This is how you should write a cover letter with no experience

You have graduated and it is job hunting season. You are competing against hundreds of candidates and you are entering the playing field with no working experience. As a fresh graduate with no experience, it is a massive struggle to get employers to notice you.

With the countless clicks on the ‘apply' button, it can be discouraging to receive zero responses from companies. Although you may feel like giving up, perseverance is key. The trick is to make a strong first impression on potential employers, and a well-crafted cover letter might gain you just that.

A cover letter is a letter of introduction, the first page that your potential employer reads. It's usually accompanied by another document such as your resume or CV. Unlike your resume or CV, a cover letter is not factual. You can introduce yourself and impress your employers with your interests and experiences.

What to Include in a Cover Letter with no experience

Introduction / Opening Statement - Start your first two paragraphs by showing your enthusiasm towards working at your chosen company, then slowly work your way to introduce yourself. Do not bore your hiring managers by writing obvious facts and claims that they cannot imagine.

Bad example: I came across your company on a job listing website and noticed that you are offering the position of a sales and marketing executive. With my vast knowledge in marketing and my interest in sales, I feel that I will be an asset to your company.

I am a graduate from .....

Good example: I was thrilled to discover that your company has an opening for an entry-level marketing role. I am a fresh graduate from University of Hertfordshire with a degree in Marketing. Graduated top of my class with a 3.9 GPA, I am excited to see what I can contribute to well-known organization such as yours. 

Related:How to write an outstanding career summary for a fresh graduate

Skills and achievements - Though you do not have any work experience, employers would be delighted to read about what you have acquired through school projects, internships, etc. Use specific numbers/stats to show why you are perfect for the company. Do not write meaningless statements with no numbers to prove.

Bad example:I have gained a lot of knowledge and skills at my time in my university. My projects received good feedback from lecturers and my extracurricular activities have nurtured my skillsets that can benefit your company.

Good example:As former president of the Student Union at my university, I had numerous responsibilities and achievements [you can state some examples here] which could serve me well in the position that you are offering. Completing my internship at [AB Company] has also enhanced my skills in [state some examples], which could support me as a [state the position they offer].

Your Ending- Hit the sweet spot and create the ‘want' factor in your employers by ending the letter with a powerful closing statement with a short postscript. This is your chance to connect with the company you applied for and show how you fit well as a potential candidate. Do not give a flat and computerized ending.

Bad example: With my knowledge and background, I wish to work for an established company such as [XY Company], where I hope to learn and contribute my skills. Should you need further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Good example: I am inspired by your company's mission and I would love to show you how holding a championship title at COBIS Student World Debate Competition 2019 in UK can translate to assisting cases during real legal debates in court. I hope to be an asset to your team and contribute my knowledge and skills to the company.

In other words, please feel free to contact me should you see my potential and I look forward to hearing from you!

Related:How to write an outstanding career summary for a fresh graduate

Making Great Cover Letters

A good cover letter can win you a spot in the company. However, crafting an eye-catching piece can be a challenge for those who have little to no experience. Here's what you can write to enhance your cover letter.

• Align with mission: Showing that you know what the company does is great but a better wat to execute the delivery of this information is to get mission driven. Offer a positive opinion about a product, or goal and tie it with what you have to offer.

• Focus on the people: It's no surprise that mentioning you've spoken with and know people at the company bodes well for you. It shows that you went through the effort of finding and learning more from a current employee.

• Get bold: It's a big move but by suggesting an idea or solution tailored to the company's existing weaknesses will show the employer that you take initiatives and is willing to contribute.

• Add a promise statement: The key to a great cover letter is to finish strong. Promise something realistic and of real value to whet the hiring manager's appetite.