The cover letter, the famous step we can’t skip when looking for an internship or a job. However, there's no need to panic if you don't have any professional experience yet to back it up: there's always another way to show off your qualities and skills. Because lack of experience doesn't mean lack of competence - quite the contrary.
Even if, as a recent graduate, you haven't yet had your first job, or if, as a young student, you haven't yet completed an internship, there are still other, non-professional experiences that you can highlight in your cover letter and convince an employer. Here are a few tips on how to write a good cover letter without professional experience.
Choose the right words
First of all, the golden rule, whether for a CV or a cover letter, is never to lie. This might seem simple, but the temptation to lie anyway is great when you’re facing the blank page. It's important to realize that even if you think you don't have much to write, there's plenty to say about yourself.
Lack of professional experience isn't a problem. Instead of pretending to have any, or to not talk about it at all, prefer turns of phrase such as "My lack of professional experience in no way detracts from my interest and competencies in the sector of... such as…". This shows the employer that this lack of experience is not a problem, and that you still have all the necessary assets for the job or internship you're applying for.
Finally, adapt your words to the position you're applying for. Emphasize the qualities that are mentioned in the job ad, and don't hesitate to explain in which way you can be a true asset to the team.
Enhance your academic career
Your schooling determines your best qualities and assets. Don't hesitate to emphasize every single school project that could be relevant to the job or internship you’re applying for. For example, if you're applying for an internship in journalism, you could highlight your involvement in the school newspaper.
Above all, highlight the skills you've acquired during your academic career. Every single degree and diploma is important, and some can help you to distinguish yourself when it comes to the position you're applying for.
Showcase your personal development
Finally, your personal background is decisive in determining your qualities and skills, and your passions, hobbies and travels are more important than you might think.
In fact, if you've travelled a lot, you can emphasize your command of one or more foreign languages, your good interpersonal skills, or how quickly you can adapt to a new environment. It's important for companies to know that their employees are able to fit easily into a new team or project.
Therefore, do not hesitate to talk about your hobbies. Playing a sport, for example, can demonstrate team spirit and the ability to work with others. Whatever your passion is, there are always qualities and skills you can highlight that match the ones that the recruiter is looking for. Every one of your personal experiences strengthens your character and defines your career path, helping you to prepare for a future job or internship.
Apply without professional experience on Moovijob.com or take part in the Unicareers fair, the event for students and young graduates with up to 5 years of experience.
