A cover letter is an integral part of a job application and/or resume.
The majority of employers need a cover letter along with a resume and other documents in order to consider a candidate for a job.
Therefore, when applying for an entry-level job, your job application and resume should be accompanied by a cover letter – even if it is not specifically required by the recruiter.
For new graduates or career changers, a cover letter is a helpful tool to introduce themselves to a company,
Also, a cover letter shows the job seeker’s enthusiasm, relevant traits, qualifications, and credentials.
1. Review the Job Requirements in Detail
First of all, you should spend lots of time reading the job description in order to ensure that you possess the required qualifications and skills.
As you have no prior work experience in hand, so you need to make it clear that your relevant qualities, education, and real-life experiences are a good match and sufficient to make you a perfect fit.
Companies not only rely on a candidate’s work experience, but they also consider a person’s abilities, attributes, and spark to perform job duties efficiently.
2. Format Your Cover Letter Properly
Your cover letter as an entry-level applicant should contain 3 to 4 brief but comprehensive paragraphs, as detailed below:
– First Paragraph
In the first paragraph, mention the source from where you learned about the job opportunity, such as a newspaper or website.
Equally important is writing the exact job title you are applying for.
Explain the reason why you are writing the letter. For instance, your skills are a good match for their needs.
Mention in one sentence why you feel you are the right candidate for this job by emphasizing your three relevant skills.
You may also write some words to praise the company or business and your interest in the company.
– Middle Paragraph(s)
The second and/or third paragraph(s) makes the main body of your cover letter.
Even if you have no work experience, you might still have sufficient information to write in this section. For instance, you may mention your:
- Education
- Transferable skills
- Educational accomplishments
- Awards
- Summer work
- Extracurricular activities
- Hobbies that relate to the job
- General interests
As you lack hands-on experience, you need to draw their attention to some skills you might be using in your personal life regularly. For example, managing your family’s budget, using MS Word, Excel, computer, and the internet, organizing activities at your church, and participating in fundraising activities.
Split your key attributes and skills using short and concise bullet statements. Only write information that is related to the job description given in the advertisement.
– Last / Concluding Paragraph
Start your last paragraph by reaffirming your enthusiasm to contribute to the prospective company. For instance, you may write, “As a fresh and enthusiastic secretary, I would like to meet with you to discuss this position in detail.”
Besides, request an interview and give your contact information.
Confidently state that you will follow up after some days.
Lastly, say thanks to the recipient for their time and consideration.
Final Thought
In the absence of hands-on experience, you may still be an excellent candidate for a job based on your transferable skills, qualities, and characteristics.
Therefore, it is imperative that you work hard to make an attractive and targeted cover letter.