How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship Position

How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship Position

In the global market today, one of the most recognized universal currencies that transcend geographical, racial and economic barriers is experience. Wikipedia defines experience as “the knowledge or mastery of an event or subject gained through involvement in or exposure to it”. Work experience is often regarded as a highly treasured quality in an employee or a job seeker for obvious reasons. Needless to say, Internships are a great way to accumulate work experience.

Stay with me

It’s highly recommended that students and graduates take the opportunity to look out for and exploit internship opportunities. An internship in case you are puzzled is a period of work experience offered by an establishment to get students and graduates acquainted with a practical working environment, often within a specific industry, which relates to their area of interest or field of study.

Not convinced?

Internships don’t just expose you to practical working environments, they can also give you a more comprehensive education that you probably wouldn’t receive any other way. Also, internships give you an advantage whilst exploring in the job market, you are more likely to get picked over those that have no experience and may even receive a higher starting salary. Internships also help you discover or acquire skills, refine them and deploy them in relevant ways. Don’t get me started on the opportunities to interact with professionals in the field that internships grant you higher access to, the confidence that comes from working in a professional setting, the occasional or constant financial compensations in the form of stipends and the fact that many establishments use Internships as recruitment exercises, which means you may probably be hired as soon as your internship is done, Internships also make your Resume’s look more attractive to potential employers.

Why cover letters though?

When applying for an internship position, it is most likely that a cover letter would be expected to be attached to your application by the establishment you are applying to. Cover letters serve as letters of introduction that highlight your character, key achievements and sell you to your potential employer as the perfect fit for the job. A cover letter is not an occasion to rehash your resume word for word. However, it offers you an opportunity to be more detailed about certain information provided in your resume. A terrific cover letter can make you stand out in a sea of other applicants.

How to write a cover letter for an internship position?

There are a lot of cover letter templates that are available to anyone with a smart device and access to the internet. However, no matter how impressive, complex or fresh you may find a lot of templates online, it’s important to note that all templates follow an established pattern. Let’s explore the basics of writing a cover letter, shall we?

First things first, introduce yourself

Remember, a cover letter is supposed to introduce you to your employer. Be clear clear-cut whilst doing this. You don’t want to come across as having identity issues or lacking confidence. Your first paragraph is your chance to make a distinctive first impression on the employer. It should explain who you are in short sentences, how you found out about the opportunity and it is also a great opportunity to chip in connections you may have or have had with the establishment.

Next, talk about you

I don’t mean start talking about your fond childhood memories and life experiences. That is one of the mistakes many job seekers make in this section. In this part of your cover letter, you are expected to talk about your important skills and personal accomplishments. As a potential intern, it is important you highlight why you want the position and how you qualify and connect the dots for the employer.

Sell yourself

Okay, you probably consider yourself perfect for that position, a certifiable catch. However, your employers don’t know that…yet. It’s your job to sell yourself to them by using examples that show why you will be a good fit for that opening. Most employers want applicants who are team players, good managers of time and are naturally creative. Use real life examples to buttress your qualities but don’t overdo it.

Finish strong

The final section of your cover letter should be cool, confident and positive. This paragraph is almost as important as the first because it will seal the deal for a job interview. You want to go out with a bang and leave a strong impression on the reader. Make the employer want to meet you in person. In fact, encourage it.

Don’t get cocky

Proof read your cover letter repeatedly. A stellar cover letter can be ruined by something as ridiculously simple as a typo. Make sure you dot your i’s and cross your t’s. More often than not, the devil is in the details. Triple check if you must.

Cover letter hacks

Here are a few useful tips to note whilst polishing up your cover letter. First and foremost, always write a fresh cover letter for every application. I know, it seems like a lot of stress but trust me, it’s worth it. Don’t forget to include a header at the top of the document that includes your contact information. Try out creative new ways to begin your first paragraph. If you are pressed for time or just flat out uninspired, use a template. They are easily accessible and will help you get the job done. Avoid generic salutation, if you can’t figure out the hiring manager’s name, try addressing your cover letter to the head of the department for the position you are applying for. It shows you are willing to go the extra mile; a good quality in any employee. Lastly, never submit your cover letters in word format; always convert to PDF before you send.