• A letter that is written by a candidate when applying for a job is called a job application letter. • Purpose: to highlight the candidate’s skills and suitability for that particular job. • (eligibility- possessing the necessary qualifications; suitability- possessing the skills required for the job) Two elements- Job application letter a) cover letter b) resume • Cover letter: A cover letter is a written document outlining the applicant's credentials(qualities) and his interest in the job he is applying for. • A good cover letter complements the resume and explains why the candidate is the best person for the job. Cover letter • The cover letter provides information to the employer about who the candidate is as a professional. This includes their job interests, professional goals, knowledge, the skills they have gained over the years, and their career goals and achievements. • The cover letter should be a one-page document that provides clear and concise details as to why the candidate wants the job. Cover letter • Personalize your letter for each role. Never use a generic cover letter. This means you have to write a new one for each position. Be sure to include your strengths and skills, and explain why you’re the suitable candidate. • Simplify your letter. Communicate clearly and concisely. Using long sentences will make reading difficult and will not interest the employer to read further. Cover letter • Avoid sounding arrogant. Ensure your cover letter does not make you appear arrogant. While the cover letter is about you and your accomplishments, avoid overusing words like "I," "me," or "my." • Remember that spelling counts. Typographical and grammatical errors show your lack of proofreading. Be consistent—don't convey a dash with "--" in one place and "—" in another. What to include in a cover letter? • Academic achievements, participation in clubs, volunteer work, internships (if any) • Your academic background. • Soft skills and Interpersonal skills- time management, creative thinking, communication, decision making, team working skills among others. How to write a cover letter?- First paragraph 1. First Paragraph - Why are you writing? 2. Middle Paragraphs - What skills do you have to offer to the company? 3. Concluding Paragraph - How will you follow- up? 1) If you are writing in response to a job posting, indicate where you learned of the position( from newspaper, company website or from any other source) and the what is the position you are applying for. SECOND PARAGRAPH 2) Refer specifically to your qualifications and illustrate how your particular skills/abilities relate to the position for which you are applying. Emphasize your achievements and problem-solving skills. Show how your education and acquired skills are relevant to the position for which you are applying. The skills should include both technical and soft skills. CLOSING PARAGRAPH 3) Close your letter by reiterating your interest in the job and letting the employer know how they can reach you. Include your phone number and email address positively. In conclusion, you can indicate that your references(people who refer you to your employers- it can be your lecturer, HOD or any other working professional who knows you well) are available on request. Sample cover letter- first paragraph Dear Sir, Sub: Applying for the post of Electronics engineer. I am writing this letter in response to your advertisement in The Hindu dated------- calling for the post of Electronics engineer. (or) In response to your advertisement, I wish to apply for the post of electronics engineer. Cover letter- second paragraph • I graduated in 2019 from Pondicherry Engineering College in Electronics & Communication Engineering. I have always been fascinated by cellular technology, and wish to work in a company that is forefront in this field. Besides possessing sound technical skills, I have good communication skills. As I have worked with multilingual members as part of a group project in my under graduation, I can work well in diverse teams. Cover letter- last paragraph. • My enclosed resume will provide additional details on my educational qualifications and skills. I have been looking for an opening like this where I can prove my mettle(abilities). I hope my skillset matches with your current job requirements. In case you require additional information, I will be pleased to provide the same. You can reach me at -------- or through email -----------. I am looking forward to hear from you.