Getting your first job can be tough, especially when you're just starting out. Many people forget about one important part of the job search: the cover letter. A cover letter is a short note you write to go with your resume when you apply for a job. It's your chance to tell the company why you'd be great for the job, even if you don't have much work experience yet.
Writing a good cover letter for an entry-level job might seem hard, but it doesn't have to be. This letter is your opportunity to show off your skills, your enthusiasm, and why you want to work for that company. It's like introducing yourself on paper before you meet in person.
In this article, we'll walk you through how to write a strong cover letter for your first job. We'll explain what to include, what to avoid, and give you tips to make your letter stand out. We'll even show you an example of a good entry-level cover letter to help you get started.
Remember, your cover letter is often the first thing an employer sees. It's your chance to make a good first impression and get them interested in you. So, let's learn how to write a cover letter that will help you land that first job!
Entry Level Cover Letter Example
Dear Ms. Brianna Fox,
I am writing to express my strong interest in the Entry Level position at Deloitte. As a recent graduate with a passion for innovation and a drive to contribute to a leading professional services firm, I am excited about the opportunity to bring my fresh perspective and eagerness to learn to your esteemed organization.
Throughout my academic career, I have developed a solid foundation in critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills, which I believe align well with Deloitte's commitment to excellence and client-focused approach. I am particularly drawn to Deloitte's reputation for fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous learning, which resonates with my own values and career aspirations.
While I may be at the beginning of my professional journey, I am committed to making a significant impact and growing within your organization. I am a quick learner, adaptable to new challenges, and possess a strong work ethic that I believe will make me a valuable asset to your team. My ability to work effectively in diverse teams, coupled with my enthusiasm for embracing new technologies and methodologies, positions me well to contribute to Deloitte's innovative projects and initiatives.
I am particularly impressed by Deloitte's global reach and the opportunity to work on complex, multifaceted projects that drive business transformation. The prospect of contributing to such impactful work while developing my skills under the guidance of industry leaders is truly exciting.
I am eager to bring my energy, fresh ideas, and commitment to excellence to Deloitte. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and aspirations align with the needs of your team and to learn more about how I can contribute to Deloitte's continued success.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of speaking with you further about this exciting opportunity.
Sincerely,
Norman Fernandez
How to Write & Format a Cover Letter Header
The header of your entry-level cover letter is the first thing a hiring manager sees, making it crucial to get right. This section sets the tone for your entire application and ensures your document looks professional and polished from the start.
Key Components of a Cover Letter Header
Your header should include essential contact information, neatly organized at the top of the page. Include your full name, phone number, email address, and city/state of residence. If applicable, you may also add your LinkedIn profile or personal website.
Formatting Tips
Keep the header clean and easy to read. Use a professional font and ensure proper spacing. Align the text to the left or center, depending on your preferred style. Consistency is key, so match the formatting of your header to that of your resume for a cohesive application package.
Date and Employer's Information
Below your contact details, include the current date. Then, add the hiring manager's name, their job title, the company name, and the company's address. If you don't know the hiring manager's name, use a general salutation like "Dear Hiring Manager" or research to find the appropriate contact.
By crafting a clear and informative header, you set a professional tone for your cover letter and make it easy for employers to contact you, increasing your chances of landing that coveted entry-level position.
Greeting Your Potential Employer
After crafting a professional header, the next crucial element of your entry-level cover letter is the greeting. This section sets the tone for your letter and demonstrates your attention to detail and professionalism. A well-chosen salutation can make a positive first impression on the hiring manager and encourage them to read further.
Research the recipient
Whenever possible, address your cover letter to a specific person. Take the time to research the company's website, LinkedIn, or even call the company to find out the name and title of the hiring manager or department head. This extra effort shows initiative and genuine interest in the position.
Use a professional salutation
If you have a name, use "Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. [Last Name]:" For gender-neutral options, you can use the full name: "Dear Alex Johnson:" If you're unsure about the recipient's gender, it's best to use their full name to avoid any assumptions.
When you can't find a name
In cases where you can't identify a specific recipient, use a general but professional greeting such as:
- "Dear Hiring Manager:"
- "Dear [Department Name] Team:"
- "Dear Human Resources Director:"
Avoid outdated or overly generic salutations like "To Whom It May Concern" or "Dear Sir/Madam," as these can come across as impersonal and lazy.
Double-check for accuracy
Before finalizing your greeting, double-check the spelling of the recipient's name and their correct title. A small error here can negatively impact your first impression, so it's worth taking the extra time to ensure accuracy.
Remember, the greeting sets the stage for the rest of your cover letter. A thoughtful, personalized salutation demonstrates your professionalism and attention to detail, giving you a strong start in your job application.
Introducing Yourself in a Cover Letter
The introduction of your entry-level cover letter is crucial as it sets the tone for the entire document and captures the reader's attention. This section is your opportunity to make a strong first impression and entice the hiring manager to continue reading.
Why the introduction matters
A well-crafted introduction demonstrates your enthusiasm for the position and showcases your understanding of the company's needs. It should clearly state the purpose of your letter and briefly highlight why you're an excellent fit for the role.
Key elements to include
When writing your introduction, be sure to:
- Mention the specific job title you're applying for
- Explain how you learned about the position
- Express your genuine interest in the role and company
- Briefly touch on your qualifications or skills that align with the job requirements
Tailoring your introduction
To make your introduction stand out, research the company and position thoroughly. Use this information to personalize your opening paragraph, showing that you've done your homework and are genuinely interested in the organization.
Keep it concise
Remember that your introduction should be brief and to the point. Aim for 2-3 sentences that pack a punch and leave the reader wanting to learn more about you. Avoid generic openings or clichés that could apply to any job application.
By crafting a strong, tailored introduction, you'll set yourself apart from other entry-level candidates and increase your chances of landing an interview.
Strong Example
Dear Hiring Manager,
As a recent graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science from XYZ University, I am excited to apply for the Entry-Level Software Developer position at ABC Tech. My passion for coding, combined with my internship experience at DEF Solutions, has prepared me well for this role. I was particularly drawn to ABC Tech's commitment to innovation and its focus on developing cutting-edge mobile applications, which aligns perfectly with my career aspirations and technical skills.
Why is this a strong example?
This is a strong example of a cover letter introduction for several reasons. First, it immediately establishes the candidate's qualifications and educational background, which is crucial for an entry-level position. The mention of a specific degree and university adds credibility. Second, it demonstrates enthusiasm for the role and company, showing genuine interest. Third, it mentions relevant experience (internship), indicating that the candidate has some practical skills despite being entry-level. Fourth, it shows that the applicant has researched the company by mentioning ABC Tech's focus on mobile applications and innovation. Finally, it connects the candidate's skills and aspirations with the company's goals, making a compelling case for why they would be a good fit. This introduction is concise yet informative, setting a positive tone for the rest of the cover letter.
Weak Example
Hi there, I saw your job posting online and thought I'd apply. I'm fresh out of college and really need a job. I don't have much experience, but I'm a quick learner and I'm willing to do anything. Please give me a chance!
Why is this a weak example?
This is a weak cover letter introduction for several reasons. First, it's overly casual and lacks professionalism, starting with 'Hi there.' It also fails to address the specific company or position, showing a lack of research and genuine interest. The focus on the applicant's needs ('really need a job') rather than what they can offer the company is off-putting. Additionally, admitting to a lack of experience without highlighting relevant skills or education is not strategic. The plea to 'give me a chance' comes across as desperate rather than confident. A strong introduction should be formal, tailored to the specific job and company, and highlight the applicant's relevant qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.
Writing the Body of Your Cover Letter
The body of your entry-level cover letter is where you can showcase your skills, experiences, and enthusiasm for the position. This section allows you to expand on the highlights from your resume and demonstrate why you're an excellent fit for the role.
Highlight Relevant Skills and Experiences
Focus on skills and experiences that directly relate to the job description. Even if you don't have extensive work history, you can draw from internships, volunteer work, academic projects, or extracurricular activities. Emphasize transferable skills that apply to the position you're seeking.
Show Enthusiasm and Knowledge
Express your genuine interest in the company and the specific role. Demonstrate that you've done your research by mentioning something specific about the company's mission, recent achievements, or culture that resonates with you.
Connect Your Background to the Job
Explain how your background and skills make you a strong candidate for the position. Use specific examples to illustrate how you've applied these skills in the past and how they would benefit the company.
Address Potential Concerns
If you're missing a requirement mentioned in the job posting, address it proactively. Explain how you plan to acquire that skill or how your other strengths compensate for it.
Keep It Concise and Relevant
While you want to provide enough detail to make a strong case for yourself, keep your paragraphs focused and concise. Each point should serve to reinforce why you're an excellent candidate for the position.
By crafting a compelling body for your cover letter, you can effectively communicate your value to potential employers and increase your chances of landing an interview for your desired entry-level position.
Strong Example
As a recent graduate from XYZ University with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, I am excited to apply for the Entry-Level Software Developer position at ABC Tech. During my academic career, I developed a strong foundation in programming languages such as Java, Python, and C++, and gained hands-on experience through multiple projects and internships.
In my recent internship at DEF Solutions, I collaborated with a team to develop a mobile application that increased user engagement by 30%. This experience not only honed my technical skills but also taught me the importance of clear communication and teamwork in a professional setting.
I am particularly drawn to ABC Tech's commitment to innovation and your recent work on AI-driven solutions. Your company's mission aligns perfectly with my passion for leveraging technology to solve real-world problems. I am eager to contribute my skills, learn from experienced professionals, and grow with your organization.
Why is this a strong example?
This is a strong example of a cover letter body for an entry-level position because it effectively highlights the candidate's relevant qualifications and enthusiasm for the role. The content is strong for several reasons:
- It immediately states the candidate's educational background and its relevance to the position.
- It showcases specific technical skills that are likely required for the job.
- The candidate mentions a relevant internship experience, providing a concrete example of their capabilities and achievements.
- It demonstrates the candidate's understanding of soft skills like communication and teamwork.
- The applicant shows knowledge of the company by mentioning ABC Tech's focus on innovation and AI-driven solutions.
- It expresses genuine interest in the company and position, showing enthusiasm and the desire to grow with the organization.
This example effectively bridges the gap between the candidate's academic background and the requirements of the job, while also demonstrating their potential value to the company. It's concise yet informative, making it a strong example for an entry-level cover letter body.
Weak Example
I am writing to apply for the Entry Level position at your company. I recently graduated from college and I think I would be a good fit for this role. I am a hard worker and I learn quickly. I am excited about the opportunity to work for your company and hope to hear back from you soon.
Why is this a weak example?
This is a weak example of a cover letter body for several reasons. First, it lacks specificity and fails to demonstrate knowledge about the company or the role. The applicant doesn't mention any particular skills or experiences that make them suitable for the position. The language is generic and could apply to any job, which doesn't show genuine interest or effort. Additionally, the content is too brief and doesn't provide any compelling reasons for the employer to consider the candidate. A strong cover letter should highlight relevant accomplishments, express enthusiasm for the specific role and company, and explain how the applicant's skills align with the job requirements. This example does none of these, making it a weak representation of the applicant's potential value to the employer.
How to Close Your Cover Letter
The closing of your entry-level cover letter is your final opportunity to leave a lasting impression on the hiring manager. This section should reinforce your enthusiasm for the position and provide a clear call to action. A strong closing can help set you apart from other candidates and encourage the employer to take the next step in the hiring process.
Express Gratitude
Begin your closing paragraph by thanking the reader for their time and consideration. This simple gesture demonstrates professionalism and courtesy.
Restate Your Interest
Briefly reiterate your interest in the position and the company. This reinforces your enthusiasm and shows that you're genuinely excited about the opportunity.
Include a Call to Action
Express your desire to discuss the position further in an interview. This proactive approach shows initiative and confidence in your qualifications.
Use an Appropriate Sign-Off
Choose a professional closing salutation, such as "Sincerely," "Best regards," or "Thank you," followed by your full name.
Provide Contact Information
Even though your contact details are likely in your header, it's helpful to include your phone number and email address again below your signature. This makes it easy for the employer to reach out to you.
By crafting a strong closing, you'll leave the reader with a positive final impression and increase your chances of moving forward in the hiring process. Remember to keep your tone professional yet enthusiastic throughout the entire letter.
Strong Example
Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name]'s innovative projects and grow alongside your talented team. I look forward to the possibility of discussing how my skills and enthusiasm align with your needs. Please feel free to contact me at [your phone number] or [your email] to arrange an interview at your convenience.
Sincerely, [Your Name]
Why is this a strong example?
This is a strong cover letter closing for several reasons. First, it expresses gratitude for the reader's time and consideration, which is courteous and professional. Second, it reiterates enthusiasm for the position and company, demonstrating genuine interest. Third, it subtly reminds the reader of the candidate's potential value to the company. Fourth, it includes a clear call-to-action by inviting further communication and providing contact information. Finally, the tone is confident yet respectful, striking a good balance for an entry-level applicant. The closing leaves a positive final impression and encourages the hiring manager to take the next step in the recruitment process.
Weak Example
Thank you for your time. I hope to hear from you soon. Please call me anytime.
Why is this a weak example?
This closing is weak for several reasons. First, it lacks enthusiasm and fails to reaffirm the candidate's interest in the position. The phrase 'I hope to hear from you soon' is generic and doesn't add value. Secondly, requesting the employer to 'call me anytime' can be seen as unprofessional and presumptuous for an entry-level position. It doesn't respect the employer's time and processes. Lastly, the closing doesn't include any action items or next steps, missing an opportunity to proactively engage with the potential employer. A stronger closing would reiterate enthusiasm for the role, summarize key qualifications, and provide a clear, professional next step.
Cover Letter FAQs for Entry Level
What is the ideal format and length for an entry-level cover letter?
An entry-level cover letter should be one page long, consisting of 3-4 paragraphs. Use a professional font like Arial or Calibri, 11-12 point size, with 1-inch margins. Start with a header containing your contact information, followed by the date and employer's details. Keep paragraphs concise and focused, addressing your introduction, relevant skills, enthusiasm for the role, and a call to action.
What key elements should I include in my entry-level cover letter?
Your entry-level cover letter should include: a strong opening statement, highlighting your relevant skills and experiences, explaining why you're interested in the position and company, demonstrating your knowledge of the industry, and a confident closing with a call to action. Even without extensive work experience, focus on transferable skills, academic achievements, internships, or volunteer work that relate to the job.
How do I make my entry-level cover letter stand out?
To make your entry-level cover letter stand out, personalize it for each application by researching the company and tailoring your letter to the specific job requirements. Use concrete examples to illustrate your skills and achievements. Show enthusiasm for the role and company. Highlight any unique experiences or skills that set you apart. Use a professional yet engaging tone, and ensure your letter is error-free and well-formatted.
Should I mention my lack of experience in an entry-level cover letter?
Instead of focusing on your lack of experience, emphasize your potential, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn. Highlight relevant skills you've gained through education, internships, volunteer work, or personal projects. Demonstrate how these experiences have prepared you for the role. Frame your fresh perspective as an asset, showing how you can bring new ideas and energy to the position. Your cover letter should convey confidence in your ability to contribute and grow within the company.