Entry-Level Cover Letter: Examples & Guide

An effective entry-level cover letter shows a hiring manager you’re passionate about the position and proves you have what it takes to succeed.

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Entry-level cover letter example

Here’s a professionally written entry level IT-cover letter example:

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This entry-level cover letter sample stands out because the candidate convincingly markets their strengths. From the start, they emphasize their enthusiasm about the job opportunity and call attention to their relevant skills.

Showing this passion tells the hiring manager that the candidate has the basic skills to excel, has researched the position, and cares about the company’s work.

Entry-level cover letter templates

We’ve designed four easy-to-use templates for entry-level applicants:

Apprentice cover letter template

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Novice cover letter template

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Single column cover letter template

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Work cover letter template

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How to write an entry-level cover letter with no experience

A general cover letter shows the relevant skills you learned at previous jobs and how your work experience makes you qualified.

However, if you’re writing a cover letter with no experience in your field, filling up space with irrelevant accomplishments won’t do you any favors.

Here’s what you need to do in your entry-level cover letter to show the hiring manager you’re a good fit:

1. Address your cover letter correctly

Address your cover letter correctly to set a professional tone for your application. If your entry-level cover letter isn’t addressed to the right person or company, your application risks rejection before you show why you’re the right candidate.

If possible, address the hiring manager directly using their title and last name. Sometimes, however, you might not know the hiring manager’s name. In this case, do some research on LinkedIn and the company website to try to find out who they are.

If you’re still unable to find a name, you have a few different options. You can address your cover letter with:

• Dear Hiring Manager,
• Dear Human Resources Director,
• Dear [Department Name] Hiring Team,
• Dear [Company Name] Hiring Team

2. Open with a strong introduction

Write an introduction that grabs the reader’s attention immediately.

An effective entry-level cover letter introduction should include:

• An opening line showing real enthusiasm for the company’s work
• The position you’re applying for
• A short blurb regarding your background
• A brief introduction to your accomplishments or talents

The introduction is also where you should mention any contacts you have at the company. This helps add context, and immediately builds rapport with the hiring manager (assuming those contacts are in good standing where they work).

3. Include important skills for an entry-level employee

Every company has specific requirements and preferences for their ideal candidate.

If you don’t have work experience, highlighting your skills helps you stand out to employers.

If you’re a recent graduate, you’ve likely picked up some highly sought after transferable skills from school or extracurricular activities. Some examples of transferable skills include:

• Analysis
• Communication
• Time management
• Verbal communication
• Written communication
• Research
• Presentation
• Active listening
• Prioritization

Scan the job posting to find some essential skills and include them in your cover letter to demonstrate that you have the baseline knowledge necessary to excel in the role.

Additionally, if there are certain skills you don’t have but seem important to the position, use your cover letter to emphasize your enthusiasm for learning them.

4. Show interest in the company 

Tailor your entry-level cover letter to the job by thoroughly researching the company.

First, read up on the company’s history, its products, goals, and any challenges it’s facing. Researching gives you a better understanding of the qualities the hiring manager wants in new employees.

Then use your cover letter to address specifics about the position, like why you think you’re suited for it, and how it plays a role in your long-term goals.

By showing an interest in the company’s goals, this candidate comes across as both excited, knowledgeable, and well prepared to get involved in one of the company’s upcoming projects.

5. End with a call to action

Your final paragraph should end with a call to action to show the hiring manager you’re serious about the job and want an interview.

Here’s an example of a call to action on a cover letter for an entry level job:

I’ve attached my resume, which further details my skills and educational background. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about my background. I look forward to the opportunity to speak with you further; thank you for your time and consideration.

The candidate clearly conveys their interest and shows initiative by indicating that they are willing to further discuss why their specific set of skills and qualifications make them well suited for the role at an interview.

6. Maintain visual consistency with your resume

To present a unified professional brand, your cover letter should mirror the visual style of your resume. Use the same font selection, font size, and margin settings across both documents.

When an employer opens your application, the transition from your resume to your cover letter should feel seamless, signaling that you are organized and pay close attention to detail.

Entry-level cover letter examples by industry

Here’s a list of specific entry-level cover letter examples by industry if you’re looking for more helpful resources and examples: