When applying for jobs, you may notice that some employers ask applicants to submit a cover letter. You may be wondering what to include in yours, or why it’s important to write one at all. In this article, we'll break down what teens need to know about cover letters and how to write one!

What is a cover letter and why is it important?

A cover letter is a letter that's included in your job application along with your resume. It helps you express your interest in the position you’re applying for while highlighting the skills that make you the best candidate for the job. It's a very important first introduction to employers, so it’s essential to make sure it’s clear, concise, and strongly highlights your relevant skills and qualifications. Some positions may require one, while others may make them optional. Regardless of where you're applying, it's best to write one to stand apart from other candidates and highlight your interest in a job. 

How to write a cover letter for teens

You will need to write a different cover letter for each job you’re applying for. For example, a cover letter for a barista job most likely won’t highlight the same skills that one for a lab assistant job would. We recommend drafting one that highlights your skills and abilities, and customizing it to each job you apply for. Start drafting yours using one of our free templates!

Like the structure of an essay, cover letters typically have three parts: (1) an introduction, (2) one or two body paragraphs, and (3) a closing paragraph. Use the three sections below as a template to start yours:

Introduction

• Introduce yourself.
• Identify the position you're applying for.
• Note how you learned about the position.

Introduction example

My name is Ashley Applicant and I am writing to apply for the position of Retail Assistant Manager, as advertised on the High Fashion Forward website. As a trained Retail Associate who is fulfilled by providing exceptional customer service and creating first-rate shopping experiences for every client, I am confident I would be a valuable asset to your retail staff.

Body

• Connect your qualifications to the needs of the job.
• Use examples of skills or achievements from your resume that make you a strong candidate.
• Use words from the job description. If an employer is looking to hire someone with “strong communication skills,” write that you have “strong communication skills” and give specific examples to demonstrate how communication is your strength.

Body example

Since my graduation from Rainier Beach High School in June of 2021, I have been working full-time as a retail associate at The Secret Boutique in Seattle, WA. In this role, I have gained valuable customer service training and experience handling day-to-day operations including money management, staff scheduling, inventory regulation, and product marketing.

Two of my greatest strengths are problem-solving and exceeding team goals. Last year, our leadership team wanted to increase store revenue by three percent, but I was able to bring in an additional six percent by creating a new social media promotion that drove over 10,000 new sales.

Closing

• Express your interest in connecting with the employer about the job.
• Include a way for the employer to view any examples of your work (website, portfolio, etc.).
• Leave available methods for contacting you (phone, email, LinkedIn, etc.).
• Sign your letter (since you’ll likely be doing it on a computer, typing out your name is okay).

Closing example

Enclosed you’ll find a copy of my resume for your review. In addition to my resume and cover letter, I also invite you to check out my LinkedIn profile. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me via email at [email protected] or via phone at 555-555-5555. I look forward to connecting with you soon. Thank you very much for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,

Ashley Applicant

[email protected]

(555)-555-5555

Need some feedback?

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

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