Embarking on the journey to land your first programming job can be thrilling, but it's likely you've hit a stumbling block: crafting the perfect cover letter. This isn't just a rehash of your resume; it's your chance to showcase a crowning achievement in a compelling story. Aside from being formal and concise, keeping it under one page, your challenge is to engage without resorting to tired clichés. Here's how to create an entry-level programmer cover letter that stands out and reflects your professional pride.
- Making excellent use of job-winning real-life professional cover letters;
- Writing the first paragraphs of your entry-level programmer cover letter to get attention and connect with the recruiters - immediately;
- Single out your most noteworthy achievement (even if it's outside your career);
- Get a better understanding of what you must include in your entry-level programmer cover letter to land the job.
Let the power of Enhancv's AI work for you: create your entry-level programmer cover letter by uploading your resume.
If the entry-level programmer isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:
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Entry-Level Programmer cover letter example
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- Relevant Experience: Highlighting a key project at a well-known company like Microsoft lends credibility and showcases a successful track record in a similar high-stakes environment.
- Technical Proficiency: Mentioning specific programming languages such as Java and Python immediately signals the applicant's relevant technical skill set for a software development role.
- Results-Oriented Achievement: Quantifying the impact of past work (e.g., a 20% cost reduction) demonstrates a clear understanding of business objectives and the ability to deliver tangible results.
- Leadership and Teamwork: Describing the coordination of a team underscores communication skills and the capacity to manage and collaborate effectively within a team.
Structuring and formatting your entry-level programmer cover letter
Here's what the structure of your entry-level programmer cover letter should include:
- Header (with your name, the position you're applying for, and the date);
- Salutation (or greeting);
- Introductory paragraph (or your opening statement);
- Body paragraph (or further proof of your experience);
- Closing paragraph (with a call to action);
- Signature (that is optional).
Use the same font for your entry-level programmer resume and cover letter - modern fonts like Lato and Rubik would help you stand out.
Your entry-level programmer cover letter should be single-spaced and have a one-inch margins - this format is automatically set up in our cover letter templates and our cover letter builder.
When submitting your cover letter, always ensure it's in PDF, as this format keeps the information intact (and the quality of your document stays the same).
On one final note - the Applicant Tracker System (ATS or the software that is sometimes used to initially assess your application) won't read your entry-level programmer cover letter.
The top sections on a entry-level programmer cover letter
- Header: This should include the applicant’s contact information, the date, and the employer's contact information, establishing a professional layout and providing easy access to the applicant’s details.
- Greeting: A personalized greeting addressing the recruiter or hiring manager by name shows that the candidate has done their research and is serious about the position.
- Opening Paragraph: The introduction should capture the recruiter's attention, briefly introduce the applicant, and express enthusiasm for the position and the field of programming.
- Body: In this section, the candidate should highlight relevant skills, projects, and any coding experience that aligns with the job description, demonstrating their technical abilities and how they can contribute to the company.
- Closing: The closing should reiterate the applicant’s interest in the role, include a call to action (such as a request for an interview), and thank the recruiter for considering the application, leaving a polite and professional final impression.
Key qualities recruiters search for in a candidate’s cover letter
- Proficiency in relevant programming languages (e.g., Python, Java, C++): Demonstrates the technical foundation necessary to contribute to coding projects.
- Understanding of basic software development principles: Indicates a grasp of concepts like version control, debugging, and code structure.
- Portfolio of personal or school-related coding projects: Showcases initiative and hands-on experience with building and completing software tasks.
- Familiarity with common development tools and environments (e.g., VS Code, Git, Eclipse): Reflects readiness to integrate into the development workflow.
- Knowledge of software development methodologies (e.g., Agile, Scrum): Suggests an ability to work within a team's project management framework.
- Problem-solving skills and attention to detail: Critical for finding and fixing bugs and ensuring the quality of the codebase.
How to start your entry-level programmer cover letter: with a greeting, of course
Have you ever considered just how powerful a personalized salutation can be?
We sure have news for you! Your entry-level programmer cover letter should start with the right salutation to recruiters, nurturing a sense of respect and individuality.
Greet recruiters by using their first name (e.g. "Dear Tom" or "Dear Patricia") if you've previously established contact with them.
Otherwise, opt out for the less familiar, "Dear Ms. Peaches" or "Dear Ms Kelsey", if you've found the recruiter's name on LinkedIn or a corporate website.
"To whom it may concern" is never a good option, as it creates a sense that you've been sending out your entry-level programmer cover letter to anyone. Instead, use "Dear HR team" or "Dear (company name) recruiter" for a feeling of exclusivity.
List of salutations you can use
- Dear Hiring Manager,
- Dear [Team Name] Hiring Team,
- Dear [Company Name] Recruiter,
- Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name],
- Dear [First Name] [Last Name],
- Dear [Job Title] Search Committee,
How to start your entry-level programmer cover letter introduction
The opening paragraph of your entry-level programmer cover letter can seem like a real enigma.
Where do you start writing?
In your entry-level programmer cover letter introduction, focus on yourself by stating what:
- gets you motivated and excited about the role;
- you like best about the company, from culture to awards.
Write no more than two sentences, which are both authentic and show your enthusiasm for the opportunity.
The middle or body of your entry-level programmer cover letter body: a great instrument to tell a story
Now that you've set the right tone with the greeting and introduction of your entry-level programmer cover letter, it's time to get down to business.
Hear us out, the body of your entry-level programmer cover letter is the best storytelling instrument you have, in your job-hunting arsenal.
Writing the next three to six paragraphs, take the time to reassess the advert to discover job-crucial requirements.
Next, choose one accomplishment that covers those key skills and talents.
Use precisely that achievement to tell an exciting story of how you match the ideal candidate profile.
In the undertones of your story or entry-level programmer cover letter body, hint at the difference you'd make and sell your application as the perfect one for the job.
Finishing off your entry-level programmer cover letter with what matters most
So far, you've done a fantastic job in tailoring your entry-level programmer cover letter for the role and recruiter.
Your final opportunity to make a good impression is your closing paragraph.
And, no, a "Sincerely yours" just won't do, as it sounds too vague and impersonal.
End your entry-level programmer cover letter with the future in mind.
So, if you get this opportunity, what do you plan to achieve? Be as specific, as possible, of what value you'd bring to the organization.
You could also thank recruiters for their interest in your profile and prompt for follow-up actions (and organizing your first interview).
Entry-Level Programmer cover letter advice for candidates with no experience
If you're worried about writing your Entry-Level Programmer cover letter and have no professional experience, we sure have some advice for you.
Turn recruiters' attention to your transferable or relevant skills gained thanks to your life and work experience.
Instead of writing about past jobs, focus on one achievement (whether from your volunteering experience, education, etc.) and the skills it has helped you build.
Alternatively, you could focus your Entry-Level Programmer cover letter on your career objectives and goals. Always remember to make those relevant to the job you're applying for by detailing how you see yourself growing as part of the company.
Recruiters would be way more impressed with candidates who fit the job profile and can bring about plenty of skills and vision to the table.
Key takeaways
Winning recruiters over shouldn't be difficult if you use your entry-level programmer cover letter to tell a story that:
- Is personalized by greeting your readers and focusing on key job skills greets;
- Isn't spread all over the place, but instead focuses on one key achievement and selling your value as a professional;
- Introduces your enthusiasm for the role, passion for the job, or creativity in communication;
- Is also visually appealing - meeting the best HR practices;
- Ends with a nod to the future and how you envision your growth, as part of the company.
