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The Cover Letter

A cover letter is an ideal way to demonstrate your enthusiasm for working at a particular company. It is also a great place to personalize your application and make it stand out from the rest. Use the cover letter to describe your skills and experience that is relevant to the position you are applying for. You can also talk about your background, activities and people skills (like teamwork) that are better suited to a cover letter than a resume.

Format of the Cover Letter

Make sure you include you contact information, the date of the letter, the contact of person or company you are sending your letter to. Normally there are 3 paragraphs to a cover letter

The opening paragraph: State why you are writing this company, how you learned of the organization or position, and basic information about yourself.
2nd paragraph: Explain why you are interested in the employer or type of work the employer does. Demonstrate that you know enough about the employer or position to relate your background to the employer or position. Mention specific qualifications which make you a good fit for the employer's needs.
3rd paragraph: Indicate that you would like the opportunity to interview for a position or to talk with the employer to learn more about their opportunities or hiring plans. State what you will do to follow up, such as telephone the employer within two weeks. State that you would be glad to provide the employer with any additional information needed. Thank the employer for her/his consideration.

Use your cover letter to highlight what is on your resume

Let's assume you're the typical student, you've got an education, possibly some job experience, and some life experiences. You are going to use your cover letter to explain how these experiences have combined to give you the skills relevant to the internship you want. And, when you combine your passion to the mix, you become the intern that is most desirable.

It is fine to discuss your career goals and your own need for experience

Since an internship is an opportunity for you to get exposure to and learn hands-on skills in a particular field or industry, its fine to discuss your career goals and your own need for experience. This is not normally done for paid working positions however in writing a cover letter for an internship it is acceptable.

Lastly, remember a passionate and motivated cover letter for internship can make all the difference in your results!

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Samples

Canadian Internship is for: Non-Canadians Canadians	Language: En Fr Gr