8 answers
Jocelynn
Student
Yonkers, New York
2
Questions
Asked
18400 views
What do i include in a cover letter?
I have no work experiance and no volenteer work so im not sure what to put or why a job should hire me
Login to comment
8 answers
Danuta Detyna
Career Expert, Certified Professional Resume Writer
12
Answers
Rzeszow, Podkarpackie Voivodeship, Poland
Updated
Danuta’s Answer
Hello Jocelynn,
Crafting a compelling cover letter can be challenging, especially when you're just starting and don't have direct work or volunteer experience to discuss. Here’s how you can structure your cover letter to highlight your strengths and potential:
1. Introduction: Start with a strong opening paragraph that grabs attention. Introduce yourself, mention the position you're applying for, and briefly explain why you are interested in the role and the company. This is a good place to mention any connection you have to the company or how you found out about the position.
2. Education and Skills: Since you don't have work or volunteer experience, focus on your education. Highlight any relevant coursework, projects, or skills you've developed that are applicable to the job. Discuss how these have prepared you for the responsibilities you might take on in the role you're applying for. Emphasize soft skills like problem-solving, leadership (perhaps in school projects), communication, and other personal attributes that are valuable in the workplace.
3. Passion and Motivation: Employers are often drawn to candidates who show genuine enthusiasm for the role. Share what excites you about the industry or the job itself. You can also mention what you hope to achieve in your career and how this job aligns with your goals. This shows employers that you have a direction and are motivated to contribute from the start.
4. Company-Specific Values: Show that you have done your research by relating your personal values and goals to what you know about the company’s culture and mission. Employers appreciate candidates who demonstrate a clear interest in and understanding of their organization.
5. Closing Statement: Conclude with a strong closing paragraph. Reiterate your enthusiasm for the job opportunity and express your willingness to provide further information during a personal interview. Thank them for considering your application and mention that you look forward to the opportunity to discuss your application in further detail.
6. Professional Tone and Proofreading: Maintain a professional tone throughout, and make sure to proofread your letter multiple times or have someone else check it for errors. A well-written, error-free cover letter reflects your professionalism and attention to detail.
Remember, the goal of your cover letter is not just to summarize your resume but to provide insights into your personality and to explain why you would be a good fit for the company. Even without direct experience, you can show potential employers that you have the qualities and the drive to succeed in the role.
If you want to find out more about writing a cover letter without experience, you can read this guide on Zety's blog: How to Write a Cover Letter With No Experience.
Crafting a compelling cover letter can be challenging, especially when you're just starting and don't have direct work or volunteer experience to discuss. Here’s how you can structure your cover letter to highlight your strengths and potential:
1. Introduction: Start with a strong opening paragraph that grabs attention. Introduce yourself, mention the position you're applying for, and briefly explain why you are interested in the role and the company. This is a good place to mention any connection you have to the company or how you found out about the position.
2. Education and Skills: Since you don't have work or volunteer experience, focus on your education. Highlight any relevant coursework, projects, or skills you've developed that are applicable to the job. Discuss how these have prepared you for the responsibilities you might take on in the role you're applying for. Emphasize soft skills like problem-solving, leadership (perhaps in school projects), communication, and other personal attributes that are valuable in the workplace.
3. Passion and Motivation: Employers are often drawn to candidates who show genuine enthusiasm for the role. Share what excites you about the industry or the job itself. You can also mention what you hope to achieve in your career and how this job aligns with your goals. This shows employers that you have a direction and are motivated to contribute from the start.
4. Company-Specific Values: Show that you have done your research by relating your personal values and goals to what you know about the company’s culture and mission. Employers appreciate candidates who demonstrate a clear interest in and understanding of their organization.
5. Closing Statement: Conclude with a strong closing paragraph. Reiterate your enthusiasm for the job opportunity and express your willingness to provide further information during a personal interview. Thank them for considering your application and mention that you look forward to the opportunity to discuss your application in further detail.
6. Professional Tone and Proofreading: Maintain a professional tone throughout, and make sure to proofread your letter multiple times or have someone else check it for errors. A well-written, error-free cover letter reflects your professionalism and attention to detail.
Remember, the goal of your cover letter is not just to summarize your resume but to provide insights into your personality and to explain why you would be a good fit for the company. Even without direct experience, you can show potential employers that you have the qualities and the drive to succeed in the role.
If you want to find out more about writing a cover letter without experience, you can read this guide on Zety's blog: How to Write a Cover Letter With No Experience.
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1616
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Jocelynn a cover letter is more than just a formality or courtesy – it is an opportunity to impress an potential employer. Many employers will tell you that they favor resumes that are accompanied by a cover letter, making it a critical component of your job-search strategy. A well-written cover letter is an opportunity to show the reader your:
INCREDIBLE VALUE – First impressions count. A concise and compelling cover letter is your first chance to stand out and be considered a strong candidate amongst tough competition. Immediately emphasizing your key strengths will help ‘sell you,’ grabbing the reader’s attention and increasing the likelihood of progression through the selection process.
HOW YOUR A UNIQUE FIT – A cover letter is an important way to showcase how your unique combination of skills and experience meet the key requirements of the job description. It is your chance to show a clear link between your knowledge, experience and abilities and the needs of the employer.
YOUR PERSONALITY – The wording of your cover letter can express your personality in a way that your resume cannot. The tone of your letter gives the employer an important insight into your personality and the kind of traits that could add value to their team. It allows you to explain in your own words why you are the best person for the job.
YOUR ENTHUSIASM – A tailored, compelling cover letter shows you have taken the time to research the company and understand the employer’s needs and job requirements. It is an opportunity to express that you are enthusiastic about the role and to demonstrate the value you would add to the employer.
INCREDIBLE VALUE – First impressions count. A concise and compelling cover letter is your first chance to stand out and be considered a strong candidate amongst tough competition. Immediately emphasizing your key strengths will help ‘sell you,’ grabbing the reader’s attention and increasing the likelihood of progression through the selection process.
HOW YOUR A UNIQUE FIT – A cover letter is an important way to showcase how your unique combination of skills and experience meet the key requirements of the job description. It is your chance to show a clear link between your knowledge, experience and abilities and the needs of the employer.
YOUR PERSONALITY – The wording of your cover letter can express your personality in a way that your resume cannot. The tone of your letter gives the employer an important insight into your personality and the kind of traits that could add value to their team. It allows you to explain in your own words why you are the best person for the job.
YOUR ENTHUSIASM – A tailored, compelling cover letter shows you have taken the time to research the company and understand the employer’s needs and job requirements. It is an opportunity to express that you are enthusiastic about the role and to demonstrate the value you would add to the employer.
Thank you for taking the time to help.
Jocelynn
A cover letter will always complement your resume, providing additional context to your profile Jocelynn.
Doc Frick
Thank You Kim. If our hopes of building a better and safer world are to become more than wishful thinking, we will need the engagement of volunteers more than ever.
Doc Frick
Stacey Moore
Recruiting
13
Answers
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Updated
Stacey’s Answer
Writing a cover letter when you have no prior work experience can be challenging, but it's still possible to create a compelling letter. Here are some tips to help you write a cover letter with no experience:
1. Start with a strong opening: Begin your cover letter by expressing your interest in the position and the company. Highlight any relevant coursework, internships, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your skills and enthusiasm.
2. Focus on transferable skills: Even if you don't have direct work experience, you likely have transferable skills from your education, volunteer work, or personal projects. Identify these skills and explain how they can be applied to the position you're applying for.
3. Showcase your academic achievements: If you have excelled academically, mention any relevant coursework, projects, or research that demonstrate your knowledge and skills in the field. Highlight any honors, awards, or leadership roles you have achieved.
4. Emphasize your soft skills: Soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management, are valuable in any job. Provide examples of situations where you have demonstrated these skills, even if they are from non-work-related experiences.
5. Highlight your motivation and willingness to learn: Express your eagerness to learn and grow in the role. Emphasize your ability to adapt quickly, take initiative, and be a proactive learner.
6. Connect with the company's mission and values: Research the company's mission, values, and culture. Show how your own values align with theirs and explain why you are interested in working for the organization.
7. Use a professional tone and language: Even though you may not have work experience, maintain a professional tone throughout your cover letter. Use proper grammar, avoid slang or informal language, and proofread for any errors.
8. Customize your letter: Tailor your cover letter to the specific job you're applying for. Highlight the skills and qualities that are most relevant to the position and demonstrate how you can contribute to the company's success.
9. Seek recommendations or references: If you have any academic or personal references who can vouch for your character, work ethic, or skills, consider including their contact information in your cover letter.
10. End with a strong closing: Conclude your cover letter by expressing your enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to the company. Thank the reader for considering your application and provide your contact information for further communication.
Remember, while you may not have professional experience, focus on showcasing your transferable skills, academic achievements, and motivation to learn. A well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out and demonstrate your potential to employers.
1. Start with a strong opening: Begin your cover letter by expressing your interest in the position and the company. Highlight any relevant coursework, internships, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your skills and enthusiasm.
2. Focus on transferable skills: Even if you don't have direct work experience, you likely have transferable skills from your education, volunteer work, or personal projects. Identify these skills and explain how they can be applied to the position you're applying for.
3. Showcase your academic achievements: If you have excelled academically, mention any relevant coursework, projects, or research that demonstrate your knowledge and skills in the field. Highlight any honors, awards, or leadership roles you have achieved.
4. Emphasize your soft skills: Soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management, are valuable in any job. Provide examples of situations where you have demonstrated these skills, even if they are from non-work-related experiences.
5. Highlight your motivation and willingness to learn: Express your eagerness to learn and grow in the role. Emphasize your ability to adapt quickly, take initiative, and be a proactive learner.
6. Connect with the company's mission and values: Research the company's mission, values, and culture. Show how your own values align with theirs and explain why you are interested in working for the organization.
7. Use a professional tone and language: Even though you may not have work experience, maintain a professional tone throughout your cover letter. Use proper grammar, avoid slang or informal language, and proofread for any errors.
8. Customize your letter: Tailor your cover letter to the specific job you're applying for. Highlight the skills and qualities that are most relevant to the position and demonstrate how you can contribute to the company's success.
9. Seek recommendations or references: If you have any academic or personal references who can vouch for your character, work ethic, or skills, consider including their contact information in your cover letter.
10. End with a strong closing: Conclude your cover letter by expressing your enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to the company. Thank the reader for considering your application and provide your contact information for further communication.
Remember, while you may not have professional experience, focus on showcasing your transferable skills, academic achievements, and motivation to learn. A well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out and demonstrate your potential to employers.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Jocelyn,
In crafting a cover letter with no work experience or volunteer work, focus on showcasing your qualifications, enthusiasm for the position, and alignment with the company’s mission.
Introduction: Begin by addressing the hiring manager by name and expressing your interest in the job opening. Mention where you found the job posting or how you heard about the opportunity.
Personal Qualifications: Highlight any relevant education, skills, or accomplishments that make you a strong candidate for the position. For instance, if you’re applying for an entry-level marketing role and have a degree in marketing or excellent communication skills, be sure to mention these points.
Alignment with Company: Research the company and its mission statement. In your cover letter, explain why you are drawn to this organization and how your personal goals align with theirs. This demonstrates your genuine interest in working for them and sets you apart from other applicants.
Enthusiasm: Show enthusiasm for the position and the industry as a whole. Share any relevant projects or experiences that have sparked your interest in this field or role specifically.
Closing: Conclude by thanking the hiring manager for considering your application and expressing your eagerness to further discuss your qualifications during an interview. Provide contact information so they can easily reach out to you for follow-up discussions.
Authoritative References Used:
Glassdoor: “How to Write a Cover Letter With No Experience” [Accessed Sep 24, 2023]
The Balance Careers: “How to Write a Cover Letter When You Have No Experience” [Accessed Sep 24, 2023]
Monster: “Writing a Cover Letter When You Have No Work Experience” [Accessed Sep 24, 2023]
GOD BLESS YOU JOCELYN!
James.
In crafting a cover letter with no work experience or volunteer work, focus on showcasing your qualifications, enthusiasm for the position, and alignment with the company’s mission.
Introduction: Begin by addressing the hiring manager by name and expressing your interest in the job opening. Mention where you found the job posting or how you heard about the opportunity.
Personal Qualifications: Highlight any relevant education, skills, or accomplishments that make you a strong candidate for the position. For instance, if you’re applying for an entry-level marketing role and have a degree in marketing or excellent communication skills, be sure to mention these points.
Alignment with Company: Research the company and its mission statement. In your cover letter, explain why you are drawn to this organization and how your personal goals align with theirs. This demonstrates your genuine interest in working for them and sets you apart from other applicants.
Enthusiasm: Show enthusiasm for the position and the industry as a whole. Share any relevant projects or experiences that have sparked your interest in this field or role specifically.
Closing: Conclude by thanking the hiring manager for considering your application and expressing your eagerness to further discuss your qualifications during an interview. Provide contact information so they can easily reach out to you for follow-up discussions.
Authoritative References Used:
Glassdoor: “How to Write a Cover Letter With No Experience” [Accessed Sep 24, 2023]
The Balance Careers: “How to Write a Cover Letter When You Have No Experience” [Accessed Sep 24, 2023]
Monster: “Writing a Cover Letter When You Have No Work Experience” [Accessed Sep 24, 2023]
GOD BLESS YOU JOCELYN!
James.
Christopher Doherty
Financial Advisor
24
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Christopher’s Answer
Hi Jocelynn,
Good for you that you are asking the right questions in order to find a job. You mentioned that you have no volunteer experience. That would be good to have for your resume so I might start to look at what volunteer opportunities are in your area. There is a website called "volunteer match" that can give you ideas in Yonkers.
Also, remember that a cover letter should not just repeat what on your resume. A resume is just a list, your cover letter should show more of your personality and explain why you would like to work at the company (be sure to research the job and the company so you can refer to it in the cover letter).
Good luck!
Good for you that you are asking the right questions in order to find a job. You mentioned that you have no volunteer experience. That would be good to have for your resume so I might start to look at what volunteer opportunities are in your area. There is a website called "volunteer match" that can give you ideas in Yonkers.
Also, remember that a cover letter should not just repeat what on your resume. A resume is just a list, your cover letter should show more of your personality and explain why you would like to work at the company (be sure to research the job and the company so you can refer to it in the cover letter).
Good luck!
Mackenzie Ward
associate
103
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Mackenzie’s Answer
Writing a cover letter when you have no prior job experience can be challenging, but it's certainly possible to create a compelling letter that highlights your skills, enthusiasm, and potential. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to write a cover letter with no prior job experience:
1. **Format Your Cover Letter:**
- Use a professional format with your contact information at the top, followed by the date and the recipient's name (if available). If you don't have a specific recipient, you can use "Hiring Manager."
2. **Introduction:**
- Start with a strong and engaging opening sentence that briefly explains why you're writing. Mention the position you're applying for and where you learned about it.
3. **Show Enthusiasm:**
- Express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Share why you're interested in this particular position and what excites you about it.
4. **Highlight Relevant Skills:**
- Since you lack job experience, focus on transferable skills. These are skills you've gained through volunteer work, coursework, extracurricular activities, or personal projects. For example, communication, teamwork, problem-solving, research, or technical skills.
- Provide specific examples of how you've used these skills. For instance, if you were a member of a student organization, mention a project you worked on that required teamwork and communication.
5. **Educational Background:**
- Emphasize your educational background. Mention your degree, major, university name, and graduation date (or expected graduation date).
6. **Relevance to the Company:**
- Research the company to understand its values, mission, and culture. Explain how your skills and interests align with the company's goals and why you're a good fit.
7. **Demonstrate Initiative:**
- Even without job experience, you can demonstrate your initiative by mentioning any independent projects, coursework, or volunteer work that relates to the job. For example, if you're applying for a marketing role, discuss a marketing project you completed for a class.
8. **Close Strongly:**
- Reiterate your enthusiasm for the position and the company. Mention your eagerness for an interview to discuss your qualifications in more detail.
- Provide your contact information, including your phone number and email address.
9. **Professional Closing:**
- Use a professional closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your full name.
10. **Proofread and Edit:**
- Carefully proofread your cover letter for typos, grammar errors, and clarity. You want to present yourself as a detail-oriented and professional candidate.
11. **Customize Each Letter:**
- Tailor each cover letter to the specific job you're applying for. Avoid using a generic cover letter for multiple applications. Address the company's needs and the job requirements in each letter.
12. **Seek Feedback:**
- If possible, ask a teacher, mentor, or career advisor to review your cover letter and provide feedback.
Remember that a cover letter is an opportunity to showcase your potential and enthusiasm, even if you don't have prior job experience. Be honest, concise, and persuasive in your writing, and focus on what you can bring to the position and the company.
1. **Format Your Cover Letter:**
- Use a professional format with your contact information at the top, followed by the date and the recipient's name (if available). If you don't have a specific recipient, you can use "Hiring Manager."
2. **Introduction:**
- Start with a strong and engaging opening sentence that briefly explains why you're writing. Mention the position you're applying for and where you learned about it.
3. **Show Enthusiasm:**
- Express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Share why you're interested in this particular position and what excites you about it.
4. **Highlight Relevant Skills:**
- Since you lack job experience, focus on transferable skills. These are skills you've gained through volunteer work, coursework, extracurricular activities, or personal projects. For example, communication, teamwork, problem-solving, research, or technical skills.
- Provide specific examples of how you've used these skills. For instance, if you were a member of a student organization, mention a project you worked on that required teamwork and communication.
5. **Educational Background:**
- Emphasize your educational background. Mention your degree, major, university name, and graduation date (or expected graduation date).
6. **Relevance to the Company:**
- Research the company to understand its values, mission, and culture. Explain how your skills and interests align with the company's goals and why you're a good fit.
7. **Demonstrate Initiative:**
- Even without job experience, you can demonstrate your initiative by mentioning any independent projects, coursework, or volunteer work that relates to the job. For example, if you're applying for a marketing role, discuss a marketing project you completed for a class.
8. **Close Strongly:**
- Reiterate your enthusiasm for the position and the company. Mention your eagerness for an interview to discuss your qualifications in more detail.
- Provide your contact information, including your phone number and email address.
9. **Professional Closing:**
- Use a professional closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your full name.
10. **Proofread and Edit:**
- Carefully proofread your cover letter for typos, grammar errors, and clarity. You want to present yourself as a detail-oriented and professional candidate.
11. **Customize Each Letter:**
- Tailor each cover letter to the specific job you're applying for. Avoid using a generic cover letter for multiple applications. Address the company's needs and the job requirements in each letter.
12. **Seek Feedback:**
- If possible, ask a teacher, mentor, or career advisor to review your cover letter and provide feedback.
Remember that a cover letter is an opportunity to showcase your potential and enthusiasm, even if you don't have prior job experience. Be honest, concise, and persuasive in your writing, and focus on what you can bring to the position and the company.
thank you so much!! i appriciate it!
Jocelynn
Kim Igleheart
Career Counselor | Police Officer
1750
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Jocelynn,
Since you have no work experience and no volunteer experience, I suggest that while we work on your cover letter, you also give some thought to where you can get some volunteer experience! It's never too late.
A cover letter is short and sweet, It is written in a business letter format, should be able to be kept to one page, and should have 3 paragraphs.
The first paragraph is short. It simply says what job you are applying for and how you found out about it. If an employee mentioned it to you, you can mention that employee's name.
The third paragraph ends by asking for the interview. "I look forward to meeting with you and learning more about this exciting opportunity." (or words to that effect.)
The middle paragraph contains all the good stuff. Here is where you want to show that you read and understand the job announcement and what this company is all about, as well as why you are the ideal fit. It's not as hard as it sounds. For example, let's say you are applying for a position of "patient transporter" at a hospital, which is essentially transporting patients in wheelchairs and making sure all equipment is maintained in a safe operating condition. So you say something like, " I understand the importance of safety in the patient transporter position. While I may not have any prior work experience, I do have lots of experience with safety. I had 3 years of advanced science, which required proper storage, usage, and disposal of hazardous chemicals. I was also on the gymnastics team, where we learned the importance of falling properly, so as to not get hurt. In addition to being safety conscious, I am also highly dependable, with 4 years of perfect attendance awards. I am frequently complimented by friends and strangers for the compassion I show to others. For all these reasons, I believe I would be the ideal candidate for this position."
The key is to really understand what the position entails, and show how you meet it. If you have any kind of involvement in church that is relevant to the job, you can also use that.
Feel free to come back here with further questions, and we can help you with that first cover letter! best of luck,
Kim
Since you have no work experience and no volunteer experience, I suggest that while we work on your cover letter, you also give some thought to where you can get some volunteer experience! It's never too late.
A cover letter is short and sweet, It is written in a business letter format, should be able to be kept to one page, and should have 3 paragraphs.
The first paragraph is short. It simply says what job you are applying for and how you found out about it. If an employee mentioned it to you, you can mention that employee's name.
The third paragraph ends by asking for the interview. "I look forward to meeting with you and learning more about this exciting opportunity." (or words to that effect.)
The middle paragraph contains all the good stuff. Here is where you want to show that you read and understand the job announcement and what this company is all about, as well as why you are the ideal fit. It's not as hard as it sounds. For example, let's say you are applying for a position of "patient transporter" at a hospital, which is essentially transporting patients in wheelchairs and making sure all equipment is maintained in a safe operating condition. So you say something like, " I understand the importance of safety in the patient transporter position. While I may not have any prior work experience, I do have lots of experience with safety. I had 3 years of advanced science, which required proper storage, usage, and disposal of hazardous chemicals. I was also on the gymnastics team, where we learned the importance of falling properly, so as to not get hurt. In addition to being safety conscious, I am also highly dependable, with 4 years of perfect attendance awards. I am frequently complimented by friends and strangers for the compassion I show to others. For all these reasons, I believe I would be the ideal candidate for this position."
The key is to really understand what the position entails, and show how you meet it. If you have any kind of involvement in church that is relevant to the job, you can also use that.
Feel free to come back here with further questions, and we can help you with that first cover letter! best of luck,
Kim
Nadia G
Psychologist, Coach & Career Advisor
64
Answers
Norway
Updated
Nadia’s Answer
Here are three techniques you might want to try:
1. Imagine you have only one minute to convince someone to give you your dream job based on who you are (not on your education or work experience). What would you say? What strengths or skills would you choose to squeeze in that one-minute speech?
2. Visualize yourself as your advocate who wants to convince the jury that Jocelyn is the right fit for her dream job. As a good advocate, you can only use positive arguments because you want to win the case. :)
3. Ask 3-5 people from your different social circles (family, friends, classmates, sportsmates, etc.) to send you your top 3 skills and strengths. Review their answers and see if you can incorporate them into the resume.
PS You might be positively surprised with the results. :)
1. Imagine you have only one minute to convince someone to give you your dream job based on who you are (not on your education or work experience). What would you say? What strengths or skills would you choose to squeeze in that one-minute speech?
2. Visualize yourself as your advocate who wants to convince the jury that Jocelyn is the right fit for her dream job. As a good advocate, you can only use positive arguments because you want to win the case. :)
3. Ask 3-5 people from your different social circles (family, friends, classmates, sportsmates, etc.) to send you your top 3 skills and strengths. Review their answers and see if you can incorporate them into the resume.
PS You might be positively surprised with the results. :)