Author: Rebecca Fraser
Last saved by: Adam

Sample cover letter: Cover letter only + no work experience
(A Youth Central cover letter template) 

Use this sample cover letter if:

•	you're applying for a job that has been advertised 
•	you've been asked to apply using only a cover letter
•	you don't have any formal (paid) work experience. 

Some organisations will ask you to respond to their job requirements in a one-page cover letter, without submitting your resume. When this happens it's important to use your cover letter to link your experience and skills to the requirements of the job. 

If you haven't had any formal, paid work experience, things you can mention instead include: 

•	school work experience or volunteer work that demonstrates your strengths and attributes 
•	general skills that help you work in a team and as part of an organisation  
•	any sporting or community club participation (if relevant) 
•	any hobbies or interests relevant to the job or that demonstrate your professional experience
•	personal attributes that will help you learn to work in a professional work environment 
•	key strengths and contributions that show you are a standout applicant. 

When writing a letter like this you should include:

•	your name, email address and phone number at the top of the page on the right
•	the name of the business and the contact person's full name on the left 
•	the date you wrote the letter on the right
•	a reference line (e.g., "Re: Application for Administrative Assistant position")
•	an address to the reviewer directly (e.g., "Dear Mr. Moyle" - try to avoid using "To whom it may concern" if you can)
•	an opening statement that briefly introduces you to the reader 
•	a paragraph that summarises your experience and skills 
•	a list that clearly outlines how you meet each requirement of the job (use one bullet point for each requirement and make sure each bullet point is no more than two lines)
•	a closing paragraph asking to arrange an interview.
Key points of this cover letter are that it: 
•	introduces you to the reader 
•	responds to the requirements of the job 
•	doesn't include too many “I” statements, which can run the risk of disengaging the reader. 
If you have any questions about this sample cover letter, please contact us at youthcentral@dhhs.vic.gov.au.

For more information about job applications, including more cover letter and resume samples, visit www.youthcentral.vic.gov.au.

Joanne Tint
Email: joannetint@xmail.com
Mobile: XXX XXXX XXXX

Mr Allan Moyle
Pride Family Jewellers
Phone: XX XXXX XXXX
Email: enquiries@pridefamilyjewellers.com.au

23 April 2015

RE: Application for Retail Assistant position

Dear Mr. Moyle,

As a young, motivated individual I am extremely interested in submitting an application for the Retail Assistant role currently advertised at Pride Family Jewellers. 

In responding to the specific requirements of this position I would like to highlight how my experience can demonstrate my ability to meet each of these.

•	Previous experience in retail: I am a regular weekend volunteer at Lions Club sausage sizzle fundraiser, helping to take orders, handle money and respond to customer enquiries. 
•	Exceptional communication skills: I am an articulate communicator who understands the different communication styles required when working with fellow volunteers and customers.
•	Great attention to detail: My teachers have complemented me on the attention to detail I have demonstrated in my school assignments and presentations. 

In November 2014 I completed my VCE studies and also obtained a Certificate II in Business Administration.  

Above and beyond my experience and capabilities I have been commended for my high level of interpersonal skills and my naturally engaging personality. My motivations include learning new things, the challenge of meeting the needs of an organisation, and ensuring high-quality outcomes. 

I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you to discuss my application and this position in more detail at an interview. I can be contacted at all times on the details provided above.

Thanking you in advance for your time,

Joanne Tint