Your Summer Job Doesn’t Have To End In August
You just got the summer job… and suddenly fall hiring is around the corner. Here’s how to think one season ahead.
Your resume lists your experience. Your cover letter tells your story.
Already have a cover letter? Awesome. If you haven’t read our Cover Letter Writing Tips guide yet, start there. Then come back here for the next step.
These tips will help you show employers what makes you stand out.
Anyone can say they’re a hard worker or have great customer service skills. Instead of telling employers, show them.
A short story from work, school or volunteering can say much more than a list of qualities.
Instead of this:
“I’m a hardworking team player with excellent communication skills.”
Try this:
“While working at my local coffee shop, I helped a new team member learn the register during one of our busiest morning rushes. We kept the line moving and made sure every customer left with a positive experience.”
Specific examples make your skills believable and memorable.
Hiring managers can tell when someone sends the same cover letter to every employer.
Take a few minutes to explain why you’re interested in this company. Maybe you love their commitment to guest service, enjoy their atmosphere or admire their reputation in the community.
Showing genuine interest tells employers you took the time to learn about them and that you’re excited about joining their team.
Everyone starts somewhere.
If this is your first hospitality job, focus on experiences that show transferable skills.
Think about times you’ve:
These experiences build valuable skills like communication, teamwork, problem solving and responsibility, all of which employers in hospitality are looking for.
Hospitality is all about people.
Your cover letter doesn’t need to sound stiff or overly formal. Write professionally, but let your personality come through.
Imagine introducing yourself to a manager during an interview. That’s the tone you’re aiming for: confident, friendly and authentic.
Remember, they’re hiring a person, not just a resume.
One of the easiest ways to strengthen your cover letter is to pay attention to the words used in the job posting.
If the employer mentions qualities like:
Look for opportunities to naturally include those ideas when describing your own experiences.
This helps show you’re a strong match for the role without making your letter sound forced.
The last paragraph is your final chance to leave a positive impression.
Instead of ending with:
“I hope to hear from you.”
Try something more confident like:
“Thank you for considering my application. I’d welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and enthusiasm could contribute to your team.”
A confident ending shows professionalism and genuine interest.
Before you click submit, read your cover letter out loud.
You’ll quickly notice sentences that feel awkward, repetitive or too long. If something doesn’t sound natural when you say it, rewrite it.
This simple trick can make your writing feel smoother and more conversational.
A second set of eyes can catch mistakes you might miss.
Ask a teacher, coach, friend, family member or mentor to review your cover letter before sending it. They may notice spelling errors, confusing sentences or opportunities to make your examples even stronger.
Even small improvements can make a big difference.
Before you hit submit, ask yourself:
✔ Did I customize my cover letter for this employer?
✔ Did I mention the specific position I’m applying for?
✔ Did I include at least one real example of my skills?
✔ Does my personality come through?
✔ Did I proofread for spelling and grammar?
✔ Is my cover letter one page or less?
✔ Did I include my contact information?
If you answered yes to every question, you’re ready to apply.
A great cover letter doesn’t have to be perfect. It simply needs to tell your story and show employers why you’d be a great addition to their team.
Hospitality is built on creating memorable experiences, and your cover letter is your first opportunity to make one.
Now it’s time to put these tips into action.
Explore open hospitality jobs and find your next opportunity today.
You just got the summer job… and suddenly fall hiring is around the corner. Here’s how to think one season ahead.
How to grow, earn more, and take the next step in hospitality.
Spring is for fresh starts. Your resume needs a refresh too!
Even if you’re not applying yet!