You are ready to move into the professional world. Congratulations!
Now the primary challenge is to build a resume and cover letter, which is ready to excel in the current job market.
These two documents are essential marketing tools to get your very first job.
It is strongly recommended to submit a cover letter (even if it is not required by the employer) with your resume and the rest of your application materials.
A cover letter gives you a chance to emphasize your capabilities and the most relevant skills and experiences gained through your education, training, and summer jobs.
The first thing to remember about entry-level cover letter writing is to keep it brief – usually no more than a single page.
Because hiring managers do not have time to read every cover letter and job application they receive, so they skim cover letters for required keywords and information.
The following tips will guide you on how to write an entry level cover letter to apply for an advertised job.
Entry-Level Cover Letter Writing Tips
• Mention a particular job title as it is printed in the ad, and the company’s name as well.
• State your desire to work for the employer; why the company’s core values and mission has attracted you, and how can you contribute to its purpose. Demonstrate that you have sufficient information about the company and its business.
• Point out your major skills, abilities, and strengths that make you an excellent applicant for the job.
• Use your cover letter to support your resume and job application.
• Expand the major points of your resume in your cover letter.
• Relate your capabilities to the requirements of the employer.
• Make sure that your cover letter shows how you meet the exact criteria for the job.
• Mention your enthusiasm, strengths, internships, summer experiences, and educational results.
• Make sure your cover letter is written in a way that concentrates on each of the main skills and requirements of the employer.
• List your most important skills in bullet form to formulate them easy to understand.
• A personal touch will facilitate you stand out from the rest.
• Precisely explain why you think you will be a great fit, how much you like the company’s products and services, or the concern you have in the area the business works in.
• Ask for a personal meeting or interview in the last paragraph of your letter – this will show that you can take the initiative and are keen to get the job.