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How to write a great cover letter in 2024: tips and structure

A cover letter is a personalized letter that introduces you to a potential employer, highlights your qualifications, and explains why you're a strong fit for a specific job.

Hate or love them, these brief documents allow job seekers to make an impression and stand out from the pile of other applications. Penning a thoughtful cover letter shows the hiring team you care about earning the position.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to write a cover letter — and a great one, at that.

What is a cover letter and why does it matter?

A professional cover letter is a one-page document you submit alongside your CV or resume as part of a job application. Typically, they’re about half a page or around 150–300 words.

An effective cover letter doesn’t just rehash your CV; it’s your chance to highlight your proudest moments, explain why you want the job, and state plainly what you bring to the table.

Show the reviewer you’re likable, talented, and will add to the company’s culture . You can refer to previous jobs and other information from your CV, but only if it helps tell a story about you and your career choices .

What 3 things should you include in a cover letter?

A well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out to potential employers. To make your cover letter shine, here are three key elements to include:

1. Personalization

Address the hiring manager or recruiter by name whenever possible. If the job posting doesn't include a name, research to find out who will be reviewing applications. Personalizing your cover letter shows that you've taken the time to tailor your application to the specific company and role.

2. Highlight relevant achievements and skills

Emphasize your most relevant skills , experiences, and accomplishments that directly relate to the job you're applying for. Provide specific examples of how your skills have benefited previous employers and how they can contribute to the prospective employer's success. Use quantifiable achievements , such as improved efficiency, cost savings, or project success, to demonstrate your impact.

3. Show enthusiasm and fit

Express your enthusiasm for the company and the position you're applying for. Explain why you are interested in this role and believe you are a good fit for the organization. Mention how your values, goals, and skills align with the company's mission and culture. Demonstrating that you've done your research can make a significant impression.

What do hiring managers look for in a cover letter?

Employers look for several key elements in a cover letter. These include:

Employers want to see that your cover letter is specifically tailored to the position you are applying for. It should demonstrate how your skills, experiences, and qualifications align with the job requirements.

Clear and concise writing

A well-written cover letter is concise, easy to read, and error-free. Employers appreciate clear and effective communication skills , so make sure your cover letter showcases your ability to express yourself effectively.

Demonstrated knowledge of the company

Employers want to see that you are genuinely interested in their organization. Mention specific details about the company, such as recent achievements or projects, to show that you are enthusiastic about joining their team.

Achievements and accomplishments

Highlight your relevant achievements and accomplishments that demonstrate your qualifications for the position. Use specific examples to showcase your skills and show how they can benefit the employer.

Enthusiasm and motivation

Employers want to hire candidates who are excited about the opportunity and motivated to contribute to the company's success. Express your enthusiasm and passion for the role and explain why you are interested in working for the company.

Professionalism

A cover letter should be professional in tone and presentation. Use formal language, address the hiring manager appropriately, and follow standard business letter formatting.

How do you structure a cover letter?

A well-structured cover letter follows a specific format that makes it easy for the reader to understand your qualifications and enthusiasm for the position. Here's a typical structure for a cover letter:

Contact information

Include your name, address, phone number, and email address at the top of the letter. Place your contact information at the beginning so that it's easy for the employer to reach you.

Employer's contact information

Opening paragraph, middle paragraph(s), closing paragraph, complimentary close, additional contact information.

Repeat your contact information (name, phone number, and email) at the end of the letter, just in case the employer needs it for quick reference.

Remember to keep your cover letter concise and focused. It should typically be no more than one page in length. Proofread your letter carefully to ensure it is free from spelling and grammatical errors. Tailor each cover letter to the specific job application to make it as relevant and impactful as possible.

How to write a good cover letter (with examples)

The best letters are unique, tailored to the job description, and written in your voice — but that doesn’t mean you can’t use a job cover letter template.

Great cover letters contain the same basic elements and flow a certain way. Take a look at this cover letter structure for ref erence while you construct your own.

1. Add a header and contact information

While reading your cover letter, the recruiter shouldn’t have to look far to find who wrote it. Your document should include a basic heading with the following information:

• Pronouns (optional)
• Location (optional)
• Email address
• Phone number (optional)
• Relevant links, such as your LinkedIn profile , portfolio, or personal website (optional)

You can pull this information directly from your CV. Put it together, and it will look something like this:

Christopher Pike

San Francisco, California

[email protected]

Alternatively, if the posting asks you to submit your cover letter in the body of an email, you can include this information in your signature. For example:

Warm regards,

Catherine Janeway

Bloomington, Indiana

[email protected]

(555) 999 - 2222

2. Include a personal greeting

Always begin your cover letter by addressing the hiring manager — preferably by name. You can use the person’s first and last name. Make sure to include a relevant title, like Dr., Mr., or Ms. For example, “Dear Mr. John Doe.”

Avoid generic openings like “To whom it may concern,” “Dear sir or madam,” or “Dear hiring manager.” These introductions sound impersonal — like you’re copy-pasting cover letters — and can work against you in the hiring process.

Be careful, though. When using someone’s name, you don’t want to use the wrong title or accidentally misgender someone. If in doubt, using only their name is enough. You could also opt for a gender-neutral title, like Mx.

Make sure you’re addressing the right person in your letter — ideally, the person who’s making the final hiring decision. This isn’t always specified in the job posting, so you may have to do some research to learn the name of the hiring manager.

3. Draw them in with an opening story

The opening paragraph of your cover letter should hook the reader. You want it to be memorable, conversational, and extremely relevant to the job you’re pursuing. 

There’s no need for a personal introduction — you’ve already included your name in the heading. But you should make reference to the job you’re applying for. A simple “Thank you for considering my application for the role of [job title] at [company],” will suffice.

Then you can get into the “Why” of your job application. Drive home what makes this specific job and this company so appealing to you. Perhaps you’re a fan of their products, you’re passionate about their mission, or you love their brand voice. Whatever the case, this section is where you share your enthusiasm for the role.

Here’s an example opening paragraph. In this scenario, you’re applying for a digital marketing role at a bicycle company:

“Dear Mr. John Doe,

Thank you for considering my application for the role of Marketing Coordinator at Bits n’ Bikes.

My parents bought my first bike at one of your stores. I’ll never forget the freedom I felt when I learned to ride it. My father removed my training wheels, and my mom sent me barrelling down the street. You provide joy to families across the country — and I want to be part of that.”

4. Emphasize why you’re best for the job

Your next paragraphs should be focused on the role you’re applying to. Highlight your skill set and why you’re a good fit for the needs and expectations associated with the position. Hiring managers want to know what you’ll bring to the job, not just any role.

Start by studying the job description for hints. What problem are they trying to solve with this hire? What skills and qualifications do they mention first or more than once? These are indicators of what’s important to the hiring manager.

Search for details that match your experience and interests. For example, if you’re excited about a fast-paced job in public relations, you might look for these elements in a posting:

• They want someone who can write social media posts and blog content on tight deadlines
• They value collaboration and input from every team member
• They need a planner who can come up with strong PR strategies

Highlight how you fulfill these requirements:

“I’ve always been a strong writer. From blog posts to social media, my content pulls in readers and drives traffic to product pages. For example, when I worked at Bits n’ Bikes, I developed a strategic blog series about bike maintenance that increased our sales of spare parts and tools by 50% — we could see it in our web metrics.

Thanks to the input of all of our team members, including our bike mechanics, my content delivered results.”

5. End with a strong closing paragraph and sign off gracefully

Your closing paragraph is your final chance to hammer home your enthusiasm about the role and your unique ability to fill it. Reiterate the main points you explained in the body paragraphs and remind the reader of what you bring to the table.

You can also use the end of your letter to relay other important details, like whether you’re willing to relocate for the job.

When choosing a sign-off, opt for a phrase that sounds professional and genuine. Reliable options include “Sincerely” and “Kind regards.”

Here’s a strong closing statement for you to consider:

“I believe my enthusiasm, skills, and work experience as a PR professional will serve Bits n’ Bikes very well. I would love to meet to further discuss my value-add as your next Director of Public Relations. Thank you for your consideration. I hope we speak soon.

Tips to write a great cover letter that compliments your resume

When writing your own letter, try not to copy the example excerpts word-for-word. Instead, use this cover letter structure as a baseline to organize your ideas. Then, as you’re writing, use these extra cover letter tips to add your personal touch:

• Keep your cover letter different from your resume : Your cover letter should not duplicate the information on your resume. Instead, it should provide context and explanations for key points in your resume, emphasizing how your qualifications match the specific job you're applying for.
• Customize your cover letter . Tailor your cover letter for each job application. Address the specific needs of the company and the job posting, demonstrating that you've done your homework and understand their requirements.
• Show enthusiasm and fit . Express your enthusiasm for the company and position in the cover letter. Explain why you are interested in working for this company and how your values, goals, and skills align with their mission and culture.
• Use keywords . Incorporate keywords from the job description and industry terms in your cover letter. This can help your application pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and demonstrate that you're well-versed in the field.
• Keep it concise . Your cover letter should be succinct and to the point, typically no more than one page. Focus on the most compelling qualifications and experiences that directly support your application.
• Be professional . Maintain a professional tone and structure in your cover letter. Proofread it carefully to ensure there are no errors.
• Address any gaps or concerns . If there are gaps or concerns in your resume, such as employment gaps or a change in career direction, briefly address them in your cover letter. Explain any relevant circumstances and how they have shaped your qualifications and determination.
• Provide a call to action . Conclude your cover letter with a call to action, inviting the employer to contact you for further discussion. Mention that you've attached your resume for their reference.
• Follow the correct format . Use a standard cover letter format like the one above, including your contact information, a formal salutation, introductory and closing paragraphs, and your signature. Ensure that it complements your resume without redundancy.
• Pick the right voice and tone . Try to write like yourself, but adapt to the tone and voice of the company. Look at the job listing, company website, and social media posts. Do they sound fun and quirky, stoic and professional, or somewhere in-between? This guides your writing style.
• Tell your story . You’re an individual with unique expertise, motivators, and years of experience. Tie the pieces together with a great story. Introduce how you arrived at this point in your career, where you hope to go , and how this prospective company fits in your journey. You can also explain any career changes in your resume.
• Show, don’t tell . Anyone can say they’re a problem solver. Why should a recruiter take their word for it if they don’t back it up with examples? Instead of naming your skills, show them in action. Describe situations where you rose to the task, and quantify your success when you can.
• Be honest . Avoid highlighting skills you don’t have. This will backfire if they ask you about them in an interview. Instead, shift focus to the ways in which you stand out.
• Avoid clichés and bullet points . These are signs of lazy writing. Do your best to be original from the first paragraph to the final one. This highlights your individuality and demonstrates the care you put into the letter.
• Proofread . Always spellcheck your cover letter. Look for typos, grammatical errors, and proper flow. We suggest reading it out loud. If it sounds natural rolling off the tongue, it will read naturally as well.

Common cover letter writing FAQs

How long should a cover letter be.

A cover letter should generally be concise and to the point. It is recommended to keep it to one page or less, focusing on the most relevant information that highlights your qualifications and fits the job requirements.

Should I include personal information in a cover letter?

While it's important to introduce yourself and provide your contact information, avoid including personal details such as your age, marital status, or unrelated hobbies. Instead, focus on presenting your professional qualifications and aligning them with the job requirements.

Can I use the same cover letter for multiple job applications?

While it may be tempting to reuse a cover letter, it is best to tailor each cover letter to the specific job you are applying for. This allows you to highlight why you are a good fit for that particular role and show genuine interest in the company.

Do I need to address my cover letter to a specific person?

Whenever possible, it is advisable to address your cover letter to a specific person, such as the hiring manager or recruiter. If the job posting does not provide this information, try to research and find the appropriate contact. If all else fails, you can use a generic salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager."

Should I include references in my cover letter?

It is generally not necessary to include references in your cover letter. Save this information for when the employer explicitly requests it. Instead, focus on showcasing your qualifications and achievements that make you a strong candidate for the position.

It’s time to start writing your stand-out cover letter

The hardest part of writing is getting started. 

Hopefully, our tips gave you some jumping-off points and confidence . But if you’re really stuck, looking at cover letter examples and resume templates will help you decide where to get started. 

There are numerous sample cover letters available online. Just remember that you’re a unique, well-rounded person, and your cover letter should reflect that. Using our structure, you can tell your story while highlighting your passion for the role. 

Doing your research, including strong examples of your skills, and being courteous is how to write a strong cover letter. Take a breath , flex your fingers, and get typing. Before you know it, your job search will lead to a job interview.

If you want more personalized guidance, a specialized career coach can help review, edit, and guide you through creating a great cover letter that sticks.

Ace your job search

Explore effective job search techniques, interview strategies, and ways to overcome job-related challenges. Our coaches specialize in helping you land your dream job.

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

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Home » 07 Best Cover Letter For First Job [Free Samples]

07 Best Cover Letter For First Job [Free Samples]

A cover letter is an important part of any job application, and your first job is no exception. While your resume may highlight your education and qualifications, a cover letter gives you the chance to tell prospective employers why you’re the perfect candidate for the position. To help you get started, we’ve created seven free cover letter templates that you can customize for your own use.

Simply choose the template that best fits your needs, and then follow the instructions to fill in your personal information and details about your experience. With a little effort, you can create a compelling cover letter that will help you land your first job. Good luck!

Table of Contents

How To Write a Cover Letter For First Job?

A cover letter is an important part of any job application, and your first job is no exception. Even if you don’t have much (or any) work experience, a well-written cover letter can give you a chance to stand out from the crowd and get your foot in the door. Here are some tips to help you write a great cover letter for your first job:

• Start by researching the company and the specific job you’re applying for. This will help you tailor your letter to the organisation and make it clear that you understand what they’re looking for.
• Next, take some time to think about what makes you a good fit for the role. What skills and experience do you have that would make you successful in the job? Be sure to mention any relevant coursework or extracurricular activities, as well as any part-time jobs you may have held.
• Once you’ve identified your key strengths, it’s time to start writing. Begin by introducing yourself and explain why you’re interested in the role. Then, use specific examples to show how your skills and experience match up with what the employer is looking for. Finally, wrap up by thanking the employer for their time and consideration.

By following these simple tips, you’ll be on your way to writing a great cover letter that will help you land your first job!

Related: How To Write a Cover Letter (And Get Hired in 2022!)

Cover Letter Examples For First-Time Teachers

Dear Hiring Manager,

As a first-time teacher, I am excited to have the opportunity to apply for a teaching position at your school. I am committed to providing my students with a high-quality education and believe that I have the skills and experience needed to be an excellent addition to your team.

In my previous role as a teaching assistant, I gained valuable experience working with students of all ages and ability levels. I am confident that I can use my skills to create a positive learning environment in your classroom.

In addition to my teaching experience, I have also completed coursework in curriculum development and instructional methods. The familiar with best practices for designing and delivering instruction and am committed to using these methods to help my students succeed.

Believe that I can be an asset to your school and am eager to put my skills to work in a new environment. I look forward to discussing my qualifications further with you and thank you for your consideration.

Related: Teacher Cover Letter:10 Examples & Sample Included

Cover Letter For First-Time Job

I am interested in the open position of ___________ at your company. Based on what I know and my research, I believe that I have the skillset required for this job.

Though I may not have previous experience working in this field, I am a fast learner and have a genuine interest in ___________. Additionally, I have _____ years of experience in customer service/sales, which I believe has helped me develop strong communication and interpersonal skills.

I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss my qualifications and abilities further with you. Please do not hesitate to contact me at ___________ to arrange a time for an interview.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Related: Part Time Job Cover Letter: 09 Sample Examples

Cover Letter For Teenagers First Job

To Whom It May Concern,

The writing in regards to the open position for a summer job at your company. It is a highly motivated and hardworking teenager who would love to have the opportunity to gain some valuable work experience.

Have attached my resume for your review and I am confident that you will find me to be a qualified candidate. I would appreciate the chance to come in for an interview at your earliest convenience.

Related: 107+ Unique Objective for Teenager Resume ideas & Examples

Cover Letter Examples For First Job

My name is ____________ and I am a recent graduate of ___________. I am interested in obtaining a position as a ___________ in your company.

I have enclosed my resume for your review and would appreciate any opportunity to discuss my qualifications further with you.

Enclosure: resume

Related: Generic Cover Letter: 09 Samples & Examples

Cover Letter For First Time Manager Position

I am writing to apply for the position of Manager at XYZ Company. This is my first time applying for a management position, but I believe that my qualifications and experience make me the perfect candidate for the job.

I have a degree in Business Administration from ABC University, and I have been working in customer service for the past five years. In my current role, I am responsible for handling customer complaints and ensuring that they are resolved in a timely and satisfactory manner. The have also been training new employees for the past two years.

Believe that my skills and experience will be an asset to XYZ Company. I am confident that I can successfully manage a team and meet the expectations of the company. I am eager to put my skills to work in a new environment and contribute to the success of XYZ Company.

Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Related: 07 Best General Manager Cover Letter Samples

First-Time Supervisor Cover Letter

The writing to apply for the position of First-Time Supervisor at your company. Have a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and several years of experience working in customer service. The confident that I have the skills and qualifications needed to be a successful supervisor.

It is motivated, detail-oriented, and able to work well under pressure. I am also excellent at problem-solving and have a proven track record of providing excellent customer service. I am confident that I can lead a team and help contribute to the success of your company.

Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Related: Data Entry Cover Letter: 07 Sample ideas

5 Things To Include In a Cover Letter For First Job

When applying for your first job, it’s important to include a well-written cover letter. The cover letter gives you an opportunity to introduce yourself and explain why you’re the perfect candidate for the job. Here are 5 things to include in your cover letter:

• Relevant experience – If you have any relevant experience, be sure to mention it in your cover letter. Even if it’s not directly related to the job you’re applying for, any experience you have will be helpful in demonstrating your skills and abilities.
• Reasons for wanting the job – In your cover letter, be sure to explain why you’re interested in the position. Include specific examples of what appeals to you about the job and the company. This will show that you’re not just applying for any old job, but that you’ve thoughtfully considered why this particular position is a good fit for you.
• Skills and qualifications – Take some time to highlight your skills and qualifications that make you perfect for the job. Even if they’re not directly related to the position, any relevant skills and qualifications will help demonstrate your suitability for the role.
• Enthusiasm – Be sure to show some enthusiasm in your cover letter! This will help demonstrate that you’re excited about the opportunity and motivated to do a great job.
• professionalism – Last but not least, remember to keep your cover letter professional throughout. Avoid using informal language or making any mistakes that could give a negative impression of you as a candidate. proofread your letter carefully before sending it off, and ask someone else to check it over too if possible.

Related: What is Cover Letter? Complete Guide To Get any Job.

When you’re applying for your first job, it’s important to put your best foot forward with a great cover letter. Not sure where to start? Check out our free samples below.

Your cover letter is your opportunity to introduce yourself to a potential employer and explain why you’re the perfect person for the job. In just a few paragraphs, you need to capture their attention and demonstrate why you’re the right candidate. This can be a challenge, especially if you don’t have much work experience.

But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. Our free cover letter samples will give you an edge over the competition and help you land that dream job. Simply choose from one of the templates below, customize it with your own information, and you’ll be on your way to writing a winning cover letter in no time!

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Cover Letters for First-Time Job Seekers

You know cover letters are important. But as a first time job seeker, you may be scratching your head as to what to write about. With undeniable inexperience in the workplace, you may feel you’re at a disadvantage. However, consider yourself lucky when it comes to writing your cover letter. You’re free from the burden of trying to wrestle with your past achievements, professional goals and somehow offer a value proposition to the firm. What you have on your side is excitement, enthusiasm and openness!

Here are a few key things to remember about cover letters and how to personalize them as a first time job seeker:

1. Tell a story.

You want to convey something personal about why you want to work at the company or enter a particular profession. Did you first fall in love with advertising when you finally understood that commercials play into our basic desires as humans driving you to create your own with your friends? Is there one particular commercial you’ll never forget? Whatever it is, you have a story to tell that is uniquely yours. Share this with the reader to grab their attention and offer something memorable.

2. Play Up Your Strengths.

While you may not have had a chance to let them shine in a professional setting, your strengths have certainly become evident in other ways. Are you a great public speaker? Do you think quickly on your feet? Maybe you learned you had these skills during the 8 th  grade play when the lead froze and you shocked yourself and your class by improvising to save the show. Maybe this moment was a defining one for you – one that made it clear you wanted to further develop your public speaking skills .

3. Be authentic.

Recruiters are used to reading cover letters of more experienced candidates. Usually, they all sound relatively the same. “I’m writing to submit my resume for your Account Director role. I have been a sales leader at every organization I’ve worked for, and I’m sure to bring the same success to your firm.” Blah, Blah, Blah. Don’t feel compelled to sound too formal. While you want to remain professional, that doesn’t mean your cover letters should lack personality.

4. Never use the same cover letter twice.

Of course there are a few exceptions, but remember, the jobs may be the same but the companies are different. They have their own mission and culture. Think of it like sending a message to someone’s dating profile. Do you think you’d have more success by sending the same blanket email to all your potential dates, or by personalizing each note showing you’ve taken the time to really understand what they’re about? Show them you’ve done your research! Why do you want to work for advertising agency X as opposed to agency Y? They’re both ad agencies, but they have different clients, put out different commercials and have different creative styles. Being able to articulate why you’re specifically interested in their company will make all the difference.

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• Resumes and Cover Letters

Cover Letter Tips For First Time Job Applicants

Table of Contents

It’s no secret: writing a good cover letter is a challenge, especially if it’s your first time. The secret? Stop obsessing! Your cover letter should be no more than a concise introduction of who you are, what you can do, and, most importantly, why you are the best fit for the job. Because really, that’s all employers want to know – at least,until you wow them during the interview, but that’s another story.

In the meantime, learn from these tips on writing a power-packed cover letter that will make them doubt, in a good way, that you’re even a first-timer:

Always the number one rule: don’t get overwhelmed. Remember, your cover letter can make a huge impact on how a potential employer views you. If it’s spotless, detailed, and interesting, you will grab some serious attention, but hopefully, that won’t be your last chance to impress. If you’re lucky enough to be called for an interview, then you can blabber your background away. But for now, the goal is to highlight your most relevant skills and abilities.

Make Your Opening Line Stand Out

As a first-time job seeker, you can’t afford an inefficient cover letter, and an efficient cover letter always opens with a standout line. Instead of saying, “I want to apply for the Medical Assistant position you advertised on XYZ,” why not go, “I want to help your hospital provide premium health care services by taking on the role of Medical Assistant.” Needless to say, your opening line sets the tone for the rest of your cover letter, so make it rock.

Tell The Truth And Prove It

If you’re going to tell them you’re the best for the position, you better back that up with solid evidence. How exactly are you the best? What can you contribute that the others cannot? Mention skills or traits that the job ad might have indicated, and give them a rundown of all your relevant credentials. But since it’s your first cover letter and you likely don’t have much experiential value to offer, emphasize your academic accomplishments instead, along with your internships, participation in student associations, and everything else that proves you’re the best for the job.

Lure Them Into Your Resume

Just before you close your cover letter, leave them with a polite but tempting call to action. For example, “I invite you to explore my resume for more details of my background.” When they do dive into your resume, make sure it can walk your talk. No matter how well-written your cover letter is, if you can’t provide details to expound each claim you’ve made, it will not help you and may even harm your chances of landing the job. An employer may require only a resume, but if they also want a cover letter, these two should always be in sync.

Stay Away From What You Don’t Have

There’s nothing wrong with not mentioning a skill or qualification you don’t have. You’re not obliged to and the last thing you want is to draw attention where you’re not the best. Instead, focus on areas where you have much to be confident about. Employers are usually flexible and realize that certain skills can be learned on the job, but of course, you need to meet the company’s standards for the core expertise required .

Make It Personal

If you really want to connect with a potential employer, give your cover letter that proverbial human touch. In short, keep it personal, but this may go beyond Googling facts about the company or adding the hiring manager’s name. For example, try actually calling them and asking for information. You can even try finding a contact who’s willing to vouch for you, and mention their name in the first paragraph of your letter. This is a great way of piquing a hiring manager’s interest. Of course, if you’re going to add a person’s name in your application, make sure you’ve checked with them beforehand.

Format Your Letter Right

Your cover letter shouldn’t only contain accurate information. It should also look polished and professional. Hence, check your formatting before putting it out. If you’re sending a traditional physical letter, observe the right business letter protocols, including adding your contact information, date, and employer’s contact information on the upper portion of the letter. If you’re sending your cover letter as an email, make sure to add a subject line with your name and the position you’re applying for. Also, cover letters are generally single-page, but if you must add more information, just adjust the margins so you don’t have to add another page. In any case, be sure to use a basic font, such as Arial and Times New Roman, and the standard font size, which is 12.

While hiring managers deal with tons of applications everyday, don’t take it as a sign that they will overlook and forgive typos. In fact, even the smallest errors can be a deciding factor because let’s face it – typos only happen when you don’t care enough to review your document thoroughly, and employers usually take that as a big red flag when considering candidates.

So don’t take anything for granted. Go through your letter and make sure it’s free of grammar or spelling errors. After you’ve scanned it a few times, ask a friend to run through it a few times more. Sometimes, it takes someone else to see your mistakes  (goes for other areas in your life too). When you ask someone else to proofread your cover letter, have them give you some overall feedback as well. Do they think you’ve made your point pretty clear? While you want to sound confident, you don’t them to think you’re conceited or arrogant. Have your friends check on that as well.

Don’t forget to make sure that your heading is spot on – correct hiring manager’s name, correct company name, correct date, and all the rest. When it comes down to these details, there’s just no excuse for mistakes.

Offer Something New

This is a crucial yet often ignored point. When you write a cover letter, make it offer something that’s not already found in your resume. Of course, you can’t change the details – your background is your background, but frame your letter differently so that it still packages you as the best candidate but in a different light. This should set it apart from your resume while allowing both to each serve their specific purpose.

For instance, if you want to emphasize your skills and experience as a journalist, include in your cover letter a brief note on your most meaningful assignment as a student and how you pulled it off successfully. By adding figures, you can even show further how much value you can bring to the company. Say, you were assigned to an cover a disease epidemic in a community and educate people about mitigation measures they can do at home. To prove that you were effective in your role, you can include data that reflect a drop in the number of cases as a result of increased community awareness through your reporting. Just make sure any numbers you mention are verifiable or they will not hold water. Then again, this is a cover letter, so you need to be able to express your point as briefly yet effectively as possible.

Be Specific

One thing’s for sure – employers don’t like generic cover letters. It makes them feel you’re not serious enough about landing the job, much less doing it well when you’re finally hired. So make sure you send them a custom letter that contains the specific addressee’s name and position, the specific position you’re applying for, a specific tone to the letter that fits the nature of their business, and so on. In other words, do your research. Don’t just start tapping on your laptop without knowing the company you’re sending the letter to. They may not show it during the interview, but employers appreciate job seekers who take time out to get to know them. It says a lot about your character too, especially the kind of employee you could be.

Be Yourself

Cover letters should be professional, but you don’t have to sound cold and distant or awkwardly formal. Let your words flow – naturally. Sentences like, “I want to express my deepest desire to secure a position in your most prestigious institution” just don’t cut it, and neither will clichés that hiring managers are probably sick of anyway. Instead of saying, “problem-solver,” why not write a line or two about an actual experience where you demonstrated that trait. Sometimes, you just have to be yourself to make employers see through you, your good intentions, and, of course, the true value that you can bring to their company. And that’s only possible with simple, straightforward language.

Make Sure Your Letter Gets Read

Lastly, none of the above makes sense if your cover letter never reaches its correct destination or gets there in the wrong form. Employers can be very specific about where and how they want to receive applications, and they’re usually quick to dismiss applicants who don’t follow instructions. Attention to detail is crucial in most positions, and this is one of the first tests that you will have to pass as a job seeker. So if the job ad says only physical applications will be entertained, believe it. If you’re supposed to email your cover letter and resume as separate attachments, don’t lump the two in one document. No matter how convenient that may be for you, it’s their rules that count.

There’s no doubt that hunting for your first job can be daunting. There’s just so much to consider, especially when it comes to writing a cover letter. If you haven’t written any before, you’re probably uncertain about what to include or exclude, and how to structure your content. But there’s no reason to be intimidated as everyone has to start somewhere and employers are the first to know that. Still, that’s not an excuse for a poorly written and formatted cover letter. Even if you’re a first-timer, you’re expected to be responsible enough to know how it works.

As you try to improve your skills as a newbie job hunter, you may also find that there are many aspects unique to your situation, but there’s no need to get stuck in that vacuum. All job hunters are created equal as far as the need to leave a positive mark on hiring managers is concerned. In other words, all the classic rules still apply and will always apply, whether you’ve written a million cover letters or have only begin on your first. At some points along the way, if you feel discouraged after not receiving any favorable responses to the applications you’ve sent out, remember that this is just a phase. Maybe you just have to brush up on your overall job-hunting skills. If you persevere, you will eventually find a job that’s cut out perfectly just for you.

Incredible job here. and thank you for allowing us to witness the experiences and thoughts and work. keep up the great work. stay well. Medical and healthcare-writing-services

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How to Write a Cover Letter For an Internship

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Curriculum Vitae vs a Resumé: What’s the Difference?

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FREE Cover Letter for First Time Job Seekers [ Tips, Samples ]

A well-written cover letter is the perfect partner to your first job resume . However, since it is your first time to apply for jobs, you might be confused as to what you need to write on your application documents, especially with your cover letters. You have to figure out a way to structure it properly in a way that would complement what you have stated in your resume.

First Time Job Seeker Cover Letter

5 frequently asked cover letter questions—with samples, tips ..., how to write an entry-level cover letter—tips, guides, and ..., how to start your cover letter sample templates.

You might not think about it much, but when it comes to cover letters, the tiniest details matter. Take for example the formatting. Job applicants tend to overlook this aspect of the resume, but you have to remember that  resume formatting does matter . We will talk more about how to format your resume and other aspects that you should consider when it comes to writing your very first resume. Keep reading to know more about the guidelines and tips we have prepared.

No Work Experience Sample Cover Letter

Size: 64 KB

Painting Trade Assistant Cover Letter

Size: 150 KB

School Leaver Cover Letter Template

Sample Cover Letter for Freshers

Size: 265 KB

Cover Letter for Freshers Example

Size: 42 KB

What Constitutes a Good Cover Letter?

• You are able to introduce yourself properly to the employer.
• You are able to answer accordingly to the job posting.
• You are able to pique the interest of the reader and you are able to convince them to look at your resume and contact you for further information.
• You are able to avoid making use of the word  I  and refer to yourself in another manner.

Cover Letter Writing Basics

One of the most basic things that should be considered when you are writing a cover letter is the format. This is true whether you are a first-time applicant or an applicant with extensive work experience. Always remember that a cover letter should not exceed one page. Any more than one page means that you have to rethink what you have included. A few paragraphs, about 3 to 5, would be enough. You have to make sure that it is informative without being too long and boring. Each paragraph of your  entry-level cover letter  should be straight to the point but still be giving out all the necessary information to prove that you are a good candidate for the available position.

A standard cover letter format starts with the following:

• mobile/telephone number,
• present address, and
• email address.

Make sure you write down all the correct information as this will be how the recruiter will be able to get in touch with you. One wrong number or letter on your contact information can make you lose an opportunity for a great career.

You may also opt to make use of a personal letterhead  that reflects all of the information about you. Make sure that this is placed at the topmost part of the letter. In case you do not have your own letterhead just yet and want to make one for your personal stationary, you may want to check out our  sample personal letterhead templates .

• The date and the recipient’s information.  Two spaces after your contact information, the date will reflect and another two spaces after the date, you will write down the contact information of the company.
• Salutation.  Just like any  formal letter format , a cover letter will start with a salutation. The typical,  “Dear [Name of Recipient],”  will be used. Make sure that you address the person properly and use the appropriate titles such as  Ms., Mr., Dr., Atty., etc. 
• Paragraph #1.  Start strong! Your first few words must directly capture the attention of the recruiter. Introduce yourself and make sure that you describe the position you are applying for.
• Paragraph #2.  In this paragraph, take the opportunity to let the recruiter know how interested you are about the job opportunity. Highlight your skills and qualifications that you have and describe how these will benefit the company. Also, do not forget to research about the company and the vacant position they are offering.
• Paragraph #3 and #4.  This is where you will talk about your certifications, achievements, and the training you have undergone in order to be considered as a qualified candidate. Any clarifications you might also have about the company and the job can be stated in this section of the letter.
• Final Paragraph.  Wrap up your letter. This is the part where you express your gratitude and where you will invite them to get in touch with you in case they want to clarify anything about you and what you have stated in your application documents.
• Complimentary close and signature.  End the letter in a respectful manner (i.e.  Sincerely, Respectfully yours, Yours truly, etc.).   Leave a few spaces then type your name and affix your signature above your name.

Formal Cover Letter Sample for Entry-Level Job

Size: 97 KB

Sample Cover Letter for Recent Graduate

Less Experience Sample Cover Letter

Size: 15 KB

Additional Reminders Regarding the Cover Letter Format

• Make sure you know who you are sending your letter to. A quick research about the company and who is in charge of the recruitment is recommended. The more specific, the better.
• RE: Job Application for Marketing Assistant Position
• your contact information will be found  after your typed name;
• you need not include the date because the email timestamp will serve as the date; and
• if you are going to use a subject line instead of a salutation, write it down on the subject line section of the email.

What to Include If You Do Not Have Any Experience

Since this is your first time applying for a job, the employer will clearly understand why you do not have any relevant experience just yet. Instead of focusing on the relevant experiences, there are other factors that you can include in your cover letter.

• The skills that you have learned in school or from your summer job that makes you a good team player
• Attributes that you think is a good fit for a professional environment
• Qualifications that make you unique from the other applicants who are vouching for the same position
• School or volunteer work where you showcased your skills and qualifications
• Hobbies and interests that you feel are relevant to the vacant position

Finance Student Cover Letter Example

Size: 63 KB

No Work Experience Cover Letter

Size: 20 KB

A Few Reminders about Job Application Cover Letters

• One page is enough for a cover letter. We cannot emphasize it enough but a one-page cover letter should contain all the necessary information you need to relay to the employer. The more concise, the better.
• Highlight your strengths and give specific examples to make your claims more solid.
• A targeted cover letter is the best one to go for. One of the  reasons why you should customize your cover letter  is the fact that it gives a better impression to the employer. Speak the company’s language. Watch out for a few keywords in the job posting and try to incorporate them into your cover letter.
• Address your letter to the correct contact person. Make sure you spell his/her name correctly.
• Proofread your letter. Your letter is less likely to be thrown away or shredded if there are no to minimal misspelled words and grammatical mistakes. Read through your letter multiple times. Have someone else read your letter too, just to make sure.
• Since your cover letter is considered to be a formal letter , make sure that the language you will be using will also be formal and, at the same time, professional.
• Send a  follow-up email  or letter a few days after you send your job application. This shows dedication and it also shows that you are an eager and enthusiastic potential employee.

Focus on your skills and personal characteristics that will be a good fit for what the company is currently looking for. Be honest and avoid making false claims just to make you look good.

We are hoping that we have helped you with regards to making the task a whole lot easier for you. If you follow the guide, reminders, and tips we have presented, you are sure to end up with a well-written and job-ready cover letter. The examples we also have are going to help you get a better hold of how to present your first cover letter. One more thing about the samples we have? They are all downloadable at no cost! So, you can definitely enjoy going through each sample without any hassle and without burning your pockets.

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First Time Job Cover Letter Example

Table of Contents

Searching for your first job can be an exciting yet daunting task. Crafting a compelling application letter for a first time job seeker is the key to landing the dream job, as it offers a unique opportunity to introduce yourself beyond your resume. In this article, we’ll explore seven powerful examples of first-time job cover letters that effectively capture attention, showcase relevant skills, and highlight your enthusiasm for the position. Whether you’re entering the workforce for the first time or transitioning to a new field, these cover letters without experience examples will guide you in making a memorable impression on potential employers.

What To Consider Before Writing No Experience Cover Letter Examples?

Cover letter is like a marketing tool that enables you to do wonders! So, before writing a cover letter, know the ABC of writing a cover letter:

Analysing the job description

A cover letter should always be written from the start. Applying to five suitable jobs with a cover letter that fits the role is preferable to applying to fifty jobs and not doing any study beforehand.

Identifying what to include in your cover letter

Construct a two-column table. Write down the talents you identified in the above section that are underlined in the left column. Now begin jotting down in the right column how you can meet the stated requirements.

Why do you want to work here?

To help you do research, ask yourself the following questions:

• What is the company’s mission?
• What problem are they trying to solve?
• What’s the product?
• What’s unique about this company compared to its competitors?
• What are some policies or values that the company has that they feature on their homepage?
• Describe any of the organisation’s community engagement projects or employee development programs.

Writing the cover letter

Here’s a basic structure and example of a cover letter for a first-time job application, following the guidelines you provided:

• Include your contact information (name, email, phone number) in the header
• Address the hiring manager by name and job title in the greeting
• Keep it to one page, 3-4 paragraphs
• Use a professional font like Arial or Times New Roman, size 10-12pt
• Proofread for spelling and grammar errors

Why Is A Cover Letter For A First Job Important?

A cover letter for a first job is important for several reasons:

• Introduction: It introduces you to the employer, providing a glimpse of who you are beyond your resume.
• Personalisation: It allows you to tailor your application to the specific job and company, demonstrating your genuine interest.
• Showcasing Skills and Experience: It gives you the opportunity to highlight relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that may not be detailed in your resume.
• Demonstrating Communication Skills: Writing a compelling cover letter showcases your ability to communicate effectively, a valuable skill in any job.
• Differentiation: It sets you apart from other candidates who may only submit a resume, showing your initiative and enthusiasm for the position.

In essence, a well-crafted cover letter complements your resume by providing context and showcasing your personality and suitability for the job.

Application Letter Sample For First Time Job Seeker

Here are a few cover letter examples no experience:

Cover Letter 1: Digital Marketing Assistant Covering Letter Template

Cover Letter 2: Junior Graphic Designer First Job Cover Letter

Cover Letter 3: Trainee Accountant First Time Cover Letter

Cover Letter 4: IT Support Technician First Time Job Application Letter

Cover Letter 5: Customer Service Representative Position Job Application 

Cover Letter 6: Sample Cover Letter For First Time Job Application 

Cover Letter 7: Sales Assistant Cover Letter No Experience

Cover Letter 8: Retail Cover Letter No Experience

How To Write A Cover Letter For Freshers?

How to start .

Introduce yourself and specify the position you are applying for. Mention how you found out about the role like a job board, networking event, advertise, or referral. Express enthusiasm for the company and job. To learn more check out our CV Writing services .

“As a recent marketing graduate passionate about social media, I was eager to find the Digital Marketing Assistant role at Company XYZ on Handshake. After researching your award-winning campaigns, I believe my skills in content creation and analytics align well with your team.”

Highlight Skills Relevant To The Role

In the absence of direct work experience, highlight skills relevant to the job or transferable skills and attributes gained from academics, internships, volunteer work, local charity events, or even personal pursuits. Illustrate instances where you applied such skills in a context that aligns with the job in question. If possible, back up your claims with quantifiable achievements.

“Through my summer internship at ABC Marketing Agency, I leveraged analytical skills to grow social media followers by 15% over 3 months. This contributed to a 5% increase in website clicks from social traffic. I’m confident I can support your digital marketing efforts through data-driven content strategy and community engagement.”

Demonstrate Motivation

Convey passion for the industry and eagerness to learn. Seek opportunities that match your capabilities but also offer growth. Mention specific aspects of the role you find appealing.

“I thrive in creative environments that value collaboration. Though I don’t have relevant experience yet, I’m driven to apply my design skills in a marketing role. I’m excited about the opportunity to manage projects end-to-end, from ideation to execution.”

Close With a Call to Action

Thank the reader for their time and consideration. Include your name and contact details again. Request an interview to further discuss your qualifications and interest.

“I thank you for taking the time to consider my application. I am confident my abilities would enable me to add value to your marketing team as the Digital Marketing Assistant. Please contact me by phone or email to arrange an interview at your earliest convenience. I look forward to hearing from you.

[Your name]

[Contact info]”

Additional Tips For Sample Application Letter For First Time Job Seeker

• Research the company beforehand and reference things that interest you
• Customise each cover letter for a first time job using keywords from the job description
• Keep tone formal but conversational to connect with the reader
• Focus on potential, not lack of experience
• Highlight related coursework, activities or hobbies
• Have someone proofread to catch mistakes
• Follow up after submitting your application

Why Choose iCover for Your Cover Letter Writing Service?

Professional cover letter writing uk.

The team of dedicated Cover Letter writers know how to drive success with an effective cover letter. Our in-depth skills make your cover letter stand out and help you land that dream job.

Quick Turnaround Time

We value time and know how precious it is for you during the job hunt. Our fast and efficient Cover Letter writing process helps you get a professionally written Cover Letter in a timely manner.

Unshakable Confidentiality

Your privacy is our priority. We follow strict guidelines for data protection and security. Hire the ironclad protected professional Cover Letter writing service and fulfil your career goals.

Unlimited Revisions

Do you want us to revamp the resume? Do you want an ATS optimised Cover Letter? Our professional editors are always there for you. Call us to get the first draft of your resume instantly.

Round The Clock Cover Letter Help

Our professional Cover Letter writing services are available 24/7. That makes us the leader among Cover Letter writing companies. Contact our customer reps for a free Cover Letter review of your current Cover Letter.

Improved Visibility & Relevance

Our eye-catching templates and professionally written Cover Letter reflects your true potential. Now get more interviews and impress potential employers with our Cover Letter writing help.

Harnessing the skills of a cover letter writing service can help, but a personally crafted cover letter for a first job can truly capture your spirit. By underscoring your competencies, zeal, and a growth-centric attitude, you can position yourself as an aspirant worth considering, even if you don’t boast of hands-on experience. With each tailored letter of intent for a first time job seeker, you edge closer to securing your dream introductory job.

Whether you’re drafting a first time job applicant cover letter for warehouse picker packer or any other position, this guide can be your foundation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the format of cover letter for first time job seekers.

Cover letter for first time job format:

• Contact Information and Date
• Employer’s Contact Information
• Introduction
• Body Paragraph(s)
• Closing Paragraph

What Do You Write In A Cover Letter If You Have No Experience?

Do thorough research on the company and role. Have thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer. Convey genuine enthusiasm and passion for the opportunity to learn and develop.

Is It Okay To Apply Without A Cover Letter?

Even though it is okay it is not advisable as recruiters might not get time to go through your entire CV thus a cover letter is mandatory.

How Do You Convey Willingness To Learn Without Experience?

Use phrases like “cover letter no experience but willing to learn”, “eager to learn on the job,” “excited to gain hands-on experience” and “confident ability to quickly pick up new skills.” Give examples of being a quick study.

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Cover letter templates

Impress employers with a perfectly designed cover letter.

Introduce your resume with a little color without distracting from the purpose.

Professional

Basic cover letter format with a strong heading makes for an ideal introduction.

A representation with just enough vertical color to highlight personal information.

Bold colors line the top while a subtle background balances the look.

Easy to create with a classy, sophisticated look, start your application off right.

A modern approach to a cover letter complete with bold color, shapes and design.

Incorporate color and vertical columns with this casual cover letter template.

A colored heading to highlight personal information, and a basic letter outline.

A basic template with minimal shape and color for a little dimension.

Keep things simple with this straightforward cover letter template.

Bold and creative look with an easy-to-follow overview of your skills and experience.

Easy to read yet powerful cover letter template to showcase your experience and background.

How to Write Your First Job Resume [For 2024]

So there you are, sitting in front of a screen, staring at a blank Word page for hours, with one task at hand: writing your first job resume.

Where do you even start?

And most importantly: How do you fill those 1-2 pages when you have no work experience?

We feel your struggle and we’re here to help!

In this article, we’re going to guide you through the entire process of creating a first job resume from start to finish.

Let’s dive right in, shall we?

How to Write Your First Job Resume

• Pick the right resume template
• Write down your contact information (correctly)
• Include a resume objective
• List your education (in detail)
• Instead of work experience, focus on…
• Highlight your skills
• Mention optional sections
• Stick to the one-page limit
• Get inspired by a first-job resume example

Don’t worry, we’re going to cover all of the above in detail!

Starting with the first step:

#1. Pick the Right First Job Resume Format and Template

There are 3 main resume formats you can pick from. Each of them highlights a different part of your resume.

• Reverse-Chronological Resume - In this format, your work experiences and education are listed in reverse-chronological order. 
• Functional Resume - Instead of work experience, this format focuses on your skills and achievements.
• Combination (or Hybrid) Resume - This format focuses on both your skills and work experience.

For 99% of job-seekers, we recommend sticking with the reverse-chronological format.

While a functional resume can sometimes help for career changers or recent graduates, it’s still nowhere near as common as the reverse chronological one.

Plus, recruiters world-wide are familiar with the reverse-chronological format, making it a safer bet.

A reverse-chronological resume looks as follows:

Once you’ve picked the format, the next step is to perfect your layout, font, and the like. Here’s what we recommend for that:

• Use a Two-Column Layout. A two-column resume layout allows you to fit a lot more content into your resume.
• Pick a Common Font. We recommend Ubuntu, Overpass, or Roboto.
• Use Bullets to Describe Your Experiences.
• Don’t Go Over One Page. Unless you’re a professional with a decade of work experience, we recommend sticking to the one-page resume limit.

Want to avoid all the hassle of formatting your resume layout? We don’t blame you - if you wanted to build a good-looking resume from scratch, it would take you hours before you could even start filling it in.

Thankfully, there’s an easier way out: using a resume builder.

With Novoresume, all you have to do is pick a template, and fill in the contents. It’s that simple.

And on top of that, Novorésumé resumes are ATS-friendly . Meaning, your resume won’t be swallowed up by an applicant tracking system just because it can’t read it.

Want to get started with Novorésumé? Browse our resume templates .

#2. Write Down Your Contact Information (Correctly)

It’s important for the recruiter to have at least two ways of reaching back to you.

Meaning, you should always provide your contact information in your resume . That includes: 

• First and last name
• Phone number

Apart from these must-haves, you can also provide:

• LinkedIn URL - This is a good way to complement your resume. It also makes the recruiter’s life easier since they usually check your LinkedIn profile anyway. Make sure all information is updated and consistent with your resume, though.
• Relevant social media (like Quora or StackOverflow) - Any social media that is related to the job position and puts you in good light should be included in your resume. In most cases. If you’re a developer, it could be projects on GitHub. Writer? Personal blog.
• Website or blog - Again, this should be something related to the job. It shows your interest and dedication to the industry and how you spend some of your free time.

When it comes to your contact information, the key is to write everything correctly . Double-check you’ve spelled your name and email right, make sure the phone number you’ve listed can be reached, and that the accounts you have linked to are up to date . 

Something else you should know regarding location is how much detail you should be providing. 

The reason recruiters want to know your location is so that they have an idea of whether you’re in the vicinity of the company or not (and if you’ll need to relocate for work). 

That means, providing the city and country where you live will be enough. No need for your full home address. 

#3. Include a Resume Objective

Recruiters spend on average 7 seconds scanning each resume before deciding if it’s worth more consideration or not. 

That means your resume has about 7 seconds to leave a great first impression and convince the recruiter you’re the person they’re looking for.

A good resume objective does that for you. 

A resume objective is a 2-3 sentence snapshot of your skills, achievements, and career goals . Its purpose is to communicate your motivation for getting into the field and your interest in this particular position. 

This makes it ideal for the first job resume of a recent graduate or somebody who’s changing careers. Basically, any resume with no work experience . 

Your resume objective should be tailored to the position you are applying for and highlight skills that will help the company achieve its goal. Use as many facts and numbers as you can to back up any statements or achievements. 

• Creative and motivated recent graduate with a B.A. in Marketing from the University of Michigan. Seeking permanent employment in the field of marketing after completing successful internships in 2 major media companies. Looking to further develop my market analysis skills and contribute to future marketing strategy developments at XY Company.
• I am looking to put my marketing skills into action by initially working for the marketing department of a well-known company until I can finally get to an executive position.

#4. List Your Education (In Detail)

For starters, you should know how to list your education entries correctly in the following format:

• Program Name e.g.: B.A. in Information Systems
• University Name e.g.: University of Chicago
• Years Attended e.g.: 07/2013 - 05/2017
• GPA (only if really high)
• Honors (If applicable) e.g. Cum Laude

Exchange Program (If applicable) e.g. Exchange program in Berlin, Germany

Apart from your skills, your education is the biggest selling point in your first job resume. This is not the place to be humble and play down your achievements!

Write down your GPA (if it’s something impressive), emphasize your honors, and most importantly, highlight your academic achievements by describing them in detail.  

What you can also do is list specific courses that you have taken that are relevant to the position you are applying for. 

Here’s an example of what an entry on the education section should look like:

B.A. in English Literature (Cum Laude)

Boston University

07/2014 - 05/2018

• Courses: Advanced Topics in Literature: Shakespeare’s Work 
• Clubs: Boston University Drama Club
• Exchange program in London, UK

#5. Instead of Work Experience, Focus On This

As a recent graduate, the recruiter knows you don’t have any work experience - and that’s OK. As long as you’re applying for a junior or entry-level position, the experience isn’t something expected from you.

Instead, the recruiter will be looking for other experiences that enrich your profile, like:

• Internships
• Extracurricular Activities

When talking about these experiences, format them just like you’d format your work experience. 

Business Analyst Internship

AAA Company

Milan, Italy

05/2019 - 12/2019

• Ran weekly and monthly analysis on diverse areas of the business
• Created insightful reports of the analysis to present to managers and teams
• Defined strategic KPIs, in order to monitor the efficiency of commercial operations

When possible, try to focus on listing your achievements and not your responsibilities. This will help you stand out from the rest of the applicants.

Haven’t done any internships? Include extracurricular activities.

More often than not, an applicant with extracurricular activities and an average GPA will impress the recruiter much more than a 4.0 GPA student with nothing else to show. When listing your extracurricular activities, each entry should have the following format:

Moot Court Club Member

2017 - 2019

• Participated for two years in a row at the Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition, making it to the finals in 2019
• Researched and prepared written pleadings, called memorials addressing timely issues of public international law
• Helped train the new club members in topics of international law

Finally, you can also list independent projects, if you have any. Think, something you did on the side just for yourself. This can be a personal project, small business or startup, side-gig, blog, etc.

Amy’s Book Club Blog

2018 - Present

• Created my own book club website for reviewing and discussing the latest books.
• Curated a monthly book calendar for my followers to follow, combining trending, relevant, and classic books.
• Created over 40 book review articles.
• On average, received 2000 visitors per month to the blog.

#6. Highlight Your Skills

The two types of skills you can mention on your resume are soft skills and hard skills.

Soft skills are attributes that help you adapt to work environments, work in a team, and apply your hard skills effectively. They are related to your personality, social skills, communication, attitude, etc.

Hard skills refer to technical knowledge and specific tools. They are skills that one learns and applies directly to the job. Some examples of hard skills include:

• Financial accounting
• Adobe Illustrator

Although soft skills are becoming more and more in demand by employers , for your first job resume, we recommend sticking to hard skills. 

Sure, attributes like “teamwork” or “critical thinking” are much appreciated by just about any employer. 

The thing is, though, the recruiter can’t really tell if you actually have critical thinking skills, or just listed it on your resume to fill space.

Hard skills, on the other hand, are very easy to test.

Tailor Skills to the Job Ad

Not sure which skills to mention in your first job resume?

The simplest way to find the essential ones is to check the job ad.

The recruiter themselves mentioned the skills they’re looking for - the only thing you need to do is mention them in your resume (as long as you have them, anyway).

Let’s say you’re applying for a graphic designer position that wants the following qualifications and skills:

• Adobe Creative Suite proficiency, particularly InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop and Acrobat; XD, Animate and/or After Effects are a plus
• Working knowledge of presentation software (Canva, PowerPoint and/or Keynote)
• Ability to work under pressure, manage work on multiple projects daily, manage a large workload and meet deadlines.
• Detail-oriented, highly organized

Based on that, your skills section should include the following:

• Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and Acrobat
• After Effects and Cinema4D
• Canva and Keynote
• Time management
• Detail-oriented

If the job ad isn’t too descriptive, you can also check out these 101+ most in-demand skills for 2024 . 

#7. Mention Optional Sections

Still have some space on your resume?

That’s not a bad thing! You can use this space to your advantage and add some other useful sections.

Here are some ideas:

• Volunteering - If you have some volunteering experience, make sure to include it in your first job resume. Such a section shows commitment, dedication, and a sense of purpose, something most recruiters will appreciate.
• Languages - With companies becoming more and more international, additional languages are always appreciated.
• Hobbies - You can show your genuine interest in the industry or field by listing some relevant hobbies/interests.
• Awards & Certifications - Whether it’s an award from an essay competition in college or a certificate from an online course, anything that flatters your profile should be added.

#8. Stick to the One-Page Limit

“ How long should a resume be? ” seems like an eternal dilemma at this point. 

Generally, the answer is: it depends. 

Since you’re making a first job resume, the answer is: definitely one page . 

Unless you have an extensive employment history that can’t fit into one page, there’s no need to go over that limit. 

It’s unlikely that the recruiter will want to look at two pages of extracurriculars and hobbies. 

#9. Get Inspired by This First-Job Resume

Need some inspiration for your resume? Check out the resume examples below.

First Job Resume FAQ 

Still have some questions on how to write a convincing first job resume?

We’ll answer them here.

1. What do I put on my no-experience resume?

There’s plenty of other things you can include in your resume instead of work experience. For starters, you should:

• Focus on your education, making sure the entries are formatted correctly.
• Pick the right skills that match what the employer is looking for.
• Talk about internships, personal projects, or extracurricular activities. Describe your achievements in detail.

If you still have some space left, you could use it to your advantage and add extra sections like volunteer work, languages, awards & certificates, or hobbies.

2. Is a resume necessary for a first job?

Depending on the region, a resume or CV is always necessary for a job application, be it the first or the 20th. 

Before deciding if they should call you for an interview, the recruiters need to have some insight into you and your skills.

3. Do I need work experience to land my first job?

Short answer: You don’t! 

If you’re a recent graduate, it’s a given that you won’t have any work experience. Most employers don’t actually expect years of work experience for an entry-level or junior position. 

Instead, they’ll be looking at your other types of experiences (internships, extracurricular activities, etc.) to decide on whether you’re a good fit for the job or not.

4. How do you write a resume for your first job?

The process is quite similar to the one for writing a regular resume, but with a few tweaks.

The exact steps for creating a first job resume are:

• Instead of work experience, focus on extracurricular activities, internships, projects, etc.

Key Takeaways

Writing your first job resume doesn’t have to be stressful!

Remember the following tips and you’ll do just fine:

• Pick the right format and template to avoid the hassle of formatting your resume. Make sure to pick an ATS-friendly resume template.
• Write a concise and attention-grabbing resume objective. Show the recruiter that you’re relevant for the role and that they should read the rest of your resume.
• Instead of work experience, include information on your internships, projects, and extracurricular activities.

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General election latest: Hospital visit made Starmer 'really angry'

Sir Keir Starmer has been out and about touting Labour's plans for the NHS. But meanwhile, he's denied Diane Abbott's claim she's been banned from standing for the party at the general election.

Wednesday 29 May 2024 14:57, UK

• General Election 2024

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Election news

• Latest bulletin: The key things you need to know
• Starmer recalls hospital visit that made him 'really angry'
• Labour leader denies Abbott's barred from standing for party
• Sunak and Starmer to go head-to-head in first TV debate
• Labour extends lead over Tories in exclusive poll for Sky News
• Live reporting by  Ben Bloch  and Katie Williams

Expert analysis

• Ashish Joshi: Labour's key advantage in NHS battleground
• Tamara Cohen: Starmer allowing Abbott confusion to rumble on
• Gurpreet Narwan: Farage already has eyes on elections to come

Election essentials

• Trackers: Who's leading polls? | Is PM keeping promises?
• Campaign Heritage: Memorable moments from elections gone by
• Follow Sky's politics podcasts: Electoral Dysfunction | Politics At Jack And Sam's
• Read more: What happens next? | Which MPs are standing down? | Key seats to watch | How to register to vote | What counts as voter ID? | Check if your constituency's changing | Sky's coverage plans

Sir Keir Starmer and his shadow health secretary, Wes Streeting, have just been speaking to a room packed full of party activists in the West Midlands.

The shadow health secretary touted Labour's plan to deliver 40,000 new NHS appointments each week, saying the state of the health service should "shame" Rishi Sunak.

He introduced an NHS worker and then an RAF veteran, who both offered their endorsement to Labour.

Sir Keir recounted a visit to Alder Hey hospital in Liverpool, and said he was "really angry" after finding out more children are being admitted "to have their rotten teeth taken out than any other operation" - something he blames on the Tories.

He hit out at the PM for saying the country has "turned a corner", arguing that normal people do not feel that at all.

Sir Keir argued that his "first steps" are the way to build a foundation to "rebuild our country".

In closing, he said: "Move forward with Labour - say no more chaos, no more division. Turn the page, change, and build our country and take it forward with Labour."

Labour's shadow chief secretary to the Treasury, Darren Jones, is about to hold a news conference to set out the "inevitable consequences" of Rishi Sunak's election pledges thus far.

The party claims the PM's spending plans - for policies like national service and a tax cut for pensioners - will result in interest rate rises "that will hammer families across the country".

We'll bring you updates here in the Politics Hub.

Earlier, the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) found that the Conservatives have no credible plan to implement their Rwanda scheme (see previous post).

Rishi Sunak has said flights to deport illegal migrants to Rwanda are set to take off in July, after the general election takes place on the 4th.

This could mean they never take off at all as, if Labour win the election, they have already vowed to scrap the plans immediately.

Responding to the PAC report, shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper said: "This damning report confirms the complete chaos behind Rishi Sunak's Rwanda con. 

"It makes clear, as Labour has long said, that the Conservatives have no credible implementation plan.

"Rishi Sunak knows his gimmick won't work to stop boat crossings - that’s why he has called an election, to prevent the entire scheme from unravelling. 

"He is trying to take voters for fools - and wasting hundreds of millions of pounds of taxpayers' money in the meantime.

"Only Labour has a plan to strengthen Britain's borders and fix the broken asylum system."

MPs have criticised the government over its Rwanda scheme, saying the Home Office has "does not have a credible plan" for sending asylum seekers to the country 

The Commons Public Accounts Committee (PAC) said the department had "little to show" for the "significant sums of money" spent so far on the policy.

Its latest report, published today, says the Home Office has "continually failed to be transparent with parliament about how many people will be relocated, and the potential costs of the programme".

PAC praised efforts to move asylum seekers out of hotels, but said the "assessment of the requirements for setting up alternative accommodation in large sites fell woefully short of reality and risked wasting taxpayers' money".

The new sites would not house "anywhere near" as many people as promised, it said.

"We are concerned that the Home Office does not have a credible plan for implementing the Rwanda partnership," the report concluded.

Rishi Sunak has been ordered by a High Court judge to confirm when the first Rwanda deportation flight will take off, as the government was accused of providing "insufficient clarity" due to its changing position.

He has downplayed the chances of a flight taking off before the election on 4 July.

Scottish First Minister John Swinney has been speaking on the SNP's campaign trail in Fife this afternoon.

It comes as former first minister and SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon confirms she will be on the trail as the party fights the general election.

Asked by our Scotland correspondent  Connor Gillies whether Ms Sturgeon would be an asset or a liability to the campaign, Mr Swinney said: "Of course Nicola Sturgeon's an asset."

"She's an incredibly dynamic individual who led Scotland through really, really difficult times," he said, adding that he has spoken to people who said they admired her leadership.

"Nicola is welcome on the campaign trail," Mr Swinney added.

It's 1.30pm - here's your lunchtime run-down.

We're still in the early days of the election campaign, but there's been plenty of divisive policy announcements and rows making headlines.

Let us get you up to speed on everything you may have missed so far today...

• Sir Keir Starmer  has been out and about in the West Midlands to promote his pledge to clear the backlog of patients waiting more than 18 weeks for NHS treatment within five years of government, if the party gets into power;
• But the message has been completely smothered by a lack of clarity on whether the veteran MP Diane Abbott will be able to stand for Labour at the general election;
• In short - Ms Abbott was suspended over a year ago due to comments suggesting Jewish people do not face racism, and that instead they suffer prejudice similar to "redheads";
• The party whip was restored yesterday - but she told Sky News that she has been barred from standing for the party at the election;
• The Labour leader said it in not the case, but "no decision has been taken";
• Our political correspondent Tamara Cohen  says Ms Abbott's allies "do not believe it was the leader's team who briefed that she was being barred, but now it is out there, they are still not getting on the front foot and denying it";
• Tamara adds that it is not necessarily that she wants to stand, but wanted to be let back into the party and have a proper send off, but "it seems the Labour leadership are allowing this to rumble on for several more days";
• Rishi Sunak  is in the South West of England today promoting his promise to replace "rip-off degrees" with 100,000 apprenticeships each year by the end of the next parliament;
• He got off the train in Cornwall and picked up breakfast for the travelling media pack, including our political correspondent Rob Powell , who was not best pleased about the lack of ketchup on the bacon sarnies...
• On more serious matters - the PM was quick to call for "transparency" from Labour over the Diane Abbott situation when speaking to broadcasters;
• But his last 20 hours or so have been overtaken by the news that Labour's Angela Rayner has been cleared by police after one of his deputy chairs made a police complaint;
• He swatted away suggestions that pushing for the probe was "a waste of police time" - and pivoted to attacking Ms Rayner;
• In more bad news for the PM - junior doctors have announced they will be going on strike just days before the election as part of their pay dispute, saying they are "fed up and out of patience with the government";
• He has lots of work to do to make up ground against Labour - an exclusive Sky News / YouGov poll reveals that the opposition is a whopping 27 points ahead;
• It should be noted that the poll was conducted AFTER his big offering of a national service policy was unveiled this weekend, which could be worrying for the embattled PM.
• Elsewhere, the SNP is demanding that Labour follows their lead and renationalises railways across the UK;
• The party's Westminster leader, Stephen Flynn, criticised Sir Keir Starmer, saying the Diane Abbott situation is "a pretty sorry state of affairs";
• The Lib Dems  have been launching their campaign in Wales, with a pledge to provide £1bn of extra funding for agriculture;
• The Welsh first minister and Labour leader could be facing a vote of no confidence after the Welsh Tories tabled a motion.

If you've still got a few more mouthfuls of lunch to go, here are a couple of other stories that may interest you:

Stick with us for all the latest throughout the afternoon.

The NHS, rightly, is a key election battleground. 

So it's no surprise Labour has targeted the health service early on in the campaign - and they have one big advantage over the Conservatives. 

It was under a Labour government that NHS waiting lists came down to a record low and satisfaction with the health service grew to a record high. 

Under a Conservative government, the opposite is true. 

But how achievable is Labour's target of cutting the 18-week waiting list within five years? 

Public health leaders have described the aim as "bold" and say it took Labour 10 years to do it the last time they were in power. 

Labour says it will do this by making thousands of appointments available at weekends and in the evenings. 

Making use of empty operating theatres is smart, some trusts are already doing this right now, but it all depends on the availability of a trained, willing and able workforce. 

Labour says no staff member will be forced to work extra shifts and can refuse without any comeback - but this is a workforce that is burnt out and stressed. 

Even if they wanted to help with this huge push, physically and mentally many might not be in a position to help. 

Labour also says it will spend millions raised through scrapping non-dom tax schemes on extra scanners and diagnostic equipment. 

That's great - but again, the crucial question is where will we find the staff to make these machines work.

We've just heard from Sir Keir Starmer outside a Labour Q&A event with medical students in Worcester.

As well as being asked about Diane Abbott ( see 12.14 post ), the Labour leader was asked about the newly-announced junior doctor strikes which will take place in the lead-up to the election.

Sir Keir said he was "shocked" that the government had allowed the situation to reach this point and added that a settlement should have been negotiated.

"What they've effectively done is kicked it the other side of the general election. That's unforgivable," he said.

Sir Keir said he did not want the strike to go ahead due to the impact on patients, and said it would fall to Labour to settle the issue if they were to be elected into government.

The head of the UK's biggest nursing union is stepping down to try to become an MP in the general election.

Professor Pat Cullen, chief executive and general secretary of the Royal College of Nursing, has announced her bid to be elected as an MP for Sinn Fein in Fermanagh South Tyrone.

She became the public face of the biggest nursing strike in history last year, as she led her union through several months of walkouts over pay and conditions, often joining RCN members on picket lines.

'The honour of my life'

Prof Cullen said in a statement: "This was the hardest decision to make, and we have achieved so much in three very different and difficult years."

She said it had been the "honour of my life" to have served in the RCN and "to provide leadership every day to hundreds of thousands of hard-working nurses and healthcare staff who always prioritise the delivery of high-quality care to patients".

Paul Vaughan, who chairs the RCN Council, said Prof Cullen had been a "tremendous leader".

By Tomos Evans , Wales reporter

Welsh First Minister Vaughan Gething is set to face a motion of no confidence next week.

Mr Gething has only been in post since March but his government has since been through what he described as a "difficult" time.

The motion of no confidence has been tabled by the Welsh Conservatives, the largest opposition party in the Senedd, and is set to take place on 5 June.

Mr Gething has faced questions over a controversial £200k donation to his leadership campaign from a man convicted of environmental offences.

He has refused calls for the money to be returned, and remaining funds have instead gone to "wider progressive causes".

He has said the donation was within the rules but has commissioned a review of future political donations.

Mr Gething was also accused of having misled the COVID Inquiry after a text message emerged in which he said he would delete messages in a ministerial group chat.

The first minister insisted the messages related to internal Labour Party matters.

He then sacked Hannah Blythyn, a minister in his government, for allegedly leaking them to the media - allegations she denies.

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