Internship Application Letter Example: How to Write a Winning Cover Letter
Learn how to write a compelling internship application cover letter with our expert tips, key components, and a professional template. Boost your chances of landing your dream internship.
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As a student or recent graduate, securing an internship can be a crucial step in launching your career. One of the most important elements of your internship application is the cover letter. A well-crafted cover letter can set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your enthusiasm, qualifications, and fit for the role.
In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of writing a compelling internship application cover letter. We'll share key statistics, highlight essential components, provide language tips, and offer a professional template to help you create a winning cover letter that captures the attention of internship hiring managers.
Key Statistics
Internship Application Volume
Of internships receive over 100 applications
Cover Letter Impact
Of employers prefer candidates with cover letters
Internship Offer Rate
Of internships lead to full-time job offers
Key Components of an Effective Cover Letter
A well-structured cover letter should include several essential elements to make a strong impression on potential employers. Here are the key components you should include:
1. Tailored Introduction
Begin your cover letter with a tailored introduction that grabs the reader's attention. Mention the specific internship you're applying for and express your enthusiasm for the opportunity.
Highlight a key qualification or achievement that aligns with the internship requirements.
Example:
As a passionate marketing student with experience in social media campaigns, I am excited to apply for the Digital Marketing Internship at ABC Company.
2. Relevant Skills and Experience
Showcase your relevant skills and experience that make you a strong candidate for the internship. Focus on accomplishments and projects that demonstrate your abilities.
Use specific examples and quantify your results when possible.
Example:
During my marketing coursework, I developed a social media campaign that increased engagement by 30% and generated 500 new followers for a local non-profit organization.
3. Passion and Interest
Demonstrate your passion for the field and genuine interest in the company. Research the organization and mention specific aspects that align with your goals and values.
Show that you are knowledgeable about the industry and eager to learn and grow.
Example:
I have been following ABC Company's innovative marketing campaigns and am impressed by your commitment to data-driven strategies. I am eager to contribute my skills and learn from your experienced team.
4. Professionalism and Attention to Detail
Ensure your cover letter is professionally formatted and free of errors. Use a clear, readable font and maintain a consistent structure throughout.
Proofread your letter multiple times and consider having someone else review it for feedback.
Example:
I have attached my resume and portfolio for your review. Please feel free to contact me if you require any additional information.
5. Strong Closing
End your cover letter with a strong closing that reiterates your interest and thanks the reader for their consideration. Include a call to action, such as expressing your availability for an interview.
Maintain a confident and polite tone.
Example:
Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and passion can contribute to the success of ABC Company's marketing initiatives.
Tips for Writing a Great Cover Letter
1. Research the Company
Before writing your cover letter, thoroughly research the company and the specific internship. Demonstrate your knowledge of their mission, values, and recent projects in your letter.
This shows your genuine interest and helps you tailor your content to align with their needs.
2. Highlight Relevant Skills and Experience
Focus on the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the internship. Use specific examples and quantify your achievements when possible.
This helps the employer understand how you can contribute to their organization and sets you apart from other candidates.
3. Show Passion and Enthusiasm
Convey your passion for the field and enthusiasm for the opportunity. Explain why you are interested in the specific company and internship.
Employers are more likely to select candidates who demonstrate genuine interest and motivation.
4. Proofread and Edit
Before submitting your cover letter, proofread it multiple times for spelling, grammar, and formatting errors. Consider having a mentor, professor, or peer review your letter and provide feedback.
A polished and error-free cover letter demonstrates your attention to detail and professionalism.
Language Tips for Cover Letters
Power Words to Strengthen Your Cover Letter
Including these powerful words and phrases can make your cover letter more impactful and memorable:
Achievement Words
- Achieved - Shows results and completion
- Delivered - Demonstrates fulfillment of goals
- Increased - Shows growth and improvement
- Transformed - Indicates significant change
Leadership Words
- Spearheaded - Shows initiative and leadership
- Orchestrated - Coordinated complex activities
- Pioneered - First to implement or create
- Mentored - Guided others to success
Skill Words
- Analyzed - Shows analytical abilities
- Streamlined - Improved efficiency
- Collaborated - Worked well with others
- Innovated - Created new solutions
Phrases to Avoid
These common phrases can weaken your cover letter. Use the alternatives instead:
| Avoid | Use Instead | Why |
|---|---|---|
| "To Whom It May Concern" | Research the name of the hiring manager | Shows lack of research and effort |
| "I think I would be a good fit" | "My experience in X has prepared me to excel in Y" | Sounds uncertain; be confident instead |
| "This job would help me" | "I would bring value to your team by..." | Focus on what you can offer, not what you'll gain |
| "I'm a hard worker" | Specific example of your work ethic | Generic claim without evidence |
Additional Tips
Do's
- Tailor your cover letter to the specific internship and company
- Use a professional and clear format
- Highlight relevant skills and experiences
- Demonstrate passion and enthusiasm for the opportunity
- Proofread and edit carefully
Don'ts
- Use a generic or templated cover letter
- Include irrelevant or excessive personal information
- Exceed one page in length
- Use an unprofessional email address or font
- Submit without proofreading
Cover Letter Template
Professional Internship Application Cover Letter Template
Header
Date
Recipient
Salutation
Opening
Body Paragraph 1
Body Paragraph 2
Closing
Signature
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