Applying for a marketing summer internship can be a competitive process, and a well-crafted cover letter is essential to stand out from the crowd. Your cover letter is your chance to showcase your skills, experience, and passion for marketing, and to make a compelling case for why you’re the perfect candidate for the position. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you write a standout cover letter for your marketing summer internship application.
1. Research the Company and Role
Before you start writing, take the time to thoroughly research the company and the specific internship role. Understand the company’s mission, values, and recent marketing campaigns. This will help you tailor your cover letter to the company’s needs and demonstrate that you’re genuinely interested in the position.
Tips:
- Visit the company’s website and read through their “About Us” section.
- Follow the company on social media to get a sense of their brand voice and recent activities.
- Look up any news articles or press releases about the company.
2. Use a Professional Format
Your cover letter should follow a professional format and be addressed to the appropriate person. If the internship listing doesn’t specify who to address the letter to, do some digging to find out. Addressing your letter to a specific person shows that you’ve taken the initiative to research the company.
Format:
- Your Contact Information: At the top of the page, include your name, address, phone number, and email address.
- Date: Below your contact information, include the date.
- Employer’s Contact Information: Include the name of the hiring manager, the company’s name, and the company’s address.
- Salutation: Use a formal greeting, such as “Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],”.
3. Write a Compelling Introduction
Your introduction should grab the reader’s attention and make them want to continue reading. Start with a strong opening sentence that conveys your enthusiasm for the role and briefly mention why you’re a great fit.
Example:
“I am excited to apply for the Marketing Summer Internship at [Company Name], as I am passionate about [specific aspect of marketing that aligns with the company’s focus], and I am eager to contribute my skills and creativity to your innovative team.”
4. Highlight Relevant Skills and Experience
In the body of your cover letter, focus on your relevant skills and experiences. Use specific examples to demonstrate your abilities and how they align with the internship requirements. Be sure to mention any coursework, projects, or previous internships that have prepared you for this role.
Example:
“During my time at [University Name], I have taken several marketing courses, including Digital Marketing and Consumer Behavior, which have provided me with a strong foundation in marketing principles. Additionally, my role as a marketing intern at [Previous Company] allowed me to develop my skills in social media management, content creation, and market research. One of my proudest achievements was increasing our social media engagement by 30% within three months through targeted campaigns.”
5. Showcase Your Passion for Marketing
Employers want to hire interns who are genuinely passionate about marketing. Share your enthusiasm and explain why you are excited about the opportunity to work in this field.
Example:
“Marketing has always fascinated me because of its blend of creativity and strategy. I love analyzing consumer behavior and finding innovative ways to engage and connect with audiences. The prospect of working with [Company Name], known for its cutting-edge marketing campaigns, is incredibly exciting to me.”
6. Express Your Enthusiasm for the Company
Show that you’ve done your homework by mentioning specific aspects of the company that you admire and explain why you’re excited to intern there.
Example:
“I am particularly impressed by [Company Name]’s commitment to [specific value or initiative]. Your recent campaign on [specific campaign] was not only creative but also impactful, and I would love the opportunity to learn from such a talented team.”
7. Conclude with a Strong Closing
In your closing paragraph, summarize your interest in the internship and express your eagerness to discuss how you can contribute to the company. Thank the hiring manager for considering your application.
Example:
“Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of contributing to [Company Name] and learning from your esteemed team. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and enthusiasm can benefit your marketing efforts. Please find my resume attached for your review.”
8. Proofread and Edit
Before sending your cover letter, make sure to proofread it carefully. Check for any spelling or grammatical errors and ensure that the letter is clear and concise. It can be helpful to ask a friend or mentor to review it as well.
