How to write a graduate cover letter

As a fresh graduate entering the job market, it's crucial to present yourself effectively to potential employers. One of the most important tools at your disposal is a well-crafted cover letter. 

A graduate cover letter is your opportunity to really show off your skills and enthusiasm for any role you’re applying for. Recruiters may spend more time looking at your cover letter than your CV, as they know that the work experience of graduates will naturally be more limited.

In this article, we outline essential tips to help you write a compelling graduate cover letter, grab the attention of hiring managers and increase your chances of securing an interview.

Tailor your cover letter

Each job application is unique, and your cover letter should reflect that. Tailor your letter to the specific role and company you're applying to. Research the company mission, its leaders and recent business wins, to demonstrate your genuine interest and show that you’ve made the effort to do your homework.

Address the hiring manager by name whenever possible. If the job posting doesn't provide the name, do some research or make a phone call to find out. Avoid using generic greetings like ‘To whom it may concern’, as they can appear impersonal and lacking effort.

Start with a strong opening

Start your cover letter with a compelling and attention-grabbing opening sentence or paragraph. Highlight your most relevant skills, experiences, or notable achievements to immediately engage the reader and make a positive first impression.

You can format the letter to make it readable and prioritise your achievements. Bullet-point the most valuable information within the top section, so that the hiring manager will immediately be drawn in and properly digest the key points.

Show enthusiasm

You can afford to show a bit of personality in a graduate cover letter. Let the employer know why you want to work for them and why you think you would make a great candidate for their role. The chances for this are limited on your CV, so make the most of this opening dialogue.

Express genuine enthusiasm for the business, its values, and the industry. Explain how the position aligns with your career goals. Employers seek candidates who are passionate and motivated, so convey your excitement in your cover letter.

Showcase your background and transferable experience

As a graduate, your academic achievements are valuable assets. Highlight relevant coursework, projects, qualifications and successes that demonstrate your knowledge and skills in the field you're applying for. Focus on how these experiences have prepared you for the position. Don’t be afraid to repeat some of what’s in your CV; if your skills are relevant, you can reiterate them.

Even if you lack extensive work experience, emphasise the transferable skills gained through internships, part-time jobs, volunteering, or extracurricular activities. Highlight qualities that are relevant to the position, such as leadership, teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and adaptability.

Make explicit connections between your experience and the job requirements outlined in the job description. Showcase how your knowledge, and accomplishments directly align with the needs of the position.

Format and review

Aim for a one-page cover letter that is easy to read. Use clear and professional language, avoiding jargon or excessive technical terms. Structure your letter with an introduction, body paragraphs highlighting key points, and a strong closing paragraph.

Your letter is a reflection of you and if a hiring manager can’t understand your message, they’re unlikely to be impressed. Thoroughly proofread your cover letter for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. A second pair of eyes is always useful. Have someone else review it to catch any typos or unclear phrasing. It is highly important to have a polished, error-free cover letter, as it demonstrates attention to detail and professionalism.

Here’s a graduate cover letter example you can adapt accordingly:

Dear [Employer's Name],

I’m writing to express my strong interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I’m confident that I could bring a lot to your company and help to further the wonderful work you’re already doing in [X area]. As a recent graduate with a [Degree] in [Field of Study], I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills and knowledge to a dynamic, forward-thinking organisation like yours. My most notable achievements so far are:

●    [Achievement 1]
●    [Achievement 2]
●    [Achievement 3]

During my education, I developed a solid foundation in [Key Skills/Relevant Courses], which I believe makes me a strong candidate for this position. I am particularly drawn to [Company Name]'s commitment to [Specific Aspect/Value of the Company] and its dedication to [Industry/Field]. The prospect of joining a team that shares my passion and aligns with my career aspirations is incredibly appealing to me.

What sets me apart is my combination of academic excellence and practical abilities. Throughout my studies, I consistently achieved high grades, demonstrating my ability to grasp complex concepts and think critically. I also had the opportunity to apply my knowledge through internships and projects, where I honed my [Relevant Skills] and developed a strong work ethic. These experiences have equipped me with a solid understanding of [Industry/Field] practices and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.

Furthermore, my strong interpersonal and communication skills have been instrumental in collaborating with diverse teams and building positive relationships. I am a highly motivated and adaptable person, eager to contribute my fresh perspective, enthusiasm, and dedication to the success of [Company Name].

I am impressed by [Company Name]'s reputation for [Notable Achievement/Project] and its commitment to fostering innovation and professional growth. I know that my unique qualities, coupled with my passion for [Industry/Field], will enable me to make valuable contributions to your team.

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my qualifications align with the [Job Title] position in more detail. I have attached my CV for your review, which provides further insights into my educational background, skills, and achievements.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of being a part of [Company Name]'s continued success. Please do not hesitate to contact me at your convenience to arrange an interview.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

What’s next?

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