#212 A Teen's Guide to Writing the Perfect Cover Letter
Writing a cover letter can seem overwhelming, especially if you’re a teen stepping into the job market for the first time. You might be wondering, “What can I say to make myself stand out?” or “How do I show that I’m the right fit when I don’t have much work experience?” Don’t worry—you’re not alone! Most young job seekers face these same challenges. The good news is that writing a compelling cover letter is easier than you think, and with a few dos and don’ts, you’ll be on your way to making a great first impression.
Do: Address the Letter Correctly
The first thing you should do when writing a cover letter is to address it to the right person. If possible, find out the name of the hiring manager or the person in charge of recruitment. Using their name shows you’ve done your homework and that you’re really interested in the position. If you can’t find a specific name, a greeting like "Dear Hiring Manager" works just fine.
Don’t: Be Too Informal
It’s important to sound friendly and approachable; however, you still want to keep your tone professional. Avoid slang or texting language, like “Hey!” or “LOL.” Remember, this is a job application, so make sure your cover letter reflects that you’re serious about the position and know how to communicate well.
Do: Highlight Relevant Skills
Even if you don’t have much (or any) job experience, you have valuable skills that employers are looking for. Think about the things you’ve learned in school, through extracurricular activities, or even from personal hobbies. For example, being a part of a sports team likely taught you how to work with a team, and any volunteering you’ve done has sharpened your communication skills. Highlight these qualities in your cover letter and explain how they will work in the job you’re applying for.
Don’t: Repeat Your Resume
Your resume already lists your qualifications and experience, so there’s no need to repeat all that in your cover letter. Instead, use your cover letter to tell your story. Why do you want this particular job? What excites you about this company? How do your unique skills make you a perfect fit for this role? A cover letter is your chance to add personal touches that extend your qualities beyond your resume.
Do: Keep It Short and Sweet
Hiring managers are busy and they don’t have time to read long, drawn-out cover letters. Keep your letter to the point—around three short paragraphs is ideal. Be clear and direct, and make sure each sentence has a purpose. A simple format works best: introduce yourself, explain why you’re interested in the role, and briefly mention your relevant skills or experiences.
Don’t: Forget to Proofread
Spelling and grammar mistakes can leave a bad impression, no matter how great your qualifications are. Before you send your cover letter, proofread it carefully. Better yet, ask a friend, family member, or a teacher to review it for you. Someone who has never seen your document can catch mistakes you might have missed.
Do: Show Enthusiasm
One of the easiest ways to stand out is to show genuine excitement about the opportunity. Employers want to hire people who are passionate and eager to contribute. In your cover letter, let your enthusiasm shine through. Explain what interests you about this job and why you’d be thrilled to join the team. Even if you lack experience, your positive attitude can make a big difference.
Don’t: Be Generic
Avoid using the same cover letter for every job you apply to. Tailor your cover letter to the specific company and the role you want. Mention the company’s values, mission, or something unique about them that caught your attention. Personalizing your cover letter shows that you’ve put some thought into the application and that you’re serious about the position.
Final Thoughts
Writing a cover letter as a teen job seeker may seem challenging, but it’s a great opportunity to show employers what makes you unique. By following these tips you’ll create a strong, professional cover letter that highlights your skills and enthusiasm, and sets you on the path to success. Good luck!