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Convincing Cover Letter for Publishing Industry: Sample + Tips

Are you that person whose nose is always deep into some new title? Do most types of printed periodicals appear oddly fascinating to you? Well, then you are probably well-suited for a career in the publishing industry. 

Despite our collective obsession with digital — and the ubiquity of bite-sized blog posts — a real book still remains an in-demand product too. Last year, the US book industry generated over $26.5 billion in revenue with print book figures improving. And that means that many publishers are once again on a hiring spree.

To land a job with some cool publisher, you gotta have a polished resume. But more importantly, you need to submit a compelling cover letter too. After all, it’s your best way to show your word mastery. 

But even experienced editors often struggle to come up with the right words to frame their achievements. So we’ve created this sample cover letter for publishing jobs as a writing prompt for you. Scroll to the bottom for some extra tips too! 

Publishing Jobs Cover Letter Sample (Word version)

Here’s a sample cover letter for an experienced romance novels editor, looking to work with a national publisher. 

Download cover letter example (.docx)

Cover Letter Example for Publishing Industry (text version)

Dear Mariam Smith,

Do you know how I recognize a potential best-seller? If the first ten pages leave me thoroughly hooked, it’s a strong contender.  My cover letter for an open position of Romance Novel Editor with Clarks and Spencer Publishing isn’t a real pageturner, but it hopefully will provide an interesting narrative into my professional experience and abilities that can be of use to your company.

My journey towards the publishing industry began when I was 6. That’s when I wrote a short love story about a princess and an ice cream delivery man (non-trivial theme, I know). Then I tried to persuade my parents to let me print several copies to give away to my friends. But my mom said that book publishing isn’t free, so I do need to finish several chores first if I want my novel to see the light of day. Since then, I’ve learned a lot more about the publishing industry during my 5 years as an Associate Essay Editor with Angies’ Publishing House and as Romance Features Editor at Wedding Magazine. 

Additionally, I provide manuscript editing services as a freelancer to self-published romance authors, specializing in period dramas — a genre where Clarks and Spencer Publishing certainly excels. Joanne Monroe and Andy McKinzey are two of my long-term favorite authors, whose your house published. 

Apart from having strong copyediting skills, I’m also experienced with the operational side of the business. I can provide creative direction and vision for book illustrations, liaise with authors and agents, and otherwise facilitate the titles acquisition process. 

For previous samples of my work and references, please check my personal website kaylaeditorialservices.com. If you have further questions, don’t hesitate to contact me. 

Kayla Devis 

How To Write A Cover Letter for Publishing Industry Jobs

Since you are in the business of words, your cover letter should be coherent, well-narrated, and a bit artistically articulate. After all, you’d like to advertise your personal writing skills too and there’s no better way to do that than in a cover letter.

Still, your cover letter should respect the “unspoken” code — provide background into your work experience, core competencies, and motivation for joining this particular company. To communicate all of the above within one page, follow these actionable tips. 

1. Explain Your “Why”

Why are you so interested in the publishing industry? Why do you want to work for our company? These are the questions nearly every employer in the industry asks. And they want to see answers to them in your cover letter. 

As Carolyn Zimatore, Director, Talent Management at HarperCollins Publishers puts it : 

“I am not sure which is worse: a generic cover letter that says “I would like the open position at your company” without any mention of what the company is or what the job is or why you want the job, or no cover letter at all.”

So before you put any words down, take a five and research the company . Look into the type of genres they are mostly publishing. Check recent authors. Bring up industry awards. There are a lot of small nuggets you can dig up to make your letter sound as if you intimately know their business. 

2. Use Some Storytelling 

Most people join the publishing industry because they are obsessed with great stories. Show your appreciation of a good narrative by weaving in a quick personal story into your letter like the applicant does in the letter above. Just remember to err on the side of brevity. A cover letter isn’t a novel. So keep your story short and sweet as the author does in the sample above. 

3. Advertise Some Extra Skills 

If you want to work in the publishing industry, you need to have exceptional writing and editorial skills. But that’s what every other job applicant will highlight too. So instead of focusing on just that, bring up some of the “extras” you have. Are you an amazing negotiator and can get the needle moving with agents? Are you a maven when it comes to writing jacket copy and sales notes? Do you also happen to be obsessed with numbers and can do baseline sales projections, price research, and other analytical tasks? Bring all of these complementary skills in your cover letter!

Here are several other in-demand skills for editorial jobs in the publishing industry:

• Publishing process coordination 
• Author relationship management 
• Typography and illustration 
• Market research 
• Deal management 
• Payment records management 
• P&L management 
• Backlist project coordination 

Final Thoughts

Landing a job in the publishing industry is a dream for many bookworms. But don’t let this be just a dream — take proactive steps to get your foot in the door. Sure, such jobs are competitive, but with a little bit of persistence and the right attitude, you’d be able to break into it!

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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Publishing Intern Cover Letter Example

A Publishing Intern must work as a part of the publishing team and assist the staff in their day-to-day operations. To become successful in this publishing field, the intern should have a strong passion for books, apart from reading, and writing, and have hands-on knowledge in editing, copywriting, and proofreading.

Writing a great Publishing Intern Cover Letter is an important step in your job search journey. When writing a cover letter, ensure that it reflects the requirements listed in the job description. In your letter, reference your most exceptional qualifications, and relevant work experience to help employers see why you will be a great fit for the role. Need some quick reference, have a look at our Publishing Intern Cover Letter Samples.

• Cover Letters
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The Publishing Interns are passionate about the publishing industry, aspiring to make a career in this sector and work as interns to become familiar with the work culture of the publishing process before they become full-time employees. The interns are normally tasked with the duties of marketing, distribution, typesetting, and editing. Other job duties often include – assisting the team in editing, researching various topics, proofreading and formatting; and completing other administrative duties.

What to Include in a Publishing Intern Cover Letter?

Roles and responsibilities.

• Working closely with the publishing team and supporting the members in publishing books, materials, etc.
• Editing, proofreading , and formatting documents.
• Handling typesetting of documents.
• Assisting in the overall marketing and distribution process.
• Helping the department with tasks such as special assignments, or reference checks.
• Completing relevant administrative tasks.
• Copywriting and rewriting the contents as given by the publishing team.

Education & Skills

Publishing intern skills:.

• Strong knowledge of the processes involved in the publication.
• Superior command over grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite.
• The ability to work independently and in a team setting.
• Strong organization and time management skills.
• The ability to research new topics.
• Familiarity with Web Content, and HTML.
• Staying updated with current technologies and topics relating to the industry.

Publishing Intern Education Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Publishing, English, Marketing, Media, or Communications.
• Strong knowledge of relevant software earned through training or certification.

Publishing Intern Cover Letter Example (Text Version)

Dear Mr./Ms.,

I am interested in being considered for the vacant Publishing Intern position, which I saw listed on (Company Name)’s website. With my passion for social media marketing and commitment to continuous learning of the publishing industry’s intricacies, I feel that my recent degree in literature, and enthusiasm to make a career in this line make me an ideal fit for this position.

I am a recent graduate holding a bachelor’s degree in English Literature from the (University Name). I have gained a solid foundation in various areas including – creative writing, communication, and storytelling, apart from literature, and I strongly understand that these concepts are crucial for succeeding in the Publishing sector.

What sets me apart, and makes me suitable for the Publishing Intern role are –

• Equipped with essential skills needed to succeed in this career – proofreading, content creation and production, editing, and social media content creation.
• The ability to stay abreast of the happenings in the Publishing sector.
• Membership with top magazines ( give a list) and I am a regular reader of publications like ().
• I regularly attend all book fairs and writer’s conferences across the country and follow key influencers in the publishing world on Social media.
• Having a positive approach to work.
• I have completed an internship with () and learned the nuances of the sector.
• Assisted the publishing department by participating in editing, proofreading, scripting, and printing samples.

Apart from these skills, I understand the value of time management, attention to detail, and the willingness to work in a collaborative environment. I am a young enthusiastic willing to travel and work wholeheartedly in a challenging and fast-paced environment. With my deepened appreciation for the processes involved in publishing, coupled with my ability to market research, and contribute towards your mission, I stand prepared to undertake this role and support your editorial team.

I welcome the chance to bring my qualifications and well-rounded skillset to your company and expand your publishing goals. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

• Mention your zeal to work for the industry.
• Showcase your matching skills and qualifications.
• Don’t forget to add your relevant certification or coursework.
• Illustrate your understanding of the publishing sector.
• Ensure the letter is free of any grammar or spelling mistakes.

Showcase your talent in terms of customer service, your ability to use the latest software, and your potential to adhere to safety and hygiene protocols to impress the employer. You can have an overview of how to prepare your resume by using essential tips from our Publishing Intern Resume Sample .

Customize Publishing Intern Cover Letter

Get hired faster with our free cover letter template designed to land you the perfect position.

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How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship? (+5 Real Internship Cover Letter Examples)

• Julia Mlcuchova , 
• Updated March 20, 2024 8 min read

Trying to figure out how to write a cover letter for an internship ? Look no further!

POV: After weeks and weeks of searching for the right internship opportunity, you've finally found it. But, at the end of the posting, there's a single short sentence that takes you aback:  “Please, attach a cover letter to your application .”

Although some consider cover letter writing to be a relic of the past, it still holds its rightful place in the professional world. 

Because a well-written and persuasive cover letter can sometimes make up for the lack of work experience on your resume . And if you're trying to apply for an internship , this is probably your case, too. 

So, continue reading this article and learn: 

• What is a cover letter for an internship;
• Whether you need to attach a cover letter to your internship application;
• How to write one in 7 steps;
• 5 real-life internship cover letter examples .

Table of Contents

Click on a section to skip

What is a cover letter for an internship?

Do you need a cover letter for an internship, how to write a cover letter for an internship in 7 steps, 5 real-life internship cover letter examples, key takeaways: how to write a cover letter for an internship.

Generally speaking, an internship cover letter is a formal document that accompanies your resume when applying for an internship. 

When it comes to its content, a cover letter for an internship falls somewhere between a traditional cover letter and a motivational letter . 

• A traditional cover letter , used by job applicants with years of experience, is supposed to underline some of the candidate's most relevant and impressive skills, qualifications, and work achievements . 
• A motivational letter , used mostly in academia, aims to communicate one's passion for the subject, their motivation, and personal goals . 

Hence, a cover letter for an internship combines the purpose of the traditional cover letter (convincing the recruiters that you're the right person for the job) with the tone and strategy of the motivational letter (writing about personal motivations and goals).

A truly successful internship cover letter should answer the following questions:

• Who are you? 
• Why are you interested in this particular internship?
• Why are you the best fit for this internship?
• What do you want to gain from this internship?

Absolutely! 

In fact, you should always attach a cover letter to your internship application , even if it isn't explicitly required from you.  

Why, you ask? 

Well, consider this: Internships are crucial stepping stones towards your dream career. And they're also incredibly competitive. A single internship opening can be answered by tens of applicants at a time. 

But how can you stand out from a crowd of equally inexperienced candidates? Certainly not by your non-existent professional accomplishments, right? 

When companies look for interns, they don't expect you to have a ton of real-life experience. They aren't looking for a “finished product,” but for someone with a genuine desire to learn and enthusiasm for the job. 

And these two are your weapons of choice!

How can a cover letter for an internship help you?

Apart from the reasons mentioned above, your internship cover letter is also responsible for: 

• Conveying first impression. Usually, recruiters will read your cover letter before looking at your resume. So, it's the perfect opportunity to introduce yourself to them in a memorable way. 
• Showing your efforts. Next, taking the time to craft a thoughtful cover letter shows that you're willing to put in that extra effort to stand out from the rest of the candidates. 
• Highlighting your communication skills. Also, a well-written cover letter demonstrates your ability to articulate your thoughts clearly and professionally. 
• Showing your professionalism. When you walk into a room, it's polite to introduce yourself and shake everybody's hand. This is exactly what a cover letter does! To attach one to your application is a common courtesy.

Now that you're familiar with the whats and whys , let's have a look at how to write a good cover letter for an internship step-by-step. 

For example : Application for [name of the internship] internship – Surname.

Then, place your contact information (your name; professional email address; phone number; link to your website / portfolio / social media accounts if relevant) directly into the header .

If you know the recipient's name, address them by “ Dear [full name] ,” or “ Dear Mrs/Mr [last name] ,”. If you don't know who to address the cover letter to , address it more generally to “Dear Hiring Manager,” .

In the first paragraph of your cover letter , start by stating your name and where you studied (including your current degree and year of study). Proceed by explaining how you came to know about the internship and what are your motivations for applying to it.

Since you don't have much work experience, you can talk about your academic achievements; relevant coursework; dissertation project; extracurricular activities; volunteering; membership in relevant societies, etc.

The closing paragraph of your cover letter should reiterate your desire to get the specific internship, express gratitude to the recipient for their time and consideration, and include a final call for action (i.e. "I look forward to discussing the next steps during an interview." )

Finally, based on how you greeted the recipient of your cover letter, you can sign off with either “ Yours sincerely ,” or “ Yours faithfully ,” . If you addressed the recruiter by their name, sign off with the former; if not, use the latter.

Don't feel like writing your internship cover letter by hand?

Let our AI cover letter writer create the first draft of your internship cover letter!

Undoubtedly, the best way to learn something is to look at specific examples . And that's exactly what we're going to do right now! 

Below, we've prepared 5 internship cover letters written by real people with the help of our cover letter templates .

And, each of them is accompanied by our internship cover letter writing tips that you can implement into your own cover letter! 

FYI, you can use each of these examples as the first draft for your very own internship cover letter – simply click on the red button and start personalising the text (or let AI handle it).

#1 Philips Marketing Intern Cover Letter Sample

Internship cover letter example:.

This cover letter sample was provided by a real person who got hired with Kickresume’s help.

What can you take away?

• Eye-catching header.  Firstly, the header is visually clearly separated from the rest of the text. This makes the recruiters notice it immediately. Plus, the contact information of the company is also featured in the left-hand corner - just like it would be on an actual letter.
• Research the company before applying. Notice sentences like: “ I really like and relate to what Philips stands for … ” and “ Furthermore, it is very appealing that Philips operates on an international level… ”.This shows that the candidate’s done a thorough research of the company's philosophy and structure.

#2 Warner Bros. Public Relations Intern Cover Letter Example

• Share a personal story. This can help you establish a sentimental connection between you and the company. Show them that for you, working for their company means more than any old internship.
• Name-drop a referral. Now, this is a little bit of a cheat code. But, if you happen to know about anyone who has worked/currently works for the company, slip their name into your cover letter.

#3 University of Massachusetts Boston Intern Cover Letter Example

What can you take away  .

• Write about what you want to gain from the internship. It shows that you're not there just to have something to put on your resume; but that you’re motivated by the idea of gaining actual industry knowledge and skills.

#4 Audit/Tax Summer Internship at CohnReznick Cover Letter Sample

• Mention any relevant academic activities. If you're wondering how to write a cover letter for an internship with no experience whatsoever, this is your way to go! For example, notice how this candidate noted all of his relevant courses, skills, association membership, and competition participation.
• Focus on transferrable skills. Especially when your study programme doesn't necessarily fit the internship opening to a T. Instead, focus on any transferable skills you've picked up. 

#5 Intern at NBC Cover Letter Sample

• Keep your opening and closing paragraphs short and sweet. As you can see in this example, it helps keep a certain visual harmony of the overall document. And, despite the length, both paragraphs do exactly what they're supposed to. Besides, recruiters might be discouraged to read the rest of your cover letter if your introductory paragraph is too long.

To sum it all up, an internship cover letter is a formal document that you submit together with your resume when applying for an internship. Its content should be something between a traditional cover letter and a motivational letter.

Its purpose is to introduce yourself to the recruiters in a more personal way than the resume allows. 

The main things you want your internship cover letter to communicate are:

• who you are,
• why you're interested in this opportunity,
• what make you the best fit for the internship, 
• your motivation (your long-term professional goals),
• your desire to learn (what you want to gain from the experience).

To write a truly impactful and persuasive cover letter, we recommend following these 7 key steps: 

• Specify which internship you're applying for in the subject line.
• Include your contact information in a header.
• Address the recipient appropriately.
• Introduce yourself & your motivations in the opening paragraph.
• Elaborate on why you're a good fit and what motivated you in body.
• End your cover letter with a confident closing paragraph.
• Finish off with a polite sign off. 

Finally, if you feel that the examples provided in this article aren't enough, you can always find more in our cover letter database . 

Julia has recently joined Kickresume as a career writer. From helping people with their English to get admitted to the uni of their dreams to advising them on how to succeed in the job market. It would seem that her career is on a steadfast trajectory. Julia holds a degree in Anglophone studies from Metropolitan University in Prague, where she also resides. Apart from creative writing and languages, she takes a keen interest in literature and theatre.

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How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship

Hannah Yang

Writing a cover letter is one of the most important parts of the job search process. Your cover letter is your chance to tell a company why they should hire you.

A successful cover letter can score you an invitation to interview, while a weak cover letter can get you automatically rejected.

If you’re applying for an internship, writing a cover letter can be an especially daunting task, because you likely have little work experience in the field you’re applying to.

Don’t worry—you don’t need work experience to snag the internship of your dreams.

The purpose of the cover letter is to tell your story. And you definitely have a story to tell, even if you’re new to the industry.

In this article, I’ll teach you how to write a strong internship cover letter, regardless of how much work experience you have.

What Is the Purpose of an Internship Cover Letter?

What can i include in my cover letter if i have no work experience, how should i structure my internship cover letter, what are the best internship cover letter examples, are cover letters still necessary.

First, let’s start by clarifying the goal. Why is your potential employer asking you for a cover letter ?

Employers ask for cover letters to see if you’ll be able to succeed in the role you’re applying for.

The purpose of the cover letter isn’t just to tell the company a list of facts about yourself. Usually, your resume will already give the hiring manager an overview of your experience and skills—you don’t need to rehash those accomplishments.

Instead, the purpose of the cover letter is to tell a story that proves you can succeed in the role and add value to the company.

So how do you find that story?

Let’s break the process down into simple steps.

Don’t worry, most other internship applicants won’t have much experience, either. That’s what the internship is for—to give you some work experience for your next cover letter.

So what should you include in your cover letter?

Well, you might not have work experience yet, but you do have other relevant experience.

More likely than not, your classes and extracurriculars have taught you important skills that will make you a successful intern.

The key is in figuring out which of your past experiences translate most strongly to the value you can bring to the company.

Even if you’ve worked in the industry before, you can still follow these steps to find the right story to show your worth.

How Do I Demonstrate My Suitability for an Internship Role?

Step 1: Research a List of Ways Your Role Brings Value to the Company

First, think about what the company needs from an intern.

You can refer to the job description, the company mission statement, the company website, and even news articles about the company to get a sense of what they need.

Knowing what they need from your role is crucial for proving you’re the right candidate to deliver those things.

For example, say you’re applying for an analyst internship at a consulting company.

An example list of what the consulting company wants from your role might look like this:

• Work with clients to understand and meet their needs
• Analyze data and conduct market research
• Present slide decks summarizing analyses

Or, say you’re applying for an editorial internship at a publishing company.

An example list of what the publishing company wants from your role might look like this:

• Revise stories and articles produced by writers
• Collaborate with other team members, including senior editors and project managers
• Work on a tight schedule to meet publishing deadlines

What Skills Do I Need for an Internship?

Step 2: Break Down Each Item on Your List into Specific Skills

Once you have your list of potential tasks, it’s time to tie those tasks to skills.

Every task can be broken down into specific skills. Thinking about skills, rather than the job itself, will make it easier to figure out which of your past experiences are relevant for the internship.

For example, think about the skills required to deliver a pizza. You need to operate a vehicle, communicate with a team, manage your time effectively, and present a friendly face to customers.

For the consulting internship, you might break down the skills like this:

• Work with clients to understand and meet their needs → empathy, friendliness, communication
• Analyze data and conduct market research → math, logic, Excel
• Present slide decks summarizing analyses → public speaking , rhetoric , PowerPoint

For the publishing internship, you might break down the skills like this:

• Revise stories and articles produced by writers → editing , writing, storytelling
• Collaborate with other team members, including senior editors and project managers → teamwork, communication , integrity
• Work on a tight schedule to meet publishing deadlines → initiative, organization, time management

How Do I Communicate My Skills in an Internship Cover Letter?

Step 3: Brainstorm Times You’ve Demonstrated Those Specific Skills in Academic, Extracurricular, and Work Settings

When you think of a role in terms of the specific skills required, you might find that you have done many things in the past that have prepared you to do this internship, even if you’ve never worked before.

For the consulting internship, your list might look like this:

• Empathy, friendliness, and communication : I volunteer for a local grassroots organization where I communicate and empathize with strangers
• Math, logic, and Excel : I’ve done several school projects for which I’ve used Excel and other quantitative skills
• Public speaking , rhetoric, and PowerPoint : I was on a high school speech and debate team where I practiced public speaking

For the publishing internship, your list might look like this:

• Editing, writing, and storytelling : I co-host a radio podcast for which we write and edit stories
• Teamwork, communication, and integrity : I play for my school’s basketball team, where I have to coordinate closely with others and learn to work as a team
• Initiative, organization, and time management : I plan and organize for my sorority

Should I Link My Cover Letter to My Resume?

Step 4: Pick a “Star Story” That You Can Highlight in Both Your Cover Letter and Your Resume

Look at your list of experiences from Step 3.

Think about what they say about you. Do they show that you’re smart? Do they show that you’re collaborative? Do they show that you take initiative?

Pick the experience that does the best job of explaining why you’d be suited for the role you’re applying to.

Now, figure out the best way to tell that story. This brainstorm will become your “star story”—the story that serves as the main highlight for both your cover letter and your resume .

For the consulting internship, your story might look like this:

In my Financial Studies class, I led a two-month-long team project to develop detailed case studies on governmental responses to financial crises. I used Excel and Stata to build statistical models to evaluate the short-run and long-run consequences of government responses. At the end of the quarter, I presented the team’s results to our classmates and professors.

For the publishing internship, your story might look like this:

I co-host a radio show called “True Stories at UCLA,” where we explore a different story each week about the life of someone on campus. I write and edit all our scripts on a tight deadline. The experience has taught me how to interact with a wide variety of people, how to think on my feet, and how to present my ideas effectively.

Now that you know what to include in your cover letter, it’s time to write.

Your cover letter should be between 250 and 400 words . It should all fit on a single page.

With a cover letter, less is more. Presenting a strong impression of yourself with only a few words is more impressive than presenting a mediocre impression of yourself with several rambling pages.

A standard structure is to divide your cover letter into four paragraphs.

First Paragraph: Introduce Yourself and Express Interest in the Position

In the first paragraph, give a brief introduction of yourself. If you’re a student, tell them what school you go to and where you study.

Then, state the role you’re applying for, and give an overview of why you’d be a good fit for this role.

If you have any personal connection with this company, you can also state that in the first paragraph.

Examples of this are if you met representatives of this company through a job fair at your school, or if you’ve been using this company’s products since you were a kid.

That personal connection can show that you know the company and have a specific reason for applying.

Second Paragraph: Tell Your “Star Story” to Show How You’d Bring Value to the Company

The second paragraph is where you include your “star story”: the story you want the hiring manager to remember about you.

Describe what you accomplished and give details about what you learned in the process.

Tie that story explicitly to the skills you learned from the experience, and how those skills will make you successful in this internship.

You can even use or paraphrase the same language the company used in the job description.

Third Paragraph: Show That You’re Passionate About the Company

In the third paragraph, describe why you’re passionate about this internship and why you think you’d be a good fit for the company culture.

Hiring, like dating, is a two-way street. Even if the hiring manager is already convinced you’d be a good candidate, they have to know you’re interested in them too.

The second paragraph was your chance to show that you’re a good fit for the company, while the third paragraph is your chance to show that the company is a good fit for you.

Fourth Paragraph: Conclude with a Summary and a Reiteration of Your Enthusiasm

In the last paragraph, summarize the reasons why you think you’d be a fantastic fit for this role.

Conclude with a polite and professional expression of gratitude, such as “Thank you for your time and consideration” or “I look forward to hearing from you.”

Let’s look at a sample cover letter for each of the examples we used above.

Cover Letter Sample for a Consulting Internship

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am a sophomore at the University of Washington, pursuing a degree in economics. I first learned of ProConsulting at a campus networking event, where I was impressed by ProConsulting’s creative approaches to research and analysis. I am writing to apply for the summer internship position in your Seattle office.

My classes at the University of Washington have given me exceptional opportunities to develop my consulting skills. In my Financial Studies class, for example, I led a two-month-long team project to develop detailed case studies on governmental responses to financial crises. I used Excel and Stata to build statistical models to evaluate the short-run and long-run consequences of government responses. At the end of the quarter, I presented the team’s results to our classmates and professors. This experience equipped me with the analytical and presentation skills that are integral for research at ProConsulting.

I would love to work at your company because ProConsulting not only delivers essential analysis at a deeper level, but also engages with a variety of topics I care deeply about, such as the economics of media, the internet, and intellectual property. I admire the impact of ProConsulting’s research and would love the opportunity to contribute to this research.

With my robust analytical skills and my commitment to the values shared by your firm, I am confident that I would be a strong contribution to your team. I welcome the opportunity to speak with you about my qualifications and the ways that we can put my skills to work for ProConsulting. Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you.

[Your name]

As you will notice in the above example, there are many complex terms, but the letter is still very easy to read.

If a hiring manager has 100 applications, they may only scan your letter before deciding if it is worth reading.

Complex and wordy sentences may put them off meaning that they delete your application without realizing that you are a viable candidate.

Reduce the risk of this happening to you by using ProWritingAid’s Readability Checker . It highlights parts of your document which could be simplified without changing the overall meaning.

Check your cover letter’s readability with a free ProWritingAid account.

Cover Letter Sample for a Publishing Internship

I am a junior at UCLA, pursuing a degree in English. I’ve been reading books published by ProPublishing since I was a child, and I’d love to work here to help bring those books to life. I saw this job posting on my school's website, and I’m writing to apply for your company’s editorial internship position in the New York office.

I co-host a radio show called “True Stories at UCLA,” where we explore a different story each week about the life of someone on campus. I write and edit all our scripts on a tight deadline. The experience has taught me how to interact with a wide variety of people, how to think on my feet, and how to present my ideas effectively. Most importantly, through the feedback we receive from our readers, I have experienced first-hand the importance of quality, reliability, and integrity.

I’ve always wanted to work in the publishing industry, and I deeply admire the way ProPublishing brings true stories to life in a way that’s respectful, authentic, and deeply engaging. I would love the chance to start my career as an intern at ProPublishing.

With my strong writing experience and my passion for storytelling, I am confident that I could be a successful employee on your team. I welcome the opportunity to speak with you about my qualifications and the ways that we can put my skills to work for ProPublishing. Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Even if the hiring manager never reads your cover letter, including one with your resume shows that you are passionate about the role. And if other candidates have included a cover letter and you haven't, it could make your application stand out for the wrong reasons.

So there you have it: a step-by-step guide for writing an internship cover letter.

Let us know in the comments if you found these steps useful. Good luck with your internship search!

Want to learn more great business writing hacks? Download this free book now:

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Hannah Yang is a speculative fiction writer who writes about all things strange and surreal. Her work has appeared in Analog Science Fiction, Apex Magazine, The Dark, and elsewhere, and two of her stories have been finalists for the Locus Award. Her favorite hobbies include watercolor painting, playing guitar, and rock climbing. You can follow her work on hannahyang.com, or subscribe to her newsletter for publication updates.

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How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship [Examples & Template]

Published: September 15, 2023

Writing a cover letter can feel like a daunting task, especially if you don’t have a lot of real-world experience.

Fortunately, a cover letter is actually a chance to explain how your extracurriculars and classes have taught you exceptional leadership and time management skills.

We’ve created an internship cover letter template to provide some initial structure and inspiration. For the best results, download our template, then add your own creativity and flair with the tips below.

5 Free Cover Letter Templates

Five fill-in-the-blank cover letter templates to help you impress recruiters.

• Standard Cover Letter Template
• Entry-Level Cover Letter Template
• Data-Driven Cover Letter Template

You're all set!

Click this link to access this resource at any time.

How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship

• Include your name, date, location, and contact information.
• Include the company, department, and company address.
• Address the hiring manager.
• Set the context for your application.
• Sell your experience.
• Close the letter with grace and a call to action.

There are different formats you can use when writing internship cover letters, but you can’t go wrong with the traditional business letter format. Business professionals use this template style to apply for full-time roles, so your cover letter will stand out above the rest. Remember to proofread, use formal terms such as “Dear” and “Sincerely,” and lean towards a professional tone in your body copy.

1. Include your name, date, location, and contact information.

Although some companies are firmly against using applicant tracking systems, chances are many of the companies you apply to  will screen your resume and cover letter using one. That means you’ll need to stand out to both an automated system and human recruiters.

Have you ever heard the myth that you’d get credit for writing your name on the SAT exam? The same applies to adding contact information to your cover letter, but it’s 100% true. Make it easy for the recruiter to get in touch with you by providing an up-to-date phone number and email address.

In the past, it was common for job and internship seekers to include their exact address on their cover letter as they’d mail them directly to the hiring managers. In today’s digital world, most hiring teams won’t need to know your exact home address to extend an internship offer, so feel free to leave it off. Simply include your city and state to give the team an idea of your proximity to the office.

Your Address

Your City, State, Zip Code

Cell: 555-555-5555

Email: [email protected]

2. Include the company, department, and company address.

If you’re writing a cover letter for several internship opportunities, you’ll find it helpful to search the full name, department, and headquarters address of each company. Doing this as a separate step will help you copy the information accurately in your cover letter. Remember, you don’t want any typos or mistakes in your cover letter, especially when it comes to information that can be easily found on the internet.

Finding the department name may not be as simple, so you can leave that out if you’re unsure. If your company has several campuses or operates in different cities, use the address of the location where the internship will be performed or the office location where your hiring manager works. If your internship will be remote, use the company’s general headquarters address.

City, State Zip

3. Address the hiring manager.

As a student looking for an internship, you’ll definitely set yourself apart from other applicants by being resourceful. You can show your resourcefulness by searching for the hiring manager’s name to properly address them in your cover letter. Occasionally, their title is stated in the role description. You can then search for the role on LinkedIn to identify their name. If you can’t find a name, you can instead address them by title only. Other times, though, finding the name of the hiring manager could be more difficult. If a Google search doesn’t return a first and last name, your best bet is to leave the name out. Sacrificing a bit of personalization is much better than addressing the wrong person in your cover letter.

Dear X, (try to find the hiring manager’s name… if you can’t, you can put “Dear [Company A] Hiring Committee”)

4. Set the context for your application.

In the first paragraph, explain how you heard about the company or position, and if you know anyone at the company, mention them here. Next, express your own interest in the company or position and explain briefly how it relates to your own passions. Don’t forget to introduce yourself in this paragraph, writing your name, your education level, your major, and your interests.

You may opt for a creative first line to capture the reader’s attention. One that worked for me early in my career went something like this:

“ Can I tell you a secret? I’ve been telling stories since I was five years old. No, not fibbing — real storytelling... ”

This is where you’ll benefit from researching the company’s culture. While this opening statement worked well for startups and more laid-back companies, a big accounting firm might find it culturally off-beat.

5. Sell your experience.

Scan the internship position description and pick out a few qualities you think apply to you — just don’t choose all the descriptors mentioned as it could appear disingenuous and make your cover letter too long. For instance, if I see a company is looking for someone who’s “outgoing, organized, hardworking, and willing to take criticism,” I would pick those that describe me best and focus on providing examples in the body of my cover letter.

Mentioning the traits directly in your cover letter shows you’ve read the position description, and makes your cover letter more scannable. If the hiring manager is looking for someone with content skills, she might scan your cover letter looking for the words that indicate experience with content.

Finally, brainstorm a few compelling examples to show how you embody the most important characteristics. Don’t just write, “I have excellent customer service skills.” You want to prove it. Support your claim by writing something like,

“ Last summer, I worked as an orientation leader at my college, serving as a resource for incoming students and their parents. This experience strengthened my customer service skills. ”

Even if you don't have a lot of (or any) job experience, think about highlighting skills you've gained from extracurriculars, volunteer experience, or even passion projects:

“My passion for dance led me to become a volunteer dance teacher which helped me develop as a leader.”

6. Close the letter with grace and a call to action.

If the internship application does not explicitly state “please do not contact,” you might choose to conclude by specifying how you will follow up, such as, “I will call next week to see if my qualifications are a match,” or, “I am eager to meet with you to discuss this opportunity, and am available for an interview at a mutually convenient time.” Conclude by thanking the hiring manager for taking the time to consider you, and end on a positive, confident note, such as, “I look forward to speaking with you soon.”

You may even go a step further and give the hiring manager a call to action. Include a link to your online portfolio, a website, or even a YouTube channel where you display your work and personality. To see how often hiring managers are viewing these additional items, include tracking to your link using a URL tracker like Bitly to capture that data.

Sample Internship Cover Letter

Featured resource: 5 free cover letter templates, event planning internship cover letter.

1 Hireme Road

Boston, MA, 20813

Email: [email protected]

May 20, 2021

Event Planning Department -- Internship Program

35 Recruiting St.

Boston, MA, 29174

Dear Internship Coordinator,

At the suggestion of John Smith, a senior marketer at Company A, I am submitting my resume for the Event Coordinator internship position. I am a junior at Elon University, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Sport and Event Management, and am passionate about event planning. I am thrilled to hear about Company A’s Event Coordinator internship program and feel my experiences and skills would be an excellent match for your organization.

As an executive member of the Student Union Board at Elon, I am in charge of organizing, promoting, and implementing multiple school-related social activities per week, while being challenged to design new events. I work cohesively with a diverse team made up of students and faculty, and I also foster relationships with novelty companies.

My experience as an Orientation Leader has further prepared me for this internship. It was essential that I remain positive, outgoing, and energized during move-in day and act as a liaison between new students, families, and faculty in a fast-paced and demanding environment. I was expected to maintain a highly professional customer service ethic while interacting with families and new students.

My Elon University experiences, executive board membership, and orientation leadership role have prepared me to be successful in the Event Coordinator internship program. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can add value to Company A.

(handwritten signature)

Marketing Internship Cover Letter Template

Marketing Department — Internship Program

I am a passionate, creative, and driven Elon University student with leadership and event planning experience, as well as strong communication skills. I am seeking opportunities to showcase my writing abilities in a challenging and stimulating environment. My skills and experiences will enable me to deliver successful results as a digital marketing intern for Company B.

Please allow me to highlight my key skills:

• Prior experience writing blog posts and press releases for marketing objectives
• Strong communication skills and ability to adopt voice for diverse audiences and varying purposes
• Efficient in managing multiple projects with fast-moving deadlines through organization and time-management skills
• A firm understanding of grammar rules and how to write effectively
• Experience in leadership positions, both as Student Union Board executive leader and as an Elon Orientation Leader
• Proven ability to form positive relationships with people from around the globe, exhibited by my internship experience in China last summer
• Experience organizing, promoting, and implementing social events
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, and Premiere), and social media platforms

In closing, I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can be an asset to Company B. I will call next week to see if you agree that my qualifications are a match for the position. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Internship Cover Letter Examples

1. hospitality internship cover letter, why this cover letter example works:.

Passion, a willingness to learn, and previous industry experience are the factors that make this cover letter stand out. The hiring manager is able to see that the candidate has a genuine interest in the field of hospitality and takes their future in the field seriously.

How to incorporate these tips:

Start by analyzing your own experience and interest in comparison to the internship you're applying for. Do you have any examples, facts, or figures that you can include in your letter? This will help the hiring manager understand your interest in the position and give them more of a reason to hire you over the competition.

2. Supply Chain Internship Cover Letter

This student has concrete experience in three specific areas of the supply chain: demand forecasting, inventory management, and logistics strategies. Naming these areas of expertise is not only helpful for landing the internship, it helps the hiring manager structure the team by pairing them with other interns and mentors who can complement that skillset. If there's anything a hiring manager loves more than a prepared hire, it's a hire who's proactive!

3. Fashion Design Internship Cover Letter

Hands-on experience isn't possible in every field of work, but when you aspire to work in the fashion industry, there's no better way to stand out for an internship. In this internship cover letter example, Peter shares that he has practical experience designing clothing which demonstrates his ability to illustrate, design, and produce a material product which is exactly what Sleeves & Thread is looking for. 

Roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty. If you're planning to work in an industry that produces material goods, technology, or even provides services, a great way to prove your chops is to do it before you get the job. This might look like starting a small summer side hustle, working pro bono, or taking on projects at school for extra credit. Whatever route you choose, make sure to take on projects that build a quality portfolio that hiring managers will want to see.

4. Finance Internship Cover Letter

Rebecca takes the time to highlight her skillset, but she also balances her cover letter with reasons why Banking Corporation will be a great fit for her budding career. She gives plenty of reasons why the company is appealing to her which helps balance the cover letter.

The obvious point of a cover letter is to sell your skills to the hiring manager in order to secure the internship. However, it's important to remember that the hiring process is a two-way street. It's beneficial to incorporate reasons why you want to work for the business. Explaining what the business is doing that aligns with your personal goals and values can be the factor that tips the scale in your favor and gets you hired.

5. Marketing Cover Letter Internship Example

If you work in the industry of the arts, creative, or marketing, chances are you'll have more freedom when it comes to drafting your cover letter. Here, Robin takes a novel approach by weaving colorful language that practically jumps off the page. With just enough pizazz, her personality shines through which could leave the hiring manager wanting to learn more.

It may be tempting to throw in flowery language for the sake of standing out, but proceed with caution. A better approach would be to imagine you're seeing the internship opportunity for the first time, then share your excitement with a friend. Next, write down what you said, exactly as you said it, and edit from there to include the key points of a cover letter we mention in this article. You'll sound natural while still getting your point across succinctly.

Internship Cover Letter Templates

Standard internship cover letter template.

Use this cover letter template as a foundation for your cover letter. You can customize it to fit your experience and the companies you’ll be applying to.

Download this cover letter template

Data-Driven Internship Cover Letter Template

If your major is data-driven like STEM, marketing, or accounting, this is the internship cover letter template for you. With this template, you can include the data highlights of your class projects and assignments to show the hiring manager that you can support your experience with credible facts.

Entry-level Cover Letter Template

As you approach your senior year of college, you may be looking for entry-level roles rather than internships. Cover letters are just as important for full-time roles as they are for internships, so use this template to make the transition in your job search.

Wrapping Up Your Letter of Recommendation

A resume isn’t always enough to make an impression. Including a cover letter in your internship application is the first step to setting yourself apart from other applicants. Study and apply the six steps for writing a professional internship cover letter and use one of these samples or templates to customize it. Your resume gives the highlights of your time in college while your cover letter tells the story of how those experiences will serve you as an intern with your future employer. Use it to your advantage to land the first role in your career as you navigate college and beyond.

Editor's note: This post was originally published in April 2018 and has been updated for comprehensiveness.

This article was written by a human, but our team uses AI in our editorial process. Check out our full disclosure to learn more about how we use AI.

Don't forget to share this post!

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How to Write a Cover Letter for Internship (Examples & Template)

You’ve found the perfect internship and it’s now time to apply and land the position!

But, in addition to your resume, you also have to write an internship cover letter.

You might end up staring at the blank Word document for hours and nothing comes out.

We don’t blame you; cover letters are hard to write even if you have a decade’s worth of work experience, let alone if you’re a recent graduate or a student.

Worry not, though; in this article, we’re going to teach you all you need to know to write a compelling cover letter for your internship.

• Do you need a cover letter for an internship?
• How to write a compelling cover letter for an internship
• Plug and play internship cover letter template

Do I Need a Cover Letter for an Internship?

First things first—if you’re wondering whether you actually need a cover letter for your internship application, the answer is yes . 

An internship application is just like any other hiring process, meaning that a recruiter will go over your resume , cover letter (and maybe even references), and decide whether you’re qualified for the position. 

And yes, recruiters contrary to what you might think, recruiters do read your cover letter. 56% of recruiters prefer a cover letter with an applicant’s application.

This is reasonable - a cover letter allows you to add essential information you didn’t have space for in a resume, as well as explain (in words) how your experiences are tied to the role you’re applying for.

As such, a cover letter for an internship is essential and complementary to your application package.

Now that we got that out of the way, let’s go over all the best ways to write a cover letter for an internship. 

How to Write a Cover Letter for Internship

#1. respect the format.

Before you can focus on your cover letter’s contents, you should first make sure you’re sticking to the right format. 

Otherwise, your cover letter will be disorganized and the recruiter will have a hard time following your train of thought.

So, here’s the format that your cover letter for an internship should follow: 

• Header with contact information. This includes your full name, professional email, phone number, and LinkedIn profile (if you have one). Underneath your contact info, you should add the date and the receiver’s information (the recruiter’s name and title, the company/organization name, and their physical address). 
• Addressing the recruiter. Greeting the recruiter with “Dear Sir/Madam” or “To Whom It May Concern” is common, but not the best approach. Want to show the hiring manager that you did your research? We recommend you address the hiring manager by name directly. Our guide on how to address a cover letter covers everything you need to know on this topic!      
• Opening statement. Your opening statement should be brief, but at the same time professional and attention-grabbing. Here, you introduce yourself, mention the position you’re applying for, and potentially a key achievement or two.   
• Body. The body of your cover letter consists of 2-3 paragraphs where you highlight your education, provide background for your skills, and explain how you (and the company) would benefit from each other professionally. 
• Closing paragraph. Your closing paragraph is your chance to include a call to action, to thank the recruiters for their time, or mention anything important you left out. 
• Formal salutation. End your cover letter with a formal salutation such as “kind regards,” “sincerely,” or “best regards.” Our guide on how to end a cover letter can teach you all you need to know on the topic. 

Having trouble getting started with your cover letter? Read our guide on how to start a cover letter and get inspired!

#2. State the Position You’re Applying For in the Opening

Recruiters hate one-size-fits-all cover letters and resumes.

Around 48% of recruiters and hiring managers aren’t even going to read your cover letter if it’s not customized to the role you’re applying for.

And one of the easiest ways to do this is by mentioning the role you’re applying for right in the cover letter opening.

This allows you to:

• Show that you will be tailoring the rest of your cover letter for that position alone.
• Prove that your cover letter is customized for this specific internship, and you’re not just randomly applying for the job,

Here’s a practical example of how you can mention the role you’re applying for in the cover letter opening:

Dear Mr. Jacobs, 

It is my pleasure to apply for the Communications Assistant internship position at the United Nations Development Programme. I can confidently say based on my 2-year experience working as a journalist and my excellent academic results in the Mass Communications Major that I’d be a good fit for the position. 

#3. Mention the Right Keywords

When reviewing your application, hiring managers tend to scan your cover letter or resume and look for the right keywords that would make you qualified for the internship you’re applying for.

E.g. If you're applying for a job in graphic design, the recruiter is probably looking for keywords like “Photoshop,” “Illustrator,” or “InDesign.”

As such, it’s very important to include the right keywords in your cover letter.

How can you find these keywords, you might ask?

It’s actually pretty simple - just look at the internship job description and go through the required skills & responsibilities and identify the keywords that you’d think the recruiter would be looking for.

Then, do the following:

• Sprinkle some of those keywords throughout your cover letter. When relevant, back them up with an experience. E.g. don’t just say “I’m good at Photoshop,” say how you’ve taken 3 different Photoshop classes and used Photoshop for 2 different projects.
• Don’t include keywords that don’t apply to you, they’ll just make it seem like you’re copy-pasting from the job description.
• Research and add other popular soft skills that recruiters look for in applicants for the role you’re applying for. E.g. If you’re applying for an internship as a communications assistant, chances are, you’ll need strong communication skills (even if this is not something listed in the job description.

Now, let’s look at a practical example. Let’s say that the internship you’re applying for requires the following skills:

• Communication
• Ability to meet strict deadlines

Here’s how you’d mention this in your cover letter:

During my time as Editor in Chief at my University’s newspaper, I got to develop my communication and leadership skills significantly. For over two years, I was in charge of a 7 people team, which also helped my teamwork skills and my ability to meet deadlines. 

Keep in mind, though, that it IS possible to overdo it with the keywords.

44% of hiring managers say they will dismiss a resume or cover letter that looks as if it has copied the job posting. 

Using each and every keyword mentioned in the job description (without backing the skills up with experiences) might cause the hiring manager to think that you’re just copying the job ad & don’t actually have these skills.

So, don’t just copy-paste all the keywords from the job description, and if you DO mention a lot of those keywords, make sure to back them up with practical experiences.

#4. Highlight Your Education

If you don’t have a lot of work experience, your education and relevant coursework is your best chance to show that you’re a good fit for the internship. 

Letting the recruiter know what kind of courses you’ve completed that are relevant to the internship you’re applying for will be a big plus for your application. 

Say, for example, that you’re applying for an internship as a graphic designer. To make your internship cover letter impactful, make sure to mention all the relevant courses and related accomplishments. 

Here’s an example of how you could do that:

As a Visual Design major, I have completed several courses that have helped me build my professional portfolio. A few of the most beneficial ones have been Design & Layout and Visual Communication: Theory and Practice. I have also gained valuable experience doing the layout of the university’s newspaper for 4 years and of several books as independent projects. 

#5. Provide Background For Your Skills

It’s one thing to just claim that you have a set of skills and another to prove it. 

Anyone can say that they’re great at doing something, but what makes all the difference is when you can actually put your money where your mouth is. 

For example, in your internship cover letter, instead of just mentioning that you have “good time-management skills,” actually back it up with a past experience that proves it.

During the summers I assisted my family’s wedding planning business, I learned a lot about time management. In that kind of business, it’s important that things run like clockwork so in addition to time management skills, it also significantly improved my attention to detail. 

#6. Explain Why You’re a Good Fit For The Position

In addition to just listing out the skills that are relevant and beneficial for the internship, you should also explain why you are a good fit for the position. 

This means that you should connect the dots between what the company/organization is looking to gain from its interns and what you can do to provide those services. 

So, after you research and create an understanding of what is required of you, you should use your cover letter to explain why you’re a good fit for that position. 

For the sake of the example, let’s assume you’re applying for an internship at a Human Rights organization. A big chunk of what the role requires is categorizing virtual files of the cases the organization has worked on in the past.

What you want to do, in this case, is show how you can help with that particular job as an intern. Here’s how:  

I have spent 3 summers working at the National Library, where I was tasked to sort and categorize books based on their topic, author, and year of publication, and also memorize where each section fits in the library. I believe this skill, which I have perfected over the years, can really be of use for the internship position at Organization X.

#7. Describe What You Would Gain Professionally

In addition to showing (and proving) your skills and how you can benefit the company, you should also explain how getting the position will benefit YOU . 

When it comes to internships, oftentimes they serve the purpose of helping students and young professionals acquire in-depth knowledge about the industry, create a network, and develop skills that will benefit them throughout their careers. 

So, it will surely help you make an even better impression if you show that you are self-aware about what you’ll get out of the internship and how it will help you grow professionally. 

Here’s how you can do that: 

I am excited for this internship to provide me with the necessary customer service skills and network that will help me grow professionally in my future career as a customer service manager. 

#8. Proofread Your Cover Letter

After all, is written and done, there’s one final thing to do and that is make sure your cover letter doesn’t have mistakes. 

A spelling or grammar mistake probably won’t disqualify you, but at the same time, it will probably be a red flag for recruiters that you’re not too attentive.

For this reason, ask a friend to proofread your cover letter or use spell-checking software such as Grammarly and Hemingway . 

Want to know what other cover letter mistakes you should avoid? Our guide on cover letter mistakes has all you need to know on the topic! 

#9. Match Your Cover Letter & Resume Designs

Want your internship application to truly shine?

Match your cover letter design with your resume!

Sure, you could go with a generic Word cover letter template, but why fit in when you can stand out?

At Novorésumé, all our resume templates come with a matching cover letter template , guaranteed to make your application truly special.

Cover Letter for Internship Template

Struggling to create a cover letter for your internship?

Simply follow our tried-and-tested internship cover letter template!

Key Takeaways 

And that’s a wrap! You should now have all the necessary information about how to create a cover letter for an internship.

Now, let’s do a small recap of the key learning points we just covered:

• Cover letters are a must when you’re applying for an internship.
• When you start writing your cover letter, make sure you respect the format: the header with contact information, the greeting to the recruiter, an opening paragraph, the body with 2-3 paragraphs, and a closing paragraph followed by an official salutation and your name.
• Some of our main tips on how to write a cover letter for an internship include: state the position you’re applying for, make use of the right keywords, and back up your skills with experiences.
• Use a cover letter builder and match it with your resume to make sure your cover letter truly stands out from the rest.

Related Readings: 

• Entry-level Cover Letter
• Do I Need a Cover Letter in 2024?
• Top 21 Cover Letter Tips

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• Publications

Home → About publishing → Write the perfect CV and cover letter

Write the perfect CV and cover letter

When applying for a job or internship, your CV and cover letter should be well written and specific to the job you are applying for. Highlight transferable skills from previous experiences, even if they were unpaid or not directly associated with publishing. For example, an administrator needs to have good timekeeping, show attention to detail, and have strong written and verbal communication skills which are all transferable skills for an editorial assistant.

• Take care checking for typos – use tools to help you like grammarly.com , ask a friend to proofread it for you, and read it out loud to catch any grammar, punctuation, or spelling mistakes.
• Make sure you have tailored your CV to the role you’re applying for. Avoid using the same CV or cover letter for every application – it should be specific to the role and company you are applying for.
• Don’t make it too long – CVs should be kept to two pages. Avoid long paragraphs and keep your sentences short. Try bullet points to demonstrate your skills and responsibilities under each position.

For more careers advice from people across the publishing industry on what – and what not – to put on an entry level publishing CV, view this video:

Covering Letter Tips

Take time to write your cover letter. Ask yourself why you want this position at this particular company. What is it you love about the role? Why do you think you’ll be the perfect candidate?

Research the company and, where relevant, the imprint*, and tailor you application. Look at types of books and/or journals they publish, what recent successes have impressed you, and who are their competitors. Reading the Bookseller (a magazine specifically about the bookselling and publishing trades) and following publishers on Twitter are great ways to keep up with industry news!

Remember that your cover letter is not just an embellished CV – it is an opportunity to show you have your own ideas, are aware of industry trends, and (most importantly) can do the job. Work through the list of required skills provided in the job description and give examples of relevant experience. When giving examples, be specific and show results, for example “In my time running my football club’s Twitter account at university, I introduced weekly sports quizzes that doubled our followers from 50 to 100 in one month”.

Be honest if you don’t have any experience of a required skill and present it as an exciting opportunity to develop.

• Address the cover letter to the hiring manager. This is usually included in the job description. If it isn’t, don’t be afraid to contact whoever posted the job and ask.
• Always err on the side of caution and use formal conventions in any correspondence, e.g. “Dear Sir/Madam” or, if you know their name, “Dear [Ms/Mr/Mx] [Surname]”. Remember that every interaction with the company is an opportunity to impress so be polite and respectful. Sending too many emails to check up on the status of your application can be annoying for those involved in the hiring process, who may be juggling hundreds of CVs.
• The first paragraph should come straight to the point, for example: ‘I am writing to apply for the position of [role name] that I saw advertised in [media/agency]. Please find my CV enclosed.’
• Use key words from the job description and give concrete examples of your skills.
• Some companies will let applicants know if they are unsuccessful, but this is not always the case. If you don’t hear from a company after the deadline, you can probably assume that you won’t be offered an interview.

Interview Tips

Research is key! Find out everything you can about the company, the books or journals they publish, the people that work there, and, if you can, the people who will be interviewing you.

Be prepared to answer these questions in an interview:

• Why do you want to work at this company?
• Why do you want to work in this role?
• Tell us a bit about yourself.
• What are your biggest strengths?
• What is your biggest weakness?

It’s also a good idea to prepare examples of your creativity, problem-solving abilities and organisational skills. Using the job description, consider if there are any other key skills you may be asked to give examples of in the interview.

Always come to an interview with a list of questions and remember that you are also interviewing them! This is your opportunity to find out if the company is right for you – what is the company culture like? Are there opportunities for training and progression? Who are the rest of the team?

Build rapport with the interviewers by asking about their careers, what they like about working there, and what they hope the successful candidate will get out of the role. Finally, don’t forget to ask about the timeline and next steps for their final decision. This is especially important if you have multiple interviews in the same week as you may be offered another position while waiting to hear back from them.

*An imprint is a publishing term for subdivision of a publishing company. A publisher may have multiple imprints under the same division. In a very large company with several divisions, there can be hundreds of imprints, each with their own distinct list of books. To figure out where the team that you are applying to join fits within the overall structure of the business, visit the About page of the parent company. For example, if you are applying for a position at Penguin Random House, you can find a description of their divisions and imprints here .

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How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship (Example)

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How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship (Example) was originally published on Forage .

Trying to figure out how to write a cover letter for an internship can feel like a paradox. How do you explain your professional experience and skills — when you’re applying for an internship so you can gain professional experience and skills? 

>>MORE: What Is an Internship (and Why Should I Do One)?

It is confusing, but luckily, you can still write a successful cover letter without professional experience. This guide will cover:

What Do Employers Look for in an Internship Cover Letter?

Internship cover letter example, how to write a cover letter for an internship with no experience, how to write a cover letter for an internship: the bottom line.

Because you’re applying for an internship, employers don’t expect you to have years of experience and well-established job skills . 

“Prior work experience is always a plus, but what also matters is anything that provides a sense of the person’s character, commitment, passions and interests, drive, ability to overcome challenges, and willingness to learn,” says J.R. Lowry, founder of PathWise.io, a career coaching company. “As an employer, you can teach skills and provide experience, but we’re looking for intern candidates who will work at it.”

Instead, they’re looking for interns with interest, passion, and soft skills .

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Interest and Passion

Employers want to know why you’re particularly interested in the specific role at the company and why it excites you.

“Focus your cover letter on who you are, why the company or what you do is meaningful to you, and what YOU can bring to the organization,” says Ayanna E. Jackson, career and leadership consultant. “That requires research. Many times interns focus on ‘I want, I want, I want,’ versus focusing on what they can give to an organization with their ambition and skill. Usually, it’s a confidence issue, but hiring managers know you don’t possess all the skills. They want to know that you want to work there and not just anywhere. Be specific. Be confident.”

Soft Skills

Wendy Reimann, owner and writer at Lighthouse Writing, a writing and editing services company, emphasizes that soft skills are essential in an internship cover letter. Companies are looking for interns who don’t just have technical skills, but also skills like communication and collaboration that will make them valuable to the team.

>>MORE: Top Communication Skills for the Workplace

“Employers are also desperate for employees who demonstrate emotional intelligence alongside standard skills in their fields so that they can positively add to the company culture ,” she says. “Currently, the biggest skills and experiences needed in most industries are the ability to effectively collaborate and communicate across diverse populations, including gender, race, culture, and socio-economic status.”

Jill Knight Boston, MA 123-456-7890 [email protected]

January 10th, 2023

Charles Callahan VP of Product Company Z Boston, MA

Dear Charles, 

I’m writing to share my interest in the UX design internship at Company Z for summer 2023. I’m a current junior studying psychology at X University, and I believe my unique perspectives on user motivation and experience with user research and graphic design make me a great fit for this role.

In my cognitive psychology course, I learned a human-oriented approach to design, specifically from learning about how humans perceive and process information. As a result, I use an empathetic approach to design that aims to make any product intuitive, clear, and simple to use. I applied this approach in my human-computer interaction course, where I completed mock user research and identified three critical areas for design improvement within the sample product. After those improvements, 93% of users reported higher satisfaction with the product.

Outside of my academic work, I’ve worked independently on graphic design projects for various organizations on campus, using Figma to draft website designs and InDesign for print work. I’ve become the go-to person for designing for theater and music organizations on campus and work collaboratively with directors to produce a design they love. This is why I’m particularly passionate about interning for Company Z — I’m excited to bring my love for designing for arts organizations to Company Z’s innovative music product. 

My coursework in psychology and passion for arts graphic design give me a human-oriented, empathetic, and creative approach to UX design. This approach is not only in-line with Company Z’s mission but would also be an asset in an internship and help the company reach young audiences in new, creative ways. Please let me know if you need anything else from me to move forward in the process. I’ve attached my resume and portfolio and look forward to hearing next steps. Thank you for your consideration.

Best, Jill Knight

Where do you start if you don’t know how to write a cover letter for an internship without experience? Jill, from our example, doesn’t have any professional work experience, but she still writes a convincing cover letter that shows off her skills and passion. So, if you’re like Jill, here’s how to write your internship cover letter.

>>MORE: Should you use ChatGPT to write your cover letter ? Learn what the chatbot gets right (and wrong).

Start With a Header and Greeting

Every cover letter starts with a similar type of header. You write your information at the top, then include the hiring manager’s or company’s information (depending on whether you know who the hiring manager is). 

You don’t need to give your full address in the cover letter; however, even if you’re applying for a remote position, you can just include your city. This will give the recruiter or hiring manager an idea of where you’re located — and help them understand your time zone, whether you’re near one of the company’s offices, or if you qualify for relocation assistance.

Make sure you’re addressing the right person at the top of the letter. This should be the hiring manager for the role. If you don’t know who the hiring manager is, you can get savvy with your search:

• If the role was posted on LinkedIn , look for a “meet the hiring team” section underneath the job description.
• If the job description shares who interns report to, search on LinkedIn for people with that title who work at the company.

If you still can’t find the name, that’s okay — instead, address your letter to whatever team you’re applying for. For example, Jill could have addressed her letter to the product team.

Introduce Yourself

The first paragraph of a cover letter should summarize who you are and why you’re uniquely excited to apply for the role.

If you’re a student or recent graduate, you can include your major (if you’ve declared one), class year, and university. You can also include any other key information about your work. In this example, Jill mentioned she has experience with graphic design. 

Explain Your Experience

You don’t need professional experience to write a cover letter, especially for an internship. You can include:

• Academic experience: Courses you’ve taken that apply to the role, skills you’ve learned, and projects you’ve worked on
• Extracurricular activities: Clubs you’re a part of (or lead!), events you’ve led, projects you’ve worked on
• Volunteer experience: Places you’ve volunteered or community service projects you’ve done
• Personal projects: Independent work you’ve done, even if it’s not formally published or part of a formal project. (Make sure to include an online portfolio so the team can see it!)

“Highlight any clubs, events, or activities that you’ve helped plan,” Jackson says. “Think church, community, school clubs, sororities, fraternities or volunteer experiences. What role did you play? What did you accomplish? Who did it help? How many? How much? I’ve told my interns to think about why they are interested in that particular company or function and hone in on good storytelling. The WHY behind what they want to do is sometimes more important than having direct experience in that space.”

Emphasize Your Skills

When explaining what experiences you’ve worked on, be sure to call out any relevant skills you have. You don’t need to say outright, “I have communication skills” or “I have programming skills .” Instead, infuse these skills naturally into your descriptions.

For example, Jill mentions her hard skills when she says she uses Figma and InDesign, two applications that are relevant to the internship she’s applying for. However, she also mentions a soft skill, collaboration, when describing who she’s designed for. 

Your final paragraph of the cover letter should summarize everything you’ve discussed and show why you’re right for the role. 

You don’t need to parrot back precisely what you mentioned in the first paragraph. Instead, drive home why you’re the best fit. You can include your top experience highlights and say how that aligns with the company’s mission or an initiative you’ve researched. In Jill’s letter, she references the company’s mission and adds that her work could benefit the company by helping them reach a target audience.

“Frame your desire for the role in a way that showcases you’ve done your research on the organization: know a bit about their products, services, recent mergers, or customers and tie your genuine interests to that,” Jackson says.

Ask for Next Steps

End the cover letter with gratitude and a call to action. The reader should know you appreciate their time and understand what next steps you’d like them to take. Like Jill, you can ask them to let you know what else they need from you. You could also ask them when you should expect to hear back from them or tell them you’re looking forward to the next steps.

Finally, include a professional sign-off and your full name.

>>MORE : Unsure what sign-off to use? Learn eight sign-offs to use and six to avoid with How to End an Email Professionally (With Examples) .

Writing a cover letter for an internship when you don’t have any professional experience can be daunting, but employers aren’t looking for experienced interns with advanced skills. Instead, your cover letter can discuss any academic, extracurricular, volunteer, or independent work you’ve done and highlight key hard and soft skills the employer mentions in the job description. 

“Even if you haven’t had a ‘real job’ before, you likely have some relevant experience — what you’ve studied in school, school or other groups you’re involved in, any leadership roles you’ve played in those, sports team you’ve been on, things you’re interested in outside of school that might be relevant, etc.,” Lowry says. “Focus on what’s made you good at those things and what you learned from them.”

In the midst of internship applications? Check out our other internship guides:

• How to Find Internships That’ll Jumpstart Your Career
• Ultimate Guide to Internship Application Deadlines and Open Dates
• How to Apply for an Internship
• How to Ask for an Internship (Email Examples)
• How Long Does an Internship Last?

Image credit: Vlada Karpovich / Pexels

The post How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship (Example) appeared first on Forage .

Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, cover letter sample: applying for editorial assistant job.

Not everyone applying for a job has years of professional experience behind them. This next sample cover letter's geared toward an entry-level position in the publishing industry.

The applicant has had a relevant internship, plus a summer job at her local bookstore. In lieu of more extensive experience, she makes sure her enthusiasm for the position and company shines through. 

Read on to see how the writer shows her passion for publishing, and then check out the analysis below of what this cover letter does well.

Cover Letter Sample: Editorial Assistant  

Mary Entel 1111 E. 15th St. New York, NY 11230

May 1, 2016  

Rita Bookman Editor-in-Chief Cooper Books Publishing House 74 Reading Street New York, New York 10020

Dear Ms. Bookman,

I was pleased to find your posting for an Editorial Assistant with Coffeehouse Books on MediaBistro.com. As an English literature major with a passion for the written word, I am committed to working in the publishing industry following graduation. I’m especially excited about your publishing company because you represent two of my favorite authors, Tim Smith and Anne Lee. I'm confident that I have the skills and experiences to add substantial contributions to Coffeehouse Books.

Last fall, I gained practical experience in the publishing industry as an intern at Dharma Publishing House. I collaborated with members of the editorial staff on projects that included reading and reporting on manuscript submissions, editing promotional materials, and completing fact checks. In particular, I edited three social science works to publication-ready state using Chicago Manual of Style guidelines. My knowledge of grammar and style would allow me to step right into editorial work as an Editorial Assistant with your company.

Beyond my editorial experience, I would also bring a rich knowledge of literature. I studied English at NYU, maintaining a 3.8 GPA, and worked at my local bookstore during the summers. At the bookstore, I helped customers discover contemporary works - The Orphan Master’s Son and Swamplandia are two favorites - and organized events for speakers and book signings. Between my studies and work, I immersed myself in the world of fiction and nonfiction. My passion for reading underlies my commitment to this work, and I have the organizational and communication skills, along with the attention to detail, to excel in every aspect of the Editorial Assistant role.

My life has been shaped by the written word, and I would be thrilled to contribute to Coffeehouse Books in the role of Editorial Assistant. I would welcome the opportunity to interview and can be reached anytime at (555) 555-5555 or [email protected].

Thank you very much for your consideration.

Mary Entel  

Mary Entel

While Mary hasn't worked in publishing before, she's spent a lot of time around books working in her local bookstore.

Editorial Assistant Cover Letter: The Breakdown

In her cover letter for the position of Editorial Assistant , Mary  expresses her enthusiasm for the position. She shows that she has the skills - editorial, organization, communication - to do well in the role, and infuses her entire letter with a sense of excitement about working in the publishing industry.

In her introduction, Mary shows that she has some familiary with Coffeehouse Books , stating that the company represents two of her favorite authors. She describes her experiences as an editorial intern, as well as her knowledge of literature as an English major and summer employee of her local bookstore.

Mary ends by restating her excitement about the position with Coffeehouse Books. After reading her letter, hopefully Editor-in-Chief Rita Bookman will be happy to engage with Mary in conversation about the Editorial Assistant position.

In addition to the content of Mary's letter, let's take a closer look at its overall presentation. 

A Note on Format

As you can see in the letter above, Mary formats her cover letter in a traditional way. She includes her name and address at the top, followed by the date and name and information of the hiring manager. 

This is a great approach if you're sending your cover letter by hard copy or as a Word attachment. For a lot of jobs, though, it's fine or even preferred to send your cover letter right in the body of an email. Still other jobs use their own application portal and want you to paste your information into a text box.

In the latter two cases (body of the email and text box), it's usually fine to leave out all these headers. You can just start right in by addressing the hiring manager. Make sure you understand how to send your application materials and format your cover letter accordingly!

What's Next?

On to the next cover letter! Check out this cover letter sample for the position of Assistant Restaurant Manager .

Care to read more samples? Head over to our full cover letter guide with six sample letters and tips for how to write a great one .

Are you writing your own cover letter for a job application? Check out our great cover template to help you through the writing process, step by step . 

Rebecca graduated with her Master's in Adolescent Counseling from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. She has years of teaching and college counseling experience and is passionate about helping students achieve their goals and improve their well-being. She graduated magna cum laude from Tufts University and scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT.

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How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship (With Examples)

• October 14, 2022

Table of Contents

Specify the role you’re applying for, use keywords, include relevant coursework/education, include relevant skills, state why you think you’re a good candidate for the role, say what you think you could gain from it, format the cover letter properly, review, review, review.

When going through an internship’s application requirements, you might come across the need to write a cover letter. A cover letter is one of the most effective ways to show why you are the best candidate for the internship and gives you the space to expand and showcase your skills and experiences.

This article will show you how to create an internship cover letter that will make your application stand out and land you an internship. Additionally, you will get comprehensive internship cover letter examples that you may copy, edit, and customize to your needs.

How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship

A strong internship cover letter should help the company see that you have the skills, motivation, and drive necessary to thrive in your internship assignment. It must grab the employer’s interest and convince them to look over your resume in more detail. 

Your cover letter should include examples from your employment, school, and extracurricular activities, which should be customized for the particular internship. If you are unsure of how to write a good cover letter for an internship , here is what you need to know. 

You must specify the position you are applying for at the beginning of your cover letter. It is an excellent way to grab the recruiter’s attention. It suggests you have written a cover letter specifically for their opening rather than using a template. Additionally, it demonstrates that you have carefully considered what skills you need for this particular position.

Since recruiters have to read many job applications, they frequently search for relevant keywords in your cover letters. But how do you know which keywords to use? Look at the internship job description, read through the duties and required skills, and note any keywords you believe the recruiter might be looking for. 

If “ time management ” is included in the job description as the desired attribute, try providing concrete examples in your cover letter. However, avoid using keywords that do not pertain to you because doing so will give the impression that you are simply copying and pasting from the job description.

If you are concerned about how to write a cover letter for an internship with no experience , just remember that education is also very important and should be emphasized in the cover letter. Employers are usually interested in relevant education, even if you have little to no work experience. Include any coursework that relates to the job description to show potential employers that you are already setting the groundwork for a career in the field you want to intern in. To give particular instances of what you are capable of, highlight the accomplishments you made while enrolled in these classes.

When answering the question of how to write a cover letter for an internship job, almost immediately you should think about the skills that qualify you for the job. You can add skills you have acquired in previous jobs, volunteer roles, courses, or projects you have finished or accomplishments in extracurricular activities , even if you lack professional industry experience.

Claiming to have a particular set of skills is one thing; demonstrating them is quite another. Anyone can claim to be excellent at something, but what truly distinguishes one from another is the ability to back up their claims. For instance, in your internship cover letter, instead of simply stating that you have “excellent time-management skills,” include evidence of this from your prior experiences.

Examine the job description in detail to determine the knowledge and skills that the company is seeking. Align them with your own, and based on the job posting, choose which to emphasize in your cover letter. You should justify your qualifications for the role and draw a line between what the company hopes to gain from its interns and what you can do to offer those services.

When it comes to internships, they frequently serve the objective of assisting students and young professionals in developing skills that will be useful in their careers, building a network, and getting in-depth knowledge of the business.

So, you should not only exemplify your qualifications and how you can help the business but also how getting the job will help you. If you can demonstrate that you are self-aware about what you will gain from the internship and how it will help you advance professionally, it will undoubtedly help you make an even better impression.

There are specific formatting requirements for a cover letter for an internship position. For instance, the length of your cover letter should be four paragraphs and approximately one full page (but no more than that).

Even though it seems brief, there is still enough room for you to showcase your skills. To discover how to format your cover letter correctly, keep reading. 

Header with contact information

This section should include your full name, business contact information (email and phone), and LinkedIn profile (if you have one). The date and the receiver’s information (the recruiter’s name and title, the company/organization name, and their physical address) should be included after your contact information. 

Addressing the recruiter

It is customary to address the recruiter with “Dear Sir/Madam” or “To Whom It May Concern,” although this is not the greatest greeting and should be used only when you can not find the recruiter’s name. However, to demonstrate to the hiring manager that you did your homework, it is advised to address them directly and by name. 

Opening statement

Your opening statement should be concise, professional, and captivating all at once. You introduce yourself, mention the position you’re looking for, and perhaps cite one or more noteworthy accomplishments here.

Your cover letter’s body should be composed of two to three paragraphs that highlight your schooling, give context for your skills, and explain how you and the company would complement one another professionally.

Closing paragraph

This paragraph gives you the opportunity to include a call to action, express gratitude to the recruiters for their time, or mention anything significant you missed in your body paragraph. Finish with a passionate but respectful closing.

You don’t want to appear arrogant, but you also don’t want to appear unsure of yourself. Don’t assume; instead, show that you are willing to discuss ways that you might help the organization.

Formal salutation

Put a formal salutation at the end of your cover letter, such as “kind regards,” “sincerely,” or “best regards.”

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Spend some time reviewing and editing your cover letter after it is finished. Look closely for spelling, punctuation, and grammar mistakes when proofreading. Nothing gives the wrong impression more in a cover letter than a glaring error in grammar or formatting. These mistakes might appear minor, but they reveal a lack of attention to detail to a recruiting manager.

Try these proofreading strategies to polish your work before submitting your application:

• Read it aloud 
• Alter the font size
• Use software for grammar checking
• Have a friend review your resume
• Use a text-to-speech program to hear your work back

Internship Cover Letter Samples

Still confused about how to write a good cover letter for an internship job? Or how to write a cover letter for an internship through email? You do not have to worry because we have you covered. Below you will find the internship cover letter samples to be sent via mail and email. 

Your name The address where you can be reached Phone number Fax number (if applicable) E-mail address

Name of the specific person Title of that person (if available) Address of the company

Dear (Hiring manager name),

I am applying for the internship role in (Position name) at your esteemed organization.

I am currently in the first year of a master’s at (University name), and I am eager to gain experience, which would hopefully help me garner a full-time position in your company.

My skills would make me an ideal fit for the role, as I’m meticulous with detail, have a positive can-do attitude, and perform well in various circumstances. I enjoy teamwork, but I am equally comfortable working independently. 

(Company name) is a company that I’m excited to work for, as you have an outstanding reputation for delivering quality customer service, proven by your awards, reviews on Glassdoor, etc. 

My long-term career goals are to work with a company that challenges and develops employees, and this internship would aid give me the knowledge and experience I need to achieve this.

I would appreciate the chance to discuss my experience in more detail and, of course, hear more about your organization.

One thing you should know when applying through email is that the subject line should never be empty. Instead, you should write your name and the position you are applying for. 

Subject: Your name – X Intern Position

E-mail address Phone number LinkedIn link (if you have one)

The main goal of a cover letter is to highlight your most important qualifications and experience. You can make your cover letter stand out from those submitted by other applicants if you take the time to polish it. If you follow our advice on how to write an internship cover letter, you’ll get the call.

Bay Atlantic University

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How to Write a Cover Letter: A Comprehensive Guide with Examples (2024)

Crafting a compelling cover letter is the first step towards landing an interview. It’s usually the first impression an employer gets before even seeing your resume, and it will help to set the tone and establish your personality before getting into your qualifications and suitability for the position.

Whether you're applying for a job, internship, or generally submitting your resume for consideration, understanding how to write a cover letter can significantly enhance your chances of success.

What is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a formal document accompanying your resume that introduces yourself to potential employers, highlighting your qualifications, experiences, and interest in a specific job or internship. It offers you the opportunity to showcase your personality and passion for the role in a more personalized manner than a resume alone.

Cover Letter Format

The format of a cover letter typically follows a standard business letter structure. It includes your contact information, the date, the recipient's contact details, a salutation, body paragraphs, and a closing. Ensure that your cover letter is concise, well-organized, and visually appealing, using a professional font and maintaining consistent formatting throughout.

As your cover letter will often be sent as an email, check this guide on how to write an email for some general tips on subject lines, email greetings, structuring the main content, and signing off.

Cover Letter for a Job

When applying for a job, a cover letter for your resume is often expected, and it serves as your initial introduction to potential employers. It should be customized for each position, showcasing how your skills and experiences fit the job requirements. A well-crafted cover letter can distinguish you from other applicants and increase your chances of securing an interview, especially if you can show that you’re genuinely aligned with the company’s goals.

Cover Letter for an Internship

For internship applications, a cover letter is equally essential. It allows you to convey your enthusiasm for the opportunity, relevant skills, and willingness to learn. Even if you have limited professional experience, your cover letter can highlight academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and relevant coursework that demonstrate your potential value to the organization.

Writing a Cover Letter

Let’s get into how to write a cover letter, step by step:

Step 1: How to Address a Cover Letter

When addressing your cover letter, it's essential to find out the name and title of the hiring manager or recruiter whenever possible. Addressing the letter to a specific individual adds a personal touch and demonstrates your initiative. A quick note on how to address a cover letter without a name. If you're unable to identify the recipient, you can use a general greeting such as "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Company Name] Recruiting Team."

Step 2: What to Include in a Cover Letter

Writing a compelling cover letter requires careful attention to detail and a strategic approach. Begin by thoroughly researching the company and the position to tailor your letter accordingly. Highlight your most relevant experiences and accomplishments, using specific examples to demonstrate your qualifications. Keep your language professional, yet engaging, and avoid using generic templates or clichés. Instead, strive to make a memorable impression that sets you apart from other candidates by showing you understand what the company is about.

Structure-wise, a well-written cover letter should include the following elements:

Introduction : Start by stating the position you're applying for and how you learned about it. Express your enthusiasm for the opportunity and briefly introduce yourself.

Body Paragraphs : Use one or two paragraphs to highlight your relevant experiences, skills, and achievements. Provide specific examples that demonstrate your qualifications and fit for the role. Tailor your content to align with the job description and company's needs.

Closing Paragraph : Summarize your interest in the position and reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity. Thank the employer for considering your application and express your willingness to discuss further in an interview.

Closing : End your cover letter with a professional closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your name and contact information.

By using this kind of cover letter template, you can keep a clear and structured approach whilst also easily adjusting your content each time to customize it for each specific contact.

Before you send

Remember maintain professionalism throughout and always proofread your cover letter before you send it off. Check this quick list of cover letter dos and don’ts so you can ensure you’ve done everything you can and haven’t made any glaring errors along the way.

Note for students: While it may be reasonable to apply for internships with your university email, it probably won’t come across as particularly professional for proper job applications. Contacting an employer from a free email account with a funny name you made when you were an adolescent also won’t be particularly impressive. You may want to use a service like Inbox.com and create a business email account that shows you’re a serious professional.

Cover letter examples

Here are some short cover letter samples that you can use as templates for your own letter. Note that although the content should be adapted both to you and to the company you’re applying to, a similar structure applies in all cases.

1. Marketing Manager Cover Letter:

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the Marketing Manager position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. With over five years of experience in marketing strategy development, campaign management, and brand positioning, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and drive results for [Company Name].

In my previous role at [Previous Company], I led cross-functional teams to develop and execute innovative marketing campaigns that resulted in a 30% increase in brand awareness and a 25% boost in lead generation. My ability to analyze market trends, identify customer insights, and leverage data-driven strategies has consistently delivered impactful results and exceeded organizational objectives.

I am particularly drawn to [specific aspect of the company or job description], and I am eager to bring my expertise in digital marketing, social media management, and content development to support [Company Name]'s mission of [mention company mission or values].

Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the possibility of joining [Company Name] and contributing to its continued success. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address].

Sincerely, [Your Name]

2. Software Engineer Cover Letter:

I am writing to apply for the Software Engineer position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. With a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and three years of hands-on experience in software development and coding, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and develop innovative solutions for [Company Name].

In my previous role at [Previous Company], I played a key role in designing and implementing scalable software solutions that optimized workflow efficiency and enhanced user experience. My proficiency in programming languages such as Java, Python, and JavaScript, coupled with my strong problem-solving skills, has enabled me to deliver high-quality software solutions that meet and exceed client expectations.

I am impressed by [specific aspect of the company or job description], and I am eager to leverage my technical skills and passion for innovation to support [Company Name]'s goals of [mention company goals or objectives].

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to further discuss how my background and expertise align with the needs of [Company Name] and am available for an interview at your earliest convenience. Please feel free to contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address] to schedule a discussion.

3. Graphic Designer Cover Letter:

I am thrilled to apply for the Graphic Designer position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. With a strong background in visual communication, brand identity development, and multimedia design, I am excited about the opportunity to bring my creativity and expertise to your team and contribute to [Company Name]'s success.

In my previous role at [Previous Company], I collaborated with cross-functional teams to create visually compelling designs that effectively communicated brand messages and engaged target audiences. My proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, coupled with my attention to detail and passion for design, has allowed me to deliver innovative solutions that align with client objectives and exceed expectations.

I am particularly drawn to [specific aspect of the company or job description], and I am eager to leverage my design skills and artistic vision to support [Company Name]'s mission of [mention company mission or values].

Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the possibility of joining [Company Name] and contributing to its creative endeavors. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address].

What is a cover letter for a job?

A cover letter for a job is a formal document submitted alongside a resume during the application process. It introduces the applicant to the potential employer and highlights their qualifications, experiences, and interest in the specific job position.

What is a cover letter for a resume?

A cover letter for a resume is a document that accompanies a resume when applying for a job. While the resume provides a summary of the applicant's skills and experiences, the cover letter offers additional context and insight into their suitability for the position.

What is the purpose of a cover letter?

The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce the applicant to the potential employer, showcase their qualifications and experiences, and express their interest in the job position. It allows applicants to personalize their application and demonstrate their enthusiasm and suitability for the role.

What does a cover letter look like?

A cover letter typically follows a formal business letter format, including the sender's and recipient's contact information, a salutation, body paragraphs, and a closing. It should be well-organized, concise, and visually appealing, with a professional tone and consistent formatting.

How long should a cover letter be?

A cover letter should be concise and to the point, typically no longer than one page. It should provide enough information to highlight the applicant's qualifications and interest in the position without overwhelming the reader with unnecessary details.

What should be in a cover letter?

A cover letter should include the sender's and recipient's contact information, a formal salutation, an introduction stating the position being applied for and how the applicant learned about it, body paragraphs highlighting relevant qualifications and experiences, and a closing expressing gratitude and interest in further discussion.

How to Start a Cover Letter

To start your cover letter effectively, consider using a strong opening sentence or attention-grabbing statement that immediately captures the reader's interest. You can mention a mutual connection, reference a recent company accomplishment, or highlight a specific aspect of the job that excites you.

How to End a Cover Letter

Ending your cover letter on a high note is crucial to leave a lasting impression. In the closing paragraph, reiterate your interest in the position and express your gratitude for the opportunity to apply. Convey confidence in your ability to contribute to the company's success. Finally, use a professional closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your name.

Updated: April 10, 2024 at 4:33 PM

Published: April 10, 2024 at 4:33 PM

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EIA Summer 2024 Remote Editorial  Internship

From the  Editors

Ethics & International Affairs , the journal of the Carnegie Council, seeks a remote volunteer intern for the summer. The goal of the journal is to integrate rigorous thinking about principles of ethics and justice into discussions of the practical policy dilemmas that frequently arise in global politics. Some topics that the journal commonly publishes on include the ethics of war, the responsibility to protect, international migration, climate change, human rights, and emerging technology. The internship is an excellent opportunity to receive training and develop broadly applicable skills for a future in academia, the nonprofit sector, or the publishing industry. The volunteer intern’s tasks will include:

• Reading and critically assessing manuscript submissions
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REQUIREMENTS

Candidates MUST be graduate students (or have recently obtained a graduate degree) in International Affairs, Political Science, Philosophy, International Law or related areas; have a solid understanding of normative and empirical issues in international relations, global policy, and economics; excellent writing skills; attention to detail; strong Web and electronic database research skills; and excellent familiarity with Microsoft Word and Excel. Candidates are strongly encouraged to gain general familiarity with the substance of the journal.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

The intern will work remotely on a volunteer basis and will receive training and hands-on experience in return. School credit can be arranged, and the intern will receive a stipend of $25 per day. We require interns to work for twelve to fifteen hours a week, including participating in weekly team meetings via video conference. We ask that candidates commit to staying on for the entire semester (May-August), although exact start and end dates are flexible. The intern also receives credit on the journal’s masthead and will have the opportunity to participate in further career development and educational opportunities offered to all interns at the Council.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Please email a resume, cover letter, and brief writing sample (3-5 pages) to [email protected] with the subject line “Summer Internship Application.” With the semester already underway, we are looking to have someone start as soon as possible. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis and the final day to submit materials is Friday, April 26, 2023 . You may only apply for one type of internship with the Carnegie Council per semester. Qualified candidates will be contacted for interviews promptly on a rolling basis.

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