One basic step on your journey to be hired is the cover letter. However, did you know that when you apply for an internship the employer can judge you through the content of your cover letter? Even though an internship is a temporary position for students, interns are still required to submit a cover letter with their application. Internship is essential to students as it can offer future opportunities and open new doors to a particular career. Hence, it is important for you as a student to know how to write a cover letter.
Internship is part of the school curriculum in some countries around the world. This is where the students are forced to do an on the job training in order to graduate. Nearly all internship experiences however do not provide and teach new skills to the interns. They only supply experience and assist interns to establish an interest in their chosen career path. It also builds up contacts and networks, which is vital in a job search.
Since internship is not regular employment, it is much easier to apply for one. Honestly, companies favor interns because hiring them is much cheaper than employing regular employees. In some cases, free labor is offered by the interns. However, when it comes to applying for an internship, you still have to pass the two important documents in a job search: the cover letter and the resume.
Generally, the cover letter is use to screen and sort potential interns from the thousands of applicants. Once the number of applicants is reduced to a certain number, the cover letters that remain on the desk of the hiring managers will get an interview. Since the internship application is nearly similar to a job application, an internship cover letter should also stick with the general template of a business letter. Generally, writing an internship cover letter has the following guideline:
First, write as clear and brief as possible. The intent of writing a cover letter is to transmit your message as clearly as possible and not to confuse the hiring manager. The explanation and purpose should be clearly stated. Hence, when you are going for a managerial position, state the position in the cover letter and tell why you are qualified as an intern. If possible, back up evidences that establish your worth for the company.
Second, encourage them to get you an interview. The reason that you present a cover letter is to get the hiring manager’s attention and urge him to offer an interview. Be compelling enough to convince them that you are qualified as an intern for their company. Remember that companies sometimes feel frustrated training interns.
Third, spotlight your key info. To be compelling, you need to display and sell yourself. Highlight your relevant skills that match the job description. If possible, make yourself stand out. Think of the skills you have that make you different. Customize your cover letter so that the employer would remember you.
A cover letter is easy to write once you know what you're doing and follow the right format. Keep in mind that even an internship position needs a formal and efficient cover letter so follow these tips to make your letter the best it can possibly be.
Landon Long is the founder of InterviewMastermind.com. You can download his FREE 'Resume Rebel' Video Course to learn how to write a resume and stand out in a slow economy.
Read More From Landon Long
|
