• Search Search Please fill out this field.
  • Career Planning
  • Finding a Job
  • Cover Letters

How to Write a Cover Letter for an Unadvertised Job

Cover Letter Sample and Writing Tips for a Job That's Not Advertised

cover letter for a job without posting

  • Tips for Writing Your Cover Letter

What to Include in Your Cover Letter

  • Cover Letter Example and Template

Proofread Your Documents

How to send your letter.

  • How to Send Your Resume

Shapecharge / E+ / Getty Images

Not all companies advertise job openings. Some companies get plenty of applicants without advertising. Other companies may not be in hiring mode but will consider applications from qualified candidates if they anticipate an opening in the near future.

Sending a resume and cover letter to an employer, even though you aren't sure if there are available jobs, is a way to get your candidacy noticed. It may also get you advance consideration for positions that have just opened up. If you have skills the company is in need of, it may even get you considered for a brand-new position.

When you know an employer has an opening, don't hesitate to apply.

If you have a company you'd love to work for , consider taking the time to reach out and connect regardless of whether the organization is currently hiring.

Tips for Writing a Cover Letter for an Unadvertised Job

What's the best way to apply for unadvertised job openings? It depends on whether you know there is a position available, but the company hasn't listed it, or if there's a company you want to work for and you don't know if there are open jobs.

Kelly Miller / The Balance

When You Know There is a Job Opening

If you know the company is hiring but hasn't advertised the position, write a traditional   cover letter  expressing your interest in the open position at the company. Be sure to specifically relate your qualifications for the job.

When You Don't Know if the Company is Hiring

Writing a cover letter for an unadvertised opening (also known as a   cold contact cover letter  or  letter of interest ) is a little different than writing a cover letter for a job that you know is available.

With this type of letter, you will need to make a strong pitch for yourself and how you can help the company. Below are some tips on how to write a cover letter for an unadvertised opening.

  • Mention your contacts.  If you know someone at the organization, mention this at the beginning of the cover letter. Having a contact at the company is a great way to get your foot in the door, even if the company isn’t actively hiring.
  • Use paper or email.  You can send your letter via paper or  email . Sending an old-fashioned paper letter works well  for this type of letter , because it may have a better chance of being read than an email, which could be deleted without even being opened.
  • Include a resume.  Whether you send your cover letter via paper or email, be sure to include a copy of your resume. Make sure you  tailor your resume  to the company and the type of job you are looking for.

Below is detailed information on what to include in your cover letter, along with links to example cover letters.

Your Contact Information Name Address City, State Zip Code Phone Number Email Address

  • Cover Letter Contact Section Examples

Greeting If you can find a contact person at the company, direct your letter or email message to them. Here's how to find  contacts at companies .

If you can't locate a contact person, address your letter to "Dear Hiring Manager" or leave out this section and start with the first  paragraph  of your letter.

  • Cover Letter Greeting Examples

Body of Cover Letter The goal of your letter is to get noticed as a prospective employee even if the company isn't hiring immediately. Your letter should explain the reason for your interest in the organization, and identify your most relevant skills or experiences and explain why you would be an asset to the company.

First Paragraph: The first paragraph of your letter should include information on why you are writing. If you know someone at the company, mention it now. Be specific as to why you are interested in this particular company.

Middle Paragraph(s): The next section of your cover letter should describe what you have to offer the employer. Again, be specific as to how you can help the organization.

Final Paragraph:  Conclude your cover letter by thanking the employer for considering you for employment.

  • What to Include in the Body Section of a Cover Letter

Closing Best Regards,  (or choose another closing from the examples below)

  • Cover Letter Closing Examples

Signature Handwritten Signature  (for a mailed letter)

Typed Signature When you are   sending an email letter,  be sure to include all your contact information in your signature.

  • Signature Examples

Cover Letter Example for a Job That's Not Advertised

You can use this sample as a model to write a cover letter. Download the template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online), or read the text version below.

Cover Letter for a Job That's Not Advertised (Text Version)

Your Name Your Address City, State Zip Code Your Phone Number Your Email Address

Contact Name Title Company Address City, State Zip Code

Dear Mr./Ms. LastName,

As an Information Technology professional with high-level management experience in the IT industry, I learned that the best way to achieve success was to motivate the resources I had with well-defined objectives and empowerment.

A management belief based on integrity, quality, and service, along with a positive attitude, an aptitude for strategic thought and planning, and the ability to adapt quickly to new ideas and situations allows me to achieve consistent and significant successes in multiple industries.

My personality profile says:

  • A confident, driven individual who reacts quickly to change.
  • A self-starter with a strong sense of urgency who responds positively to challenge and pressure.
  • A fast learner who is a practical and ingenious problem solver.
  • A fluent and articulate communicator, flexible and responsive. A self-directed, goal-oriented doer.

My former managers' say:

"…The Information Technology Analysis will serve as a guideline for making positive contributions …your management style provided a footprint for younger members of our organization… a very positive impression of the contributions you made to our business and its growth." Gregory Hines, President and CEO, Information Data Technology.

"…the most important source of growth in our data technology business …able to focus the team and manage the product to a successful introduction …due in large part to his own personal commitment ...excellent IT project management and operational management skills." Pauline Hallenback, CTO at Information Systems.

"…your strengths as a manager are many and varied …all issues are confronted in a timely manner …management by objectives comes as a second nature to you…" Jackson Brownell, Director of Operations, Denver Technologies.

ABC Company is a company that would provide me with the opportunity to put my personality, skills, and successes to work. At a personal meeting, I would like to discuss with you how I will contribute to the continued growth of your company.

Best regards,

Carefully proofread both your resume and cover letter before you send them. Here are proofreading tips for job seekers.

When sending your letter via email, write your letter in the email message and attach your resume to the message. In the subject line, put your name and the reason for writing (Your Name - Introduction).

  • Email Subject Lines

How to Send Your Resume With Your Cover Letter

Here's how to send your resume with your cover letter:

  • How to Email Your Resume
  • How to Send Your Resume as an Attachment
  • How to Mail a Resume and Cover Letter

Key Takeaways

TAKE INITIATIVE: Not all companies immediately advertise opening positions. Taking the initiative to send a cover letter of introduction “on spec” may garner you an interview for either an existing or a newly developed job role.

APPLY TO YOUR DREAM COMPANY: Nothing ventured, nothing gained. If there is a company you’ve always wanted to work for, reach out to their hiring department with a strategic letter that presents your qualifications and interest in their organization.

BUILD UPON YOUR CONTACTS: A good way to get your foot into the door at a company is to begin your letter of introduction by mentioning the contacts you know who work there. Take this to the next level by proactively asking these contacts – before you send your cover letter – if they would be willing to put in a good word on your behalf with their employer. 

milewalk

How to Apply when there is No Opening: 7 Sentence Cover Letter

  • College Students
  • Communication
  • Motivational
  • Today's Line
  • Pinterest 0

Listen to Podcast Now:

Want to join a company, but can’t find a job opening? Join career expert and award-winning author Andrew LaCivita as he covers how to apply when there is no opening: 7 sentence cover letter!

You want to work for an organization, but you can’t seem to find a public job posting. You’re not sure if there’s an opening.

You’re not sure if they’ll welcome you. You’re wondering should I apply ? If I apply, how should I apply?

First things first…

Should you apply or reach out to an organization when they don’t have a job posting? Heck Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Three reasons:

  • Great organizations are always, always combing the world for the greatest talent. They’re always in hiring mode, whether they have a budget for a new position or don’t have a budget for a new position.

They are constantly looking for the greatest resources because they know the greatest resources don’t always come along or are available when they need them.

  • They’ll trade up. If there are ten people in an organization, there’s at least one or two of them the company would be willing to trade out for a better performer. It’s just simple math.

Now start adding a zero to those numbers. If there are 100 people in the company, that’s ten to 20 people they’d likely trade out.

What about a 1,000 people in the company? That’s 200 openings, even if they don’t have extra budget to hire additional resources. There is still 10-20% of their organization they feel they can improve with better resources.

  • Less competition . There’ll be a lot less competition. If there’s no job posting, it’s a deterrent for well more than 90% of the people. So most of them won’t even try it.

The ones who do, unless they’re sitting next to you watching this video, they’re not going to know exactly how to do that.

This is going to give the recruiters and the HR people and the hiring officials more time to give your submittal more care and consideration.

Now, how should I do it?

There are seven areas to address in your introduction or your cover letter.

Before I get into what those seven topics are, I want to talk about a couple of other ways you can introduce yourself:

FREE DOWNLOAD:  4-Sentence Cover Letter : For changing companies when you know there’s a job opening. It’s quality over quantity.

FREE DOWNLOAD:  Boss-Hunting Cover Letters : For targeting a particular person or higher-up in a company (whether there exists an opening or not).

When you want to target a company and don’t see a job positing, reach out with this cover letter (introduction, email, etc.):

  • Why you’re writing to them.

The reason I’m writing to you is because I want to join your company. But, you can’t leave them there. You need to give them some context and some rationale as to why you want to work at that organization.

  • Your rationale for wanting to work there.

The reasons I want to work here are…based on my research…and then insert your rationale.

  • What you offer and why you’re a great fit.

I offer X years of experience in this particular industry, doing these particular jobs which makes me a great fit to support your organization and the products and services it delivers. But you can’t leave them there. You’ve got to drive a little nail into this one. That’s number four…

  • Home run accomplishment.

Tell them about a significant accomplishment you know is going to be enticing and a great match for that company.

A particular accomplishment I’m proud of or a significant accomplishment or a major accomplishment is…and then tell them specifically what it is.

  • Pointing them in the direction of more evidence of why you’re a great fit.

cover letter for a job without posting

I want you to tell them exactly where in the resume you want them to look for more evidence that greatly aligns you with what they need for their organization.

  • Welcome the opportunity to speak with them.

I’d welcome the opportunity to speak with you…

  • Thank them for their consideration.

I want to thank you for your consideration…

To see the exact language for my No-Job-Opening Cover Letter (AKA The 7-Sentence Cover Letter), get that here !

If you enjoyed this video, give me a LIKE, COMMENT, and, of course SHARE with your friends. Expanding is what it’s all about!

Like this episode?  Please share it via social media and review it on  iTunes ! I can keep this blog and all future podcasts and videos ad-free and sponsor-free ONLY because you share my work! Please share or subscribe to  my podcast  and  YouTube channel  too!

Want more advanced material?  Join the  milewalk Academy  and grab some of the free offerings that support the instruction in this post!

Related Posts

The 4 Sentence Cover Letter That Gets You the Job Interview

Great tips Andrew

' src=

Thanks Rajeev! Glad you liked them!

' src=

Can u send me a sample 7 sentence cover letter by mail? Thanks

Simply download it using the proper link!

' src=

Andrew, Thank you for your wisdom and generosity. You are truly a “class act” sir.

Thanks much Jim!

' src=

Hi Andrew. I didn’ get an email.

Leave A Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

cover letter for a job without posting

FREE DOWNLOAD

cover letter for a job without posting

Today’s Line to Live By®

cover letter for a job without posting

Andrew LaCivita is a world-leading career and leadership coach and award-winning author of Interview Intervention and The Hiring Prophecies. Throughout his career, he has helped 350 companies and over 60,000 individuals across 100 countries realize their potential. He frequently serves as a trusted media resource for outlets such as ABC, Fox Business, and Business Insider. You can join him at the milewalk Academy and catch him weekly for free Live Office Hours on his YouTube Channel.

Connect With Me

Career Sidekick

Sample Cover Letter With No Experience in Field (And How to Write Yours)

By Biron Clark

Published: November 10, 2023

Cover Letters | Recent Grads

Biron Clark

Biron Clark

Writer & Career Coach

Writing an articulate cover letter is challenging for all job seekers. But if you have little or no work experience in a field, the stakes are higher. It’s more challenging to prove your value when you don’t have a series of professional accomplishments to back up your assertions. On the bright side, you probably have more to offer an employer than you realize. You just have to package your strengths the right way.

In this article, you’re going to learn how to write a cover letter for a job with no experience in that field. And we’ll look at a full sample after going through the steps.

Let’s get started…

How to Write a Cover Letter With No Experience

1. the main purpose of your cover letter with no experience.

The purpose of a cover letter is to complement your resume and convince more employers to interview you. You may refer to your resume when writing a cover letter for a job application, but you must expand upon points made in the resume when writing the cover letter.

The cover letter should breathe life into the points made in the resume, and create a compelling—or even emotional—narrative around your career hopes and aspirations . It’s your chance to tell your story and show that you have the passion and the drive to come into a job and make a difference.

And at the end, it should ASK for the interview. We’ll talk about that coming up. Let’s get started by going through how to write a cover letter with no experience, step-by-step…

2. Cover Letter Contact Information

When beginning a cover letter for a job application, start with your contact details in the top left-hand corner of the page. Include your name, city of residence, phone number, and email address. (To preserve your privacy, do not include your physical address). You should also include your LinkedIn URL. Next, write the name of the company you’re applying to, and its city of residence.

3. Your Salutation

Ideally, you address your reader by name in your salutation. Internet sleuthing may reveal the name of the hiring manager. If you can’t find a name, you have two options: call the organization and ask to learn more about the position, or write “Dear ” or “Dear Hiring Manager.”

This isn’t ideal, though. You should really only be sending a cover letter if you know the hiring manager’s name and have some specific information about the position. So if you know nothing specific about the hiring manager or job, and the company hasn’t asked for a cover letter specifically, then you probably don’t need to send it .

4. Cover Letter Introduction

Use this section of your cover letter to introduce yourself and share your enthusiasm and why you applied for the position .

Start with your name and provide some background on your strengths. Always identify the position you’re seeking and how you learned about it. If someone at the company told you about the job, then mention that person’s name (only after asking their permission, though). Aim for one to two sentences in your Introduction—keep it short, sweet, and precise.

Example Cover Letter Introduction with No Experience in the Field:

“Hello, my name is Grace Addington, and I’m a goal- and detail-oriented civil engineering graduate from Petaluma College. I was excited to learn about the Junior Engineer internship at Bay Area Rapid Transportation through my former classmate Katie Heinz.”

5. Body Paragraphs

Here comes the most critical part of writing a cover letter with no experience. The purpose of your body paragraphs (one to two brief paragraphs, tops) is to prove that you’re the best candidate for the position. Seeing as how you have little or no previous professional work experience to fall back on, you’ll want to place emphasis on soft skills —attributes of a personal nature that say a lot about your work ethic and ability to work in sync with others. Or, if you have job-related skills (AKA hard skills) from another type of role, point out how those skills will help you transition into this next job and succeed quickly.

That’s what hiring managers are looking for! So while it’s great to write about soft skills and put together a cover letter talking about how you’re willing to learn their job… it’s much better to point out any hands-on experience that you have. So if you’re able, always highlight that first and foremost.

For example, if you had an internship, worked in an unrelated field, did a few academic projects while studying, gave a presentation, etc., those are still valuable pieces to put on your resume AND in your cover letter.

Your resume likely already consists of part-time jobs or school activities or memberships in school associations that maybe aren’t 100% related to the job you’re going after.

Look closer, though—you’ve probably garnered skills in these experiences that can carry over to the job you’re applying for. Below are two examples of cover letter body paragraphs that hone in on two key phrases noted in a job advertisement as requirements: “strong interpersonal skills” and “positive work ethic.” You should be able to figure out pretty quickly which example hits the mark.

Let’s look at two sample paragraphs now from cover letters with no experience in a field:

“I am Twig & Twine’s ideal office manager. As my resume states, I served as an RA at my dorm. I know how to manage an array of things.”
“You’re looking for a candidate with strong interpersonal skills and a positive work ethic. While serving as an RA at Porter College’s main dormitory, I planned monthly social events for over 200 students, settled two to five student disputes per week, and mentored a select group of students in Composition. The experience taught me, rather quickly, how to efficiently multi-task, and how to effectively settle conflicts of all types in a calm, level-headed manner. I feel confident stating that I can bring these talents to Twig & Twine’s office manager position.”

The second example takes the duties that likely appeared in the RA position on the resume and then digs deep, illustrating how the tackling of those duties turned into accomplishments, and led the applicant to grow the crucial skills needed for the office manager position.

One last thing about body paragraphs—remember to frame your message around the employer’s needs, and not yours. Focus on what you can bring to the job, and how your talents will translate into success for the company. That’s important in any cover letter, and becomes even more crucial in a cover letter with no previous work experience.

6. Concluding Your Cover Letter

End your cover letter by reiterating why you’re the best candidate and express your interest once again in the position. And ask them for the interview! It’s surprising but most job seekers don’t do this, and it’s been shown to improve your chances of getting a call to come in for an interview!

So conclude your cover letter by thanking the reader for the time they took to review your application, and tell them you’d like to find a time to meet for an interview to see if it might be a good fit to work together. To close, sign off formally. Try “Respectfully yours” or “Sincerely.”

7. Proofread Everything

Before sending out your new cover letter, read it out loud to catch errors quickly. Ask a trustworthy person to read it as well. Nothing stops you from getting interviews faster than an obvious typo or error in your cover letter or resume, and you only have to check once, but make sure you’re checking it thoroughly!

8. Save it as a PDF

Once the content is finalized, save it as a PDF and title it “ Cover Letter” to prevent confusion. Voila! You’re done. If you follow the tips above, you’ll have a great cover letter with no experience so you can get interviews and job offers in this new field!

Sample Cover Letter With No Experience in Field:

Next, let’s look at a full sample of a cover letter that explains why you’d fit well in a role ( and why you chose to apply for this type of role ):

Dear Name, I’m writing to you regarding the Sales Associate job posting, which I believe reports to you. I can offer 5+ years of experience working directly with customers over the phone and in person, primarily in customer support. Although I haven’t worked directly in sales, my customer support experience has helped me build skills in communication, persuasion, and problem-solving, which I believe will translate well into selling software subscriptions for your firm. I’m motivated to transition into sales to continue challenging myself and growing in my career, and I’ve always enjoyed a challenge, which I think working in sales will provide me. I’ve attached my resume for your review. If any of the above sounds interesting, I’d welcome the chance to talk on the phone this week. Thanks for considering my note today. Best regards, Your Name

This cover letter is upfront and clear that you have no experience in the field of sales, but shows that you’re willing to learn and excited to learn this new job. That’s essential!

You don’t JUST want to say you’re willing to learn, though. You want to PROVE that you’ll be able to learn. That’s why this letter also mentions the experience you have that is most similar. In the case of the example above, it’s the customer service experience and communication skills.

While this person may not have sold anything to customers, they still interacted with customers directly, which will be seen as a plus.

One other thing you should always point out if possible: Experience working in the same industry. So if you’ve never done sales, but you did customer support in the exact same industry as the employer, that’s a huge plus… because it means you’ll have less learning needed on the job!

Other Articles That May Help You:

  • 3 more tips for writing a cover letter that stands out.
  • General tips for how to get a job with no experience.
  • How to write the perfect resume “Summary” section with no experience.

Biron Clark

About the Author

Read more articles by Biron Clark

Continue Reading

How to Write a Graphic Designer Cover Letter (3 Examples)

How to write a paralegal cover letter (2 examples), how to write a medical assistant cover letter (3 examples), how to write a research assistant cover letter (3 examples), how to write a software engineer cover letter (3 examples), how to write a hr cover letter (4 examples), how to write a data analyst cover letter (3 examples), how to write a bartender cover letter (3 examples), 3 thoughts on “sample cover letter with no experience in field (and how to write yours)”.

This really helped me

Thanks for this! Really helpful for me as a new graduate and non native English speaker. I’ve started using the steps here and am planning on sending a lot of applications this week to see how it works.

Thank you for the examples. I hav ea little bit of experience so I’m not writing the cover letter with absolutely no work experience but this still is helpful and seems to work for me.

One hiring manager told me that the reason they chose to call me was my cover letter.

Comments are closed.

Create a Professional Resume for free!

No-sign up or payment required.

  • Side Hustles
  • Power Players
  • Young Success
  • Save and Invest
  • Become Debt-Free
  • Land the Job
  • Closing the Gap
  • Science of Success
  • Pop Culture and Media
  • Psychology and Relationships
  • Health and Wellness
  • Real Estate
  • Most Popular

Related Stories

  • Land the Job Only write a cover letter if you're in a few   specific scenarios, recruiter says
  • Land the Job 3 ways to recover when you don't know how   to answer a job interview question
  • Work 'Ghosted' after a job interview? A sample follow-up   email to boost your chances of hearing back
  • Careers The 11 most common job   interview mistakes
  • Work Want to land a better job in 2024? 4   simple steps to kickstart your search

3 times you can skip the cover letter—and the 1 time you absolutely shouldn't

thumbnail

Some job listings will say "cover letter required," while others don't include any mention about it at all. When it comes to the latter, many applicants often wonder, Should I submit one in anyway?

It's a competitive job market out there, and hiring managers and job recruiters today spend about six seconds reviewing each resume . According to Glassdoor , a job search and salary comparison website, approximately 250 resumes are submitted for each corporate job listing, and only five or so candidates will be called for an interview.

So when is it necessary to send a cover letter? Here's the thing: Hiring managers love them — they get you noticed quickly, show you've gone the extra mile and demonstrate how much you really want the job.

A bad cover letter, however, can hinder your objectives .

Don't submit a cover letter if...

1. You have no interest in personalizing the cover letter: Many applicants will Google "cover letter examples," pick one in a rush and model their cover letter after it. By doing so, not only will it be evident that you submitted a cover letter designed for mass distribution, but you might have overlooked some mistakes, like addressing the letter to the wrong person, company or even listing the wrong position you're applying for.

(Trust me, this is something hiring managers see all the time, and it's absolutely cringing. It also takes away from their valuable time that could be spent reviewing your resume.)

2. You don't have anything new to say: Hiring managers expect to read a compelling and impressive cover letter, not an exact replicate of your resume. (Think about how you felt when writing your personal statement for all those college applications; it was a big deal and you knew the admissions office were looking for someone who they'd feel proud to have representing their school).

It's no different with cover letters. Do you have any unusual hobbies that led you to be interested in the field of work you're applying for? Is there a backstory that explains why you admire the company? Whatever you write, just don't elaborate on your job history and skills (that's what the resume is for).

Marcus Buckingham: This staggering statistic about work sums up why anxiety is at an all time high

3. You only have ideas on how to improve the company

Save the problem-solving suggestions for the job interview (that is, if you're luck enough to get one), when you'll 100 percent be asked those similar questions (i.e., "what would you improve about [XYZ]?"). A cover letter can be used as an opportunity to demonstrate your job knowledge, but don't use it as an outlet to tell your prospective employer what they are doing wrong and how to fix it.

No one likes hearing negative things about their business from a stranger, even if your feedback has merit. Curiosity, humility and tact will trump a "know-it-all" every time. Focus on the positive aspects and potential solutions for the business.

When to include a cover letter

Notwithstanding the above, the only time you should submit a cover letter is when you have valuable information to share that's not conveyed in your resume.

I've hired many candidates based on something that stood out in their cover letter. Here are some examples:

1. A personal connection or referral: If you were personally introduced to a hiring manager (or someone high up in the company), always acknowledge that relationship in a cover letter. Who made the introduction? How you know them? Why did they think you are a good fit for the role? A personal referral goes a long way, so don't miss out on capturing the advantage.

2. You have a history with the company or hiring team: If you have any link to the organization, it's essential to connect the dots. Did you intern at the company? Did you cross paths when you worked for a supplier, a competitor or even a team member in a previous company? You never want to surprise the recruiter and have them hear about the connection from someone else; getting ahead of it will make you an exciting candidate and demonstrate that you're a transparent and a proactive communicator.

3. It's your dream job: If the position you're applying for indeed is your dream job, write a personal and heartfelt cover letter. Take the opportunity to demonstrate that you've researched the company and workplace culture well. If you're going through the trouble of writing a fantastic personalized cover letter, do everything in your power to email it directly to the hiring manager, so it doesn't get lost alongside hundreds or even thousands of other applicants in the automated applicant tracking system.

Debby Carreau is an entrepreneur, author and founder of Inspired HR . She has been recognized as one of Canada's Top 25 HR Professionals and is a regular contributor on multiple TV shows, Entrepreneur Magazine and many other print and online publications. She is a board member for YPO and Elevation Group as well as an Advisory Board member for FinDev Canada.

Like this story? Subscribe to CNBC Make It on YouTube!

Don't miss:

  • 6 common body language mistakes to avoid in your next job interview
  • How to answer the 7 most annoying job interview questions (and spot 2 that are illegal to ask)
  • Want a job at Google or Amazon? These 4 (little-known) resume tricks can help you get hired

Here's what it's like to live on $60,000 a year as a 30-something in NYC

  • PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
  • EDIT Edit this Article
  • EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
  • Browse Articles
  • Learn Something New
  • Quizzes Hot
  • This Or That Game New
  • Train Your Brain
  • Explore More
  • Support wikiHow
  • About wikiHow
  • Log in / Sign up
  • Job Application Documents
  • Cover Letters

Writing a Cover Letter Without Job Experience: Examples & Templates

Last Updated: July 3, 2023 Fact Checked

  • Writing Your Letter
  • Example Letter

This article was reviewed by Seth Hall and by wikiHow staff writer, Johnathan Fuentes . Seth T. Hall (ICF ACC, CLC, and MNLP) is a Certified Life Coach and Founder of Transformational Solutions, a Los Angeles-based life-coaching company that helps people achieve their toughest goals, find their own voice, and think outside the box. He has been a life coach for over 10 years, specializing in personal development, relationships, career and finance, and wellness. He has helped his clients break the negative cycles in their lives and replace them with a positive, proactive mindset. Seth believes that everyone has the potential to live a fulfilling and rewarding life, and works passionately to help them reach their full potential. With a deep understanding of how our minds work and the power of positive thinking, he encourages his clients to find their unique paths in life and find success on their own terms. He is a certified master practitioner of Neuro-Linguistic Programming, a featured co-author for WikiHow, and co-author of "The Mountain Method”, “The Happy Tiger”, and “The V.I.S.I.O.N.S. Program”. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 2,204 times.

When applying for a job, a cover letter gives you a chance to impress a potential employer and convince them to interview you for the role. But what if you don’t have experience in the job you’re applying to? If you want it, go for it—but you’ll need to write your cover letter a bit differently. This guide explains how to write a cover letter when you lack relevant experience. We’ve even included an example letter and template for you to use on your own job hunt. Keep reading to persuade a recruiter to take a chance on you, all thanks to a great cover letter.

Things You Should Know

  • Carefully read the job posting and research the organization thoroughly. Note any specific skills and qualifications required for the role.
  • Explain why you are interested in the role. Discuss your skills and background, and describe how they are transferable to the job you’re applying to.
  • Emphasize your talents, personality, work ethic, and other attributes that make you qualified for the job. Explain why the company aligns with your career goals.

Writing Your Cover Letter

Step 1 Carefully read the job posting and research the organization.

  • Make a list of your own skills, qualifications, and previous work experience that could be applicable to the job.
  • For instance, if you’re applying for a teller position with a local bank, you can list previous customer service work, experience handling money, and your overall trustworthiness and work ethic.
  • Visit the organization’s website to learn about their work. For a bank teller position, for example, you could learn about the specific financial products and services offered by the bank.

Step 2 Put your name, contact information, and the date at the top.

  • You can also include your phone number and email beneath your mailing address, above the date.
  • For a fancier look, center your contact information at the top of the letter, just as you would on a resume. If you do this, place the date on the left, two lines beneath your contact information.

Step 3 Place the recipient’s name and organization below your contact info.

  • For example, if the recipient was a professor and department chair at a university, you could write “Prof. Emily Smith” followed by “Chair, Department of Physics” on the next line.
  • Align this information to the left, two lines below the date.
  • If you don’t know who will read the letter, exclude the recipient’s name and title. Be sure to put the organization’s name and address.

Step 4 Include a formal greeting.

  • Use a comma after a “Dear” greeting, such as “Dear Mr. Brown.” Use the recipient's name whenever possible since this makes your cover letter more personal.

Step 5 Inform them that you are writing to apply for a specific job.

  • You could say “I’m writing to apply for the position of Instructor at Lotus Yoga Studio. I came across this opportunity on your website.”
  • You could then add “I have practiced yoga for several years and would be excited for the opportunity to teach it to students.”
  • If you learned about the position from a specific person, you can reference that person in your opening paragraph: “I was made aware of this opportunity by my close friend, Abby Smith, who was previously an instructor at your studio.”
  • You don’t need to introduce yourself by name, as in “My name is Sofia Romero.” The recruiter will see your name at the top of the letter.

Step 6 Explain how your skills and experience are relevant to the job.

  • Use keywords from the job posting that refer to specific skills. For example, “customer service,” “teaching experience,” or specific programming languages like “Javascript” could be keywords.
  • If you’re a student, emphasize extracurriculars, leadership positions, and academic achievements. [6] X Research source
  • If you’re applying for a math tutoring position for grades K-3, you could mention your academic performance in math classes. You could also discuss previous experience working with children, like babysitting or camp counselor roles.
  • Discuss your temperament and work ethic too. For instance, you could say “I am patient, kind, and very comfortable working with groups of children in a learning environment.”

Step 7 Emphasize that you’re a great fit for the job.

  • For a sales job, you could say “I am very extroverted and thrive in fast-paced environments. I also enjoy the challenge of exceeding quotas. For these reasons, I believe I’m naturally suited for a career in sales.”
  • You could also reference the company’s mission and values: “I am impressed by the quality of ABC, Inc.’s products and their commitment to their customers.”

Step 8 Ask for an interview.

  • You could write: “I would welcome the chance to interview for this position. I believe my background and skill set make me an excellent fit for this role, and I see a future myself at ABC, Inc. Thank you for your time and consideration.”
  • If you know the recruiter or their managers by name, you could thank them personally: “Please send my warmest regards to Ms. Rhodes and the rest of the team.”

Step 9 End with “Sincerely,” followed by your full name.

  • If you sign the letter, sign it in the space above your printed name.
  • Make sure your letter fits on one page. If it’s too long, consider cutting down some of the paragraphs, but avoid altering the margins or making the font too small.

Step 10 Proofread your letter carefully before sending it.

  • Set the letter aside for a few hours or overnight, then read it again with “fresh” eyes. This makes it easier to catch mistakes.
  • Have a friend or family member read the letter and offer feedback. Ask them if any sections were unclear or confusing.
  • Check the job posting again to make sure you’ve covered everything. If you forgot to include something important, add it to the letter now, then proofread it again.

Step 11 Save the final letter as a PDF and submit it.

  • Check the PDF after saving it to make sure the formatting is right. Check the spacing and font, and make sure the letter fits on one page.
  • If you send the letter by email, include a subject line like “Re: Cover letter for Marketing Position with ABC, Inc.” Write a 2-3 sentence email introducing yourself. State the position you're applying for, mention the attached cover letter, and include your contact information.

Example Cover Letter

  • Dana Robinson 12 5th Avenue Seattle, WA 98109 (555) 277-1771 [email protected] October 5, 2023 ABC Inc. 4500 West 57th Street New York, NY 10019 Dear Hiring Committee, I am writing to apply for the role of Sales Representative for ABC, Inc. I learned of this opportunity from the listing on your company’s website. I believe my strong communication skills, friendly personality, and experience in customer service make me a strong fit for this role. I am a recent graduate of South Seattle Community College, where I obtained an Associate’s Degree in Marketing. While completing my studies, I worked full-time as a Customer Service Associate for XYZ Pharmacy. In this role, I helped customers obtain medication and healthcare products that fit their needs. I also developed an understanding of our company’s financial goals, and learned that happy customers could boost our store’s profits. I feel this knowledge and experience would be directly transferable to the Sales Representative role with your company. I believe ABC, Inc.’s values and mission are strongly aligned with my professional goals. ABC values its customers, and your top-quality products and brand recognition and second to none. As someone who loves working with people, I would be honored to sell your products to customers and build ongoing relationships with suppliers and retailers. My outgoing personality and strong work ethic make me a natural fit for this kind of work. Most importantly, I see many opportunities to grow with ABC, Inc. as it expands its customer base nationwide. I would welcome the chance to interview for this position. I believe my skills, previous experience, and ambitions for the future make me an excellent fit. I also see a future for myself at ABC, Inc. and would be honored to join your team. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Dana Robinson.

Blank Cover Letter Template

  • [Your Name] [Your Street Address] [Your City, State & Zip Code] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email] [Today’s Date] [Recipient’s Name - leave out if unknown] [Recipient’s Title - leave out if the recipient is unknown] [Company Name] [Company Street Address] [Company’s City, State & Zip Code] Dear [Recipient’s Name - use if recipient is known] , Dear Hiring Manager, [Use if recipient’s name is not known] I am writing to apply for the role of [Job Title] with [Company Name] . I learned of this opportunity from [Job Posting or Name of Person who referred you] . [1 sentence listing skills and experience that are applicable to the job] . [1 sentence stating your current job, school you recently graduated from, or school you’re currently attending] . [4-5 sentences explaining your skills and previous work experience. Explain how these skills and experiences are transferable to the job you’re applying for] . I believe [Company Name] ’s values and mission are strongly aligned with my professional goals. [4-5 sentences explaining what you like about the company, why you want to work there, and how working there will help you achieve your goals] . I would welcome the chance to interview for this position. I believe my skills, previous experience, and ambitions for the future make me an excellent fit. I also see a future for myself at [Company Name] and would be honored to join your team. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, [Your Name]

Expert Q&A

You might also like.

Write a Subject Line when Sending Your CV by Email

  • ↑ https://socialwork.columbia.edu/wp-content/uploads/cover-letters.pdf
  • ↑ https://hls.harvard.edu/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/allcoverlettersweb2011.pdf
  • ↑ https://icc.ucdavis.edu/materials/cover-letters
  • ↑ https://vp4.wne.edu/career-development-center/doc/The-Cover-Letter-2021.pdf
  • ↑ https://careers.bloch.umkc.edu/blog/2021/10/20/7-tips-for-writing-a-cover-letter-with-no-experience/
  • ↑ https://law.ubalt.edu/career/students/currentstudents/Cover%20Letter%20Guide.pdf
  • ↑ https://career.uci.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/QT_WriteACoverLetterCE.pdf
  • ↑ https://law.seattleu.edu/media/school-of-law/documents/careers/additional-documents/Preparing-a-Cover-Letter.pdf

About This Article

Seth Hall

  • Send fan mail to authors

Did this article help you?

cover letter for a job without posting

Featured Articles

Learn to Say No

Trending Articles

How to Take the Perfect Thirst Trap

Watch Articles

Wrap a Round Gift

  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Info
  • Not Selling Info

Get all the best how-tos!

Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter

Status.net

How To Address a Cover Letter Without a Name (Exact Examples)

By Status.net Editorial Team on December 25, 2023 — 11 minutes to read

Addressing the recipient without knowing their name might seem complicated, but there are ways to navigate this situation. Let’s take a look at a few strategies to make your cover letter feel personalized even when you don’t have a specific name to address.

Be Professional and Engaging

Using general salutations like “To Whom It May Concern” or “Dear Sir/Madam” can make your cover letter feel impersonal. Instead, opt for a more engaging opener such as “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear [Company Name] Team.” This type of greeting acknowledges the company and shows that you have researched the team you are addressing.

Focus on the Position and Company

Make sure to tailor the content of your cover letter to the job you are applying for by highlighting relevant qualifications, experience, and skills. Share specific examples of your successes that align with the responsibilities of the position. Mention the company’s values, goals, or recent successes to demonstrate how your values align with theirs. This can effectively showcase your interest and commitment to the role.

Use LinkedIn and Company Website Research

If you cannot find the hiring manager’s name in the job posting, you can turn to LinkedIn or the company website for clues. Search for professionals working in human resources or hiring roles at the company. If you find a specific contact, address your letter to that person while using their full name and title. Otherwise, continue with a professional and engaging salutation as mentioned earlier.

Here are two examples of how to start a cover letter without a name:

Dear Hiring Manager, As a passionate marketer with five years of experience, I am excited to apply for the Marketing Manager position at (…) Company. Achieving a 30% increase in leads generated through my previous campaigns, I am eager to contribute to the growth of your marketing department.
Dear ABC Inc. Team, With a strong background in project management and a proven track record of implementing cost-saving strategies, I am confident in my ability to excel as the Senior Project Manager at ABC Inc. Your company’s commitment to sustainable practices aligns with my values and I am thrilled to be considered for this opportunity.

By applying these strategies, you can create an impactful and personalized cover letter, even without knowing the recipient’s name. This attention to detail can set you apart from other applicants and leave a positive impression with your prospective employer.

How to Find the Hiring Manager’s Name

Sometimes locating the hiring manager’s name can be tricky, but there are several ways to find it. Let’s go through a few methods to help you address your cover letter without a name.

Using LinkedIn

LinkedIn is a great resource for finding the hiring manager’s name. Here’s how you can use it:

  • Visit the company’s LinkedIn page.
  • Click on the “People” tab to browse through the employees.
  • Use the search bar and enter keywords such as “recruiter,” “hiring manager,” or the department you’re applying to.
  • Check the found profiles, and try to identify the right person responsible for hiring in your desired role.

Make sure to double-check that the person is currently working in the company to avoid using outdated information.

Checking Company Website

Another way to find the hiring manager’s name is by checking the company website:

  • Locate the “About Us” or “Team” page, where you might find a list of employees along with their titles and roles.
  • Look for a person who has a recruiting or hiring-related title within the department you’re targeting with your application.
  • If you cannot find the necessary information on the website, try checking a company’s press releases or blog. Sometimes they include names of important team members.

Making a Phone Call

When all else fails, you’re left with one more option – making a phone call.

  • Call the company’s main line and politely ask the receptionist for the name of the hiring manager or the person responsible for recruitment in the department you’re interested in.
  • Be prepared to provide the job title and a job reference number (if available) to help the receptionist find the right person.

Finding the hiring manager’s name isn’t always possible. If you cannot locate it, don’t worry. Addressing your cover letter as “Dear Hiring Manager” or “To Whom It May Concern” is still better than not sending a cover letter at all.

How To Address a Cover Letter Without a Name: Sample Phrases

Starting with job title.

When you cannot find the recipient’s name, use their job title to address the cover letter. This shows that you can connect and direct your message to the relevant person. Here are some examples:

  • Dear Hiring Manager, – This is a common and universally understood phrase for addressing a cover letter without a name.
  • Dear [Job Title], – Use the specific job position that the recipient holds, for instance, Dear Marketing Director .
  • To the [Job Title] Selection Committee, – This approach can be useful when applying for a role advertised by a team or committee that will handle the hiring process, such as To the Scholarship Selection Committee .

Referring to Department

Another approach is to address the cover letter to the department that the position is within. This helps to direct your message to the appropriate team or group. Here are some examples:

  • Dear [Department] Team, – Mention the department you are applying for, such as Dear HR Team, or Dear Sales Team .
  • Greetings, [Department] Department, – Use the department name to address the letter, like Greetings, IT Department .
  • To Whom It May Concern in the [Department], – This is a formal alternative when you don’t know the recipient or department’s name, for example, To Whom It May Concern in the Finance Department .

Using these approaches will ensure that your cover letter appears professional and well-directed, even when you don’t have the exact name of the recipient. Focus on the content and the skills you bring to the position to make the best impression on the reader.

Crafting Content for Cover Letters

When you’re unsure of the recipient’s name, you might feel a little lost on how to address your cover letter. Don’t worry. You can still create an engaging and professional cover letter that gets the job done. Here are some tips and examples to help you craft the perfect content for an anonymous cover letter.

Start with a professional, yet friendly, greeting. If you don’t know the hiring manager’s name, use a general opening line such as “Dear Hiring Manager” or “To Whom It May Concern” . These greetings are widely accepted and show respect towards the person receiving the letter.

Next, dive into your strengths, skills, and achievements. Mention the qualifications that make you a strong candidate for the position. Share relevant accomplishments from your previous roles, such as leading a successful project or boosting sales. Be specific when describing your skills and use quantifiable results when possible. For example:

“During my time at Company (…), I managed a team of 10 and successfully increased sales by 25% within six months.”

Show enthusiasm for the job and demonstrate your knowledge of the company. Research the organization’s goals, values, and recent projects, then incorporate this information into your cover letter. This will help you tailor your letter to the company’s needs and show that you’d be a good fit for their culture. You could say something like:

“As a long-time admirer of your company’s commitment to sustainability, I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to the upcoming eco-conscious product line.”

Close your cover letter with a strong call-to-action. Express your interest in further discussing your qualifications and offer your availability for an interview. Thank the hiring manager for considering your application and include your contact information. A sample closing paragraph could look like this:

“I’m eager to discuss how my expertise in digital marketing could contribute to the success of your team. Thank you for considering my application. You can reach me at (555) 555-5555 or [email protected] to schedule a conversation.”

Keep your cover letter concise and focused on your unique selling points. Even without knowing the recipient’s name, following these guidelines will allow you to create a memorable and attention-grabbing cover letter that leaves a lasting impression on potential employers.

Tips on Prefix Usage

When you’re addressing a cover letter without a specific name, it’s good to think about the appropriate prefix to use. Here are some tips to help you choose the right one:

First, consider using a general and gender-neutral prefix like Dear Hiring Manager . It will work well if you don’t know the recipient’s name or aren’t aware of their gender. This is a widely accepted way to address a cover letter without a specific name.

For example:

Dear Hiring Manager, I came across your job posting for a Graphic Designer, and I am excited to apply for the role.

If you happen to know the job title of the person who will read your cover letter, you can use it. This shows that you have put effort into researching the company and position.

Dear Marketing Director, I am writing to express my interest in the open Digital Marketing Specialist position at your company.

In some cases, you might know the name of the department that the job is in. In this case, you can address your cover letter to the entire department.

Dear Finance Team, I was thrilled to see an opening for a Financial Analyst at your company and would like to apply for the position.

When you’re unable to find any specific details or when addressing a larger company, you can opt for a broad salutation like To Whom It May Concern . Just be aware that it may come off as impersonal, so it’s best to use this as a last resort.

To Whom It May Concern, I am submitting my application for the Content Writer position posted on your careers website.

The key is to maintain a professional tone throughout your cover letter. Regardless of which prefix you choose, always customize your content to suit the specific job and company you’re applying to. By doing so, you demonstrate a genuine interest in the role and leave a positive impression on the hiring manager.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Sending a cover letter without addressing it to a specific person can be a pitfall. It might make the recipient feel unimportant or signal that you didn’t do your research. To make your application stand out, be mindful of these common mistakes:

  • Not being specific about the role: Your cover letter should not only address the person but also the specific role you’re applying for. Tailor your letter according to the job and the company. For instance, instead of writing “I wish to apply for the marketing position”, be more specific like “I am interested in applying for the Digital Marketing Specialist role at [CompanyName].”
  • Focusing too much on yourself: Although your achievements are important, the cover letter should focus on how your skills can benefit the company. Frame your accomplishments in a way that highlights the value you can bring to the organization.
  • Being overly formal or stiff: While it’s important to maintain a professional tone, being too formal might come across as insincere or impersonal. Use a friendly tone and avoid jargon or buzzwords to keep your cover letter genuine and relatable.
  • Spelling errors and typos: Even the smallest of typos can create a negative impression. Double-check your cover letter to make sure there are no mistakes. Keep an eye out for incorrect spellings, especially when addressing the recipient.

The goal of your cover letter is to make a personal connection and showcase how you are a great fit for the company. Taking the time to address your letter properly, proofread for errors, and customize your content demonstrates your attention to detail and commitment to the position.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i properly address a cover letter when the recipient’s name is unknown.

If you don’t know the recipient’s name, consider using a general salutation instead. For example, “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear Recruitment Team” acknowledges the recipient without using a specific name. You can also research the company’s website or LinkedIn to try to find the appropriate contact person.

What alternatives are there to ‘To Whom It May Concern’?

There are several alternatives to ‘To Whom It May Concern’ that can help make your cover letter stand out:

  • Dear Hiring Manager
  • Dear [Company] Team
  • Dear [Department or Job Title] Hiring Team
  • Dear [Company] Recruitment Team

How do I determine the appropriate salutation for my cover letter?

To determine the right salutation for your cover letter, do a bit of research on the company or organization you’re targeting. This may help you uncover the specific department or hiring manager’s name. If not, use one of the general salutations mentioned earlier to address your cover letter in a more personalized manner.

What are examples of cover letter openings without using names?

Here are some examples of cover letter openings without using specific names:

  • “Dear Hiring Manager, I am excited to submit my application for the [Job Title] position at [Company].”
  • “Dear [Department or Job Title] Hiring Team, As a passionate professional with experience in [Industry], I am eager to contribute to [Company] as a [Job Title].”
  • “Dear [Company] Team, I recently came across the [Job Title] opening at [Company], and I am confident that my skills and experience make me a strong candidate.”

How can I avoid common mistakes when addressing cover letters without names?

To avoid mistakes when addressing cover letters without names, follow these tips:

  • Do thorough research on the company and the job posting
  • Be concise and professional in your language
  • Use an appropriate general salutation if you can’t find a specific name
  • Double-check for spelling and grammatical errors before sending the cover letter
  • Avoid using outdated or overused phrases, such as ‘To Whom It May Concern’ or ‘Dear Sir/Madam’

By following these guidelines, you can create a strong and effective cover letter that stands out to hiring managers, even if you don’t have a specific name to address.

  • How to Send an Email Cover Letter (Examples)
  • Resume vs. Cover Letter (Thoughtful Tips)
  • Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Examples (Guide)
  • How To Write a Cover Letter [Inspiring Examples]
  • Cover Letter vs. Letter of Interest vs. Letter of Intent
  • Executive Assistant Cover Letter (Smart Examples)

Mashable

5 AI tools that can help you land that perfect job

W hether you're looking to make a move or not currently working, the exhaustion of searching for a new job is real. But, with the help of AI tools , not every part of the process has to feel repetitive or be filled with uncertainty.

"There are a lot of specialized AI tools out there, specifically for job seekers, in terms of writing application materials, practicing for interviews, things like that," Keith Spencer, a career expert at online job site FlexJobs, told Mashable.

AI can help with a lot. Some products can determine which positions you're best suited for, while others can tailor your resume and cover letter based on a job posting. Not only does this streamline the entire process, it can also give you the best chance at landing an interview and making it through an  Applicant Tracking System (ATS)  — a program many recruiters use to identify top applicants for a position before scheduling an interview.

Rohan Rajiv, LinkedIn's Director of Product Management overseeing its job seeker products, told Mashable that the company hears from job seekers that they have three main problems:

  • When they take the time to apply for a job, they want to know that somebody noticed.
  • They want to find the positions most relevant to them quickly.
  • They want tactical and emotional support throughout the job-seeking process.

AI can make each of these steps a little easier. Although Spencer added a note of caution, "AI is not perfect. It's constantly being developed, updated, and trained on new information." He advises job seekers to use AI as an idea generator or stepping-off point to enhance their own work, not do all the work for them .

Play to your strengths, save some time, and give yourself the best chance at landing an interview — and prepping for one — by utilizing these five AI tools as part of your job search.

Out of the three options,  ChatGPT  is the most comprehensive. It can work as your career assistant, offering personalized support during the various stages of your job search.

Whether you're struggling to identify your unique skills or jobs you're suited for, tailor your resume for a specific role to make it through an ATS, or draft a captivating cover letter, ChatGPT can help — it's all about the prompts you use and the information you give it.

To start, I recommend paying $20 a month for a subscription to ChatGPT, at least while you're actively job-seeking, so you can access its GPT 4 model and plugins — although this is by no means necessary. While GPT 3.5 (the model available with the free version) can still answer your prompts, its answers will be less nuanced than those of GPT 4, which is better at complex problem-solving and understanding context.

GPT plugins (GPTs)  are another matter, however. They can be extremely useful in enhancing ChatGPT's capabilities during the job search process, with plugins for everything from searching for jobs near you to preparing you for an interview based on the job description. You will need to be a ChatGPT subscriber to use plugins — and you can have multiple plugins installed , but only three can be enabled at once. Make sure you research any third-party plugins before you install them, as there is  the potential for security issues .

Also note that unless you  opt out of having your data used , ChatGPT's owner, OpenAI, can use anything you input and the responses the AI generates  to train its models .

Now, let's get to how you can use ChatGPT to help with your job search.

Identifying your skills and finding ideal positions

To start, you'll need to give ChatGPT your resume — preferably a master one that includes all your positions and associated tasks.

"It's important to avoid sharing personal or sensitive information," said Spencer. "I recommend that you don't include your name and contact information or anything like that. You could even go a step further and make your job titles and the companies you work at a bit more generic or redacted. You don't have to give it any information you don't want to, just to ensure you're keeping yourself safe."

Once you've input your resume, you can ask ChatGPT questions to identify your key skills, your most transferable skills, and where you may lack some experience. It can also tell you which jobs you're best suited for based on the skills you already have — and if you have GPTs such as Ambition and Resume Copilot installed, the answers will likely be even more nuanced.

Here are some examples of prompts you can use:

Prompt 1:  Based on my resume, what careers would I be most suited to?

Prompt 2:  Please analyze my resume and point out if there are any red flags or potential detractors that an ATS could pick up on and why.

Prompt 3:  What skills or other things could I work on personally and professionally to strengthen my resume and competitiveness?

Prompt 4:  If I wanted to switch careers to [insert job field here], what are my transferable skills, and what skills would I need to gain to be a competitive applicant?

Tailoring your resume

Now that ChatGPT has your resume, it can recommend adjustments to ensure it aligns well with a specific role's requirements. Paste in the text from the job description to understand which keywords and phrases are probably important to the recruiter.

Here are some example prompts:

Prompt 1:  Based on this job description, create a list of skills the recruiter is looking for. You can include tiers based on importance if necessary.

Prompt 2:  Please highlight the keywords in this job posting and point out where my resume lists or does not list those skills.

Prompt 3:  Please analyze my resume and suggest improvements to make the accomplishments stand out more prominently and give me the best chance at an interview.

Prompt 4:  Are there any skills I'm not highlighting enough on my resume, and are there skills that are missing that I should include?

Drafting your cover letter

A well-crafted cover letter can make a big difference in catching a recruiter's eye. ChatGPT can generate a cover letter draft personalized to the job and your experience. This initial draft provides a great starting point, which you should refine to ensure accuracy and add a more personal touch.

If you're wondering whether you even need to include a cover letter, here's what Spencer said: "A lot of organizations say they don't read a cover letter, but even some of those organizations still like to see that you've submitted one. Others will read it, and it's really important to them.

"My viewpoint on it is, because it has the possibility of helping you achieve success, I always recommend submitting a tailored cover letter. It might be more time-consuming, but it's that quality-over-quantity approach. If I really care about a job and would really want to work there, I'm going to invest the time to write a solid cover letter."

Here are some prompts you can use to draft an initial version of your cover letter:

Prompt 1:  Using my resume as a guide, please write a cover letter for the [insert job title] position at [insert company name].

Prompt 2:  Could you create a cover letter that emphasizes my experience in [specific field or skill] for the job role of [insert job title]?

Prompt 3:  Please draft a cover letter that aligns with the key requirements mentioned in this job description. [paste job description]

Prompt 4:  Write a cover letter highlighting my transferable skills for a career switch to [insert job title].

Preparing for a job interview

Preparing for a job interview can be nerve-wracking, but ChatGPT and plugins like Job Interview can give you a feel for the questions you might be asked . You can also receive guidance on how to respond effectively. 

Here are some prompts to help you prepare for an interview:

Prompt 1:  What are common interview questions for a [insert job title] position, and how should I answer them?

Prompt 2:  Can you provide a mock interview for the below role of [insert job title] with feedback on my responses? [paste job description]

Prompt 3:  Based on the job description, what specific skills or experiences should I highlight during my interview for [insert job title]?

Prompt 4:  How can I best answer questions about [specific skill or experience] in my upcoming interview for [insert job title]?

You probably already use  LinkedIn , seeing as the employment-focused social media platform has over a billion members. But did you know it has been using AI for years to show you people you may know and the most relevant jobs based on your experience? As of the start of November, LinkedIn is taking its AI integration one step further, using its years of job seeker and employment data (it was founded in 2003) to inform  its new generative AI and chatbot features .

Optimizing your LinkedIn profile

"The best way to utilize or harness AI is to have as much relevant data as possible," said Rajiv. "So that starts with having an updated profile, having the right skills stack to it, and making sure that the content on your profile reflects what you want recruiters to see."

Then, if you have LinkedIn Premium, you can utilize the platform's new  AI tools to optimize your profile's Headline and About section .

Getting tailored insights and suggestions

If your profile is up-to-date, LinkedIn uses that information to give you "a more relevant and personalized experience," Rajiv said. "Generative AI has kind of changed the game on our ability to support a job seeker."

Before generative AI, job seekers looking for a more tailored experience usually had to spend money to go to career coaches, said Rajiv. Now, LinkedIn Premium can give you up-to-date insights about a company, tell you how you stack up against other applicants for a particular job posting, and show you where you can improve your profile to be more competitive.

Personalized connection and message recommendations

If you want to take your application to a job one step further and reach out to people who work in the company, LinkedIn Premium can recommend people you can contact and even help you  craft cold messages or follow-ups to a hiring manager .

"We typically have a deeper understanding of people because of the fact that they have a profile, they've applied to jobs on our website, etc," Rajiv said. "And with this technology, now we're able to bring all of this together to support people in a way that was science fiction just 12 months ago."

Google Bard

Like ChatGPT, Google Bard can help you with your resume, cover letter, and interview prep. But, because it also has access to real-time information on the internet and Google's sophisticated AI algorithms, it can be more accurate for job discovery. Also, as a bonus, it's free.

"Google Bard can provide you some real-time, up-to-date information," Spencer said. "I usually recommend a job seeker use both ChatGPT and Google Bard kind of in tandem, and then you can compare the results that you get or sort of mix and match the results."

Job discovery and matching

Google Bard can analyze your skills and experience to suggest job opportunities that align with your resume. This is especially useful for finding roles you might not have considered but are well-suited for.

Customizing your resume and cover letter

Similar to ChatGPT, Google Bard can provide recommendations to tailor your resume and cover letter for specific job listings. It can also leverage Google's extensive data to offer up-to-date insights into the latest industry trends and employer preferences.

Preparing for an interview

Google Bard can help you prepare for interviews by providing industry-specific questions, insights into company culture, and tips on articulating your experience and skills effectively.

Market trends and insights

You can use Google Bard to stay informed about the latest trends in your industry, ensuring that you stay ahead in your job search. This includes updates on in-demand skills, emerging job roles, and tips on career development.

As you've probably gathered by now, a crucial part of the job-seeking process is tailoring your resume so you can land an interview. If ChatGPT and Google Bard aren't your thing, you can use  JobScan 's AI to analyze your resume against specific job listings.

All you have to do is upload your resume and the job listing you're interested in. JobScan then compares the two and identifies where your skills align or aren't highlighted. It then sends you a report showing how well your resume matches the job listing and provides actionable insights on optimizing your resume to increase your chances of securing an interview.

ResumeGenius

Building a resume from scratch can be overwhelming, but  ResumeGenius  simplifies this process with its AI-driven approach. It uses guided steps and AI-driven recommendations to make the resume-building process straightforward and efficient — giving you tips on wording and skills that are most likely to appeal to employers. With its various templates and design options, ResumeGenius allows you to personalize your resume to your taste and the industry's standards.

An illustration of robots reviewing resumes.

Politics latest: Motion of no confidence in Speaker after Gaza debate descends into chaos

The House of Commons descended into chaos over the Speaker's handling of the SNP's motion for a ceasefire in Gaza. His decision to allow a vote on a Labour amendment saw Tory and SNP MPs storm out - and the amendment go through without any votes. He now faces a no confidence motion.

Thursday 22 February 2024 01:27, UK

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

  • Speaker apologises for handling of Gaza votes
  • Tories and SNP walk out amid anger and chaos
  • More than 30 MPs sign motion of no confidence
  • Labour's ceasefire amendment passes without vote
  • Explained: What on Earth went on in the Commons
  • Explained: Why Speaker's move sparked such anger
  • Explained: How MPs can force Speaker out of office
  • Sam Coates: Speaker has 24 hours to save his political life
  • Live reporting by  Ben Bloch   and (earlier)  Tim Baker ,  Emily Mee   and  Bhvishya Patel

By  Jennifer Scott , political reporter

Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle has apologised to MPs after the chamber descended into chaos around a motion calling for a ceasefire in Gaza.

Wednesday was designated as an opposition day for the SNP, which chose to debate the Israel-Hamas war - and sought to persuade MPs to back its calls for an immediate halt to the fighting.

But a controversial decision from Sir Lindsay to allow a Labour amendment to be put to the House led to an uproar from Tory MPs - and eventually saw the government pledging to "play no further part" in proceedings, as well as the SNP not even getting to vote on its original proposal.

After Conservative and SNP politicians stormed out of the chamber in protest, Sir Lindsay returned to the Commons to face his critics, apologising for "how it all ended up" and saying he took "responsibility" for his actions.

But SNP leader Stephen Flynn said he would "take significant convincing" that the Speaker's position was "not now intolerable".

And 33 MPs from both his party and the Tories have now signed a no-confidence motion in Sir Lindsay - not enough to oust him yet, but a motion that could gain traction in the coming days.

Read the full story here:

It's a rainy day in Birmingham and, perhaps unsurprisingly, the vote tonight in the House of Commons over support for a ceasefire in Gaza is not the first thing on people's minds.

But make no mistake, this is a huge issue here for voters of all stripes - and particularly important to the Muslim community.

Ever since the Hamas attack on Israel on 7 October last year, interested parties have been watching not only the UK government's response to Israel and Gaza, but the opposition's stance too.

This is partly because the Muslim community is one of Labour's most loyal voter bases, which has almost exclusively stuck with the party in recent elections.

But potentially, no more.

I'm invited into the Green Lane mosque where there are several events going on in the expansive and beautifully preserved Victorian building.

Read Serena's full account here:

By Jennifer Scott , political reporter

Raised voices, walk-outs, calls for resignations, even a few tears - it was a hairy day over in parliament on Wednesday and not the usual scenes expected from an opposition day debate.

So what rattled Westminster and its MPs? And how did the Speaker, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, find himself at the centre of the furore?

We take a look at how the saga played out:

We heard a short while ago from our political editor Beth Rigby , who said: "In all my years of reporting here, I have never seen anything quite like it."

She said the mood in parliament was "sulphurous".

Labour was meant to be under pressure today - but it turned out that Labour became "the first party to pass through the Commons a call for an immediate ceasefire" in the Israel-Hamas war.

So, it was a win in some ways for Labour - but, she said, "there's a lot of people in parliament losing", not least the Speaker who is fighting for his political life.

And Beth warned that this sort of political game-playing will continue as the general election approaches.

Watch her full analysis here:

Few days in Westminster are quite so dramatic.

It started with the prospect of Labour being embarrassed by the SNP over its Gaza and green energy stances, and it ended with the Speaker fighting for his job.

Our political editor Beth Rigby  explains how the day unfolded:

A short while ago, we heard from our chief political correspondent Jon Craig  about the events that unfolded in the House of Commons this afternoon.

He said: "Let's not let the SNP get away with this holier than thou stance."

He explained that the SNP put down two amendments today - one on a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war, and the other on committing to spending £28bn a year on the green transition - a policy Labour ditched earlier this month .

"Both designed to embarrass the Labour Party," he said, because the two parties are "locked in a battle in Scotland at the next general election".

So he says that one can argue the ceasefire motion was sincere, but the primary aim today was to embarrass Labour.

"And as Stephen Flynn admits, they have now been stitched up by Labour."

Watch Jon's full analysis below:

Away from the chaos in the Commons chamber, Rishi Sunak held his first in-person meeting with the King since his cancer diagnosis.

The King said he has been "reduced to tears" by the "many wonderful messages and cards".

The PM said it was "very nice to see you", prompting the King to joke: "A bit of a gap... I'm afraid."

"I hear there has been a lot more potential attention on those main, wonderful cancer charities, many of which I have been a patron of for years," he added.

Mr Sunak replied: "They do a lot of wonderful work."

Of course, the cameras were booted out for the official business as the contents of meetings between the prime minister and the monarch are confidential.

Read more about the meeting here , and watch their exchange below:

A little earlier, we heard from former shadow chancellor John McDonnell, who described events in parliament tonight as "chaos".

"The rumours around Labour threatening the Speaker [to force a vote on its amendment], if they're in any way accurate, have really damaged the Labour Party."

On Sir Lindsay Hoyle, the veteran Labour MP, and his friend, said confidence in him as Speaker has been "significantly undermined".

Asked if Sir Lindsay will be able to continue in post, Mr McDonnell said: "Can't tell at this stage. All I know is there's a depth of anger here that I've not seen for quite a while, and it would take an awful lot of reassurance to people to re-establish the status of the Speaker."

He added: "I just wish he hadn't made this decision. Sometimes you have to abide by the rules."

He also said the Speaker should have "stood firm" in the face of alleged pressure from the Labour Party.

Mr McDonnell said he does not know if he believes the Labour leadership's denials about pressuring the Speaker.

"Maybe everyone should come clean about what meetings did take place, who was present, and maybe publish some record of those meetings as well," he said.

He also said he is "ashamed" of how events unfolded today.

Watch the full interview here:

Charities have hit out at MPs after a debate on a Gaza ceasefire motion descended into chaos.

Halima Begum, CEO of ActionAid UK, said the charity is "extremely disappointed to see the utter paralysis in parliament this evening".

She said: "Democracy is a precious commodity and should be treated as such.

"A great disservice has been done to the British people, who expected their political parties and elected representatives to conduct a meaningful debate concerning an issue on which depends the lives of over a hundred Israeli hostages, and hundreds of thousands of Gazans suffering one of the most acute humanitarian crises we have seen in recent times."

She called on MPs to "act with their conscience for the sake of humanity, and to somehow find a way to move forward on the desperate need for a ceasefire".

Helen McEachern, CEO of CARE International UK, echoed those sentiments, saying is "dismayed by the political theatrics we are witnessing in the House of Commons".

"Arguments over parliamentary procedure do nothing to assist the people of Gaza," she said, and they will suffer without a ceasefire.

"As our staff and partners in Gaza have told me during a visit to the West Bank this week, with each passing day, death, disease, and hunger increase."

She called on Foreign Secretary Lord David Cameron to do "everything in his power to help stop the humanitarian catastrophe we are watching".

"The fighting must stop. The flow of aid must increase. All hostages must be released and all parties to the conflict must abide by international humanitarian law."

In the wake of the chaos in the House of Commons tonight, Sir Keir Starmer has issued a statement accusing the Tories and SNP of "choosing political games over serious solutions".

The Labour leader said: "Today was a chance for parliament to unite and speak with one voice on the horrendous situation in Gaza and Israel.

"It was in that spirit that Labour put forward an amendment calling for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire."

He said the "serious plan" called for both sides to observe the ceasefire, demand hostages are returned, that aid gets into Gaza, Israel is protected from future attacks, and a roadmap for a two-state solution.

But he went on: "Unfortunately, the Conservatives and the SNP decided to walk out hand-in-hand, refusing to vote on this serious matter, yet again choosing political games over serious solutions.

"It is clear the only party with a plan for the challenges facing Britain – whether here or abroad – is Labour."

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free

cover letter for a job without posting

IMAGES

  1. Cover Letter Example No Job Posting

    cover letter for a job without posting

  2. Examples Of Cover Letters For Students With No Experience : Cover

    cover letter for a job without posting

  3. Gratis Job Opening Cover Letter Template

    cover letter for a job without posting

  4. How to Write a Cover Letter With No Experience (+Examples)

    cover letter for a job without posting

  5. How to Write a Cover Letter With No Experience (+Examples)

    cover letter for a job without posting

  6. Example Of Motivational Letter For Job Application

    cover letter for a job without posting

VIDEO

  1. How To Write A Disruptive Cover Letter 🤔😀👍💪😘

  2. Cover letter for job application

  3. Answer 1 Question Without Using the Letter E and Win $10

  4. How To Write a Proposal For an Upwork Job That's More Broad Than Your Niche

  5. JOB APPLICATION LETTER WRITING || JOB APPLICATION FORMAT || MANHA EDUCATION

  6. How To Use AI To Write Cover Letter (Step-by-Step Guide)

COMMENTS

  1. How To Write a Cover Letter for an Unadvertised Job

    In the top left corner of your letter, write your full name, address and contact information, followed by the date, company name, address and hiring manager name and title, if you know it. Write a greeting. Use a formal salutation such as "Dear" followed by the title and last name of the manager most likely to be hiring for the position.

  2. How to Write a Cover Letter for an Unadvertised Job

    Below are some tips on how to write a cover letter for an unadvertised opening. Mention your contacts. If you know someone at the organization, mention this at the beginning of the cover letter. Having a contact at the company is a great way to get your foot in the door, even if the company isn't actively hiring. Use paper or email.

  3. How To Apply for an Unadvertised Position

    When you're applying for unadvertised positions, writing your cover letter as an email to an employer can highlight your best and strongest traits right away. The following template provides a guide for writing your email: [ Email greeting: This is where you will greet the individual in charge of hiring who you found through your research.

  4. How to Write a Cover Letter to a Company That Does Not Have a Job

    When a company does not have any advertised openings, draft your letter of interest using broad strokes. For example, if you are interested in the company's marketing department, don't limit yourself by saying, "I'm looking for a job as a senior public-relations specialist." Instead, focus on your unique skill set to pique their interest.

  5. How to Apply when there is No Opening: 7 Sentence Cover Letter

    FREE DOWNLOAD: 4-Sentence Cover Letter: For changing companies when you know there's a job opening. It's quality over quantity. FREE DOWNLOAD: Boss-Hunting Cover Letters: For targeting a particular person or higher-up in a company (whether there exists an opening or not). When you want to target a company and don't see a job positing ...

  6. Write a Cover Letter for a Job That Doesn't Exist…Yet

    5. Keep your objectives in mind. Your goal with a cold cover letter is not a job offer. It's a chance for an in-person interview. If you can convince this employer to sit across a table from you for thirty minutes, that's when you'll really make your case. If all goes well, your cover letter can help you score this invitation.

  7. How to Apply when there is No Job Opening: 7 Sentence Cover Letter

    There are seven areas to address in your introduction or your cover letter. Before I get into what those seven topics are, I want to talk about a couple of other ways you can introduce yourself ...

  8. The Best Cover Letter Examples for Any Job Seeker

    2. A Clear Pitch. Use the next few paragraphs of your cover letter to "hit them with the strongest results you have that are aligned with the opportunity," Godfred says. Ryan Kahn —Muse career coach and founder of The Hired Group —calls this your pitch.

  9. How to Write a Cover Letter With No Experience

    Here are some tips and an example to show you how to write a cover letter. List your contact information. Include the hiring manager's contact details. Address the hiring manager by name. Write an attention-grabbing opening paragraph. Explain why you're the best fit for the role. Describe your relevant skills.

  10. How to Write a Cover Letter for a Job in 2024

    Respectfully, Kind regards, Best regards, Yours truly, Then, make two spaces below the salutation, and type your full name. For some professional (but optional) flair, sign your cover letter either with a scan of your signature or by using software like DocuSign. 8. Check your cover letter's content and formatting.

  11. How To Write a Cover Letter (With Examples and Tips)

    Middle paragraph (s) Closing paragraph. Letter ending and signature. Your cover letter should be one page long and use a simple, professional font, such as Arial or Helvetica, 10 to 12 points in size. Your letter should be left-aligned with single spacing and one-inch margins. Show Transcript.

  12. Sample Cover Letter With No Experience in Field (And How to Write Yours)

    1. The Main Purpose of Your Cover Letter with No Experience. The purpose of a cover letter is to complement your resume and convince more employers to interview you. You may refer to your resume when writing a cover letter for a job application, but you must expand upon points made in the resume when writing the cover letter.

  13. When to skip the cover letter—and the 1 time you absolutely ...

    Notwithstanding the above, the only time you should submit a cover letter is when you have valuable information to share that's not conveyed in your resume. I've hired many candidates based on ...

  14. How to Write a Cover Letter Without a Job in Mind

    These will vary from job to job, but your all-purpose cover letter template should follow this basic format. Here are some things to include: Your experience. Specialized skills. Significant achievements. I've worked as a department store manager for 15 years. I have experience in merchandising, handling vendors, hiring and training and overall ...

  15. sample cover letter for no specific job

    Sample of cover letter while applying for no specific job. Your Name. Address. Phone Number. Email address. Date: Dear Mr/Ms XXX (Last name) I am writing this letter for presenting my candidature for a profile with your company that would serve your organizational needs.

  16. How to Write a Cover Letter With No Experience (+Examples)

    Here are 8 steps for how to write a cover letter with no experience: 1. Study the Job Description and Research the Company. First, before you get down to writing, find and note down all the information possible about the skills, qualities, and qualifications needed and wanted for the job.

  17. How to Write a Cover Letter with No Experience (with Examples)

    Align this information to the left, two lines below the date. If you don't know who will read the letter, exclude the recipient's name and title. Be sure to put the organization's name and address. 4. Include a formal greeting. If you know the recipient's name, greet them with "Dear"—for instance, "Dear Mr. Brown.".

  18. How To Address a Cover Letter Without a Name (Exact Examples)

    Here are some examples: Dear Hiring Manager, - This is a common and universally understood phrase for addressing a cover letter without a name. Dear [Job Title], - Use the specific job position that the recipient holds, for instance, Dear Marketing Director. To the [Job Title] Selection Committee, - This approach can be useful when ...

  19. How To Write a Cover Letter Without an Employer's Name

    Here are some steps you can follow to help draft a cover letter when you're not sure of the hiring manager's name: 1. Research the company. The first step when writing a cover letter when you don't know the hiring manager's name is to conduct research using company sources. Try checking the "About" or "Staff" sections of the employer's website ...

  20. Anyone has experience in getting a job without submitting the cover

    4. tomanonimos. • 9 yr. ago. Anyone has managed to get a job without attaching a cover letter? Yes. A cover letter though increases your chances of getting a job since it allows you clarify your skills and demonstrates some of your personality. 3. diablomath. • 9 yr. ago.

  21. Human Resources Cover Letter Examples and Templates for 2024

    Your HR cover letter should usually have five sections, in this order: 1. Heading. At the top of the page, include: Your name and contact information. The date. The recipient's name, title, company, and contact information (when available) (Note: Feel free to omit this section if you send your letter by email and your contact details are part ...

  22. 5 AI tools that can help you land that perfect job

    Prompt 4: LinkedIn it has been using AI for years its new generative AI and chatbot features. AI tools to optimize your profile's Headline and About section. craft cold messages or follow-ups to a ...

  23. Civil Engineering Cover Letter Examples and Templates for 2024

    A great civil engineer cover letter has five main elements: 1. Heading. Use a professional template to enhance the style and presentation of your cover letter. Be sure your heading includes: Your name, title, and contact info. The current date. The addressee's details. Greet the hiring manager by name — Mr. or Ms.

  24. Law Enforcement Cover Letter Examples and Templates for 2024

    Use a professional template to enhance the style and presentation of your cover letter. Be sure your heading includes: Your name, title, and contact info. The current date. The addressee's details. 2. Salutation. Greet the hiring manager by name — Mr. or Ms. [Last Name].

  25. How To Write a Cover Letter With No Experience (Plus Example)

    The steps below explain how to write a cover letter with no experience. 1. Carefully review the job posting and research the company's website. Before you begin your cover letter, you'll want to ensure you're relating your information to the preferred and required skills listed on the job posting. You can carefully read through the job posting ...

  26. Politics latest: Motion of no confidence in Speaker after Gaza debate

    The House of Commons descended into chaos over the Speaker's handling of the SNP's motion for a ceasefire in Gaza. His decision to allow a vote on a Labour amendment saw Tory and SNP MPs storm out ...

  27. What records are exempted from FERPA?

    What records are exempted from FERPA? Records which are kept in the sole possession of the maker of the records, are used only as a personal memory aid, and are not accessible or revealed to any other person except a temporary substitute for the maker of the records. Records of the law enforcement unit of an educational agency or institution.

  28. Cover Letter Samples and Templates

    Cover Letter Samples. When you're applying for a job, a cover letter lets you show a personal side and demonstrate why hiring you is a smart decision. Cover letters should be around three paragraphs long and include specific examples from your past experience that make you qualified for the position.A cover letter should include the following ...