how to write an application letter for graduate trainee program

Sample Cover Letter For A Graduate Trainee

Cover letter sample for a graduate trainee.

Organizations have been inviting graduates to apply for their graduate trainee programs, with the latest being advertised by Total Kenya and De La Rue. There may be others that you have come across in the recent weeks and if you are still yet to apply, you might be in the process of applying. That you are a graduate is only the first and most important qualification. However, getting picked from a pool of other graduates will require that you sell yourself accordingly through your CV and cover Letter.

Your Cover Letter will be the document accompanying your CV and probably the first thing employers and recruiting managers will see before even opening your CV. So, how well written is your cover letter? Does it compel recruiters and employers to open your CV? If you are having difficulties fitting important information on a page, below is a sample you can use. And here is one for a banking job when there is no advert.

Sample Cover Letter For Graduate Trainee

Job Seeker’s Name P.O Box 555 – 00100, Nairobi

Your Phone Number & Email Addres s

Human Resource Manager, XYZ Company Ltd, 5th Floor X House (Company Address) 8th April, 2016

Dear Sir/Madam (If you have the hiring manager’s name, use it)

I wish to apply for the graduate trainee position at your company, currently being advertised on your company website. Please find enclosed my CV for your consideration.

As you will see from my attached CV, I have recently completed my 4 year Bachelor’s degree in Commerce, Finance option at the University of Nairobi and attained a 2nd Class Honors Upper division. I believe the knowledge I have acquired through my course work and the skills I picked up make me an ideal candidate for this opportunity.

I am interested in this position as it appeals directly to my passion for working with numbers and interest to learn by working in a fast paced environment. Aside from my degree, I have held various internship positions at various companies that have provided me with important hands-on experience to work as a foundation to build my career in finance.

In addition to my degree qualification, I recently took up a class towards my certification as a Finance professional and have participated in at least two financial forums to gain more knowledge on the current market trends.  I am confident that my passion and enthusiasm for the Finance field will prove valuable to your organization.

I look forward to an interview with you where we can have a detailed discussion on my suitability for the position. You can reach me anytime during the day on 0702******.  Thank you for your time and consideration.

39 Comments

Its a nice one.it is vital to me.

Great.what a nice cover letter that a probable employer can’t afford to put aside!

This a nice caver letter hope it will help me.

Good sample letter. Thank you..

Correct sample.has enlightened me and it help me

A very good piece. Am certain it’s going to help me a great deal somewhere.

Hello John,

Kindly send a copy of your current CV to [email protected] for further assistance.

This is a good piece my concern is the mobile phone no on the cover letter. should it be on the cv or both?

Comment Never.its a grivious mistake, and sign of disorganization. it Must be one page only

thanks this is very helpfull

this is very nice thank you

Im Adriver Of Ten Years Experiance With Class A B C E , So I Need Aproffetional Cvs. Im Avaible All The Time. Thankyou .

credible work indedmmmmm

finally this is what i wanted…thank you..which is the current CV format if I may ask kindly

What about the headline? it is missing here

Thanks,this is a good job

Can someone write on the back page of the letter page?

thanks for the advice very useful

looking for electrical technician job

actually have been trying to apply many jobs but no interviews am going to change now,have completed a diploma in IT,have been a ICT teacher almost 2yrs,and I would wish to change job category but in the same field of IT.personally am round of you.

thank you,your doing great.

i thank you for the sample cover letter.But how comes the letter has no title

I thank you for the sample cover letter, the letter has no title

hallo, how do i write a cover letter for a sales trainee position without an advert?

Hi perminus,thanks for the good work you doing.My question is when you come across job advert which doesn’t have the Name and the address of the company,how do you apply about this?

God will always bless your work. I like your articals. They are very helpfull.

Good stuff. Could you please do a sample cv for a graduate trainee? preferrably one with a degree or so, in Project Planning and Management.

Very important piece.. Thank you

you have such good tips.my concern is some vacancies are rare.example for graduathe in analytical vacancies and industrial chemistry.how do you help such graduates??

quite informative, but would you please help me understand while making an online application, do I have to write my cover letter directly or send it as an attachment!

Hi, I had earlier on pointed out on the flaws in a previous cover letter you had posted, and i honestly wonder if you take the comments we make here seriously. I am a Communication and PR student, and the letters that you post a sample of, am afraid that they are the ones my instructor tells me critical HR personnels would dismiss without having a second glance at. However, i won’t tire correcting:

The applicants name is not part of the sender’s address. Just write your address directly of you do not have an address of reference currently.

The date is not written on the recipient’s address but after the sender’s address and its suitable format is e.g, April 8, 2016.

In this age of the new media where we have the internet at our disposal, it’s pitiable of one to write dear Sir /Madam. This is what we call a ‘blind address’. You can easily know the gender of the person you are addressing your letter to. Not the capitals in Sir, Madam, in the salutation. Incase you use this, at the foot of your letter it will be-Yours faithfully… But in case you use the name instead it will be, yours sincerely.

The lette’s votehead is in this case missing but just to note, one should apply for employment, recruitment… But not for a vacancy or post.

You contact details come after your name. Eg Yours faithfully, signnature Sam. E-mail: Phone:

Finally, it does not hurt to end your letter with a thank you.

Several other corrections are to be made in the body, but i’ll leave it at that. NB: just an honest correction. Am an ardent follower of this website and since i perceive it to be proffessional, i correct it humbly.

Feedback always appreciated: E-mail: [email protected] Phone: 0704694734

This site is of much help to the job market needs.Kindly post one for a hr opportunity.thank you

Dear Mwangi, We do not ‘blacklist’ any candidate and you are welcome to apply for any vacancy that suits you. If you have identified a position that suits you, contact the recruitment officer who had interviewed you earlier on. Wishing you the very best. Regards, Perminus

thanks.this is very helpful

Wow thanks alot for such a wonderful cover letter….it’s so helpful to me since am a graduate searching for graduate trainee positions, entry level job or even internship for the experience gained. God bless.

Morning, Per minus, Good article and I haile what you do for the unemployed youth. I however, in my comments must have made a positive criticism that you or your staff might have not liked me for Or a contact to either of my referee might have given u a waylaid judgement about me. Why?, ~ how do you explain me applying for jobs that am outrightly qualified for and not getting even an interview information. I first thought it was undoing of my resume which I used a sample posted by you, and still!, I couldn’t get an invitation?!, keeping in mind that I travel overnight to attend your interviews from Eldoret. Am either forced to think that my original c.v. was just okay to warrant an interview with you or you have blacklisted me for your future recruitment practises which I found very wanton (if that’s the case) since this should be a national recruiter free of prejudice, favourism and clear of corruption. I am a worthy employee and I have the papers (in your database if not erased). All am asking is a fair chance. I don’t mind the trips if I loose an interview to the better person but let attend them if am qualified. NB: Periodically communicate the follies of an otherwise potential employee so that he can clinche the next interview. Thats what makes a cutting edge from the rest recruiting company. So that you know. I will still use corporate staffing for my job search. Thank you.

Thanks.This is very useful

Comments are closed.

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Applications

How to write a cover letter for a graduate job.

Ruairi Kavanagh

5 Oct 2023, 09:35

Although the majority of graduate employers now use online application processes, ome jobs require that you apply with the traditional CV. However, CV’s need a compelling cover letter to accompany them. Think of it as an introduction to yourself and follow our helpful tips. Remember, you need to stand out from the crowd.

What to include in a cover letter

A CV cover letter should be no more than one page long – around four or five brief paragraphs.

Always include the name of the person, not 'Dear Sir/Madam'. This is particularly important when you're making speculative applications because you want your letter to reach someone who can act on it.

Specify why you are writing (eg in response to an advertisement or on a speculative basis). If it's about an advertised job, state the job title you are applying for (and reference number, if there is one) and where you saw it advertised.

State briefly why you want to work for this particular organisation and why they should employ you. Don’t repeat what is in the CV, but highlight your ‘unique selling points’. Be as specific as possible about how your experience matches the job. (If the letter is accompanying an application form rather than a CV, this is not always necessary as you will have used the form to make these points.) Also, make sure you have done your research and found some key facts about the organisation that you can refer to an emphasise your suitability in working for them.

Give details of your availability for interview. If relevant (eg if the employer has several different graduate schemes), state which other positions with the organisation you would also like to be considered for.

Finish with a keen but professional sign-off.

Your name and address

Put your contact details at the top of the letter – right-justified (i.e. lined up against the right-hand margin) or centred. Include your postal address, telephone number and email address.

The recipient's name and address

This is usually left-justified (i.e. lined up against the left-hand margin).

Leave one line space below the recipient’s address, then put the date you are writing the letter.

The greeting

Always start ‘Dear’ followed by the person’s title (Mr, Ms, Dr etc) and surname, eg ‘Dear Mr Smith’.

If you don’t know their name, start ‘Dear Sir or Madam’ (NOT ‘Madame’ – that means something different!). But it is always best to find out the name of the person who you want to read your letter, which in today's online world is easier than it's ever been, but don't be afraid to pick up the phone and ask someone in the organisation if needs be.

Get the insights and skills you need to shape your career journey with Pathways. We’ll show you exactly what goes into a convincing cover letter, so you can give yourself the best chance of getting to the next stage of the application process.

The subject

Leave one line space below the salutation, then put the subject of your letter, underlined. For example ‘Application for graduate trainee position’. Include the job reference number if there is one. This makes life easier for the HR person reading the letter. In an email, this will go in the subject line.

The body text

Write clearly and succinctly. It's vital that you don't go overboard on the thesaurus, clarity is key and don't write in words that you would never use verbally. There is no need for extra embellishments.

Normally, a formal letter should not be more than one side of A4. Structure your letter with a beginning, a middle and an end.

Use business-like language: this should be closer to the essays you write at college than the letters you send to your parents.

Signing off

Finish the letter ‘Yours sincerely’. Leave a space for your signature, then type your name. If you can create a digital signature or insert an image of your signature it can add a nice touch.

‘Yours sincerely’ is traditionally used when you don’t know the name of the person you are writing to, but is becoming less common.

Cover letter checklist

• Are your contact details up to date?
• Have you spelled the employer's name correctly?
• Have you included the job title, reference number and where you saw the advertisement?
• Have you kept a copy?
• Have you kept it to one page where possible?

Cover letter overview

1. do your research.

Find out something about their organisation that makes you want to work and say why.

2. Know the job spec

Write about why this job is perfect for you and use examples. This is an opportunity for you to show employers that you have done your homework. You should also match it with your CV. Highlight your most relevant experience in the cover letter and then the recruiter can read the details in the CV.

3. Short and sweet

When it comes to cover letters, keep it to one page and no more than three to four paragraphs. Remember to include the date and a proper formal greeting. You can use a person’s first name if you have introduced yourself previously.

4. Be yourself

Don’t go overboard on the thesaurus. Instead use simple, clear language. Give specific reasons why you want the job and why you are the right person for the job. Remind the employer at the end of the letter that you would very much like to hear from them for an interview.

Visit the career advice section of gradireland.com for more practical tips.

gradireland editorial advice

This describes editorially independent and impartial content, which has been written and edited by the gradireland content team. Any external contributors featuring in the article are in line with our non-advertorial policy, by which we mean that we do not promote one organisation over another.

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Writing A Cover Letter For Graduate Program (No Experience)

Amina ibrahim.

Your cover letter for the graduate program is your story. It reveals what truly inspired you to become what you are and showcases what makes you stand out – beyond what a resume can tell. 

Writing a cover letter can feel like leaping into the unknown. It is exciting, nerve-wracking, and often, a big step without much professional experience to show. So if you are not sure of how to direct the cover letter that goes in your favour, here is our unsurpassed approach that you need to follow for the best outcome. 

We will reveal a 10-step process to write the perfect cover letter for any graduate program and let you onto the best practices along with some examples. Read on because it is time you showcase to the employer that you may not have experience but you have everything else they need.

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A cover letter for a graduate program is a formal letter that accompanies your resume when applying for a specific graduate position or program within a company or institution. It is a one-page document where you introduce yourself to the hiring team and highlight your skills, experiences, and reasons why you are a good fit for the specific position you are applying to.

Now the cover letter for a graduate program is quite different from the graduate school cover letter . They vary in what they emphasize and how they are approached. A cover letter for a graduate job focuses on showcasing your relevant skills and experiences and how your background aligns with the job requirements and company culture.

On the other hand, a grad school cover letter is part of your graduate school application and addresses the admissions committee. It is a key component where you mention your academic interests, career goals, and reasons for applying to specific graduate schools or programs. 

Instead of emphasizing work experiences, graduate school applications highlight your academic achievements , research interests, and how a particular program aligns with your career aspirations.

How to Write a Cover Letter for Graduate Program if You Don’t Have Any Work Experience?

Many dread writing a cover letter , causing them to procrastinate. Writing it for the first time can be hard especially when you don't have any guidance. To ease things for you, here is our 10-step process to write a cover letter that will showcase the best of you.

1. Address the letter to a specific person

Finding the right person to address your cover letter to can make a huge difference. It shows that you did your homework and have a genuine interest in the program. Search the company's website, LinkedIn, or even contact the organization to identify the HR program coordinator or team member who might be overseeing the hiring process. 

If you can't find a specific name, a general salutation like "Dear Hiring Manager" is acceptable.

2. Start with a strong opening paragraph

Your opening paragraph sets the tone . Instead of generic statements like "I am applying for the position of...", start by expressing your interest in the job and the company. 

You can mention something specific about the company that resonates with you . For instance, you could mention a recent project or development the company was involved in and how that inspired you to apply.

3. Explain your academic background & achievements

When talking about your academic background, be specific . Mention your degree, major, and any relevant coursework that directly relates to the job . If you have a high GPA or received academic honors, highlight those.

Simply listing your achievements won’t work; explain how they demonstrate your skills or suitability for the role . Using the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, and Result) framework can help you illustrate your achievements more effectively. Let's see how you can achieve it. 

• Situation : Describe the context or situation in which you were involved. 
• Task : Outline the specific tasks or responsibilities assigned to you within that situation. What were you expected to accomplish or contribute to the project or activity?
• Action : Detail the actions you took to fulfil your responsibilities. Emphasize how you approached challenges and the strategies you employed to overcome them.
• Result : Finally, explain the outcomes or results of your actions. Discuss the impact of your contributions, any measurable achievements, and what you learned from the experience.

4. Highlight relevant experiences & skills

Even without traditional work experience, you likely have experiences from internships , volunteer work , projects, or extracurricular activities that polished your skills. Identify those experiences that align with the job you are applying for. 

For example, if you volunteered for an organization where you developed communication or leadership skills, highlight that. Don't underestimate the value of these experiences – they demonstrate qualities like teamwork, problem-solving, or adaptability.

5. Connect your skills to the program's requirements

Carefully review the job program's requirements and job description. Identify the key skills and qualities they are looking for in candidates. Then, align your skills and experiences with these requirements.

For instance, if the program emphasizes teamwork, discuss a project where you successfully collaborated with others to achieve a goal. Be specific and provide examples to explain how your background aligns with what they are looking for.

6. Show your enthusiasm & interest in the program

Express your genuine interest in the program and the company or organization. Research the company thoroughly and mention what specifically attracts you to it. Is it their values, their innovative approach, or the impact they make? 

Also, explain why you are passionate about the field or industry. Maybe you have a personal story or an inspiring moment that sparked your interest. Express enthusiasm and genuine interest to compensate for the lack of formal experience.

7. Address lack of experience positively

It is okay not to have traditional work experience. Instead of seeing your lack of work experience as a disadvantage, frame it as an opportunity . Acknowledge it in your cover letter but focus on what you do have to offer.

Highlight your enthusiasm to learn and your willingness to bring fresh perspectives. Emphasize your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, internships, or any relevant projects that showcase your skills and eagerness to contribute. You can also mention any industry-related events , seminars, or workshops you attended.

8. Customize & personalize

Generic cover letters rarely stand out. Tailor each cover letter to the specific job program you are applying for. Customize it by mentioning the program's name and its unique aspects that attract you. 

Showcase your understanding of the program's goals and how you see yourself contributing. Use the language and keywords from the job description to demonstrate your fit for the role.

9. Close the letter with a call to action

Your conclusion matters just as much as the introduction. End your cover letter with a strong closing that includes a call to action. Express your gratitude for the opportunity to apply and reiterate your interest in the program. 

Politely request an interview or meeting to discuss how you can contribute further. Provide your contact information and indicate your willingness to provide additional information if needed.

10. Proofread & edit for clarity & accuracy

Once you have written your cover letter, proofread it carefully. Check for grammatical errors and spelling mistakes and make sure the language is clear and professional. Read it aloud to catch any awkward phrases or errors that might have slipped through. You can also use online tools like Grammarly or ProWritingAid, or ask a friend to review it for feedback.

Pay attention to formatting and make sure the layout is clean and easy to read. Use a standard font and keep the length to one page . Aim for a professional and concise tone throughout the letter.

6 Best Practices For Writing A Cover Letter For Graduate Program

When it comes to applying for graduate programs, your cover letter can make all the difference. To help you master this essential part of your application, here are 6 expert-backed practices for creating the perfect cover letter that will increase your chances of securing the dream opportunity.

I. Research the program & understand the requirements

Before you start writing, get familiar with the graduate program you are applying to. Visit their website and understand their mission , values, and the specific requirements for the program. Take note of what they are looking for in candidates. 

Understanding these details helps you customize your cover letter to align with what the program is seeking. It allows you to emphasize your relevant skills , experiences, and passions that resonate with their expectations.

II. Avoid repeating information from your resume

Your cover letter shouldn’t echo your resume. Instead, use it as an opportunity to expand on certain aspects of your background that might not be fully explained in your resume. It is your chance to showcase your personality, your motivations, and how your experiences shaped your interest in the program .

Share anecdotes or examples that show your skills and character, making you stand out beyond what is listed in your CV.

III. Quantify achievements when possible

When discussing your achievements or experiences, whenever you can, add numbers or figures to quantify your impact. This helps to give a clearer picture of what you accomplished. 

For instance, instead of saying, “I led a project”, you could say, “I led a team of 10 members to successfully complete a project that resulted in a 20% increase in efficiency”. Numbers make your achievements more tangible and highlight your contributions effectively.

IV. Keep the letter concise & focused 

When crafting your cover letter, balance between being informative and concise . Keep it focused on the most relevant points. You want the reader to get a clear picture of your qualifications and motivations without overwhelming them with unnecessary details . Stick to a single page and use clear, direct language to convey your message.

V. Incorporate keywords from the job description

Make your cover letter stand out by aligning it with the language used in the job description or program requirements . Highlight your skills, experiences, and achievements that directly relate to the keywords or phrases mentioned in the description. 

This shows that you understand what they are looking for and also helps your application pass through any automated screening systems that scan for specific keywords.

VI. Get feedback from mentors or career advisors before finalizing

Before sending your cover letter, get feedback from mentors , career advisors, professors, or anyone with experience in the field you are applying to. They can provide valuable insights, catch errors you might have missed , and offer suggestions to strengthen your letter. 

Their feedback can help you refine your message and ensure that your cover letter effectively highlights your strengths and aligns with the expectations of the program.

2 Examples of Cover Letters for Graduate Program

Creating a standout cover letter that distinguishes you among thousands of graduate job seekers and catches the eye of potential employers can be the key. To give you a head start, we have prepared 2 compelling cover letter examples. 

These sample cover letters are made specifically for graduate programs and will give you practical insights into how you can effectively showcase your skills, experiences, and enthusiasm to secure the position.

Sample Cover Letter 1 for Graduate Program

Sample cover letter 2 for graduate program, exploring graduate programs with prosple australia: simplifying the search.

Prosple is the ultimate go-to platform for finding graduate jobs in Australia. With thousands of job listings, we cater to all industries – from renowned giants to startups . Whether you are in engineering , accounting , law , or any other field, there is something for everyone.  

Let’s discuss in detail how Prosple Australia can simplify your search for graduate program jobs:

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• No need to constantly check for updates. Prosple sends you instant notifications tailored to your interests. That means you are the first to know about new opportunities in your desired field.
• With Prosple, you get access to expert career guidance to navigate the job search process. From refining your resume to acing interviews , we provide valuable insights every step of the way.
• We designed Prosple with you, the students, in mind. It provides a personalized career matchmaker with a powerful search engine to help tailor job suggestions based on your preferences and qualifications.
• Australia's Top 100 Graduate Employers , including big names like Deloitte , PwC , and BHP , regularly post openings on Prosple. Landing a job with these household names becomes more accessible through our platform.
• We don't just stop at job listings. Prosple keeps you in the loop with the latest articles and advice relevant to your career aspirations – a personalized newsfeed for career growth.

You know that you are perfect for that job but your confidence won't shine through unless you articulate your strengths. That is where a cover letter comes in. It is a great way to spruce up your resume for a job application and let the potential employer know what you are made of. 

Writing a cover letter for a graduate program is all about expressing your dedication and enthusiasm to learn and how you can contribute to the dynamic company culture. Remember, this is your moment to make a lasting impression. Be concise, be genuine, and be specific about what you bring to the table.

When it comes to launching your career after graduation, Prosple stands out as your ultimate ally. With an advanced platform connecting students and graduates with top-tier employers across Australia, we open doors to coveted opportunities. 

Don't miss out on your chance to land your dream job. Join Prosple today and take the first step towards a fulfilling career journey.

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Graduate cover letter examples

As a recent graduate, you need to effectively showcase your degree and relevant skills on your CV and cover letter.

But when you’re just starting out in your career, it can be tough to know where to begin.

In the guide below, we’ll teach you how to create a clear, concise and professional application using our graduate cover letter examples and handy top tips.

CV templates 

Graduate cover letter example 1

Graduate cover letter example 2

Graduate cover letter example 3

These 3 Graduate cover letter examples will provide you with some good ideas on how to format a cover letter, along with the type of message you should be trying to put across to recruiters .

To further understand exactly how you can write a cover letter that will get you noticed, check out our further guidance.

How to write a Graduate cover letter

Here’s how to write your own winning Graduate cover letter

Write your cover letter in the body of an email/message

When writing your Graduate cover letter, it’s best to type the content into the body of your email (or the job site messaging system) and not to attach the cover letter as a separate document.

This ensures that your cover letter gets seen as soon as a recruiter or employer opens your message.

If you attach the cover letter as a document, you’re making the reader go through an unnecessary step of opening the document before reading it.

If it’s in the body of the message itself, it will be seen instantly, which hugely increases the chances of it being read.

Start with a friendly greeting

To kick your cover letter off, start with a friendly greeting to build rapport with the recruiter instantly.

Your greeting should be personable but professional. Not too casual, but not too formal either

Go with something like…

• Hi [insert recruiter name]
• Hi [insert department/team name]

Avoid old-fashioned greetings like “Dear sir/madam ” unless applying to very formal companies.

How to find the contact’s name?

Addressing the recruitment contact by name is an excellent way to start building a strong relationship. If it is not listed in the job advert, try these methods to find it.

• Check out the company website and look at their  About page. If you see a hiring manager, HR person or internal recruiter, use their name. You could also try to figure out who would be your manager in the role and use their name.
• Head to LinkedIn , search for the company and scan through the list of employees. Most professionals are on LinkedIn these days, so this is a good bet.

Identify the role you are applying for

Once you’ve opened up the cover letter with a warm greeting to start building a relationship, it is time to identify which role you want to apply for.

Recruiters are often managing multiple vacancies, so you need to ensure you apply to the correct one.

Be very specific and use a reference number if you can find one.

• I am interested in applying for the position of *Graduate position* with your company.
• I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 406f57393)
• I would like to express my interest in the customer service vacancy within your retail department
• I saw your advert for a junior project manager on Reed and would like to apply for the role.

See also: CV examples – how to write a CV – CV profiles

Highlight your suitability

The sole objective of your cover letter is to motivate recruiters into to opening your CV. And you achieve this by quickly explaining your suitability to the roles you are applying for.

Take a look at the job descriptions you are applying to, and make note of the most important skills and qualifications being asked for.

Then, when crafting your cover letter, make your suitability the central focus.

Explain why you are the best qualified candidate, and why you are so well suited to carry out the job.

This will give recruiters all the encouragement they need to open your CV and consider you for the job.

Keep it short and sharp

A good cover letter is short and sharp, getting to the point quickly with just enough information to grab the attention of recruiters.

Ideally your cover letter should be around 4-8 sentences long – anything longer will risk losing the attention of time-strapped recruiters and hiring managers .

Essentially you need to include just enough information to persuade the reader to open up your CV, where the in-depth details will sit.

Sign off professionally

To round of your CV, you should sign off with a professional signature.

This will give your cover letter a slick appearance and also give the recruiter all of the necessary contact information they need to get in touch with you.

The information to add should include:

• A friendly sign off – e.g. “Kindest regards”
• Your full name
• Phone number (one you can answer quickly)
• Email address
• Profession title
• Professional social network –  e.g. LinkedIn

Here is an example signature;

Warm regards,

Jill North IT Project Manager 078837437373 [email protected] LinkedIn

Quick tip: To save yourself from having to write your signature every time you send a job application, you can save it within your email drafts, or on a separate documents that you could copy in.

What to include in your Graduate cover letter

Here’s what kind of content you should include in your Graduate cover letter…

The exact info will obviously depend on your industry and experience level, but these are the essentials.

• Your relevant experience – Where have you worked and what type of jobs have you held?
• Your qualifications – Let recruiters know about your highest level of qualification to show them you have the credentials for the job.
• The impact you have made – Show how your actions have made a positive impact on previous employers; perhaps you’ve saved them money or helped them to acquire new customers?
• Your reasons for moving – Hiring managers will want to know why you are leaving your current or previous role, so give them a brief explanation.
• Your availability – When can you start a new job ? Recruiters will want to know how soon they can get you on board.

Don’t forget to tailor these points to the requirements of the job advert for best results.

Graduate cover letter templates

Copy and paste these Graduate cover letter templates to get a head start on your own.

I hope you’re well.

I am excited to apply for the Graduate Structural Engineer position at Stainton Energy and I believe my strong academic background and onsite experience makes me a suitable candidate for this role.

Throughout my master’s degree at the University of Glasgow, I have engaged in large-scale installation projects, feasibility studies, and audits for civil and renewable energy construction companies. Notably, I contributed to a site audit that identified a significant submerged rock area, leading to critical modifications in project plans. Additionally, my Certified AutoCAD Professional status has enabled me to implement cost-effective materials and conduct comprehensive end-to-end component design. Throughout my academic journey, I excelled in modules encompassing Feasibility Study, Geotechnical Design, Renewable Energy Systems, and more. My final project, “A digital model of soil mechanics in an urban environment,” showcased my prowess in complex data analysis and computer modelling.

I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and eager to discuss how my skills can contribute to the company’s success. Thank you for considering my application.

Kind regards,

Leila Marker ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

Dear Frances,

I am excited to apply for the Graduate Research Chemist position at Helmer Laboratories as it perfectly aligns with my passion for analytical chemistry and expertise in organic synthesis.

As a detail-oriented Chemistry graduate currently pursuing my master’s in Analytical Chemistry, I possess technical proficiency in HPLC and GC-MS, enabling precise quality checks and chemical identification. My problem-solving skills and meticulous approach have streamlined workflows in a professional research laboratory and, during my internship at Lab Solutions Ltd, I contributed to significant cost savings through process optimisation and validation of an in-house HPLC method.

Throughout my academic journey, I excelled in modules covering Analytical Techniques, Advanced Organic Synthesis, and Chemical Analysis and Quality Control. My forthcoming thesis, ‘Analysis of Drug Metabolites in Urine using GC-MS,’ demonstrates my commitment to cutting-edge research.

I am confident that these collective skills make me and asses for your team and I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience to discuss them further.

Giles Stevens ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

I am writing to apply for the Graduate Software Developer position at your esteemed organisation, as it presents an exciting opportunity to leverage my passion for programming and problem-solving.

As a Computer Science graduate, I possess a strong background in object-oriented design principles and technical solution development. My proficiency in Java, C++, and Python has allowed me to develop and deploy software updates for enterprise-level applications, ensuring seamless user experiences. During my undergraduate studies I excelled in modules covering Software Development, Data Structures and Algorithms, and Artificial Intelligence. During my summer internship at Sky Blue Solutions, I collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to deliver high-quality software products. I also successfully implemented a new update deployment process, improving efficiency by 14%, and contributing to the development of an e-commerce application, increasing user engagement by 23%.

I am excited about the opportunity to further discuss my qualifications and how my skills can contribute to your organisation’s success. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

Mason Harley ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

Writing an impressive cover letter is a crucial step in landing a Graduate job, so taking the time to perfect it is well worth while.

By following the tips and examples above you will be able to create an eye-catching cover letter that will wow recruiters and ensure your CV gets read – leading to more job interviews for you.

Good luck with your job search!

Graduate Trainee Cover Letter Sample

Learn more about Graduate Trainee Cover Letter Example, Cover Letter Writing Tips, Cover Letter Formats and much more. Start editing this Graduate Trainee Cover Letter Sample with our Online Cover Letter Builder.

Graduate Trainee Cover Letter Templates

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Table of Contents

Best Graduate Trainee Cover Letter

What is the Graduate Trainee cover letter?

Why do Graduate Trainee cover letters matter?

• Structure of the Product Manager cover letter

How to write a great Graduate Trainee cover letter?

Graduate Trainee Cover Letter Example Tips

Whenever a job seeker applies for a Graduate Trainee role in a new company, he/she must signal their value through multiple mediums. While the Graduate Trainee resume will be the most well-known part of the Graduate Trainee job application, but, do consider the Graduate Trainee cover letter equally important for landing a job. Writing a great Graduate Trainee cover letter plays an important role in your job search journey.

Many employers no longer ask for cover letters these days, whereas, many employers still ask for cover letters from job seekers. And if you are sending an email to the recruiting team to apply, your email itself acts as a cover letter.

An engaging Graduate Trainee cover letter can help you grab an employer's attention, which can lead to landing an interview for a job. Before creating a job-winning cover letter that really works for you, you need to know what content and format are to be used. Check out our perfect Graduate Trainee cover letter example and start creating one for you on our easy to use cover letter builder.

When writing a Graduate Trainee cover letter, always remember to refer to the requirements listed in the job description of the job you're applying for. Highlight your most relevant or exceptional qualifications to help employers see why you stand out from other candidates and are a perfect fit for the role.

CV Owl's Graduate Trainee cover letter example will guide you to write a cover letter that best highlights your experience and qualifications. If you're ready to apply for your next role, upload your document on CV Owl for a review service to make sure it doesn't land in the trash.

Here we will discuss what a cover letter is, how to write a cover letter, why it matters for your job search, and what its structure should look like.

Must Read: How to Write a Cover Letter & Cover Letter Writing Tips explained

A cover letter is a narrative about who you are and why the recruiter should invest time in evaluating you, rather investing in other candidates. You need to showcase that you're the right fit for that specific job opening. It's important to always remember that the role of the cover letter is to share a narrative which is completely different from a resume for your job application.

Whereas, the Graduate Trainee resume should highlight all your quantitative values where you need to prove your worth through concrete numbers. Your Graduate Trainee cover letter should be different from your resume where you need to demonstrate a story about yourself in a way that your resume will never be able to do so. Alternatively, students who study web development can ask for Python assignment help at AssignmentCore whose experts handle various projects in Python language.

Your resume acts as a demo video for employers, which includes quick hits and stats on why you are the best solution whereas your cover letter acts like a customer testimonial white paper. Make it sound like an in-depth discussion with a couple of concrete and impactful experiences that bring you to life as a human being.

Check out professional cover letter templates at CV Owl's cover letter directory and you can use those templates for free for creating your Graduate Trainee cover letter using our professional cover letter builder.

Must Read: How to Get Your Cover Letter Noticed by Employers

The cover letter is kind of a test for you. It tests to see whether you can craft a compelling narrative about yourself. By testing your cover letter writing abilities, the company is trying to assess whether or not you would be able to craft compelling narratives on behalf of that company in the future.

Many companies will let you optionally attach a cover letter along with your application. If you take this as a challenge for yourself and do so, it will showcase your firm commitment to the company, and allows you to tell a story about yourself as a leader and as a collaborator. A solid cover letter will leave a long-lasting impression in the recruiters mind and will help make you stand out from other candidates.

And here's the most important reason of all: the process involved is more important than the output. When you get into the cover letter writing process, you're compelled to figure out the story about yourself, and how you are the best solution for the company's pain.

You're advised to conduct pre-interview research about the company so that you know exactly what you're meant to tackle, and you know exactly how to position yourself throughout the interview. Once you've written your Graduate Trainee cover letter, you'll have a mental reference point about how you want to talk about yourself across all of your interviews, and that's incredibly valuable!

Must Read: Things you need to know before start writing a Cover Letter

Structure of the Graduate Trainee cover letter

The most effective and impact making cover letters consists of three core parts.

The first part is the introduction. The first paragraph should include the following key details: which company you're applying to, what role you're applying to, and a summary of how you will add value to the company.

Many cover letters fail to mention either the job title or the name of the company. This provides a clear indication to the employer that you're using the same cover letter for many companies, which further indicates that you aren't serious enough or you don't care enough about making a good impression. If this is the case, it's better to not write a cover letter at all! And, always make sure you're sending the right cover letter to the right company.

Most of the time, applicants take advantage of cover letter examples or cover letter samples , and forget to clean it up. You need to ensure that you've put in all the hard work in personalization of your cover letter - be professional!

It shouldn't really be about you - rather, it should be about how you're excited about what the company is doing, and about how you're the perfect fit to solve their needs. And if you feel that you can't directly address the job requirements on the company website, you may need to consider applying for a different role instead.

The second part is the narrative. The second paragraph includes your story where you tell about yourself, and where you showcase that your past experiences have made you capable enough to be the best suited candidate available for that specific position.

Use it to address questions that might come up in an interview, such as “what was your proudest moment”, “how did you overcome failure”, and “tell us about a time when you took an initiative from start to end successfully.”

Always remember to customize your cover letter to the specific employer and the specific role that you're applying for rather than using a standard one for all which lands in the bin.

Finally, the last part is the conclusion. In the last & closing paragraph, summarize what value addition you'll bring to the company and why you're the perfect fit for the specific role. Express your excitement about being a part of the team in the near future. Remind them that they should reach out to you to schedule an interview so that they can learn more about how you're the best person to solve their problems.

With a cover letter created with the above structure, you're definitely gonna leave a solid impression that will grab the attention of hiring managers which significantly increases your chances of getting a job interview.

Must Read: Tips for Customizing your Cover Letter

Before you write a single word of your cover letter, you must first prepare your thoughts and pen down on a blank paper.

Ask questions to yourself like: What are your strengths? Where do you stand as a Graduate Trainee? Which of your work experiences is the best so far for the companies you've worked with?

Similarly, conduct research on the company . What is their product, their competitors, their mission, and what is their culture? What problem statement are they trying to solve with the Graduate Trainee role that you're applying to?

So now you must be having 2 stories - one for you and the other of the company. Write down both the stories on a paper. Review your two stories and your pre-interview research, and use that to hammer out your introduction and your conclusion. !

Now bring the whole thing down to a single page eliminating all the unnecessary and unrequired stuff. When the hiring managers assess your cover letter or your resume, they do not evaluate you on the basis of your sum of your experiences but on the average of your experiences. Hence, try to eliminate or cut out every single irrelevant word you've put in as it's gonna bring down the averages of your experience.

One of the simple ways to make sure that your cover letter stands out from the numerous other candidates' cover letters is to personalize your cover letter which helps you grab the hiring manager's attention. Express your enthusiasm about the job showcasing why you're the perfect fit for that specific role and how excited you are to be the part of the team.

Make use of the job description to which you are applying for which will help you to write a cover letter that clearly demonstrates how your skills, experience, or background make you the best available candidate to be a Graduate Trainee for the company. You should demonstrate exactly how much you are interested in the organization and the position, showing that you are able to meet the needs of the company.

Don't forget to learn about the organization. Take some time out to peruse the company's website and learn their values, mission, and then incorporate that information in your cover letter. Let the recruiters know how you came across this position and detail how your ideals are in line with the organization's goals and how your plans for your career can benefit their objectives.

Always make sure you only focus on the skills in the cover letter which the organisation demands and have highlighted in their job description. Specifically, the ones that are listed as being required separately, do not forget to put them in. Give a brief on these skills by offering concrete examples of how you are using or have used them with any success story(if any).

Proofreading & Iterating - Once you're finished writing your cover letter, edit your cover letter and ask for the feedback from your friend or of you have any consultant/mentor, and repeat this process until you and your reviewer agree and are satisfied that you are the best fit for the job from all other candidates that are applying. Learn to use grammarly .

Key points to remember - don't worry too much about the salutation or the greeting. It doesn't matter whether you use "dear sir or madam" or "dear hiring manager" or "to whomsoever it may concern" - the ultimate goal is to demonstrate that you're the stand out candidate out of everyone who's applying for that job posting. Just focus on the core value that you're bringing to the company! If you experience difficulty in composing your cover letter professionally, you can hire an essay writer at CustomWritings to have your cover letter or job application paper written from scratch.

Must Read: Things to remember while sending a Cover Letter

Even with a use of a cover letter sample or template, sometimes it can get even more trickier to make a perfect cover letter. Below listed are some tips to keep in mind when writing your Graduate Trainee cover letter.

• Use a proper cover letter format (one-inch margins, line spacing of 1.15, and an 11pt or 12pt classic font).
• Always have an attractive yet professional cover letter header.
• Show you're the best for the position and explain why you want to be part of the company and the value you will bring.
• Always remember to provide your contact information (e.g. phone number and email address), and if possible add a link to your LinkedIn profile which brings more professionalism.
• Do not add or share other social media links such as Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook.
• Always proofread your cover letter before sharing with hiring managers. Double check for any typos or grammatical errors. Spell check is your best friend here! Use grammarly!

Make note of these key points and remember that you're selling yourself to not only the hiring manager but also the company.

Must Read: Avail Professional Cover Letter Writing Services

Your Graduate Trainee cover letter is an opportunity for you to tell your story, without being stuck in the formatting constraints of the Graduate Trainee resume. Make use of this chance and let the hiring managers know why you're the best fit for the role!

Start with an attention grabbing introduction, followed by your key narratives as you were answering an interview question . Make sure that your key narratives focus on the pain of the company and how you can take them out of it. Conclude with a conclusion summarizing your value proposition and expresses your excitement about the role.

Notice how your cover letter answers multiple Graduate Trainee interview questions. It should answer the questions “tell me about yourself,” “what are your strengths”, “tell me about a time when you led an initiative”, and “tell me about a time when you overcame a challenge.” If you know how to write a good cover letter , you know how to crack a solid portion of the interview process too!

As you write more and more cover letters, you'll find that you've become better at positioning yourself as a product.

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