When applying for a job or internship, many employers may require you to submit a cover letter. A cover letter helps you express your interest in a position while highlighting the skills and experience that make you the best candidate for the job. While cover letters aren’t always required, they can be a great tool in helping you stand out from other candidates. If you’ve never written a cover letter before, or want to update your existing one, we’re here to help!  

Using Our Free Cover Letter Templates

Whether you've never had a job before or are looking to continue to build on past work experience, we have options for you! 

Cover letter template #1 is great for job seekers who don’t yet have any formal work experience, while cover letter template #2 can be used by job seekers who have previously had jobs and want to continue building their professional experience. 

Click either template link below to make your own copy and start drafting your cover letter!

• Cover Letter Template #1 - First Job
• Cover Letter Template #2 - Existing Work Experience

No Prior Work Experience? No Problem! 

If you are applying for your first-ever job, you likely do not have any prior formal work experience. Using one of our templates and brainstorming other relevant experiences is a great start! Here are some questions to get you started as you think about what you can include in your first cover letter:

• Are you involved with any clubs, sports, or other extracurricular activities? If so, how long have you participated? Do you have any specific role or leadership responsibilities? Writing about your experience in extracurriculars can help employers understand that you’re someone who is motivated, enjoys taking on new challenges, and can work as part of a team. In your cover letter, these skills can be connected to the job you’re applying for and why you’re interested in it. 
• Have you ever volunteered in your community? Experience volunteering can be connected to your desire to serve customers through high-quality customer service in your cover letter. 
• Do you support family or friends with childcare through babysitting? Or help people with pets or house sitting? These experiences show that you’re someone responsible and reliable– a crucial skill in any job.
• What awards or achievements have you received for academics or other community involvement? Don’t be afraid to give yourself props for your achievements! You can make the connection between the awards you’ve received and your belief that you can succeed in the job you’re applying for. For example, if you received an award for perfect attendance at school, make sure to let a potential employer know that you are someone they can count on!

The Importance of Customizing Each Cover Letter You Write

It’s important to know that every cover letter you submit should be personalized to the job you’re applying for. 

For example, your cover letter to be a barista at Starbucks should specifically outline your desire to be a barista, your relevant skills and experience that would make you a great barista, and your connection to Starbucks’ mission and values. 

We recommend drafting a basic cover letter that outlines all of your work experience, skills, and qualifications– and then customizing it for each position you’re applying for. 

We Will Review Your Cover Letter!

Finished drafting your cover letter and want a second opinion? Send it to us for a free review! We'll have it back to you within a week with personalized, actionable feedback.

Have any job-related questions? Text #Jobs to 33-55-77 to chat with one of our advisors. If you're using a mobile device, click here to have the text message set up for you! Want more job resources sent directly to your email? Sign up now!