Is it Okay to Use... Professionalism in Your Cover Letter?

When it comes to crafting a cover letter for an internship, using a professional tone and clear language is crucial. Here, we will explore the best practices for using specific phrases, the importance of personalization, and why adding relevant information is beneficial.

Bringing Professionalism to Your Cover Letter

A cover letter should be a clear and direct statement of your intention to apply for an internship. It is more effective and professional to use phrases like “I am seeking an internship opportunity” or “I am applying for the [specific role] position”. These options indicate that you are intentional about the application process and show respect for the company's position.

Personalizing the letter can also enhance its impact. If you know the employer or the specific team you're interested in, mention it in the letter. This shows initiative and interest, which can be a factor in the selection process. For example:

“Dear [Employer Name], I am writing to express my interest in the [specific role] internship at [Company Name].”

Using your name signifies that you are a real person, not just another anonymous application. This personal touch can help establish a better connection with the reader.

Best Practices for a Cover Letter

Unlike a resume, a cover letter does not need a title. It should follow the format of a business letter. Start with a salutation, such as “Dear Employment Manager,” and introduce yourself, expressing your interest in the internship. Summarize your relevant experience and education, and express gratitude for considering you for the role. This approach helps to make your application stand out, but it's important to do your research:

Find out if the company hires interns: Before sending unsolicited applications, find out whether the company hires interns in your field. This information can typically be found through your school or a professor. It's also wise to call each company to ask about internships and the appropriate contact person. Make a personal call: It is always better to make a phone call rather than just sending a resume. Direct feedback can help you tailor your application and get a sense of the company culture before applying. Inform the hiring person: If you manage to speak with a hiring manager, use this opportunity to learn more about the internship and to share more about yourself.

For added effectiveness, consider beginning your cover letter with a reference to the specific job opening or vacancy. This can make your application more direct and relevant. For example:

“Ref: Job vacancy posted on LinkedIn for the position of Data Scientist”

Alternative Approach for Wider Reach

While a cover letter targets a specific position, there may be times when you want to reach out to a wider audience of potential employers. In such cases, you might draft a general letter or email. However, this is not technically a cover letter; it is more appropriate to refer to it as a solicitation.

Key points for a solicitation:

State your specialization: Mention your area of study or expertise in the subject of the email. For example, “Computer Science graduate seeking an internship opportunity.” Keep it concise: Be brief and to the point. Highlight your relevant experiences and skills without overwhelming the reader. Build anticipation: Conclude with a call to action, such as “Please consider my application for the [specific internship] role.”

This approach can help you reach out to multiple companies, making your application more versatile and accessible.

By following these guidelines, you can craft a compelling and effective cover letter for internships. Whether you are applying to a specific role or looking for broader opportunities, your cover letter should be a clear reflection of your skills and intentions. Good luck with your internship applications!