how to write a cover letter for a job you are not qualified for

Date Hiring Manager’s Name 123 Company Address Pony Island Lane, Maryland 443-123-4567 [email protected] Dear [Mr./Mrs./Ms. Hiring Manager’s Name], My name is [Your Name], and I am writing to express my interest in [Job Position] that I saw listed on [Name of Website]. I have more than 2 years of experience in [Insert Skills Here] and I am confident that my expertise is in line with the responsibilities listed in your job advertisement. [ Discuss accomplishments, stories, and other characteristics or traits that made you stand out in your previous workplace. Attach certifications and other proof along with the resume to further prove your point. Consider using a bulleted list for important information. ] Please find my resume, portfolio, and other credentials attached to this email for more information. Please feel free to contact me at 122-334-567 anytime during the day. I look forward to hearing from you. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, [Your Name]

Virtual assistant cover letter example: Digital Marketer VA

Date Hiring Manager’s Name 123 Company Address Pony Island Lane, Maryland 443-123-4567 [email protected] Dear [ Mr./Mrs./Ms. Hiring Manager’s Name ], As a long-time admirer of your company, I was excited to see an opening for the Digital Marketing position on [name of website]. This is an excellent opportunity for me to showcase my skills and all the things I have learned in all my years of experience. I have worked in digital marketing and business advertising for over five years. Together with my team, I spearheaded a project that challenged my creativity which led me to come up with innovative solutions. With the limited budget of only $5,000, we were able to create campaigns that received over a million impressions and thousands of conversions that made our clients happy. Highlights of my qualification include: 1st qualification 2nd qualification 3rd qualification 4th qualification With my eagerness for continuous learning, I am confident that I am the right fit for your organization. With my enthusiasm for the dynamic field of digital marketing, I do my best to keep updated with the latest trends and best practices. I would be delighted to have the opportunity to work with talented professionals at [Name of Company]. If you are interested to know more about my skills and qualifications, you can contact me by email or through Skype. I look forward to hearing from you. Thank you very much. Sincerely, [Your Name]

Sample virtual assistant cover letter (VA with no experience)

Date Hiring Manager’s Name 123 Company Address Pony Island Lane, Maryland 443-123-4567 [email protected] Dear [ Mr./Mrs./Ms. Hiring Manager’s Name ], My name is [ Your Name ] and I am a recent graduate from [ Name of School ]. I learned about your company’s job opening for [Name of Job Position] from [Name of Website]. I am interested to apply, and I have attached a copy of my resume alongside this letter. Although your job posting says you need someone with two years of experience in [name of skill], I believe I have applicable job experience to be qualified. In my former role as an intern at [ Name of Internship Place ], I was responsible for [insert relevant job skills]. While employed there, I assisted in [insert supporting skills here] which helped support the team which earned me some compliments from my intern manager. With a degree in [ Name of Degree ], I have a comprehensive understanding of [Name of Relevant Skills] which will make me a great asset for your company. What draws me most to [Name of Company] is because [Insert reasons]. I believe your core values align with mine and I would be honored to work for a prestigious company. I can be reached anytime via email at [ [email protected] ] or by phone, 895-678-9989 . Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Sincerely, [ Your Name ]

Remember that there is no one-size-fits-all virtual assistant cover letter for jobs out there. The purpose of adding a cover letter is to demonstrate your eagerness to be a part of the organization. While a well-written resume and cover letter will open doors, it is up to you to make use of the opportunities that have been presented to you.

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https://www.wsj.com/articles/how-to-write-a-cover-letter-that-stands-out-11605106059

How to Write a Cover Letter That Stands Out

how to write a cover letter for a job you are not qualified for

The most effective cover letters tell a story about why you are qualified for the role.
Familiarize yourself with the job description. Explain how your experience qualifies you for the requirements listed.
Be concise: Hiring managers often skim cover letters.

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Internship Cover Letter Examples and Writing Tips

Alison Doyle is one of the nation’s foremost career experts.

What To Include in a Cover Letter

Tips for writing an internship cover letter, internship cover letter examples, internship cover letter template, how to write an email cover letter, email cover letter example, frequently asked questions (faqs).

Emilie Dunphy / The Balance

If you are applying for an internship, you will likely have to submit a cover letter as part of your application. Your cover letter should be tailored to the specific internship for which you're applying and include examples from your work, academic, and extracurricular experiences.

When writing a cover letter for an internship position, it's important to share your most relevant qualifications with the hiring manager. When you don't have much (or any) formal work experience, you can include school activities, volunteering, educational programs, and other learning experiences.

Key Takeaways

Take the time to write a customized cover letter for each internship you apply for, and include your most relevant qualifications for the position.
When you don't have work experience, you can include academics, extracurricular activities, and volunteering.
Be specific, and share examples of the skills the employer is looking for in your cover letter.
Carefully proofread and edit your cover letter prior to sending it.

Your cover letter should include your contact information, a greeting, the reason you're writing, why you're a qualified applicant for the position, and a closing.

Contact Information: How you address the cover letter will depend on whether you are sending a printed or email cover letter and the contact information you have for the employer. In a printed letter, the contact information will be at the top of the letter. For an email, add your contact information below your typed name.

Salutation: The salutation is the greeting you include at the beginning of a cover letter. For example, “Dear Hiring Manager.”

Body of Letter: The body of a cover letter includes the sections where you explain why you are interested in and qualified for the job for which you are applying. This typically includes an introductory paragraph, a paragraph or two describing your qualifications, and a closing paragraph.

Closing: When you're writing a cover letter or sending an email message to apply for a job, it's important to close your cover letter in a professional manner. For example, “Sincerely” or “Respectfully.”

Signature: In a printed cover letter, you’ll add a written signature above your printed name. For an email cover letter, add a space after the closing and type your name.

Use Business Letter Format. Use proper business letter format when sending a cover letter by mail. Include your contact information at the top, the date, and the contact information for the employer. Be sure to provide a proper salutation, and sign your name at the bottom. If you are sending the cover letter via email , you do not have to include the contact information at the top. Instead, place this as part of your email signature at the end of your letter.

Customize Your Cover Letter. It's important to write a unique cover letter for each internship for which you apply. Highlight skills and abilities you have that relate to the specific internship listing. The main emphasis of your cover letter should be convincing the reader that you will be an asset as an intern.

Provide Specific Examples. If you mention that you have a particular skill or ability in your cover letter, be sure to prove this with a specific example from your past work, academic, or extracurricular experience.

Add Keywords to Your Letter. One way to individualize your letter is to use keywords from the internship listing. For example, if the listing says the intern needs to have excellent “time management skills,” include an example of how you have demonstrated time management skills in the past. You'll be able to show the hiring manager that they have the skills you are seeking.

Emphasize Your Academic Experience. In the letter, you can mention academic experience, if applicable. Especially if you have limited work experience, you might use examples from school to demonstrate that you have particular skills. For example, if the internship requires you to work as part of a team, provide an example of a successful team project you worked on during one of your college courses.

Include Extracurricular Experiences. You can also include details about your relevant experience from extracurricular activities or volunteer work . For example, a reporter for a college newspaper can point to interviewing and writing skills; a history of volunteering at a shelter can provide an example of strong interpersonal and organizational skills .

Mention How You Will Follow Up. Towards the end of your letter, say how you will follow up with the employer. You might say that you will call the office to follow up in about a week (don't follow up any sooner). However, do not include this if the internship listing specifically says not to contact the office.

Carefully Proofread and Edit. Be sure to thoroughly proofread your cover letter for spelling and grammar errors. Many internships are very competitive, and any error can hurt your chances of getting an interview. Also, avoid using too many words to convey your information and intent. Keep your points brief and targeted.

Review sample printed and email cover letters for internship positions, and get a template to download to use as a starting point for your own letter.

Download the cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs or Word Online) or read the example below.

The Balance

Internship Cover Letter Sample (Text version)

Joseph Q. Applicant 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345 555-555-5555 josephq@email.com

October 26, 2022

Director, Human Resources BC Labs 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321

Dear Ms. Smith,

I am writing to apply for the scientific research summer internship position that was listed in the Anytown University Career Services Office. I believe my research and conservation experience make me an ideal candidate.

I have had a great deal of research experience in chemistry, biology, and geology, both in the lab and in the field. Most of my experience is in environmental field studies. I am currently conducting research in our school's outdoor laboratory to assess the water quality of a nearby pond. I know water quality assessment is a component of this internship, and I know my previous experience makes me a prime candidate for this.

Last summer, I worked as a conservation assistant at the National Trust's Clumber Park. Along with trail maintenance and building, I also served as a research assistant for the research organization at the park. I conducted an analysis of soil samples, and input data from various research projects. I received a special commendation from the director of the research organization for my attention to detail and dedication to research.

I believe that I would be an asset to your program. This internship would provide me with the ideal opportunity to assist your organization and expand my research skills.

I will call next week to see if you agree that my qualifications seem to be a match for the position. If so, I hope to schedule an interview at a mutually convenient time. I look forward to speaking with you.

Thank you for your consideration,

Signature (hard copy letter)

Joseph Q. Applicant

If you're sending your cover letter via email , your format will be slightly different than a traditional letter. List your name and the job title in the subject line of the email message.

Include your contact information in your email signature, and don't list the employer's contact information (also don’t list your contact information at the top of the message). Start your email message with the salutation.

Subject: Liz Lerner – Marketing Intern Position

Dear Mr. Peters,

It was with much interest that I read your posting on the ABC College job board inviting applications for a marketing internship at Brand Solutions Inc.

As an honors student in marketing, I have successfully completed upper-division coursework in marketing management, print and online advertising, social media management, and data analysis, which have provided me with a firm understanding of rising market strategies and technologies.

This coursework included on-site practicums with Boyd Brothers LLC and Boulevard Bistro, where I helped the owners of these businesses establish their first-ever social media presence on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter. This involved setting up their accounts, creating photo and video content, writing posts, launching digital ad campaigns, and tracking user engagement via Google Analytics and Facebook Analytics. I am also well-versed in the use of Adobe Creative Cloud for graphic design and Microsoft Office suite.

Impressed by the press that Brand Solutions Inc. has received in Market Branding Today and on Forbes Online , I am eager for the challenges and opportunities I would experience as your next marketing intern. My resume is attached; may we please schedule a personal interview to discuss my qualifications for this role in greater detail? Thank you for your time, consideration, and forthcoming response.

Liz Lerner liz.lerner@email.com 555-123-4567 www.linkedin.com/in/lizlerner (optional)

Do I have to write a cover letter for an internship?

If a cover letter is listed as optional, you don’t have to include one. However, a cover letter provides you with the opportunity to showcase the credentials you have for the position. When you don’t have formal work experience, your cover letter is a good way to highlight the talents, attributes, and experience that make you an ideal candidate for the role.

What can I include in a cover letter when I don’t have work experience?

When you don’t have work experience, you can share examples of volunteering, extracurricular activities, schoolwork, academic programs, sports, community organizations, and other ways you have gained skills and experience that qualify you for the position.

CareerOneStop. " Cover Letters ."

North Central College. " How to Write an Internship Cover Letter: Examples & Tips ."

University of Michigan. " Cover Letter Resources ."

Handshake. " Top 5 Tips for Writing an Internship Cover Letter ."

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COMMENTS

How to write an EXCEPTIONAL cover letter for a job that I'm not exactly qualified for?
I have been ambitiously applying to all Medical Assistant jobs in NYC and am hoping to obtain a job with above average pay
How to Write a Cover Letter for a Job?
A perfect and effective cover letter may help you obtain a job whereas an improper one may lessen your likelihood of getting the job. It should be kept in mind that cover letters should be written accordingly
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We've got the 12 best cover letter tips to help job seekers in 2023 perfect their cover letter and get to the interview stage
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A cover letter is usually a one-page document that allows you to introduce yourself and elaborate on your job qualifications in a more personal way. Your cover letter should convince the reader that you are a qualified candidate and
how to apply for a job you're not fully qualified for
The reality is that it's pretty hard to get hired for jobs that you're under-qualified for in this market. So if you really consider yourself under-qualified, you might be looking at the wrong jobs
Internship Cover Letter Examples and Writing Tips
If you are applying for an internship, you will likely have to submit a cover letter as part of your application. Take the time to write a customized cover letter for each internship you apply for