Tips and examples how to write a cover letter with no experience

Navigating today’s job market is a challenge within itself. If you don’t have the experience required for the role(s) you’re targeting, it can be even more daunting. With limited experience, it can be hard to show the hiring team why they should entertain your application. That doesn’t mean it’s impossible; we all have to start somewhere.  

Your cover letter can be the game-changer you need to get your foot in the door. Don't let the lack of experience deter you; leverage your cover letter to turn the spotlight on your potential and passion for the position. Not sure how to write a cover letter with no experience? 

Read on as we delve into:

• Writing a cover letter with no experience

• What to put on a cover letter if you have no experience

• How to write a cover letter for a job you’re not qualified for

• Cover letter example with no experience

Can you write a cover letter with no experience?

If you don't have experience for the job you’re targeting, not all is lost. You can still be a strong candidate and succeed at the job. Whether you’re looking for an internship after college, your first full time job, or completely switching career paths, there is still a chance to land an interview. A strong cover letter can open doors to new opportunities.

What do you put on a cover letter if you have no experience?

Instead of focusing solely on your lack of direct experience, use your cover letter as a powerful tool to highlight your transferable skills, enthusiasm, and eagerness to learn. Here are some specifics on what you can include in your cover letter if you have no experience.

Relevant education

Highlighting your academic achievements, coursework, or projects that demonstrate your knowledge and capabilities can be a highly effective way to persuade the hiring manager to meet with you. Although you may not have the hands on experience for the role, industry training, degrees, or certifications can go a long way. 

Passion

Employers love to hire people that bring a sense of excitement to the team. Emphasizing your zeal for the industry in your cover letter can be highly effective. Perhaps this line of work is near and dear to your heart. Share your story to illustrate why embarking on this career journey is personally significant. Explain not only your enthusiasm for the role but also how your genuine passion for the company's work will not just bring enjoyment but drive you to thrive in the role. 

Transferable skills

Use the cover letter to draw parallels between the skills you do possess and those needed to be successful in the role. For instance, if you were a student looking to land a customer service job, effective communication would be an example of a transferable skill you could discuss in the cover letter. Through coursework and team projects, you've likely developed strong verbal and written communication skills, which are vital for customer service roles.  

Extracurricular activities

Including relevant extracurricular activities can be a strategic move to showcase your ability to thrive in different environments. You can leverage these experiences to emphasize valuable attributes like teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving. From leading a student organization, participating in community service initiatives, or engaging in sports, these experiences can not only bridge the gap in work experience but also present a well-rounded image of yourself as a candidate with diverse skills cultivated through active engagement beyond the classroom.

How to write a cover letter for a job you’re not qualified for

When writing a cover letter with no experience, there are 7 key elements to include. Let’s walk through them with some examples.  

1. Header

This portion is pretty straight forward. Just make sure you include your name, address, email, and phone number so recruiters know how to reach you.

2. Salutation

Greet the hiring manager or employer. Try not to be generic. Do some research to use their real name to add a personal touch. For example,

• Dear Mr. Johnson

• Dear Melissa Parker

• Dear Mary

• Dear Hiring Manager

• Dear Hiring Committee

• Dear Hiring Team

3. Introduction

Start by clarifying the position you’re applying for and express your interest. 

• "I am excited to apply for the Marketing Coordinator role at Acme Corp, as mentioned in your recent posting.”

• “I was intrigued when I learned about the Sales Rep opportunity with Acme, Inc as it’s in full alignment with my goals as I embark on my career journey.”

4. Relevant skills and achievements

In this next section of the cover letter, outline any qualifications you may have like educational background, courses, trainings, or other work experiences that lend themselves to the role at hand. This could also include any transferable skills gained from extracurricular activities or volunteer work. 

• “I recently completed my degree in Accounting and Finance, where I gained a solid foundation in financial analysis, budgeting, and financial planning. This rigorous coursework has equipped me with the ability to interpret and assess complex financial data, ensuring accuracy and compliance with accounting standards. I am enthusiastic about applying what I’ve learned to real-world scenarios.”

• “During high school, I was president of the debate team for two years where I developed strong public speaking skills and the ability to articulate complex ideas persuasively. These skills and experiences have provided me with a solid foundation for effective communication and leadership, which I am eager to bring to a professional setting.”

5. Express interest in the company

This is where you would talk about why you want to work for the company and how your aspirations align with the role.

• “I am particularly drawn to Marketing Corp because of its commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment, which aligns with my passion for creating positive first impressions. I am confident that my strong interpersonal and organizational skills will allow me to contribute to the smooth functioning of the office and provide exceptional service to clients and visitors.”

• “I am attracted to the possibility of interning with ABC Media. I’ve been captivated by your unmatched ability to deliver compelling and unbiased journalism. The values upheld by the company align with my own passion for impactful storytelling.”

6. Closing

Be sure to thank the reader for their time, reiterate your enthusiasm for the position and ask for a conversation.

• “I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your success, and I look forward to the possibility of discussing how my skills and enthusiasm align with the needs of your team. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.”

• “I'm enthusiastic about joining your team and contributing to your organization's success. I look forward to exploring how my skills can complement your team's goals. Thank you for considering my application, and I'm excited about the possibility of further discussions.”

7. Signature

Sign off with a professional closing. Keep it simple:

• Sincerely,

Beth Anderson 

• Respectfully,

Beth Anderson

• Kind regards,

Beth Anderson

Template for a cover letter with no experience

Cover letter example with no experience

Here’s an example of a strong cover letter for someone looking to land a sales job with no prior experience.

Need more help with crafting a winning cover letter? Build your cover letter using our recruiter-tested cover letter templates and tailor the design, structure, and formatting in just a few clicks.

Key takeaways

1. Even without direct experience, a strong cover letter emphasizing your passion, transferable skills, and eagerness to learn can open doors to new opportunities.

2. Showcase relevant transferable skills gained from education, extracurricular activities, and volunteer work to demonstrate your suitability for the job.

3. Express genuine interest in the company by aligning your aspirations with its values and goals. Personalize your cover letter to make a lasting impression.