A good cover letter does one job: it convinces the reader that you understand what they are looking for and that you have something genuine and relevant to offer. It should not repeat your CV. It should add context, demonstrate interest, and make a clear case for why you are applying.
What a cover letter needs to include
A good cover letter has four sections. Opening: state what you are applying for and where you saw it. Motivation: explain why you want this opportunity and why with this employer specifically. Evidence: connect your experience, skills, or knowledge to what the employer has asked for. Closing: state when you are available, confirm you have attached your CV, and thank them for their time.
The opening paragraph
Be direct and specific. "I am writing to apply for the summer internship programme at [Organisation], which I found on Nentra." is stronger than a vague "I am a motivated student looking for an opportunity to develop my skills." Tell the reader exactly what you want in the first two sentences.
Demonstrating genuine motivation
The most important part of a cover letter is explaining why this employer. Do not just say "I admire your work" — say something specific. Reference a project they are involved in, a value they articulate, a sector they specialise in, or a programme they run. This requires research, but a single specific detail is worth more than three generic sentences.
Matching your experience to the role
Look at the opportunity description and identify the two or three key skills or qualities the employer asks for. Then identify your best example of each from your own life. Describe the example briefly but specifically — the same principles as STAR in an interview. Do not try to cover everything on your CV; choose your two or three strongest points.
Formatting and length
A cover letter for an early career role should be between 250 and 400 words. Three or four short paragraphs is the right length. Use the same font and formatting as your CV. Address it to a named person if possible; use "Dear Hiring Team" or "Dear Recruitment Team" if not. Never use "To Whom It May Concern" — it sounds dated.
Checklist
- Addressed to a specific person or team, not generically
- States clearly what you are applying for
- Includes one specific reason for choosing this employer
- Connects your experience or skills to the opportunity
- Between 250 and 400 words
- Proofread at least twice
- Saved as PDF alongside your CV
Common mistakes to avoid
- Starting with "I am a hardworking and enthusiastic individual"
- Writing about yourself without referring to the employer or the role
- Making it too long — most hiring managers spend under a minute on a cover letter
- Copying the same cover letter to every application
- Not explaining why you want to work for that specific organisation