A cover letter is an important part of your application for any job. But how do you write a cover letter with no experience?
While it might seem like a challenge, there are ways to strategically craft a cover letter highlighting what you do bring to the table, drawing attention to your enthusiasm, adaptability, and the unique perspective you bring to a role—instead of what you don't.
Struggling to write a cover letter with no experience? Sign up for Teal's AI Resume Builder today and try the Cover Letter Generator for free!
What is a cover letter?
A cover letter is a document you send with a resume or job application when you apply for a job, internship, or other professional opportunity.
In this letter, you'll introduce yourself and provide additional information about your qualifications, skills, and experience. The cover letter is usually addressed to the hiring manager or employer. It serves to communicate your interest in a specific job and explain why you're a good fit for the role. Each of the entry-level cover letters you send should be personalized for that specific job posting.
A cover letter also complements your resume, providing more context for your application. It allows you to:
- Highlight specific achievements
- Focus on experiences
- Showcase skills that are relevant to the job you are applying for
- Demonstrate your overall enthusiasm for the company and the position
A well-crafted cover letter can increase your chances of getting an interview and ultimately landing the job.
Should I write a cover letter if I have no experience?
Maybe this is your first career job, and you truly don't have any other experience—even entry-level positions—to include. But even if you don't have any prior job experience, you should definitely still write a cover letter (especially if one is required).
A cover letter is an important way to highlight your qualifications and help you differentiate yourself from other applicants while creating a personal connection with hiring managers. Even a concise cover letter can demonstrate your potential, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn.
How to write a cover letter with no experience
Navigating the process of writing a cover letter without experience can be straightforward with the right approach. From analyzing the job description to using the right CTA, here's how to write a cover letter for a strong candidacy.
Step 1: Review the job description
Before you start any cover letter writing, read the job description closely. Look for soft skills or other details that you can mention in your letter to show that you line up perfectly with what they're looking for.
It's also a smart idea to research the company overall. What are the company's values and mission? What does their company culture seem to be like? Press releases, news articles, and industry reports might help provide insights into the company's recent developments, challenges, and opportunities.
Find something that you can keep in your back pocket to mention.
Pro Tip: You can keep track of the research you conduct in Teal's Job Application Tracker.
Step 2: Use a professional format
One of the most important cover letter best practices is using a professional format that looks visually clean and tidy.
A cover letter template generally looks something like this:
- Contact information
- Salutation
- Introduction
- Body paragraphs
- Closing with CTA
- Signature
By following this cover letter sequence, you'll end up with a concise, professional letter that includes everything the company needs to know.
Step 3: Include your contact information
Add your personal contact details in the cover letter header (which is usually located in the top left corner of the document). You'll want to include:
- Name (first and last)
- City and state
- Phone number
- Email address
Step 4: Start with a strong introduction
Next, include a formal greeting to the hiring manager. This is typically written as "Dear _____." You should also call the hiring manager by name. Use their first and last name to avoid accidentally misgendering anyone or making a mistake on their marital status.
For instance: "Dear Dave Fano,"
If you aren't sure who is hiring for the position, or you can't find the hiring manager's contact details, it's okay to begin your letter with "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear ____ Department" but do your best to uncover this information to avoid sounding generic.
Following the greeting, every great cover letter starts out by grabbing the reader's attention with a strong introduction. Your opening statement should introduce yourself and reference the specific job opening you’re applying for.
In your opening paragraph, provide a brief summary of who you are and why you're interested in the position.
For example:
"As a recent graduate from Purdue University with a BA of Marketing, I'm eager to put my skills and education to work as the [title] at [company]."
You'll go more in depth about your professional experience (or your education and skills, if you don't have much experience) in the following paragraphs of the letter.
Step 5: Highlight your skills
Even if you're applying for entry level jobs, you can impress the hiring manager by incorporating skills that set you apart from other job seekers.
Cross-reference the job posting to make sure you're listing skills, achievements, and bullet points relevant to the job you're applying for. This should include a variety of hard and soft skills from the JD. (Think tech and tools and more interpersonal skills like communication skills or collaboration). This is your chance to prove why you'd be an asset to the company and what you can contribute.
In addition to highlighting your hard and transferable skills, talk about any relevant education. Whether courses or projects, these might be helpful details to share.
Pro Tip: Teal's Job Application Tracker helps extract the top keywords so you can quickly customize your cover letter and let a company know exactly why you are applying for a specific position.
Step 6: Write a closing statement
Wrap up your cover letter with a call to action. Ask the hiring manager if you can set up a regular or informational interview. This shows you're ready for next steps.
Be polite and flexible with your ask, showing your willingness to work around their schedule.
For example:
"If you have any time free next week, I would love to set up an informational interview to get an opportunity to learn more about this role. Please let me know what works for your schedule."
Finally, end with a closing statement that's both professional and compelling, thanking the recipient for their time and reaffirming your interest in the position.
Try one of these key takeaways:
- Thank you for your time. I look forward to speaking with you further about the position.
- I'm eager to learn and grow within a dynamic and collaborative team environment. Thank you for considering my application.
- I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.
Finish the letter with "Sincerely" or "Thank you" and your name.
Step 7: Proofread and save
Proofread your cover letter to catch and correct any grammatical errors or to rephrase sentences for more impact. If you aren't a career writer, consider asking a family member or friend to look at the letter, too.
When you're finished, save the letter and submit it with the application as a PDF file.
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How to write a cover letter for a job with no experience in that field
Writing a cover letter for a job with no experience in that field? By focusing on your transferable skills, you can effectively align your past experience with the requirements of your new field. Here’s a short cover letter checklist to get it right.
- Review the JD: Identify the key skills and qualifications needed for the role. Find areas where your previous experience overlaps.
- Research the company: Understand the company’s mission, values, and culture. Highlight how your background aligns with these aspects.
- Highlight transferable skills: Emphasize skills from your previous career that are relevant to the new role. Provide specific examples with impact to demonstrate your potential to excel.
- Express enthusiasm: Show your excitement for the new opportunity and your commitment to acquiring any additional skills needed for the role.
The best way to write a cover letter with no experience
Feeling stuck or overwhelmed by so many cover letter tips? Teal can help.
Use Teal's AI Resume Builder to generate a cover letter with no experience. All you have to do is import your resume or LinkedIn profile, head to the "Cover Letter" section, attach a job description, and click "Write With AI." Choose your customizations like length and tone and click "Apply" to create your cover letter.
Additionally, Teal's Job Application Tracker helps you save and organize the jobs you're applying for. Use the Google Chrome extension to save jobs and track them within Teal according to position details and your application status.
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Cover letter with no experience templates
Whether you're applying for an entry-level position, writing an internship cover letter, or making a career change, these cover letter with no experience templates will provide a solid foundation. Use them to jumpstart your writing, just remember to tailor them to fit your unique background and the job you're applying for.
Entry level cover letter
Dear [First Name] [Last Name],As a recent graduate from [University Name] with a [Degree] in [Field], I'm thrilled to apply for the entry-level [Job Title] position at [Company Name].
During my time at [University], I completed several projects that honed my [Skill] and [Skill] abilities. A few notable projects were [Describe Project], which [Describe Impact/Result]. As well as [Describe Project], which [Describe Impact/Result]. Additionally, I've taken courses in [Relevant Courses], providing me with a solid technical foundation in [Hard Skill], [Hard Skill], and [Hard Skill]
[Company Name]'s commitment to [Values/Goals] excites me, and I'm confident that my [Soft Skill From The JD], [Soft Skill From The JD], and enthusiasm make me a strong fit for your team. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to your ongoing success.
I would love the opportunity to discuss my qualifications if you're available. I can be reached at [Phone] and [Email]. Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Pro tip: Explore Teal's professional cover letter templates for more inspiration.
Cover letter for internship with no experience
Dear [First Name] [Last Name],As a current student at [Your University] majoring in [Your Major], I'm excited to apply for the [Internship Title] position at [Company Name]. I am eager to gain hands-on experience in [Field/Industry] and learn from the best in the industry.
Throughout my time at [University], I've taken courses in [Relevant Courses] and have actively participated in [Relevant Activities or Organizations]. These experiences have allowed me to develop a strong understanding of [Relevant Skills], such as [Skill 1], [Skill 2], and [Skill 3]. Additionally, I've successfully [Describe a Project or Experience Related to the Internship], which has further enhanced my skills in [Relevant Skill/Experience].
I am particularly drawn to [Company Name] because of your commitment to [Value/Goal/Aspect of the Company]. I am impressed by [Specific Example of Company's Work or Reputation], and I am eager to contribute to your team and learn from your innovative approach to [Industry/Field].
I believe that my strong [Skill/Quality] and my enthusiasm for [Field/Industry] make me a strong fit for this internship. I am confident that I can bring a fresh perspective and a strong work ethic to your team and make a meaningful contribution to [Company Name].
I would love the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further next week if you're available. I can be reached at [Phone] and [Email]. Thank you for taking the time to consider my application.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Cover letter for recent graduate with no experience
Dear [First Name] [Last Name],As a recent graduate of [University Name] with a degree in [Field], I'm eager to begin my career in [Industry] as the [Job Title] position at [Company Name].
During my time at [University Name], I gained a solid foundation in [Relevant Skills/Knowledge] through my coursework in [Relevant Courses]. I also completed a [Duration] internship at [Internship Company], where I was involved in [Brief Description of Achievements/Impact]. This experience allowed me to develop [Hard Skill], [Hard Skill], and [Soft Skill], which I believe will be important in [Describe Key 1-2 Parts of JD].
What attracted me to [Company Name] is your [Value/Goal/Aspect of the Company]. I'm impressed by [Specific Example of Company's Work or Reputation]. I am particularly enthusiastic about [Company Initiative/Project or Key Part of JD] and how it aligns with my passion for [Related Field/Interest].
I'm confident that my academic background, combined with my practical experience and dedication, make me a strong candidate for this position. I am eager to bring my skills and enthusiasm to [Company Name] and contribute to your continued success.
I would love to meet next week to discuss the role further. I can be reached at [Phone] and [Email]. Can you let me know if you have any availability? Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Cover letter for career change with no experience
Dear [First Name] [Last Name],As a former [Title] with [X] years in [Previous Field], I'm eager to to transition into [New Field] as the [Job Title] position at [Company Name].
In my previous role, I developed strong [Skill 1] and [Skill 2], which I believe are highly transferable to the [Job Title] position. For example, I [Describe Relevant Experience/Project/Impact/Results], which required [Skill/Experience Related to New Field]. Additionally, I've pursued further education in [New Field], including courses in [Relevant Courses or Certifications].
I am particularly drawn to [Company Name] because of your reputation for [Specific Aspect of the Company]. Your commitment to [Value/Goal] aligns with my own professional values and aspirations. I am impressed by [Specific Example of Company's Work or Reputation] and am eager to contribute to your team.
I am confident that my background in [Previous Field], combined with my passion for [New Field] and my dedication to continuous learning, make me a strong fit for this position.
I would love to meet when you are available to discuss the role further. I can be reached at [Phone] and [Email]. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experiences align with [Specific Job and Goal/Problem Company Has You'd Solve].
Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Pro tip: Try Teal's modern cover letter templates to help you get started!
Cover letter examples with no experience
Below are cover letter examples with no experience tailored to different scenarios, such as entry-level positions, internships, and career changes. These sample cover letters will provide you with a framework to create your own compelling cover letter—highlighting your strengths and top skills.
Sample cover letter with no experience
Sample cover letter for internship with no experience
Sample cover letter for career change with no experience
Write your cover letter with Teal
You might not have much career experience. But you can still feel confident as you write a cover letter for your next job. Let the relevant skills, education, or life experience you do have speak for yourself.
If you want to skip the steps, a resume creator like Teal's includes a Cover Letter Generator so you can craft multiple, customized versions of your cover letter, each one tailored to the specific job description.
Take the first step towards making a great impression with customized, aligned cover letters.
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