Internship Cover Letters: Examples & Writing Tips
Are you looking for an internship? If so, you’ll need a strong cover letter to make a great first impression. A cover letter is your chance to introduce yourself, highlight your skills and experiences, and show why you’re the perfect candidate for the internship. In this post, we’ll provide examples and writing tips to help you create a cover letter that stands out from the crowd.
1. Introduction
Start your cover letter with a strong opening that grabs the reader’s attention. You could start with a personal anecdote, a surprising statistic, or a thought-provoking question. The goal is to make the reader want to keep reading.
Example:
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
As a lifelong fan of [Company Name], I was thrilled to learn about the internship opportunity in [Department Name]. I’m writing to express my interest in the position and to share why I believe I’d be a great fit for your team.
2. Body Paragraphs
In the body of your cover letter, you’ll want to highlight your skills and experiences that make you a qualified candidate. Be sure to tailor your cover letter to the specific internship you’re applying for and use keywords from the job description. Here are some tips for writing effective body paragraphs:
i. Highlight Relevant Experience
If you have relevant experience, be sure to highlight it in your cover letter. This could be previous internships, volunteer work, or coursework. Focus on the skills you learned and how they relate to the internship you’re applying for.
Example:
During my previous internship at [Company Name], I had the opportunity to work on a project that involved [Skill]. I was able to [Action], which resulted in [Outcome]. I believe these skills will be valuable in the [Department Name] internship at [Company Name].
ii. Emphasize Your Skills
Even if you don’t have direct experience in the field, you likely have transferable skills that make you a strong candidate. Think about skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, and provide examples of how you’ve demonstrated them in the past.
Example:
Although I haven’t had the opportunity to work directly in [Field Name], I have developed strong skills in [Skill]. For example, I was the project lead for [Project Name] in my [School Name] course, where I was able to effectively communicate with my team and solve problems under pressure.
iii. Show Your Enthusiasm
Employers want to see that you’re genuinely interested in the internship and the company. Show your enthusiasm by doing some research on the company and mentioning specific projects or initiatives that you’re excited about.
Example:
I’m particularly drawn to [Company Name]’s commitment to [Initiative Name]. I believe that my skills in [Skill] could be valuable in contributing to this project, and I’m excited about the opportunity to learn more about [Field Name] through the internship.
3. Conclusion
In your conclusion, summarize why you’re the perfect candidate for the internship and express your gratitude for the opportunity to apply. Be sure to include your contact information and express your willingness to provide further information or schedule an interview.
Example:
Thank you for considering my application for the [Department Name] internship at [Company Name]. I’m confident that my skills and experiences make me a strong candidate for the position. Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions or would like to schedule an interview. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name]’s success.
4. FAQs
What should I include in my cover letter?
Your cover letter should include an introduction, body paragraphs that highlight your skills and experiences, and a conclusion that summarizes why you’re a strong candidate. Be sure to tailor your cover letter to the specific internship you’re applying for and use keywords from the job description.
How long should my cover letter be?
Your cover letter should be no longer than one page. Be concise and focus on the most important information.
Should I include my GPA in my cover letter?
It’s generally not necessary to include your GPA unless it’s specifically requested in the job description. Focus on highlighting your skills and experiences instead.
What should I do if I don’t have any relevant experience?
If you don’t have any relevant experience, focus on your transferable skills and provide examples of how you’ve demonstrated them in the past. You could also mention any coursework or extracurricular activities that relate to the internship.
How can I make my cover letter stand out?
To make your cover letter stand out, be sure to tailor it to the specific internship you’re applying for, use keywords from the job description, and show your enthusiasm for the company and the internship. Use strong, concise language and provide specific examples of your skills and experiences.
Is it okay to use a template for my cover letter?
Using a template can be a good starting point, but be sure to personalize your cover letter and tailor it to the specific internship you’re applying for. Avoid using generic language or phrases that could apply to any internship.
By following these tips and examples, you’ll be well on your way to creating a strong cover letter that will help you land your dream internship. Good luck!