Much like resumes, as I mentioned in my last article, “4 Tips For A Successful Resume”, cover letters are integral to the application process, whether you are applying for an internship or a full-time job. While it may seem simple and informal, a cover letter can actually be one of the most important pieces of the application, because it is the most personalized, and the first thing that a potential employer will see about you. So, here are just a few of my tips on how to make your cover letter successful!
- Write a custom letter for each job
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It’s fine to recycle old cover letters with a general theme, but be sure to edit it specifically for each new application. Things change over time and you don’t want to have old information in your cover letter. It’s good to include any information about yourself that is relevant to the job. Cover letters typically want to reflect you as a person, why you think you’re qualified for the job and what you would bring to the table.
- Try to find a contact person
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Address the letter to a specific person! Try to find information on who this may be – it never hurts to send emails out to ask questions. It’s best to opt out from saying, “To whom this may concern,” and better to say, “Dear –.” It shows you’ve done your research on the company and care about the person reading the letter.
- Show your personality
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This is possibly the most important part of this list. Cover letters typically should not be cut-and-dry! They are a chance for you to show your personality beyond the limits of a resume. If you have a fun story about why you chose the job or your background, tell it! Within professional limits, of course.
I hope these cover letter tips, and my resume tips from my previous article, were helpful in your internship search!