A cover letter allows you to list and showcase your skills and experiences. These skills and experiences should show why you are the best person for the internship.
The letter should catch the employer’s attention, which would convince them to continue reading your resume. To meet these requirements, it is important to include a few essential pieces of information.
What To Include In Your Cover Letter:
1. State the role you are applying for
Begin your cover letter with the position you are applying for which shows that you have taken the time to consider what would make you the best candidate for the position. Stating your position on the cover letter reminds the employer about the position you are applying for and provides context for the rest of the letter.
2. Use the correct keywords
When reviewing your cover letter, employers often look for keywords related to the position. It is advised that you have a look at the company website and internship description for clues on which keywords you should include in the letter. For example, if the internship description states “time management” as a desired trait then try to list relevant examples of how you exhibit the trait.
3. Include suitable coursework
If you have little to no job experience, you may list coursework that relates to the internship you are applying for. Include your completed courses relevant to the internship description or industry. For example, if you are applying to be a design intern, ensure that you list your design courses and significantly related achievements.
4. List relevant skills
The body of your cover letter should highlight relevant knowledge, skill and education that will benefit the employer. Even if you do not have professional industry experience, you can include the skills you have gained in previous jobs, classes, projects, or volunteer positions.
For example, if you are applying to be a reporting intern, you should discuss your role as editor for the student paper or how your previous job as an office receptionist taught you how to manage time well.
5. Explain why you are the best person for the position
Include one or two sentences relating your qualifications to the internship. Carefully look at the internship description to understand which experiences and skills the employer is looking for. Align their requirements with your own experiences and skills and decide which you will focus on in your cover letter.
6. State what you would gain from the internship
Employers usually design internships to help young people better understand the industry and develop skills, relationships, and experiences which will serve them throughout their careers. State what you will offer the company and highlight what you hope to learn and gain from the experience.
7. Review your cover letter before submitting
Once you have completed your cover letter, be sure to review and edit it. Check spelling, grammar and punctuation. You may also ask family or friends to read through your final draft and give you advice on how to make it better.
