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How do you write an outstanding, effective cover letter?

Applying for an internship and was asked to submit a cover letter. What is it and how can you write an effective one? Would really appreciate some examples or guidance. #job #job-search #resume #resume-writing #cover-letters #evaluating-resumes #skills #job-skills #interviewing-skills #career #career-path #career-planning #internships #internship #intern #upcomingintern #applying #apply #applicant

career-path job-search internship internships resume skills resume-writing interviewing-skills intern career-planning job-skills applying evaluating-resumes cover-letters apply applicant upcomingintern
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Duncan’s Answer

A cover letter is a letter that is submitted together with a resume when applying for a job. The cover letter details the position you are applying for and highlights why you are a suitable match for the job or internship.


The length of a cover letter is typically one page and the letter can be divided into three sections or paragraphs.


1. The first section/paragraph outlines your interest in the position. You can also mention where you saw the position advertised or listed.


2. The second paragraph explains the relevant experience and accomplishments that you have that make you a good match for the position.


3. The third paragraph is the closing paragraph where you thank the reader and reiterate your interest or enthusiasm for the position.


For detailed tips and guidance on what a cover letter is and how to write a good one, please see the following article: 34 Great Tips on How to Write a Cover Letter


I wish you the very best as you apply for an internship. Thank you.


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Duncan recommends the following next steps:

Next step is to draft a cover letter
Next step is to draft a cover letter
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much for your expert advice! Mireia
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Kim’s Answer

Following up on Duncan's response, above: The real meat of the cover letter is the second paragraph. If you can show that you truly understand what the job entails, what the company is about, and how you fit in to that picture, you will nail it. The cover letter is more about the company - not you! And don't repeat your resume in the cover letter. I like to try to draw on two or more previous experiences, and show how the blend of all of them makes me the ideal candidate for the position at hand. Not easy to do!

If you are going to write one, please make it count! Take the time to do it right, and do not take the "one size-fits all" approach. Each one should be tailored to the position you are applying for!

Best of luck!
Kim
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much for your professional advice! Mireia
Thank you comment icon And thank you for taking the time to say "Thank you!" Feedback helps keep us going! Kim Igleheart
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Yash’s Answer

Ensure that you customize each cover letter specifically for the role that you are applying for. Carefully understand the capabilities and skill sets required for the role, and ensure that in the cover letter you demonstrate a strong fit for these capabilities. Tailoring your cover letter can go a long way.
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Katy’s Answer

Simply put, make each cover letter individualized and targeted to the job description. Use the key words they have in the description including the position you are applying for. Introduce yourself and let them know why you want to work for them. Drive it home by telling them, at a high-level, why you would be a great fit for them. Think of a cover level as an introduction or summary to your actual resume. Give them enough information to make them want to keep reading. It's the first glimpse they have at you. Don't write a book. Simplification takes time. Execs are busy and appreciate to the point verbiage.
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Fiona’s Answer

Find out more information about the company, their values etc and in the cover letter clearly state what skills, values, character traits or experience you have which would be relevant to that particular role – why would you be suitable for the role? Make the letter short, succinct and sharp – nothing too long.
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Chantel’s Answer

Google is your best friend for a template but make it your own!

Chantel recommends the following next steps:

Google cover letters in the field you are interested in and always have someone proofread it for you.
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Simeon’s Answer

Usually, your cover letter is supposed to be brief and mostly explain your interest in the opening and in the company itself. Try to keep your cover letter to five sentences or less. Also, try not to be super dramatic about how much you'd love the position and how it'll fulfill your wildest ambitions. Instead, keep it pretty contained and professional. The cover letter is more of a warm-up/opener to the resume and isn't supposed to be the focal point of your application.
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