kenya. Your international focus is exactly where the world needs to be focusing its efforts right now. A junior research associate role with you would provide an ideal starting point. Your track record of developing the brightest of young scientific minds is unmatched in the industry and I yearn to follow in the footsteps of your award-winning agritech magicians. My education and work experience have combined to give me a solid understanding of laboratory procedures and industry best practice including greenhouse operations and the maintenance of research and chemical application equipment. I saved one work experience employer over $240k by creating a unified operational manual for all employees.

How to close a recent graduate cover letter (conclusion and sign-off)

You’ve written the bulk of your letter, but how do you close the letter professionally? You want to be memorable without making the assumption that you will land the interview. The closing paragraph of your graduate cover letter can be more challenging than it appears. 

As you move through the body section, think about how you’ll bring your themes back together in a way that leaves a hiring manager feeling optimistic and confident about your abilities. Then, it’s time for the call to action. This writing technique invites a hiring manager to get in touch and continue the conversation. Your tone should be respectful and polite, but also approachable and friendly. The call to action should be a natural extension of the rest of the letter. “Sincerely,” “Best regards” or simply “Best” are some of the most popular sign-offs that can work with a variety of situations or companies. 

The goal of this section: Create a natural and friendly call to action that entices the hiring manager to get in touch, close the letter with an appropriate good-bye.

I have spent years immersing myself in the theory of genomics and I look forward to putting my knowledge to use. I enclose a portfolio of my academic research work and have over 20 letters of recommendation from the scientists that I have assisted. I can’t wait to hear about the potential projects where my contribution may make a difference – an interview to explore the possibilities would be a dream. Yours sincerely, Christine Holtz

Writing psychology – cover letter tools and strategies

As a recent graduate in any major, you’ll want to express a few key personality traits that will make you a valued coworker across the board. 

• Trustworthiness: younger coworkers often develop a bad reputation when they can’t keep office gossip or even private work-related information to themselves. Highlighting your professionalism when it comes to demeanor and speech will build trust with a hiring manager right from the start.
• The ability to receive criticism: A junior employee who can not only take feedback well but implement it into their future performance will rise quickly through the ranks. If you can, show how you managed this in previous positions and how it led to even better outcomes.
• The right balance of confidence and humility: This is one of the trickiest parts of writing your first cover letters as a fresh graduate. You don’t want to brag but there’s no point in being so modest that a hiring manager can’t figure out the benefit of having you at their company. Assert yourself as a leader and hard worker who’s also willing to learn.

The laws of specificity

In their book, “Made to Stick,” brothers Chip and Dan Heath discuss the principles and strategies behind ideas that linger in our minds. These principles have a variety of applications and purposes, including in marketing, writing and persuasion. One area where recent grads struggle when crafting a convincing cover letter is credibility. With limited years of hands-on experience, how can a hiring manager be sure you truly have the skills for the job? That’s where the Heath brothers’ principle of specificity comes into play. Hiring managers know that it is much easier to write sweeping statements about your personality traits and perspectives than it is to show solid facts about how you initiated and effectuated a positive change. 

That’s why specific examples, quantifiable statements and concrete numbers give you the best chance of impressing a hiring manager and landing an interview. Specificity doesn’t just have to come in the form of results. You can also use this principle, for example, in naming an industry-leading company you interned for. You might include the size of a team you led,  the name of the published project you worked on or the location of your foreign language training. A sprinkling of the most relevant, specific details helps you make up for the credibility you might lack as a recent graduate and keeps a manager interested in what you have to say.

Recent graduate cover letter common mistakes (and how to avoid them)

Some good news: The more cover letters you write, the easier they get. You can give yourself a leg up on other recent grads by checking out these cover letter tips: avoiding these common pitfalls:

• The one-size-fits-all letter. Every company and job opportunity is a unique opportunity and your cover letter should reflect an understanding of this fact. What’s more, hiring managers are hardly fooled when candidates simply swap out one company’s name for another without tailoring the content of the letter. While you might create a basic letter to work off of, you’ll need to make sure you customize each letter for the specific position, using skills and information from the company website and job description.the exact skills needed for the job at hand.
• Generic and fluffy wording. Hiring managers know that you’re a recent grad. It’s no use trying to cover up that fact with elevated language that boils down into nothingness. Plus, no one ever said you shouldn’t have a personality. Proofread your As long as your grammar and spelling. As long as there are no typos is correct, it’s OK to be yourself.
• Too much or irrelevant information. If you don’t know what to talk about when seeking your first job, you might find yourself going a little overboard. Instead, try to keep the conversation friendly, but geared strictly toward your professional experience, activities and coursework and experiences. There will be a time and place for the fact that you developed the university’s first ping-pong club, but your cover letter probably isn’t it.
• Formatting errors. It can be tricky to hit the right balance of professionalism and individuality when it comes to cover letter format formatting. Odd or childish fonts can throw off a reader and misaligned formatting can come off as amateur. One way to avoid these all-too-common problems is with a professional formatting tool, like this one from resume.io.

Key takeaways

• An exceptional cover letter is one of the best ways to make yourself stand out from the competition by expressing your personality and unique advantages.
• It’s important to follow the expected cover letter length and style conventions to present a professional image and avoid taking a hiring manager by surprise.
• Numbers, facts and figures can help you build credibility and make up for any gaps in experience.
• Don’t try to fight against your recent grad status with fancy wording and eccentric formatting. It’s always a better idea to keep your letter clean, professional and error-free.

Now it’s time to get started on your exceptional cover letter. Land your dream job Get the job done right with resume.io’s professionally designed templates and easy-to-use builder tool . Go out there and win!

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Fresh Graduate Cover Letter

Cover letter maker.

Applying for your first job or internship after graduation can be challenging, especially when you have little to no experience in the workforce. A well-crafted cover letter can significantly increase your chances of landing that dream job. This article will guide you on how to write an effective fresh graduate cover letter, provide examples, and offer practical tips to help you stand out from the competition.

What is a Fresh Graduate Cover Letter?

A Fresh Graduate Cover Letter is a document accompanying a resume, specifically written by recent graduates seeking their first job or internship opportunity. This letter focuses on their academic achievements, internship experience, coursework, and relevant skills that align with the job’s requirements.

What is the Best Example of a Fresh Graduate Cover Letter?

The best cover letter example of a fresh graduate seamlessly merges academic accomplishments, relevant skills, and any internships or volunteer work to demonstrate a candidate’s potential to succeed in the targeted role. The key is to focus on transferable skills and highlight how you can contribute to the company.

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am excited to apply for the junior analyst position at XYZ Company, as advertised on your careers page. As a recent Business Administration graduate from ABC University, I am eager to apply my academic knowledge in a practical setting.

During my time at ABC University, I majored in Finance and completed an internship with DEF Firm. I worked directly under the senior analyst and assisted with data analysis and presentation. This experience, combined with my academic background, makes me a strong candidate for this position.

I am confident that my passion for data analysis and strong analytical skills would allow me to make a significant contribution to the XYZ team. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your team.

Yours Sincerely, [Your Name]

Size: 27 KB

Free Fresh Graduate Cover Letters – Copy & Paste

We understand that writing a cover letter can be daunting, especially when you’re fresh out of college. Here are some free templates to guide you. You can copy, paste, and customize them to suit your specific circumstances and the job you’re applying for.

Fresh Graduate Cover Letter with No Experience Example

Writing a cover letter with no work experience can be a challenge, but it’s certainly not impossible. In such a case, your aim should be to highlight your academic achievements, volunteer work, internships, and transferable skills. The example below is a guide on how to write a compelling cover letter even with no work experience:

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am writing to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Job Advertisement Source]. As a recent graduate from [Your University] with a degree in [Your Degree], I am eager to start my career in [Industry Name] with an innovative company such as yours.

During my time at university, I [talk about a project or accomplishment]. Additionally, I developed strong [mention specific skills] skills, which I believe are highly applicable to the role of [Job Title].

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my unique blend of skills and experience to your esteemed company and am confident in my ability to become a productive member of your team.

Thank you for considering my application.

Size: 26 KB

How to Use: Use this template as a guide. Remember to personalize it with your own details, and add specific accomplishments and skills that align with the job description. Tailoring your cover letter to each job application will show the hiring manager that you’re genuinely interested in the position and the company.

Fresh Graduate Cover Letter for Job Application Examples

Crafting an effective cover letter for job application as a fresh graduate for a specific job application requires highlighting your academic achievements, relevant coursework, internships, or projects related to the job. Here is an example to guide you:

I am writing to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name] as advertised on [Job Advertisement Source]. As a recent graduate from [University Name] with a degree in [Degree Name], I believe I am well-equipped to contribute effectively to your team.

In my final year project, I worked on [describe the project and your role briefly]. This experience gave me hands-on exposure to [mention relevant skills or knowledge that are pertinent to the job]. I am eager to apply this knowledge and grow further at [Company Name].

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my application with you further.

How to Use: Remember to replace the placeholders with your information and tailor the content to match the job requirements and the company’s culture.

Fresh Engineering Graduate Cover Letter Example

As a fresh engineering graduate, your cover letter should highlight technical skills, academic projects, and engineering internships. Here’s an example:

I’m writing to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Job Advertisement Source]. I recently graduated from [University Name] with a Bachelor’s degree in [Engineering Discipline].

During my time at university, I worked on a project [describe the project and your role], which helped me develop practical skills in [mention specific engineering skills]. In addition, my internship at [Company Name] allowed me to gain hands-on experience in the field.

I am eager to contribute my energy, dedication, and technical skills to your esteemed company. Thank you for considering my application.

How to Use: Adapt this  engineering cover letter  to fit your own experiences and achievements. Be sure to highlight engineering projects or internships that align with the job you’re applying for.

Fresh Medical Graduate Cover Letter Example

A cover letter for a fresh medical graduate should focus on clinical experiences, internships, and your passion for medicine. Here’s a suitable example:

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Job Advertisement Source]. As a recent graduate from [University Name] with a [Degree Name], I am eager to begin my career at your respected institution.

During my clinical rotations at [Hospital/Clinic Name], I gained hands-on experience in [specific medical skills]. My experience, coupled with my passion for helping others, makes me a strong candidate for this position.

I look forward to the opportunity to provide compassionate and dedicated care to your patients. Thank you for considering my application.

How to Use: Modify this example by inserting your details, the hiring manager’s name, and specific skills or experiences relevant to the job.

Fresh Architect Graduate Cover Letter Example

A fresh architect graduate cover letter should showcase your design skills, technical knowledge, and any relevant projects or internships you’ve completed. Here’s an example:

I’m applying for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], which I saw listed on [Job Advertisement Source]. I have recently graduated from [University Name] with a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture.

In my final year, I was part of a project [describe the project and your role]. This experience allowed me to develop my design and technical skills in [mention specific skills].

I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name] and to grow as a professional. Thank you for considering my application.

Size: 188 KB

How to Use: Personalize this template by including your specific experiences, skills, and academic achievements related to the field of architecture.

Fresh Graduate Cover Letter for Customer Service Example

As a fresh graduate applying for a customer service position, your cover letter should highlight your communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and any customer service or sales-related experience. Here’s a sample:

I am writing to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name] as advertised on [Job Advertisement Source]. I recently graduated from [University Name] with a degree in [Degree Name], and I believe my skills and experiences align with your needs.

During my part-time role at [Previous Company Name], I developed strong customer service skills and a solution-focused mindset. I also learned to handle customer complaints and maintain a positive customer experience.

I am excited about the possibility of bringing my unique blend of skills and experience to [Company Name]. Thank you for considering my application.

How to Use: Modify this customer service cover letter to include your own experiences, especially any roles or projects where you have demonstrated strong customer service skills.

Fresh Graduate Cover Letter for Internship Example

When applying for an internship as a fresh graduate, your cover letter should highlight your eagerness to learn, relevant coursework, and any academic or extracurricular achievements. Here’s a sample:

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I’m excited to apply for the internship position at [Company Name] which I discovered on [Job Advertisement Source]. As a recent graduate from [University Name] with a degree in [Degree Name], I’m eager to apply my knowledge in a practical setting.

During my university career, I excelled in [mention specific courses or projects], which I believe will be beneficial for this role. My professors commended my [mention specific skills or attributes], and I’m confident these will be valuable in this internship.

Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to the possibility of contributing to [Company Name].

How to Use: Modify this template by including your specific academic and extracurricular achievements. Highlight skills and experiences that align with the internship role.

Fresh Graduate Cover Letter for Bank Teller Example

A fresh graduate cover letter for a bank teller position should showcase your attention to detail, mathematical skills, and any relevant internships or part-time roles. Here’s a sample:

I am writing to apply for the Bank Teller position at [Company Name] that I saw advertised on [Job Advertisement Source]. I recently graduated from [University Name] with a degree in [Degree Name], and I am eager to apply my skills in the banking industry.

During my time at university, I took several courses in banking and finance, which have given me a solid understanding of banking principles. I also completed an internship at [Internship Company Name], where I developed strong customer service skills.

I am excited about the possibility of bringing my dedication and strong work ethic to [Company Name]. Thank you for considering my application.

How to Use: Personalize this template by including your specific experiences, especially any roles or projects where you have demonstrated relevant skills.

Fresh Graduate Cover Letter for Finance Management Example

Applying for a position in finance management as a fresh graduate necessitates a cover letter that highlights analytical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of financial principles. Consider this example:

I am excited to apply for the Finance Management trainee position at [Company Name] that I learned about from [Job Advertisement Source]. As a recent graduate from [University Name] with a degree in [Degree Name], I am eager to bring my financial acumen to your team.

My coursework in corporate finance, investment strategies, and business valuation, along with my proficiency in Excel, makes me a strong candidate for this position. During my internship at [Internship Company Name], I gained hands-on experience in financial reporting and analysis.

I am confident that I can contribute to [Company Name]’s goals and look forward to potentially joining your team. Thank you for considering my application.

How to Use: Modify this  finance cover letter  to fit your specific skills and experiences. Highlight academic and internship experiences relevant to finance management.

Fresh Graduate Cover Letter for Job Application Example

For a fresh graduate job application, the cover letter should exhibit transferable skills, academic knowledge, and a willingness to learn. Here is an example:

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Position] at [Company Name], as advertised on [Job Advertisement Source]. I recently graduated from [University Name] with a degree in [Degree Name] and am eager to apply my academic knowledge in a professional setting.

During my time at [University Name], I excelled in [mention specific courses or projects]. I am confident that these experiences have prepared me well for the responsibilities of the [Job Position].

I am excited about the possibility of joining the [Company Name] team and am confident that I can contribute to your mission. Thank you for considering my application.

How to Use: This general template can be adapted to any job application. Include specifics about your degree and university experience, and tailor the letter to the job responsibilities.

Fresh Mechanical Engineering Graduate Cover Letter Example

A cover letter for a fresh mechanical engineering graduate should emphasize technical knowledge, hands-on experiences during internships or projects, and problem-solving skills. Here is an example:

I am writing to apply for the Mechanical Engineer position at [Company Name] that was advertised on [Job Advertisement Source]. I recently graduated from [University Name] with a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and I am excited to apply the skills I have acquired in a practical setting.

During my university studies, I undertook a project on [briefly describe a project or achievement], which honed my problem-solving and teamwork skills. My internship at [Internship Company Name] gave me hands-on experience in designing mechanical systems and conducting failure analysis, both of which are critical for the [Job Position].

I am eager to bring my engineering skills to [Company Name] and contribute to your ongoing projects. Thank you for considering my application.

How to Use: Modify this template to fit your specific skills and experiences. Highlight academic and internship experiences relevant to mechanical engineering.

Sample Fresh Graduate Cover Letter Example

A general cover letter sample for fresh graduates across fields may look like this:

I am writing to apply for the position of [Job Position] at [Company Name], as advertised on [Job Advertisement Source]. Having recently graduated from [University Name] with a degree in [Degree Name], I am excited to bring my skills and knowledge to your team.

Throughout my academic career, I have demonstrated [mention specific skills or accomplishments]. These experiences have equipped me with the ability to [describe how these experiences will benefit the job role].

I look forward to the opportunity of discussing my application with you further. Thank you for considering my application.

How to Use: This is a broad fresh graduate cover letter template that can be modified to suit any job application. Replace the placeholders with your specific details and tailor the skills and experiences to match the job description.

Fresh Graduate Cover Letter for Human Resource Example

A fresh graduate applying for a position in human resources should highlight their understanding of employee relations, data analysis, and legal regulations. Let’s consider this example:

I am excited to apply for the Human Resource Assistant position at [Company Name] as advertised on [Job Advertisement Source]. I recently graduated from [University Name] with a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management and am eager to start my career in your esteemed organization.

During my final year, I completed an internship with [Company Name], where I gained firsthand experience in employee relations, HR software, and legal compliance. I believe these skills will greatly contribute to your team.

I look forward to the possibility of contributing to [Company Name]. Thank you for considering my application.

How to Use: Customize this human resource cover letter with your details. Emphasize any internship experiences, HR-related coursework, or capstone projects.

Fresh Graduate Cover Letter for Accounting Example

For an accounting position, a fresh graduate should emphasize their proficiency with accounting software, attention to detail, and understanding of accounting principles. Here’s an example:

I am writing to apply for the Accountant position at [Company Name] advertised on [Job Advertisement Source]. I am a recent graduate from [University Name] with a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, ready to start my career in the field.

At university, I took part in an intensive Accounting practicum where I developed strong analytical skills and familiarity with popular accounting software, such as QuickBooks and Sage. I am confident that my skills will contribute to [Company Name].

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing it further with you.

How to Use: Adapt this letter by including specific coursework or projects relevant to the job role. You can also mention certifications (like CPA) if you have any.

Fresh Graduate Cover Letter for Business Administration Example

For a Business Administration role, a fresh graduate can underline their understanding of business processes, organizational behavior, and project management. Here is a great example:

I’m thrilled to apply for the Business Administration Trainee position at [Company Name], as posted on [Job Advertisement Source]. I am a recent graduate from [University Name] with a degree in Business Administration and am keen to apply the knowledge and skills I have acquired in a practical setting.

As part of my course, I have completed projects in areas such as project management, organizational behavior, and business strategy. I believe these experiences will be beneficial to [Company Name] and align with the duties of the position.

I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my application further.

How to Use: Replace the brackets with your own information, and feel free to highlight any specific business administration projects or internships that would make you a strong candidate.

Fresh Graduate Cover Letter for Interior Design Example

A fresh graduate applying for an Interior Design role might want to highlight their creativity, knowledge of design software, and understanding of design principles. Here’s a sample:

I am writing to apply for the Interior Designer position at [Company Name] listed on [Job Advertisement Source]. As a recent graduate from [University Name] with a degree in Interior Design, I am eager to apply my creative skills and education in a practical setting.

I have developed a keen eye for design and a proficiency in [mention design software], which I believe align well with the job description. In addition, my senior year project, which involved redesigning a commercial space, has given me practical experience that I can bring to your team.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

How to Use: Be sure to include details about your design software skills and any hands-on experience from school projects or internships.

Fresh Graduate Cover Letter for Graphic Designer Example

A graphic designer cover letter for fresh graduate can highlight their creative skills, software expertise, and understanding of design principles. Here’s a sample:

I am excited to apply for the Junior Graphic Designer position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Job Advertisement Source]. As a recent graduate from [University Name] with a degree in Graphic Design, I am passionate about visual communication and eager to put my creativity to work.

In my coursework, I honed my skills in Adobe Creative Suite, which I understand is a requirement for this position. My portfolio, which I have included as an attachment, demonstrates a variety of design skills including typography, color theory, and digital illustration.

I look forward to potentially discussing my qualifications further.

How to Use: Replace the placeholders with your details. Make sure to highlight any specific graphic design software skills or projects that you have worked on.

General Fresh Graduate Cover Letter Example

For a more general application, a fresh graduate might highlight transferable skills, academic achievements, and eagerness to learn. Here’s an example:

I am eager to apply for the [Job Title] role at [Company Name], as listed on [Job Advertisement Source]. As a recent graduate from [University Name] with a degree in [Your Degree], I am confident that my academic achievements and passion for learning will make me a strong candidate for this role.

I have honed my skills in research, project management, and teamwork during my time at university and I’m excited to bring these skills to a professional setting.

How to Use: Be sure to include information about your degree and any transferable skills that would be relevant to the role you’re applying for.

Fresh College Graduate Cover Letter Example

For fresh college graduates, a cover letter might highlight academic accomplishments, internships, and relevant coursework. Here’s a sample:

I’m thrilled to apply for the [Job Title] role at [Company Name] advertised on [Job Advertisement Source]. As a recent graduate from [University Name], I have a strong educational foundation in [Your Major], and I am eager to bring my knowledge and enthusiasm to this role.

During my time in college, I completed an internship at [Internship Company] where I gained experience in [describe what you learned or did]. I believe this experience, coupled with my academic accomplishments, makes me a strong fit for this role.

How to Use: Replace the placeholders with your details. Highlight any internships, relevant coursework, or academic accomplishments that make you a strong candidate for the role.

Fresh Graduate Cover Letter for Technician Example

A technician’s cover letter would showcase technical skills, practical experience, and relevant academic knowledge. Here’s a sample:

I am excited to apply for the Technician position at [Company Name], as listed on [Job Advertisement Source]. As a recent graduate of [University/College Name] with a degree in [Your Degree], I am well equipped with the theoretical knowledge and practical training necessary for this role.

During my academic tenure, I gained hands-on experience in troubleshooting, maintaining and repairing various types of equipment, which I believe will serve me well in this role. I am confident in my ability to quickly learn and adapt to new systems and procedures.

How to Use: Personalize this letter by including specific details about the technical skills and experience you possess that align with the job requirements.

Fresh Graduate Cover Letter for IT Job Example

An IT job cover letter would showcase software and hardware knowledge, problem-solving skills, and relevant academic achievements. Here’s an example:

I am thrilled to apply for the IT Specialist role at [Company Name], as advertised on [Job Advertisement Source]. As a recent graduate of [University Name] with a degree in Information Technology, I am excited to apply my skills in a practical setting.

During my studies, I excelled in my coursework on networks, databases, and user support. I also gained practical experience through an internship at [Company Name], where I honed my problem-solving skills and learned to provide excellent customer service.

How to Use: Replace the placeholders with your specific details. Be sure to emphasize any coursework, internships, or skills that are relevant to the role you’re applying for.

Recent Graduate Cover Letter Example

A recent graduate can highlight their academic achievements, eagerness to contribute, and transferable skills. Here’s an example:

I am excited to apply for the [Job Title] role at [Company Name], as listed on [Job Advertisement Source]. As a recent graduate of [University Name] with a degree in [Your Degree], I am confident in my ability to make a meaningful contribution to your team.

Throughout my academic career, I have consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic, critical thinking skills, and the ability to meet deadlines. I am eager to apply these skills in a professional setting and believe I would make a valuable addition to your team.

How to Use: Fill in the placeholders with your personal details. Be sure to emphasize your strengths and any skills or experiences that make you a strong fit for the role.

Fresh Computer Science Graduate Cover Letter Example

A cover letter for a Computer Science graduate would highlight programming skills, problem-solving abilities, and project experience. Here’s a sample:

I am writing to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Job Advertisement Source]. As a recent Computer Science graduate from [University Name], I have a solid foundation in data structures, algorithms, and software engineering principles.

I have honed my coding skills through a variety of group projects and independent work, using languages like Java, Python, and C++. Additionally, my experience as an intern at [Company Name] allowed me to develop my problem-solving skills and learn to collaborate effectively with a team.

How to Use: Personalize this letter by including the specific programming languages and tools you’re familiar with. Mention any internships or projects that provided practical experience.

How do you Write a Cover Letter for a Fresh Graduate?

1. Start with a Formal Greeting: Address the hiring manager by their name, if it’s known. Otherwise, use a generic greeting like “Dear Hiring Manager.”

2. Open with Enthusiasm: State the position you’re applying for and express your excitement about the opportunity.

3. Highlight Relevant Skills and Experiences: Discuss your academic achievements, internships, and any skills that make you a good fit for the role.

4. Show Your Knowledge of the Company: Demonstrate that you’ve researched the company and explain why you’re interested in working there.

5. Close with a Call to Action: Thank the hiring manager for considering your application and express your interest in discussing the position further.

Tips for Fresh Graduate Cover Letter Format

1. Keep It Brief: Limit your cover letter to a single page.

2. Use a Professional Tone: Write in a formal, respectful tone. Avoid using slang or overly casual language.

3. Customize Each Letter: Tailor each cover letter to the specific job you’re applying for. Highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the role.

4. Proofread: Ensure your cover letter is free of spelling and grammar mistakes. Consider having someone else read it over as well.

Writing a cover letter as a fresh graduate can be a challenging task. However, by carefully highlighting your academic achievements, skills, and enthusiasm for the role, you can make a strong impression on hiring managers. Remember to tailor each cover letter to the specific job you’re applying for and to proofread carefully.

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

Write a cover letter for a college student applying for an internship at an educational technology company

Form a cover letter for a high school student seeking a part-time job at a local bookstore.

Dear Recent College Grads, Here's How to Write a Great Cover Letter

A job search can quickly become a full-time job on its own. As a recent graduate looking for your next step, you might be tempted to attach your resume and click apply without bothering to send an accompanying cover letter. But taking the time to write one is worth the effort. This is the only place where you have free rein to explain why you’re interested in the job and how exactly you’re a good match. A compelling letter makes it so much easier for the reader to think, “ Yes! Let’s interview them!”

In my experience as a hiring manager, a cover letter can make or break my interest in moving forward with a candidate. If an application doesn’t include one, I’m almost certain to pass unless the resume is pretty much a perfect match. Admittedly, there are other recruiters and hiring managers who don’t look at the cover letter at all—but it’s best to assume that they will (it certainly beats wondering if you didn’t make the cut just because you didn’t send one!). And even if they don’t read it, you’re still ahead of the game in your preparation if you get called for an interview.

The basics of a cover letter boil down to this outline:

• An introductory paragraph (who you are, why this company and this job, and a bridge between the two)
• One or two themed paragraphs (highlighting and showing you have skills that match the job)
• A closing paragraph (some quick additional highlights and a request to speak further)

Four paragraphs should be a breeze—I bet you’ve written plenty of assignments longer than that to earn your degree! So how can you leverage your letter to effectively win over the recruiter or hiring manager even as a new grad who doesn’t have much experience?

Here are seven tips along with an example of what a recent college graduate cover letter could look like.

1. Tell Them Who You Are

Right off the bat, the person reading your letter is going to want to know some basic information in the introductory paragraph—like a quick synopsis of who you are, what you’re applying for, and why you’re interested in this opportunity. Sharing up front that you’re a recent grad signals that you’re likely able to be onboarded quickly, which is great if they need an expedited hiring process (or if they’re looking to train new talent). Here’s what a quick opening might look like:

Dear Mr. Fortman,

I am excited to submit my application for the UX Designer opening at CompanyDesign. As a recent graduate with a software engineering degree from Big State University, I am confident I could contribute to the success of your team.

2. Highlight Why This Company

Once you introduce yourself, it’s time to tell the reader why you’re trying to land a job at this specific organization. Showing them clearly and explicitly why you’re interested, excited, or passionate about the work they do and explaining how you’re connected to it can help convince them to add you to their interview list.

If you have some sort of contact at the company—someone at the company referred you, you spoke to a recruiter at your college’s career fair or info session, or you have a friend who interned there—mention what you learned from them and how what they shared makes you feel this would be an exciting opportunity and a good fit. Be specific where you can. If you were applying for that UX design role, you might say:

In February, I had the pleasure of speaking with Allison Ro from the product team at a career panel on campus. After learning about the company’s focus on human-centered design and your multidisciplinary team approach to creating products that improve the world, I knew CompanyDesign was where I wanted to work.

If you don’t have any “ins” at the company or first-hand information like this, don’t worry! You can do a bit of sleuthing and research in other ways. What can you find on their website or Muse profile about their work that excites you? Do they have values that are top priorities for you—like sustainability? Check out their mission page to find out! Is their work culture the type of environment where you can thrive and contribute? Have they been in the news recently for innovation or a new product? Find some nuggets of information that resonate with you and weave those specifics into answering the all-important “ Why this company? ” question. 

No matter where you got your information, you want to show you understand the company and what you can add as a new hire. Conveying an interest and excitement for working specifically for this job at this company—rather than a desire to get any job at any company that’ll pay you a salary—can go a long way. After all, it can be easier to hire someone who is super into the work you do and needs a bit of training over someone with all the skills who doesn’t care about the work or mesh with the team.

3. Identify Their Needs for This Role

Once you’ve connected at a higher level with the company, the next two paragraphs can help you stand out as a top candidate if you align yourself and your skills closely with what the company needs. Unlike cover letters you may have written when applying to internships , where it may make sense to talk about being excited for the learning opportunity, your focus as a new grad seeking full-time employment should shift to how you can meet the company’s needs. It’s all about how you can contribute to their success rather than the other way around.

The best way to do this is to identify the top skills and qualities for the role and explicitly match those with what you have to offer. Use the job description as your blueprint. Typically, the most important attributes of the role will be mentioned higher up in the description. Pay attention to themes that are repeated throughout, too. If they mention design skills, or aspects of design, in multiple spots that’s an area you should highlight. If they mention collaboration, teamwork, and communication, that’s another clue for a theme you should address.

Unfortunately, not all job descriptions are detailed. If you need more information to figure out what recruiters and hiring managers are looking for, see if you can find a person currently (or previously) in this role—or a similar role—at the company by searching on LinkedIn. You’re likely to get some good insights from their experience entries or the recommendations their colleagues or clients wrote for them. If you have any connections at the company you may be able to get a better sense of what they look for through an informational interview . However, be mindful not to wait too long to get your application in!

4. Demonstrate Your Value—Show, Don’t Tell

Once you’ve done some reconnaissance, pick three or four of the main themes you identified that correlate to the skills, strengths, and attributes you have. Your goal in the next couple of paragraphs of your cover letter will be to share a few stories that demonstrate how you’ll bring those skills, strengths, and attributes to the position.

Having recently graduated, you may be applying to your very first full-time job or trying to get your foot in the door in a role or field you don’t have direct experience in. That’s OK! College classes, internships, research experiences, part-time jobs, work-study programs, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and personal projects can all be used as examples to back up and show your value to the employer. And you can always highlight transferable and additive skills .

If you’re applying to a marketing job and you didn’t land a marketing internship before you graduated, for example, you may have had a relevant class project or gained experience using a similar skill set when you advertised events as a Resident Assistant. Maybe you had a work-study job at the campus bookstore and you maintained its social media pages, or you were in charge of recruiting new students to your student club and increased the membership. Perhaps you had a job where you had to be a data whiz in a fast-paced and collaborative environment and that could be an added benefit to this employer. Find the connections between some of the skills you used in these situations—advertising, telling a story to reach your audience, increasing engagement, and making data-informed decisions—and explain how they can transfer into what was outlined in the job description.

One common pitfall to avoid as a new grad is highlighting things you don’t specifically have yet. If you’re leading with a negative like, “Although I don’t have…”—skip it! Jump right to what you were going to say next. So instead of saying:

Although I don’t have experience with Tableau, I have experience leveraging analytics to make data informed decisions using Looker.

You should just say:

I have experience leveraging analytics to make data informed decisions using Looker.

Remember, with these paragraphs you want to tell a compelling story. Don’t just reiterate the facts on your resume. Take time to highlight the theme(s) you’re focusing on at the beginning of the paragraph. Next, show you have these qualities instead of just saying you have them with nothing to back it up. Share an example that highlights the value you added and connects back to the job opportunity. So if you’re applying for a data analyst role, your paragraph might look like this:

I have experience using business intelligence software and leveraging analytics to make data-informed decisions. While interning at Startup, I used Looker to analyze customer service ratings and identified trends that correlated with high satisfaction ratings. I presented the data to my team along with three key recommendations that I predicted could increase overall customer service ratings by 10%. I discovered that I most enjoy trying to understand the “why” behind the data and translating that into strategies for improvement. I would be thrilled to apply this same motivation to help A-Company manage and gain insights from their data to drive innovation.

5. Show Off Those Soft Skills

When reviewing the job and deciding what to highlight, remember that soft skills , like collaboration and communication, are often highly sought after as well. Technical skills are no use to an employer if you can’t communicate with a client or lead a project to completion. If these skills frequently show up in a job description you may choose to highlight them in a separate paragraph. You can also demonstrate them within stories that showcase your technical themes.

Group projects for internships or classes are prime experiences that can help you highlight many interpersonal skills . Collaborative work, like being on athletic teams or in student clubs, are also gold mines to draw upon as examples.

A word of caution: I often see new grads relay the entire story from the group “we” perspective, which can be detrimental as the employer doesn’t know what you did. It’s important to give context about the makeup of the team, and certainly give credit where credit is due, but then it’s most useful to transition and describe what responsibilities you had, how you contributed to the overall project, and what the outcome was. Here’s an example of how to set up that transition:

Through my Business Insights class, I was part of a team of four students tasked with developing and pitching a new business idea. Once we landed on an idea for a new food delivery service targeting college students, I led our efforts on market analysis...

6. Keep Connecting Back to the Company

Instead of calling it quits after highlighting relevant past experiences and demonstrating your skills and qualities, be sure to tell the reader how what you’re sharing matches with the role and company. This takes the guesswork out of how or if you might be a fit. Don’t assume they’ll make the connections themselves. Spell them out and make them impossible to miss! 

You might be noticing a theme here: You should keep looping back to the specific role and company you’re applying for at every turn. From the intro to the experience paragraphs to the closing, you can only strengthen your cover letter by directly aligning yourself with this opportunity.

7. Watch Your Formatting

The content of your letter is most important, but here are some helpful formatting tips for traditional cover letters if you’re new to writing them.

The top of your document should include the following information:

• Your name, address, and contact information
• The company’s address

If you’re writing the cover letter directly in an email, then you can skip those details at the top. But either way, try to include the name of the person to whom you are writing in your greeting. It’s always best if you can find the recruiter or the supervisor for the position so you can address your cover letter to them. If you can’t, then go with something more general like, “ Dear Hiring Manager,” or “ Dear Editorial Team .” Just stay far away from, “ To Whom It May Concern ”!

A few additional pointers:

• Don’t go over the one-page mark.
• Margins are usually between one and 0.7 inches.
• Make sure your font and font size are easily readable. Think Times New Roman or Arial at a font size of 11 or above.
• Sign off formally (“Sincerely” is always solid) and include your contact information below your signature if you didn’t include it elsewhere.

What Does a Good Recent Grad Cover Letter Look Like?

So what does all of this actually look like in practice? Below is a sample cover letter for an entry-level job. Anything in bold directly aligns this candidate with the job description.

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am excited to apply for the Content Specialist (Req. #04321) opening at Consumer P. Company. As a recent graduate from Local College with a communications major and a digital media concentration, I have a passion for elevating consumer products that change the world . After speaking with Tanya Jones at our spring career fair and learning about CPC’s fast-paced environment, collaborative spirit, and goal to reach its audience in creative ways, I knew this role would be perfect. I admire CPC’s mission to design five-star products that make life easier and believe my knowledge and experiences would allow me to add value to the marketing team.

Through my internship at ContentCo I gained hands-on experience in understanding consumer insights, building partnerships with influencers , and developing content strategies . Working on a tight deadline prior to a new product launch, my fellow intern and I gathered early user testimonials, stories, and media . I also developed a short video mockup for a social media campaign that I’m proud to say was selected to be part of the launch. I would be eager to bring these same skills and passion for storytelling to CPC’s brand and world-class products.

During my time at Local College I also gained experience interpreting data and leading social media campaigns. As part of a semester-long project, my group collaborated with a local bakery on their marketing strategies . I led our efforts to launch a new Instagram account and was responsible for data collection and interpretation . Our client implement ed several of our recommendations, which resulted in an increase in social media traffic and purchases. I was particularly motivated by the bakery’s commitment to the community—donating daily to local food pantries—and am excited to know CPC similarly values giving back to the community.

Through my internship and academic experiences in communications, along with my involvement in our college chapter of the American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA), where I learned new trends for innovation in design , I have developed a strong skill set to add value as a CPC Content Specialist. I would be thrilled to speak with you further about how I can contribute to the marketing team. Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Patrick Lai

Graduate cover letter examples

As a recent graduate, you need to effectively showcase your degree and relevant skills on your CV and cover letter.

But when you’re just starting out in your career, it can be tough to know where to begin.

In the guide below, we’ll teach you how to create a clear, concise and professional application using our graduate cover letter examples and handy top tips.

CV templates 

Graduate cover letter example 1

Build your CV now 

Graduate cover letter example 2

Graduate cover letter example 3

These 3 Graduate cover letter examples will provide you with some good ideas on how to format a cover letter, along with the type of message you should be trying to put across to recruiters .

To further understand exactly how you can write a cover letter that will get you noticed, check out our further guidance.

How to write a Graduate cover letter

Here’s how to write your own winning Graduate cover letter

Write your cover letter in the body of an email/message

When writing your Graduate cover letter, it’s best to type the content into the body of your email (or the job site messaging system) and not to attach the cover letter as a separate document.

This ensures that your cover letter gets seen as soon as a recruiter or employer opens your message.

If you attach the cover letter as a document, you’re making the reader go through an unnecessary step of opening the document before reading it.

If it’s in the body of the message itself, it will be seen instantly, which hugely increases the chances of it being read.

Start with a friendly greeting

To kick your cover letter off, start with a friendly greeting to build rapport with the recruiter instantly.

Your greeting should be personable but professional. Not too casual, but not too formal either

Go with something like…

• Hi [insert recruiter name]
• Hi [insert department/team name]

Avoid old-fashioned greetings like “Dear sir/madam ” unless applying to very formal companies.

How to find the contact’s name?

Addressing the recruitment contact by name is an excellent way to start building a strong relationship. If it is not listed in the job advert, try these methods to find it.

• Check out the company website and look at their  About page. If you see a hiring manager, HR person or internal recruiter, use their name. You could also try to figure out who would be your manager in the role and use their name.
• Head to LinkedIn , search for the company and scan through the list of employees. Most professionals are on LinkedIn these days, so this is a good bet.

Identify the role you are applying for

Once you’ve opened up the cover letter with a warm greeting to start building a relationship, it is time to identify which role you want to apply for.

Recruiters are often managing multiple vacancies, so you need to ensure you apply to the correct one.

Be very specific and use a reference number if you can find one.

• I am interested in applying for the position of *Graduate position* with your company.
• I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 406f57393)
• I would like to express my interest in the customer service vacancy within your retail department
• I saw your advert for a junior project manager on Reed and would like to apply for the role.

See also: CV examples – how to write a CV – CV profiles

Highlight your suitability

The sole objective of your cover letter is to motivate recruiters into to opening your CV. And you achieve this by quickly explaining your suitability to the roles you are applying for.

Take a look at the job descriptions you are applying to, and make note of the most important skills and qualifications being asked for.

Then, when crafting your cover letter, make your suitability the central focus.

Explain why you are the best qualified candidate, and why you are so well suited to carry out the job.

This will give recruiters all the encouragement they need to open your CV and consider you for the job.

Keep it short and sharp

A good cover letter is short and sharp, getting to the point quickly with just enough information to grab the attention of recruiters.

Ideally your cover letter should be around 4-8 sentences long – anything longer will risk losing the attention of time-strapped recruiters and hiring managers .

Essentially you need to include just enough information to persuade the reader to open up your CV, where the in-depth details will sit.

Sign off professionally

To round of your CV, you should sign off with a professional signature.

This will give your cover letter a slick appearance and also give the recruiter all of the necessary contact information they need to get in touch with you.

The information to add should include:

• A friendly sign off – e.g. “Kindest regards”
• Your full name
• Phone number (one you can answer quickly)
• Email address
• Profession title
• Professional social network –  e.g. LinkedIn

Here is an example signature;

Warm regards,

Jill North IT Project Manager 078837437373 [email protected] LinkedIn

Quick tip: To save yourself from having to write your signature every time you send a job application, you can save it within your email drafts, or on a separate documents that you could copy in.

What to include in your Graduate cover letter

Here’s what kind of content you should include in your Graduate cover letter…

The exact info will obviously depend on your industry and experience level, but these are the essentials.

• Your relevant experience – Where have you worked and what type of jobs have you held?
• Your qualifications – Let recruiters know about your highest level of qualification to show them you have the credentials for the job.
• The impact you have made – Show how your actions have made a positive impact on previous employers; perhaps you’ve saved them money or helped them to acquire new customers?
• Your reasons for moving – Hiring managers will want to know why you are leaving your current or previous role, so give them a brief explanation.
• Your availability – When can you start a new job ? Recruiters will want to know how soon they can get you on board.

Don’t forget to tailor these points to the requirements of the job advert for best results.

Graduate cover letter templates

Copy and paste these Graduate cover letter templates to get a head start on your own.

I hope you’re well.

I am excited to apply for the Graduate Structural Engineer position at Stainton Energy and I believe my strong academic background and onsite experience makes me a suitable candidate for this role.

Throughout my master’s degree at the University of Glasgow, I have engaged in large-scale installation projects, feasibility studies, and audits for civil and renewable energy construction companies. Notably, I contributed to a site audit that identified a significant submerged rock area, leading to critical modifications in project plans. Additionally, my Certified AutoCAD Professional status has enabled me to implement cost-effective materials and conduct comprehensive end-to-end component design. Throughout my academic journey, I excelled in modules encompassing Feasibility Study, Geotechnical Design, Renewable Energy Systems, and more. My final project, “A digital model of soil mechanics in an urban environment,” showcased my prowess in complex data analysis and computer modelling.

I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and eager to discuss how my skills can contribute to the company’s success. Thank you for considering my application.

Kind regards,

Leila Marker ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

Dear Frances,

I am excited to apply for the Graduate Research Chemist position at Helmer Laboratories as it perfectly aligns with my passion for analytical chemistry and expertise in organic synthesis.

As a detail-oriented Chemistry graduate currently pursuing my master’s in Analytical Chemistry, I possess technical proficiency in HPLC and GC-MS, enabling precise quality checks and chemical identification. My problem-solving skills and meticulous approach have streamlined workflows in a professional research laboratory and, during my internship at Lab Solutions Ltd, I contributed to significant cost savings through process optimisation and validation of an in-house HPLC method.

Throughout my academic journey, I excelled in modules covering Analytical Techniques, Advanced Organic Synthesis, and Chemical Analysis and Quality Control. My forthcoming thesis, ‘Analysis of Drug Metabolites in Urine using GC-MS,’ demonstrates my commitment to cutting-edge research.

I am confident that these collective skills make me and asses for your team and I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience to discuss them further.

Giles Stevens ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

I am writing to apply for the Graduate Software Developer position at your esteemed organisation, as it presents an exciting opportunity to leverage my passion for programming and problem-solving.

As a Computer Science graduate, I possess a strong background in object-oriented design principles and technical solution development. My proficiency in Java, C++, and Python has allowed me to develop and deploy software updates for enterprise-level applications, ensuring seamless user experiences. During my undergraduate studies I excelled in modules covering Software Development, Data Structures and Algorithms, and Artificial Intelligence. During my summer internship at Sky Blue Solutions, I collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to deliver high-quality software products. I also successfully implemented a new update deployment process, improving efficiency by 14%, and contributing to the development of an e-commerce application, increasing user engagement by 23%.

I am excited about the opportunity to further discuss my qualifications and how my skills can contribute to your organisation’s success. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

Mason Harley ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

Writing an impressive cover letter is a crucial step in landing a Graduate job, so taking the time to perfect it is well worth while.

By following the tips and examples above you will be able to create an eye-catching cover letter that will wow recruiters and ensure your CV gets read – leading to more job interviews for you.

Good luck with your job search!

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The Best Cover Letter for Fresher (Download Free PDF)

• Updated on  
• Nov 16, 2023

Whenever we are applying for a particular job or role at an organisation, we are required to submit an application, a cover letter . This situation is a little challenging for freshers as they have zero experience about things to add in their cover letter, its right format, writing style, etc. A cover letter is a document that provides information to the prospective employer about your educational qualifications, career goals, projects, and other key details in a very crisp manner. It is a document which quickly and directly communicates the position you are looking for in the organization so that the recruiter does not confuse two candidates who have the same qualifications. Also termed as a ‘ Job Application Letter ’, a cover letter for freshers must highlight one’s exceptional academic records and educational qualifications. Read this blog to find the best cover letter for job freshers, sample cover letters, format as well as free templates.

5 Best Resume Designs for 2023 

This Blog Includes:

How to write a cover letter for fresher, cover letter for fresher: sample #1, cover letter for fresher: sample #2, cover letter for fresher: sample #3, cover letter for an engineering fresher: sample #4 , cover letter for a teacher: sample #5.

• Cover Letter for an MBA Fresher: Sample #6

Cover Letter for Job Application for Fresher: Sample #6

Cover letter for job application for fresher: sample #7, email cover letter for fresher: sample #8, cover letter for data analyst fresher: sample #9, tips and tricks to write the perfect job application letter.

Also Read: How to Write a Cover Letter?

While building a perfect cover letter , the candidate should follow the chronology to make it systematic and clear for the employer to have a glance at. Your potential recruiter will take around 5 to 6 seconds to scan through your resume, which means you need to sincerely work on your cover letter to serve as the opening act. Given below are the different components of a cover letter for fresher:

• Name of the employer/organization and the person to be contacted should be mentioned at the top-left corner of the page.
• Date of the application.
• Now comes the reference line or the subject of the cover letter which must contain the position you are applying for. For example, “Application for the position of Public Relations Officer .”
• Greet the employer directly by writing their name (for example Dear Mr X) instead of writing, “To whomsoever, it may concern”.
• After the greeting, start the body of the cover letter by introducing yourself to the reader.
• The second paragraph should highlight your educational background and your skills and qualities in a very crisp manner.
• Conclude the body of the cover letter by talking about “why should you be hired.”
• Lastly, thank the employer and mention your name and contact details.

Here’s our exclusive guide on Resume Format for Fresher !

A well-written cover letter for freshers can help employers pick out the most suitable candidate for the job. Thus, we have come up with a sample to help you write that perfect cover letter and get the recruiter’s attention. 

Download Cover Letter for Fresher Sample PDF here!

Mr. Kapoor Brainside  Link Road, Andheri, Mumbai,-400053 (xxx)xxxxxxx [email protected]

Subject: Application for the Counselor Position at Brainside

Dear Recruiter’s Name, I am excited to write this letter about the job opening as a counsellor at Brainside. I chanced upon your company’s opening at LinkedIn and upon reading the required qualities, I certainly believe I meet those requisite skills. 

I completed my M. A in Psychology from KC College, Mumbai, and have also completed various certificate courses in REBT and CBT which add to my field of expertise. I hold a CGPA of 7.0 and have maintained above-average scores consistently throughout my master’s. Being passionate about my subject, I also invested considerable time in assisting senior psychologists and learning from them at every step. 

I have also attached my resume and certainly believe that my skills and education qualifications make me fit for the position of counsellor. I assure you that I’ll put my best foot forward and conform with the team. 

I’m grateful for this opportunity and waiting in anticipation to discuss the position in detail. My contact details are mentioned above for your reference.

Thank you.  Respectfully, Rishi Sharma

Aarushi Jain  [email protected] 98765432129876543210

June 24th, 2021

Mr. Shinde Planet Research  C-14 Gurugram, Haryana, 110038 (xxx)xxxxxxx [email protected]

Subject: Application for the Engineer Position at Planet Research

Dear Mr. Shinde,

I am very eager to apply for the Engineer post at  Planet Research. This particular position fully encapsulates everything I aspired to achieve as an engineer when I began my career. Your company’s work is intriguing, and I’ve read extensively about the cutting-edge technology that’s being used. This employment would put me on the proper track to achieving my professional objectives.

I learned to work in multidisciplinary teams that encompassed both technical and non-technical fields during my prior position as an intern at ABC Tech. Here, I was able to thrive as an excellent communicator, ensuring that all stakeholders’ demands were both properly conveyed to the team and satisfied to the greatest degree of customer satisfaction.

I was able to adopt a new testing method that reduced our beta testing period by up to 18%, allowing our clients to see a completed prototype weeks before our competition. In addition, I am presently preparing for my Fundamentals of Engineering test, which will put me on the route to becoming a Professional Engineer. I aim to improve as a Planet Research employee and as a professional in this job. In my new position, I am eager to work hard to fulfil the demands of the firm and to become a valuable member of the team as soon as possible.

Thank you for your thoughts and time. I’m excited to learn more about the Engineer role and Planet Research. My experience qualifies me for this role, and I want to be allowed to demonstrate to the team personally what a valuable contribution I can be. I’m looking forward to hearing from you.

Thank You Best Regards, Aarushi JainAarushi Jain 

Mrs Ram, The Indian School C-77 Green Park Extension New Delhi, 110016 (xxx)xxxxxxx [email protected]

Subject: Application for 7th grade Mathematics Teacher Position at The Indian School.

Dear Mrs Ram,

I am writing to apply for the post of 7th grade Mathematics teacher at The Indian School. I acquired considerable student teaching experience with students while studying elementary education at the University of Delhi. I think that my commitment to teaching in urban settings, as well as my enthusiasm for assisting students who do not find Mathematics enjoyable, uniquely qualifies me to fill this role and contribute to The Indian School’s mission of shaping the leaders of tomorrow.

My nearly five years of studying Mathematics and 6 months of student teaching experience as an intern have properly equipped me to teach Mathematics to students with a distinct mentality and approach. I have considerable expertise with major digital teaching platforms, and I am dedicated to assisting students in mastering Mathematics to better prepare them for future and other competitive tests. I am also fluent in English and Hindi, so I can interact successfully with the bulk of the school’s student population.

As a teacher, I am deeply devoted to helping children learn new skills and expand on their unique abilities. I have a Master’s degree in Mathematics as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Education . I’m certified in bilingual education, technological education , and mathematics. I am now pursuing further certifications in Vedic Mathematics.

I would welcome the chance to meet with you in person to discuss this 7th grade Mathematics teacher vacancy. Thank you for taking the time to read this. I’m looking forward to conversing with you more.

Thank You Best Regards, Aarushi Jain 

Cover Letter for an MBA Fresher: Sample # 6

Aarushi Jain  [email protected] 9876543210

Mr Ahuja, ABS Consultancy Services A/77 Malviya Nagar  New Delhi 110017 (xxx)xxxxxxx [email protected]

Subject: Application for the position of Recruitment Assistant.

Dear Mr Ahuja,

I’m writing to convey my enthusiasm for the post of Recruitment Assistant at your prestigious organisation. I have just completed my Master’s Degree in Business Administration with a major in Human Resource Management from ZXY University and would like to contribute my knowledge, talents, and dedication to excellence to your company’s creative atmosphere.

Throughout my schooling, I’ve gained the information required for the role, such as manpower recruiting, workforce organisation, personnel training and pay, as well as legal provisions and other labour problems.

My internship at JK Brothers & Company also provided me with valuable experience working with some of the top experts in the recruiting and human resources industries. During my four-month internship, I acquired an excitement and love for human resources, and the experience convinced me that human resource management is my genuine calling.

Among my accomplishments during my internship was serving as the project lead for the company’s sports engagement programme. I also collaborated with other interns, and we successfully organised an outing for 150 employees, for which we earned a 90 per cent ‘good to outstanding’ grade from the post-event survey comments.

Please see my résumé, which is attached to this letter, for further information on my qualifications and experience. Thank you for considering this application; I look forward to hearing from you.

Subject: Application for ________ position

Dear Mr/Ms/Mrs (Manager’s Name)

My name is _______. I came across the recent opening for _______(job position) on LinkedIn and I believe that the role describes me perfectly. I have always been interested in the workspace that your organisation is known to have in the market. I am seeking a challenging, competitive yet friendly environment and I truly believe that working at your organisation will be an enriching experience.

I have studied ________ (course) at _______ (university/college name) and I have recently completed a 3-month internship at _______ where I was a part of _______ team. It helped me learn about the type of roles and responsibilities in the field of ______, the work ethics that need to be followed as well as deadlines that need to be adhered to. I possess excellent communication and teamwork skills.

I have attached my resume along with the cover letter which contains my educational and professional qualifications. I will give a call to your office the next week to know more about the job profile. You can also reach out to me at the contact details mentioned in the resume.

Sincerely, 

A job application e-mail is quite similar to a cover letter since you have to elaborate on your educational and professional qualifications, skills as well as how well you fit the job role. Here is a job application email sample for freshers:

Subject: Application for the Role of Junior Editor- Content (Job Role) at Headspace (Company Name)

Dear Mr./Miss ______ (Name of the Recruiter or Manager),

I recently came across the opening of Junior Editor – Content at Headspace on LinkedIn and I wanted to apply for this role. The job role fits my qualifications and skills thus making me a perfect fit for this position.

I recently graduated with a first-class honours degree in English Literature from the University of Delhi and have also worked as a magazine editor for my college magazine during my undergraduate studies. Further, I have also worked as an editorial intern at Rupa Publications assisting the team of head editors and managing editors for over 6 months. I believe that I have the requisite qualifications and skills required for this role.

Please find attached my CV and cover letter with this email. I look forward to hearing back from you.

Thanks and Regards, Ritu

Subject: Application for the role of Associate Data Analyst at Infoysis

Dear Sir/ Ma’am ________ (Name of Recruiter or Manager)

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Entry-Level Data Analyst position at [Company Name], as advertised on your website. As a recent graduate with a degree in [Your Degree] from [Your University], I am eager to contribute my analytical skills and passion for data to your dynamic team.

During my academic studies, I developed a solid foundation in statistical analysis, data interpretation, and database management. My coursework included hands-on experience with tools such as Python, R, and SQL, and I successfully completed projects that involved collecting, cleaning, and analyzing data to derive actionable insights.

In my internship at [Previous Company/Institution], I had the opportunity to apply my skills in a real-world setting. What excites me about [Company Name] is your commitment to innovation and the use of cutting-edge technologies.

I am confident that my academic achievements, coupled with my practical experience, make me a strong candidate for this position. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name] and grow as a professional in the field of data analysis.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing how my skills and enthusiasm align with the goals of [Company Name].

Writing a cover letter is not as easy as you think it to be. It takes a great deal of patience and self-introspection to formulate a cover letter which proves your worthiness and makes your job application outshine other applications. Let us have an insightful look into the different tips to keep in mind while creating a cover letter for freshers:

• Never restate anything that you have already mentioned in your resume.
• Since you are a fresher, all you have as an asset is your education and your skills. Highlight these two factors most gracefully and cleverly possible.
• After you draft your cover letter , make sure there are no grammatical errors.
• Avoid making your cover letter too long and keep it limited to one page. 
• Never be dishonest at any point or brag about your qualities.
• Think of a good conclusion and sign off with words such as, “Thanking You,” “Best Regards,” “Sincerely,” etc.
• When writing a cover letter for fresher, be specific about the job role and description.

Explore more interesting reads below

In the 1st Paragraph- Introduce yourself. In the 2nd Paragraph- highlight your relevant skills, work experiences, achievements, and accomplishments. In the 3rd Paragraph- Highlight your best qualities and explain why you’re a good fit for an XYZ company or organization. In the 4th Paragraph- Conclude with a call to action.

Examine the job posting carefully and do some research on the company’s website. At the start of the paper, include your contact information. Introduce yourself and greet the reader. Explain your relevant abilities and achievements for the role. Remind them why you’re the ideal candidate for the job.

A well-written cover letter for a fresher can assist companies in selecting the best applicant for the position.

Your cover letter should accomplish four goals: Introduce yourself as a strong prospect to the possible employer. Include your reasoning for why the employer should hire you. Make a pleasant and lasting first impression of the company as a candidate.

There are 3 types of cover letters: the application cover letter, the prospecting cover letter, and the networking cover letter.

As a fresher, job hunting can be a tedious task and creating a resume or a cover letter for a fresher are equally important. There are certain things we tend to miss out – when we lack work experience. But do not worry, our study abroad experts at Leverage Edu will assist you in developing a job-winning resume with perfection. Give us a follow on Facebook , Instagram , and LinkedIn . Call us immediately at 1800 57 2000 for a free 30-minute counselling session.

Team Leverage Edu

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• Career Planning
• Finding a Job
• Cover Letters

Sample Cover Letters for a Recent College Graduate

Tips for Writing a Strong Cover Letter

• Cover Letter Example & Template

How to Send an Email Cover Letter

Email cover letter example.

For recent graduates newly on the job market, writing an effective cover letter is just as important as crafting a strong resume . In a cover letter, you'll build a case for your candidacy and pitch yourself to the employer. If your cover letter is a success, you’ll receive a follow-up from the recruiter, human resources person, or hiring manager.

As a recent grad, it can sometimes be hard to know how to prove you will be an excellent candidate since you probably do not have a ton of on-the-job experience. However, between summer jobs, campus jobs, internships, campus involvement, and volunteer work, you likely have more experience than you think.

There are two things to consider when writing a cover letter. The first is the content of the letter:

• What will you write to show that you are a strong candidate for the job? Do not copy the information in your resume precisely; instead, cherry-pick your most relevant experience and skills. Read the job ad carefully to get a sense of what the employer is looking for in candidates. It's always best if you can personalize your cover letter — explain to the hiring manager why you would like to work at this company specifically.

The second factor in a cover letter is the format. Whether you send a hard copy cover letter or an email one, it's important to format your letter correctly:

• Review the essential elements of the cover letter , including the salutation , cover letter body, closing, and signature. Then, follow these formatting tips to help your letter stand out.

Your message should be in a formal business-letter format and be targeted to the job to which you’re applying.

Sample Cover Letter and Template

This is an example of a cover letter for a recent college graduate. Download the college graduate cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

Sample Cover Letter for a Recent College Graduate (Text Version)

Susan Sharpe 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345 555-555-5555 susan.sharpe@email.com

September 1, 2018

Chloe Lee Director, Human Resources Acme Publishing 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321

Dear Ms. Lee,

I would like to express my interest in a position as an editorial assistant for your publishing company. As a recent graduate with writing, editing, and administrative experience, I believe I am a strong candidate for a position at the Acme Publishing Company.

You specify that you are looking for someone with strong writing skills. As an English major, a writing tutor, and an editorial intern for both a government magazine and a college marketing office, I have become a skilled writer with a variety of experience.

Working as an office assistant at the Career Services Office at Acme College has given me the skills necessary to perform various administrative tasks required of an editorial assistant. My job has helped me gain experience in making phone calls, performing ordinary office duties, and executing numerous tasks that involve computer programs such as Microsoft Access and Excel. For three years I have carried out these responsibilities and others with organization, speed, and accuracy, and I know I will be able to apply these abilities to a position with your company.

Although I am a recent college graduate, my maturity, practical experience, and eagerness to enter the publishing business will make me an excellent editorial assistant. I would love to begin my career with your company and am confident that I would be a beneficial addition to the Acme Publishing Company.

I have enclosed my resume and will call within the next week to see if we might arrange a time to speak together. Thank you so much for your time and consideration.

Signature [hard copy letter]

Susan Sharpe

1. Choose the appropriate subject line . If you're sending your cover letter via email, list your name and the job title in the subject line of the email message, e.g.: “Barbara Smith – Graphic Designer.”

2. Keep your message brief and to the point. Attention spans are short, especially when the reader is trying to get through a packed inbox. Aim for three paragraphs, max, and mention the important information right up front. For example, if you’ve been referred for a job, say that in the first paragraph.

3. Include your contact information in your email signature. That will make it easy for hiring managers to get in touch with you.

4. Proofread and test your message before sending it. Make sure your cover letter is typo-free and formatted correctly.

Subject: Alicia Sanchez - Marketing Assistant Position

Dear Ms. Roberts,

George Markowitz recommended that I contact you to express my interest in the role of marketing assistant, which you’ve recently advertised on Elemenco’s jobs page.

I interned with George for two years at Z-Ray before he joined your team, and he can speak to my passion for developing and supporting marketing strategies. In my current role, I work closely with the senior content team to develop campaigns and monitor the success of our programs. I believe my experience makes me an excellent candidate for the job at Elemenco. I have:

Two years of experience as a marketing intern

•  A bachelor’s degree in Marketing & Advertising
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills
• Advanced Google Analytics, Marketo, and Microsoft Office skills

I’d love to speak with you more about your requirements for the role. I hope you’ll contact me at your convenience to set up an interview.

Alicia Sanchez 123 Main Street XYZ Town, NY 11111 Email: Alicia.Sanchez@email.com Cell: 555-123-4545

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Cover Letter for a Recent Graduate: Sample and Tips

You have completed a degree — an impressive accomplishment. Now, it’s time to find that first career position, and you are “ready to roll.”

What you don’t have is work experience to put on that resume and to appeal to it in a potential job interview. So you will have to be creative and focus on your coursework and other activities that relate to any opening you intend to apply for.

Be realistic about the openings you go after. You will need to look for entry-level positions and assess if your core competencies match the describe duties. But we all know that those entry-level jobs are very competitive. 

While your resume will look much like that of others applying for those same positions, you can stand out with a cover letter. One that showcases your unique personality, soft skills, enthusiasm, and overall “fit” for the position. 

Recent Graduate Cover Letter Example (Word version)

Below is a cover letter example for a recent graduate in accounting.

Download cover letter example (.docx)

Sample Cover Letter for a Recent Graduate (text version)

Dear Ms. Smart,

I was excited to learn from Dr. Ralph Sommers, my tax accounting professor, that you have an entry-level accounting position open in your firm. He suggested that I apply because he feels I would be a good fit.

I will graduate this May with a Bachelor’s in accounting, a field that has excited me from the very beginning of my studies. I am now looking forward to contributing to a public accounting firm that focuses on external auditing, while I complete the work requirements and exam preparation for my CPA license.

This past semester, I completed an internship with the local chapter of the United Way, working under the supervision of their in-house financial director, and observing an external audit. 

One of the things that excite me about your firm is that it performs audits for a number of non-profit organizations, a few with which I am familiar. In fact, during my sophomore year in college, I volunteered as a tutor for the Boys’ and Girls’ Club of Toledo, which I have since learned is a client of yours.

The enclosed resume will provide my educational background, as well as co-curricular activities, several of which involved leadership positions. For the past two years, I have served as the President of our campus chapter of Beta Alpha Psi.

I look forward to meeting with you to discuss the current opening and how I may be of benefit to your company. Please contact me to schedule any time that would be convenient for you.

Sincerely, Bill Clark

How to Write a Cover Letter as a Recent Graduate

The sample above is short, sweet, yet rather memorable. Why? Because the author mentions specific details about the company and showcases how their experience perfectly matches the company values. 

By the time the recipient of your letter has read it, they should know who you are, why you are applying for this position, why you believe you are a fit for this organization, and that you have the skills to fulfill the requirements of the job.

To draft a similar cover letter, take a close look at these great tips.

Do Your Research

You must demonstrate that you have had enough interest in this company to research it and to know a bit about its mission and its major focuses . In the case of the letter above, the applicant knows that the company performs external audits and that it does so for some non-profit organizations. For your letter, try to find a “connecting point” too and bring that up in relation to your personal interests and/or career objectives.  

Drop a Name if You Can

Note in the letter above that the candidate learned about the opening from one of his professors. It is quite likely that some people in the firm know this individual, so it is appropriate to drop the name. As a side here — be certain to ask the individual if you can use them as a reference . 

Back-Up Statements with Facts

If you state that you have coursework or activities that relate to the position opening, state them specifically, to prove your point. In the cover letter sample for recent graduates above, the internship with a non-profit and the position as an officer with a student accounting association are the perfect details to include.

Refer to Your Resume

Your cover letter should not repeat the information in your resume . The goal of the letter is to engage the reader and generate enough interest that they will be motivated to open up that document and learn more about you. Still, you should point the reader in the direction of your resume for more detail regarding statements you make about your background and qualifications.

Final Thoughts: Perfection is a Must

The smallest error in grammar, sentence structure, or punctuation may seem minor to you, but it isn’t to a reader who is considering job candidates. They want to see the attention to detail and a candidate who has taken the time to review, edit, and ensure that the cover letter is perfectly written. Use basic software editing tools such as Grammarly or Wordtune . Ask a friend, a uni career counselor, or a mentor to review your letter too. 

The bottom line is this: Be absolutely certain that letter is perfect before you click that “send” button.

Elena runs content operations at Freesumes since 2017. She works closely with copywriters, designers, and invited career experts to ensure that all content meets our highest editorial standards. Up to date, she wrote over 200 career-related pieces around resume writing, career advice... more

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3 types of sample cover letters that stand out (for fresh graduates)

We know it’s not easy to write a cover letter. You have spent almost two decades of your life in education, for some actively involved in sports, school activities, clubs, associations and others. And then there are also your experience in internship, part-time jobs, industrial training and others. So how do cramp that much in a one-page cover letter?

What is a cover letter you ask? As explained by the balance , a cover letter is a document sent with your resume to provide additional information on your skills and experience. It acts like a sales pitch document that allows you to ‘sell’ to the hirer on why you are qualified for the job you are applying for.

Here are 3 types of sample cover letters that will help your applications stand out. We have also included a sample cover letter for candidates without internship experience.

Cover Letter Sample 1

(with Internship Experience, Print version)

[box] (Your Address)

(Recipient’s Name)

(Job Title)

Dear (Salutation & Name)

I am writing to express my interest for the position of Recruitment Assistant in your esteemed company.

Having recently obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, majoring in Human Resource Development Management from the XYZ University, I wish to bring my knowledge, skills and commitment to excellence to your company’s innovative environment.

As a Business Administration student, majoring in HR management, I’ve become equipped with the necessary knowledge that come with the position including manpower recruitment, workforce organization, personnel training and compensation as well as legal provisions and other labor concerns.

My internship at ABC Company also afforded me with the crucial skills to work with some of the best professionals in the recruitment and human resources industry. During the course of my four months internship, I developed enthusiasm and passion for human resources and the internship has subsequently convinced me that human resource management is my true calling.

Some of my achievements during internship include being the project lead for the company’s sports engagement activity. I worked alongside with other interns and we successfully organized an outing for 100 employees. We received a 95% ‘good to excellent’ rating from the survey feedback that we conducted amongst the employees after the event.

For additional details regarding my qualification and expertise, please review my resume as attached with this letter.

Thank you for taking the time to consider this application and I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely,

( Signature)

(Your Name)

(Your email address & contact number) [/box]

Cover Letter Sample 2

(with Internship Experience, Email version)

[box] Email Subject: (Your name) for (Position)

(Note: Keep the email title short and simple, yet highlight the key information for the recruiter’s attention: e.g your name and the position you’re applying for .)

I would like to express my interest in applying for the position of Marketing Associate that was recently made available in your company.

I believe that my degree in Business Administration (BSBA) majoring in Marketing from the XYZ University has prepared me for this position. As a student, I was equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to help develop and drive effective marketing strategies.

During my six months internship at ABC Company’s Marketing Department, I learned how companies determine what product or services to sell, how to reach target demographics with the aid of analytic tools and how to respond to the some of the threats from competitors. More importantly, I had the opportunity to work with seasoned professionals who taught me how to easily grasp complex marketing concepts and at certain times, how to roll with the punches in order to achieve various objectives.

I have also acquainted myself with a wide range of skills that allow me to blend with the group or team’s culture and to continuously strive to reach common goals amidst failures and setbacks.

My proudest achievement during the internship would be organizing a guerilla marketing for a newly launched product. I secured a venue at GHI Shopping Mall and we conducted a social experiment to introduce the new product. We received tremendous positive response from the shoppers and 50% of the shoppers eventually purchased our product that day.

In addition, my active involvement in many academic and extracurricular activities has helped me tremendously in developing my communication and leadership skills, which are vital in finding success in the corporate world.

With this application letter, I attach herewith my resume for your full consideration. Thank you for taking time to review my application and I am looking forward to your reply so that we can further discuss my application.

Cover Letter Sample 3

(without Internship Experience, Print version)

Please accept my resume as an application for the open position of Sales Associate in your company. As a fresh graduate of Business Administration, the position appears to fit wonderfully with my education, experience, and career interests.

Being a student of XYZ University, not only did I maintain excellent grades, but I was also a member of our school’s highly competitive and successful football team.

My background as a student and an athlete has taught me to be disciplined and focused which, I am confident, is one of the important qualities needed by any professional in the sales industry. My experience with working in a team environment has also instilled in me the value of teamwork and cooperation.

As a member of the team, I have also contributed tremendously in improving the team’s morale, spirit and engagement through the various team activities that I organized. From the scale of 1-10 (10 being the highest score), the team rated 8 for ‘successfulness of activities when it comes to engagement’. Through my achievements as a student and an athlete, I have proven that I am passionate and dedicated about the things I do.

While this would be my first time working in the field of sales, I am quite confident that with my skills and abilities, I can learn quickly and make an immediate impact to your team and to the company.

Thank you for taking the time to consider my application and I look forward to hearing from you.

(Signature)

For more cover letter writing tips, read "Your step-by-step guide to writing a cover letter that stands out" .

NOTE: These application letter samples are for reference only. All information provided should be considered as fictional.

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Cover Letter for Fresher Sample

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Download this free fresher cover letter sample in Word format

This fresher cover letter template is available for free download in Word format. Writing a cover letter might seem daunting, especially to newbies. Here’s why our cover letter guide and template are designed to help you. This cover letter sample for a fresher is clear, concise, and persuasive. Download it now!

• File format:  Word (Microsoft)
• File size:  82 KB
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You are already a nervous fresher applying for your first job, and that job post asks for a cover letter. Don’t fret; writing a cover letter for freshers is not as intimidating as it sounds. In fact, it’s quite simple. When written precisely, it enhances your chances of getting hired .

Fresher cover letter example

Full Name Address Phone Number Email Address

Hiring Manager’s Full Name Job Title Company Name Company Address

To: Hiring Manager Full Name, Date

Dear Mr./Ms./Mx. Hiring Manager Last Name,

I am thrilled to apply for the Junior Software Developer position at Horizon Technologies, as advertised on XYZ.com. As a recent graduate with a Bachelor’s degree and a decent experience in the field, I am eager to contribute my skills, knowledge, and fresh approach to the company’s growth.

I have done a 3-month long internship at a reputed software house, where I gained valuable expertise in programming languages such as Java, C++, Python, and Jira. Besides, I have honed my coding skills throughout my academic journey by participating in various app development projects. I have also taken online courses on FreeCodeCamp, which has helped me enhance my coding expertise.

Besides my technical skills, I have excellent time management and team-leading capabilities. I was selected as the team leader for a college assignment, and our project won the first prize. Besides, I possess exceptional communication skills, enabling me to collaborate efficiently with the team. I am keen to work in a competitive yet dynamic working environment like yours, where I can grow my skill set and deliver superior-quality software solutions that surpass expectations.

Lastly, I firmly believe I am a perfect fit for your company as I possess all the required skill sets plus some valuable certifications that will bring value to the company. I am excited to be a part of your company; kindly contact me to schedule an in-person or telephonic meeting.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I’ve also attached my CV for evaluation. Looking forward to hearing from you.

Regards, Susan Wilder

How to write a cover letter for fresher graduate?

1. start with a professional heading & personalized greeting.

The contact detail is the most crucial part of the cover letter. Hence, a perfect cover letter always starts with personal information at the top of the document . Remember, hiring managers go through many cover letters and CVs daily, so try to keep yours as crisp as possible by keeping all the essential data easily visible.

Additionally, address the employer with their name in the cover letter. If you don’t know the person, a brief search on LinkedIn or the company website would help. It not only adds a personalized touch but also leaves an excellent first impression. 

Here’s a quick checklist of what goes in your cover letter header :

• Email address
• Phone number
• Current date
• Hiring manager’s full name and title in the company

2. Introduce yourself clearly in the opening paragraph

The opening paragraph is the make-or-break part of a cover letter. Imagine you are in a salon’s waiting room with several magazines on the table before you. You will likely pick the one with the most intriguing cover and headline. The same applies to a powerful opening paragraph.

That’s why it is advisable to add a touch of enthusiasm while crafting a cover letter. However, be mindful that your enthusiasm shouldn’t come across as desperation. Keep it subtle and move on to further description. Give your clear introduction, the position you’re interested in, and where you learned about the specific job post. 

3. Focus on your hard skills & achievements in the fresher cover letter

After a clear and concise intro, it’s time to put your skills on the show in your fresher cover letter. But first, carefully review the job description and then craft the body paragraph tailored to the specific requirements. Although it might be a bit more challenging for a fresher to add previous experience, with the right choice of words, you can still craft a stellar cover letter, even with minimum information.

Here is a quick breakdown of all the skills and achievements you can highlight in your cover letter for fresher graduates :

• Internships : If you have done internships during college or are currently working in a company, it will be a plus point in your fresher cover letter. Make sure you highlight all the hard skills supported by the tasks you are responsible for. For instance, if you are mentioning the hard skill copywriting, do mention that you manage social media copywriting for 3 clients.
• Attended seminars or workshops: List down the seminars or workshops you have attended, especially those that bring value to the job.
• Certifications: Certifications enhances credibility; hence they are an asset for beginners. Mention the certifications that provide you with relevant knowledge or skill set for the specific job.

4. Highlight your soft skills in the cover letter for fresher

This body paragraph is your chance to convince the hiring manager that you will be a good fit for the job. It doesn’t matter if you don’t have significant hard skills to mention yet; you have a lot to tell when it comes to soft or human skills .

Make a list of all the qualities that sets you apart. Be it your problem-solving nature, exceptional analytical skills, communication, time management, creativity, or emotional intelligence, try to concisely include each quality in this paragraph. However, whichever quality you mention, support it with an example .

5. Leave a call to action in the closing paragraph

Your cover letter for fresher has everything , now it’s time to end it with a call to action that prompts the employer to contact you. Remember, the cover letter you started with sheer enthusiasm should be concluded on a positive note. In the closing paragraph, you should sound confident about why you are the best fit for the job post.

6. Thank them for their time & sign-off

Finish your cover letter by thanking the hiring manager for their time and consideration . Moreover, mention salutations such as “sincerely,” “faithfully,” or “kind regards.” Lastly, write your name if it’s an email, whereas, for hard copy, it’s a best practice to leave your signature along with the name. Once you have finished your cover letter, make sure you edit and proofread it to rectify any mistakes.

Resume for Fresher

Fresher Cover Letter FAQs

How do i write a cover letter for a job with no experience.

Here’s how to write a perfect cover letter for a fresher :

• Thoroughly review the job posting.
• Mention your personal information at the top.
• Start with a personalized greeting.
• Introduce yourself clearly and mention if someone referred you from the company.
• Highlight your experience, achievement, and skillset.
• Describe your soft skills and qualities.
• Wind up with a CTA.
• Add a salutation.

What should the length of my fresher cover letter be?

Ideally, the cover letter for fresher should be one page long, with 2-4 paragraphs. Despite being brief, the cover letter must include all the essential details, such as your expertise and qualities, in an effective way. Following our cover letter example for freshers, you can write a perfect cover letter.

How do I download this free fresher cover letter sample?

Downloading our fresher cover letter sample is as simple as ABC:

• Go to the top rightof the page.
• Locate the download box and the compatible Word version for your device.
• Click download.
• Start editing.

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Cover Letter for Fresh Graduate:07 Samples & Examples

Are you fresh out of college and looking for a job? Well, look no further! In this blog post, we will discuss what to include in your cover letter when applying for jobs. First, we’ll go over the basics of what a cover letter is and why you need one. Then, we’ll give you some tips on how to write an effective cover letter that will help you stand out from the competition. Finally, we’ll provide you with a sample cover letter for a fresh graduate that you can use as a guide.

A cover letter is an important document to send with your resume when applying for a job. It’s your opportunity to introduce yourself and explain why you’re the perfect candidate for the position. If you’re a fresh graduate, it can be tricky to know what to include in your cover letter. Here are some tips on how to write a cover letter for a fresh graduate position. First, make sure you tailor your letter specifically to the job you’re applying for. Highlight your skills and experience that are relevant to the position.

Are you a fresh graduate who is looking for your first job? Don’t know how to write a cover letter? Worry not! In this blog post, we will provide you with all the information you need to write an effective and engaging cover letter. So, read on and start writing. Are you a fresh graduate who is finding it difficult to write a cover letter? Are you not sure what to include in your letter? You’re in luck! In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about how to write a cover letter for fresh graduates.

Application Letter for accountant position for fresh graduate

I am writing this cover letter to express my interest in applying for the position of ______________. I came across your advertisement on the _____ website, and it is my desire to work with you based on my qualifications and skills which I believe are suitable for the job requirement.

My goal is to paint a clear picture of who I am and what skills I can bring to the job. In summary, please consider the following facts about me:

• Firstly, I have been working in an office environment since 2017
• I have been exposed to different office machines such as fax, printers and telephone switchboard
• Thirdly, I have experience in A-1 Grammar and have a firm understanding of grammar rules. In addition, I am able to type 60 wpm with 70% accuracy
• Also, I have excellent customer service skills
• I can work independently without supervision
• Lastly, I am able to perform office and customer service tasks efficiently

I hope you will find my cover letter satisfactory. I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you in person regarding employment. Thank you for your time and consideration. In anticipation of hearing from you soon, I remain

Sincerely, (your name)

Application Letter for fresh graduate any vacant position

Respected Sir,

I would like to take this opportunity to highlight for you some of the key points, which I believe makes me an ideal candidate for this post. Experience in customer service is my sole area of expertise and experience, however I also have a proven track record of being able to work independently as well as a part of a team.

Also, it would be unfair not to mention that I am a highly motivated, enthusiastic person. I have never been afraid of hard work and will put all my energy into this job.

My resume is enclosed for your perusal, but if there are any questions you might have which it does not answer, please do not hesitate to contact me at the number below.

Sincerely, Your Name

For More: Beginner Short Cover Letter Sample: 07 Examples Ideas

Application Letter for Fresh graduate any position

My tertiary education up to date has provided me the necessary skills to perform the duties of your office. I possess strong computer knowledge which has enabled me to acquire similar positions before in the ______________ company where I worked for two years as a _________________, handling word documents and formatting reports. My experience in using A-1 Grammar has also made me competent in English grammar and writing. Further, my customer service skills are now quite polished because of the experience I had in __________ Company where I was required to answer incoming telephone calls.

My work experience has given me the opportunity to learn typical office tasks that will be necessary for this job. You will find that my resume clearly outlines what skills and accomplishments I have achieved in each of my past positions. I hope to use these as a foundation for many accomplishments as your office assistant.

Application Letter for Fresh Graduate of Business Administration

Dear Mrs/Mr Last Name,

Subject: Application Letter for Fresh Graduate of Business Administration

Inline with the company’s recent recruitment drive, I am writing to apply for a position in your esteemed organization. I have worked as a business analyst at XYZ Corp. wherein I was responsible for creating reports and recommendations that helped improve operational efficiency in all divisions within the company. So I was also part of the team that managed several key projects which were instrumental in helping the organization become PCI compliant.

I am confident that I would be able to contribute significantly to your company’s efforts towards improving operational efficiency and productivity, if given an opportunity to work with you. Also I would appreciate very much if you could spare some time for me to discuss this prospect.

Do not hesitate to call me at 555-5555 any time from 10:00 AM – 11:59 PM, as I am always available on my mobile. I look forward to your response and hope we can arrange a meeting soon.

Best regards,

“Name”

Sample Application Letter for Civil Engineer Fresh Graduate

Dear Sir/ Madam,

I am writing to apply for the position of secretary for your company, ABC Inc. Please find my resume attached. So, I have attached a sample of my work as well. I believe that you will see from these samples that I can offer much to ABC Inc., and would be grateful if you would consider me as a candidate for this position.

I have been working as a secretary for XYZ for the past three years. During my time there, I have come to understand that secretaries play an important role in making sure their companies run smoothly and efficiently. In addition, they also facilitate effective communication among staff within a company by creating schedules and organizing meetings and conferences. Please find attached a copy of my job description from XYZ.

I have a good understanding of the role that secretaries play in a company and I know what is expected from them. In addition, I am always willing to do whatever is needed to ensure things run smoothly. From these qualities, you can see that I am an ideal candidate for this position.

I am currently attending ABC University as a student of Business Administration. I believe that the education and skills that I have acquired over the years will enable me to not only meet but also exceed your expectations for this position.

Please consider my application and allow me to prove that I am capable of doing a job well and contribute positively to your company.

Yours sincerely,

For More: Cover Letter for Fresher:10 Samples & Examples

I hope this blog post was informative and gave you some new ideas to help your job search. If there is anything else we can do for you, please leave a comment below or send us an email at [email protected]. And if you have any questions about the cover letter above, let me know.

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3 tips for including internship experience in a cover letter.

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How to stand out from the crowd as a new grad with internship experience

If you are a fresh graduate looking for a new job, a cover letter can help paint a helpful context of who you are and why you would be an excellent fit for the company. For seasoned professionals with considerable career milestones, resumes are often adequate to show their skillsets and how they would perform at a new job. Indicators like the type of company, pace of promotion, and scope of responsibilities paint a picture for the hiring managers of how they can expect the candidate to perform even before the interviews.

The good news for new graduates is that they are on an even playing field as they embark on a new career path with their peers. The downside is the need for additional information for the candidate to stand out from the crowd. Internship experience can be an advantage if leveraged and narrated correctly. When a company hires a new graduate, it knows the lack of experience and proof points to consider in the candidate. They are therefore looking for genuine interest, willingness to learn, and potential in new grads. If you have internship experience, including them in your cover letter is an excellent opportunity to feature these qualities. Here are a few tips on how to do this best.

Showcase Your Decision-making Process

One risk of hiring new graduates is that they may quit quickly if they find that the industry or the job function is not what they expected. If you have interned at a similar company, you can explain how that experience solidified your interest in the field and helped you narrow down the jobs you are genuinely interested in. By discussing your decision-making process and how the internship provided real-life perspective, you can demonstrate that you are a knowledgeable decision-maker rather than someone who is simply influenced by outside perspectives.

On the other hand, if you interned in an entirely different industry and position, you can use this experience to demonstrate that you discovered what you truly want to pursue. Highlight the positive lessons learned during the internship and avoid speaking negatively about past opportunities. The crucial point is to showcase what you gained from the experience and how it has strengthened your interest in the current company and role.

Be Truthful About The Scope Of Your Experience

Internship experiences can vary widely depending on the company, from simply shadowing an employee to conducting in-depth analysis or participating in structured rotational programs. However, it's important to note that internships typically don't involve holding leadership positions or having significant decision-making authority. It's essential to be honest about your role and responsibilities during an internship, as exaggerating or misrepresenting your experience will likely be noticed by hiring managers.

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In addition, you should not disclose any confidential information about the company at any time. Keep your account of the experience brief and truthful.

Highlight Relevant Skillsets And Potential

If your previous internship provided you with the skills described in the job requirements for the position you are applying for, be sure to emphasize this and explain how you used those skills, as well as your eagerness to further develop them. For example, if you gained experience in analyzing complex datasets during your internship, highlight how you enhanced the company's training through your independent learning efforts, express your enthusiasm for the skill, and illustrate how it contributed to the team's goals to demonstrate your understanding of the practical application of your work. This can show your potential for growth, desire to learn, and proactive orientation towards your job, attributes all hiring managers seek.

When hiring recent graduates, hiring managers are aware that the candidates do not have extensive pre-existing skill sets or decision-making experience. They are hired with the expectation to learn quickly, contribute enough to offset the onboarding and training efforts, and hopefully grow within the company. Including an internship experience in your cover letter can help alleviate any concerns the hiring manager may have about your genuine interest in the company and role, and your desire to learn. It also provides a context for the kind of employee you will be, in ways a resume cannot for new grads.

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18 Résumé Writing Tips to Help You Stand Out

By  Allison Pohle

Updated May 11, 2021 2:15 pm ET

• A résumé isn’t just a list of every job you’ve ever had. It should demonstrate your accomplishments.
• Mirror language used in the job posting so your résumé isn’t discarded by an applicant tracking system.
• Use a clean and simple format. 

Companies increasingly  rely on software  to sort through applicants, which is why it is essential to tailor your résumé to ensure it makes the cut. Applicant tracking systems sort, scan and rank applicants by looking for keywords in applications. Although these programs can save time and money for employers, about 60% said such tools cause them to miss some qualified candidates, according to a 2016 survey of 1,200 job seekers and managers by CareerArc, a human-resources technology company, and Future Workplace, a research firm. Here’s how to make your résumé stand out to robots and humans alike. 

1. Highlight your achievements in your résumé. 

A common mistake job seekers make is believing a résumé is a recap of your career, when in reality, it should convey what you have accomplished, says Christy Noel, a career expert and author of “Your Personal Career Coach.” 

“I always say, spend less of your real estate describing your job, and more time describing your results,” says Ms. Noel.  

2. Customize your résumé.

Read over the job posting, and think about the work experience you have had that is most directly relevant to the position you are pursuing. You can leave out some past jobs and internships if the experience you had wasn’t related. Whatever you do: Don’t submit a generic résumé to dozens of postings. “Even if you have the best experience, if your résumé isn’t speaking directly to the position in which you are applying, there is a strong chance you’ll never even get an interview,” says Demisha Jennings, a certified professional résumé writer and founder and owner of She Assists LLC.  

The same applies to your cover letter. It is your chance to provide more detail on how your experience will help you succeed in the job.  Read our cover letter guide  for how to write one that makes you stand out.

3. Decide how to format your résumé.

Most of the time, a chronological résumé will work well for communicating your past experience. But, in some cases, a functional or hybrid résumé might be more appropriate.  Read more about résumé formats here.

4. Make your contact information easy to find.

Include your name, phone number, email address, city and state. It may also be appropriate to include the URL to your LinkedIn profile. You want it to be easy for hiring managers to reach out.

In addition to making it easy to connect with you, it is important to your job search that you grow your network.  Read our networking guide  for tips on how to do so.

5. Consider adding a summary. 

Many résumé templates leave space for an objective statement, outlining career goals, but that approach is outdated, says Ms. Jennings. Instead, consider a carefully worded summary. The summary is often the first place a hiring manager will look, and gives you an opportunity to introduce your skills high up on the page. You can also work in relevant keywords from the job description. “Recruiters are looking for what you can bring to the table and what you’ve done, rather than you saying, ‘I’m seeking a position,’” Ms. Jennings says. 

6. Great résumés should stand out to skim readers.

Most recruiters spend just a few seconds skimming through a résumé—with an average in one study of  7.4 seconds.  

To have the best chance of making an impression, ensure your job titles, company names and dates of employment are easy to read. The sections of your résumé should be adequately spaced, too, says Dana Leavy-Detrick, founder and director of Brooklyn Resume Studio. 

For additional ways to make a good impression on recruiters and headhunters, read  our guide on how to work with headhunters .

7. Make your résumé robot-friendly. 

Structure your résumé to meet the requirements of an applicant tracking system to give yourself the best chance of having it reach an actual human. Ms. Leavy-Detrick suggests the following:

• Optimize keywords.  Use the same words and language that are in the job description. For example, three different companies might describe the same role as “programmer,” “developer” or “software engineer.” 
• Use a straightforward format.  Avoid tables and text-based graphics, which might not get picked up by a scan of the résumé. Sans-serif fonts such as Arial or Helvetica are also best to ensure readability.
• Think about order.  When formatting each line item of work experience, list the company name first, followed by the job location (city, state), your job title, and your start and end dates. Some résumés can get lost if the dates are listed before the job title. 

8. Prioritize relevant keywords. 

Tailoring your skills to include language from the job posting is an important way to let both the applicant tracking system and, eventually, a hiring manager, see how your prior qualifications tie into the job requirements. But just because you have a résumé full of keywords doesn’t mean you’ll automatically get an interview. “The ATS isn’t there to help the job seeker, it is there to help the employer review your skills against their most important qualifications,” says Ashley Watkins, a career coach and résumé writer with Write Step Résumés LLC. 

9. Craft compelling and concise bullet points.

The goal of a résumé is to list your accomplishments, rather than every duty you performed in the role. Résumé-writing experts recommend including no more than five bullet points per prior job listed. 

• Don’t focus on tasks.  Many job seekers describe what they did every day, such as answering phones or creating marketing materials, Ms. Watkins says. “Simply copying and pasting the job description doesn’t account for the things you did great, that you did above and beyond your peers,” she says.
• Instead, explain what those tasks achieved.  Emphasize your results. Ms. Watkins suggests asking yourself “Did I save [the employer] money? Did I save time? Did I improve a process? Did I build a relationship?” These will help you format your bullet points.
• Use metrics.  Say what you achieved, then contextualize it—with figures if possible. You might not be able to put a monetary value on every accomplishment, but you can frame it by sharing details like the time it took or how many people were involved. “If you raised sales 50% in two months, that means a whole lot more than ‘I’m in charge of sales,’” Ms. Watkins says. 
• Don’t omit accomplishments that aren’t quantifiable.  Not every achievement will have metrics to show success. If there are figures, you might not always have access to them. But that shouldn’t stop you from including them, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. Perhaps you had a positive impact on the culture of an organization, or improved a struggling relationship with a client. These efforts could help to demonstrate your  soft skills.

10. Focus on transferable skills if you lack experience.

If you are applying for a job in a new field or you are an entry-level applicant and don’t have much direct experience, don’t worry. Highlight transferable skills you have developed in the past that will serve you well in the position, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. For example, you could play up leadership skills you developed participating in an extracurricular activity or time-management skills you learned in a prior job.

11. Go beyond your work history, and include all relevant experience.

If you are new to the workforce, or are job-hunting after being laid off, you could also include related experience that was outside of a traditional full-time job, says Ms. Watkins. For example, you can highlight volunteer work, consulting projects or educational training, all as part of making the case for your unique value, she says.

12. Don’t worry too much about gaps in your résumé.

The Covid-19 pandemic economy resulted in many people being laid off or furloughed. Ms. Watkins says the 2020 job market reminds her of 2008, when she worked as a recruiter. The expectation at that time, she says, was that candidates would have  gaps  on their résumés or list more short-term positions. While it isn’t necessary to directly address the gaps in your résumé, you should be  prepared to talk about them in an interview . “The focus should not be centered on the fact that you were furloughed or laid off, it should be focused on you and your skills and what you do that impacts the company’s bottom line in a positive way,” Ms. Watkins says.

While it is common to list the months and years you started and ended positions in the job history section, you could just use years. This will draw less attention to a six- or eight-month gap, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. 

13. Highlight relevant skills.

It is common to  add a skills section to your résumé , outlining expertise relevant to the position. You can include languages you speak, technical skills or courses you have done. If you lack experience, you can also complete some trainings, which you can find on LinkedIn and elsewhere, related to the job you are applying for and add the courses in this section, says Ms. Jennings.

14. Prioritize work experience over education.

The professional experience you have had is often more relevant to the position than your education history, which is why the work experience should be listed first. In the “Education” section, you should list where you attended college, if applicable, or the highest level of education you have attained. If you graduated with honors, you can flag that, but it isn’t necessary to list your GPA.

15. If you are early on in your career, a key résumé tip is to limit it to one page. 

If you are early on in your career, you should limit your résumé to one page. It is OK to start spilling onto a second page after you have eight to 10 years of experience, says Ms. Leavy-Detrick. 

16. Add some color for a stylish résumé that sets you apart. 

Your résumé should look clean and professional and you should keep applicant tracking systems in mind when formatting the document. But, if it is appropriate, you can add subtle accents of color in the section headings or in bars that separate sections as a way to differentiate your résumé. Ms. Leavy-Detrick doesn’t overstress the need for good design with her clients. “But it can definitely help,” she says. “When I say design, I don’t mean crazy graphic design. I mean having a polished application,” she says. “Think of it the same way you would coming dressed to an interview, it is part of your presentation, and so many people overlook this on the résumé.”

It may be appropriate to incorporate a more creative and graphic-based layout depending on the field in which you work and where you are applying. If you are applying for a position in a creative field, and you are emailing your résumé directly to a hiring manager, then it can be appropriate to use more designs, says Ms. Jennings. But if you are applying to a large company that uses an applicant tracking system or job portal, she says it is best to avoid using graphics unless you are working with a résumé writer who can help you get your resume through the system.

17. Proofread and double-check the formatting.

You may be eager to send your résumé or submit your application, but you should take the time to first check for typos and grammatical errors. You could also have a friend or family member look over it. When you are checking for errors, be sure to double-check the formatting. Sometimes the spacing can get thrown off when you save the file, so check how it looks as a saved document and, if you can, save it as a PDF before sending. 

18. Make sure the saved file name includes your name. 

Make less work for the hiring manager by including your full name in the file name of the résumé document.

What to read next

• How to Prepare for a Job Interview
• What Questions to Ask During a Job Interview
• Common Job Interview Questions and How to Answer Them
• How to Dress for a Job Interview
• How to Write a Thank-You Email After a Job Interview  
• How to Negotiate and Counter a Job Offer
• How to Negotiate Salary for a New Job: The Do’s and Don’ts
• Severance Pay: What It Is and Why You Should Negotiate a Package Before Accepting a Job

Corrections & Amplifications Ashley Watkins is a résumé writer with Write Step Résumés LLC. An earlier version of this article incorrectly said Write Steps LLC. (Corrected on Nov. 20)

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Appeared in the November 23, 2020, print edition as '11 Résumé Tips to Help You Get Noticed