An effective volunteer cover letter is an integral part of any job application, as it provides employers and recruiters the chance to get to know the candidate and their motivations for volunteering with the organization. Crafting a well-formed cover letter for a volunteer position can be a difficult job, but with the right preparation and resources, you can ensure that your application is the one that stands out. In this guide, we will discuss how to write a volunteer cover letter and the important elements to include in it.
Understand the Organization & Industry
Research the Company & Organization
Before you start writing your cover letter, it is important to familiarize yourself with the organization and the industry in which it operates. This research will help you tailor the letter to the company’s mission, goals, and values and explain why you would be a good fit in the volunteer role.
Read Their Past Job Descriptions
If you have the opportunity, reading through any past job descriptions, the organization’s website, and blog posts can be a great start. Getting familiar with the volunteer roles that have been filled in the past, gives insight into the type of tasks that a future volunteer might be expected to do.
Volunteer Job Posts & Reports
Another useful exercise is to observe any open volunteer positions, as well as read through any reports or progress reports concerning volunteer roles and activities. This should give you a good idea of how the organization approaches bringing on volunteers and how they organize and manage volunteers once they join.
Create A Personalised Cover Letter
Address the Recruiter or Hiring Manager
Before you begin writing the cover letter, make sure that you have the name of the recruiter or hiring manager that you will be addressing in the top of the page. A cover letter needs to have a personal touch, and addressing the individual in charge of hiring by their name, will give them the feeling that you have taken special interest in their position.
Open with an Engaging Introduction
Once you have written the recipient’s name at the top, begin the letter with an engaging introduction. Introduce yourself, your background and explain why you would like to join the volunteers of the organization. Make sure to include a sentence or two explaining why you are the best person for the job.
Mention Relevant Skills & Experiences
In the body of the letter, state your relevant skills and experiences that make you an ideal candidate for the volunteer role. Mention any qualities or expertise you possess that could be useful in the role and that you can use to contribute and bring value to the organization.
Finish With A Positive Note
Express Your Appreciation
At the end of the cover letter, thank the recipient for taking the time to review your letter and considering you for the position. Keep it concise and be sure to express your appreciation for being given the opportunity to join the organization’s team of volunteers.
Closing Statement
In the closing statement of your cover letter, mention why the volunteer position interests you and how your background and skills could benefit their team. Keep it positive, reiterate your interest in joining the organization, and provide any additional contact information.
People Also Ask:
What Should I Include in My Volunteer Cover Letter?
Your volunteer cover letter should include your name, contact information, an introduction, a statement of your skills and experience that make you suitable for the position, appreciation for being considered, and a closing statement.
How Do I Write a Professional Volunteer Cover Letter?
Make sure to research the organization, tailor the letter to the organization’s mission, goals, and values, express your appreciation for the opportunity to volunteer in the role, and use engaging language and positive language.
Is It Necessary to Send A Cover Letter with A Volunteer Application?
A cover letter is an essential part of any application, and for volunteer applications, it is no different. Cover letters provide recruiters and employers with insight into the candidate, in terms of their attitude, motivations, and goals.
What Should The Opening of My Volunteer Cover Letter Say?
The opening of your volunteer cover letter should introduce yourself, your background, and explain why you are interested in joining the organization’s volunteer team. Make sure to mention why your skills and experience make you a great fit for the job.
Final Words
It is important to consider a cover letter for a volunteer position to be just as important as when applying for a paid position. Writing an engaging and professional cover letter with an understanding of the organization and its requirements will ensure that you stand out from the other applicants. Take the time to do your research and use the resources available to you. This will help you craft the perfect volunteer cover letter to get you closer to your goals of joining the organization’s volunteer team.