How to Write A Cover Letter as an Intern or a Graduate

Avoid using a one-size-fits-all approach. Tailor your cover letter for each specific job application to highlight your relevant skills and experiences

Here’s a step-by-step guide of how to write a winning a cover letter with no experience.

Also, what it to include and exclude

What to Include

• Your name
• Your phone number
• Your email address
• The date of the letter
• The name of the hiring manager and their title
• The name of the company you are applying to as well

1. Company Details
2. Date
3. Salutation

Metro Bank

Hiring Manager

P.O BOX 855

11th Street

Nairobi

9th November 2023

Dear Hiring Manager,

4. Reason For Writing – Introduce yourself and the purpose of your letter

Your recent advert on your website for a Security Officer caught my eye as it appeared to be a perfect match for my experience, skills and future potential.

5. Grab their Attention

I can maintain your company’s reputation for service, professionalism and legal compliance.

6. Sell Yourself

This is all about Your Suitability which should be tailored to match the Skills and Qualifications on the job advert

• Align your skills, competencies & qualification with the responsibilities.

In your job description you say that applicants should be alert, strong communicators and physically fit. I am all of these things and more. I come to you as someone who can secure any premises, investigate suspicious behavior and deal with violations.

On a personal level, I am someone who will always stay level headed and respond quickly in stressful situations.

7. Attached CV/Resume

Greater details of my accomplishments and achievements can be found in the CV that came attached with this letter.

8. Call to Action / Contact Me

If you feel I have the potential that you are looking for in a candidate, then please do not hesitate to contact me to arrange an interview.

OR

If you are searching for a competent Security Officer who has the ability to secure company ‘s premises effectively, we should speak. You may contact me at +245712… or name@gmail.com

9. Thank them

Thank you very much for taking the time to review my application.

10. Sign Off

Yours sincerely,

11. Your Details

(Refer to number 8, if you used the second option, you don’t need to repeat your email or contact here)

(Your name)

Address

Tel: …………

Email: ……………..

Don’t include the following in your cover letter:

1. Spelling / Grammar Errors
2. Information Not Related to the Job
3. Negative Comments about your past/ current employer
4. Very long paragraphs
5. Wrong Name of the Contact Person
6. Qualifications You Don’t Have Certification
7. Personal information
8. Unprofessional Email Address
9. Clichés and Generic Phrases
10. Excessive Flattery