What should I include in my cover letter for a research company?

Question

If I don't have any experience in research (and I am a college student)

Answer 1

The point of cover letters are to be more specific with the job. You need to talk about why you sent them a letter, why you want to work there, and why you are interested. And don't just beg for a job. Tell them what YOU can do for them.

And what better way for employers to gauge your "communications and writing skills" than the cover letter? The purpose of submitting your resume should be to get an interview.

Think of it from their point of view too. They get hundreds or thousands of letters/resumes just like yours every day (google gets about 2,500 resumes daily). Think of WHY they should take 10 seconds to look at yours. The answer you have is what you should write in your cover letter.

Good luck! Knock em dead!

Answer 2

Include your academic credentials. What have you done that relates to what they research. Emphasize your organizational skills, experience preparing reports and papers for school, comprehension skills. Think about what they do and what similar things you have done. Also include your desire to work for them for the experience you will gain and the reputation of the company. A little flattery never hurts.