How To Write a Good Cover Letter ForJob Application | Samples for College Students

Summary

This video teaches viewers how to write an effective cover letter for job applications and internships. It explains the three key components that should be included: an introduction about yourself, your motivation for applying, and why you're the right candidate for the role. Using the example of Aruna Negi, a computer science student applying for a mobile app development internship, the video guides viewers through the process of crafting a compelling cover letter that aligns with the company's goals. The tutorial highlights how to present your skills and passion in a way that captures the employer's attention.

Takeaways

• 😀 A cover letter is a brief write-up accompanying your resume, typically written in the email body.
• 😀 The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce yourself, explain why you're interested in the job, and highlight why you're a strong candidate.
• 😀 A good cover letter answers three key questions: Who are you and what is the purpose of your writing? Why are you interested in this job? Why should you be hired?
• 😀 The introduction section should include your name, academic background, and the reason you're writing the cover letter.
• 😀 In the second section, explain why you're interested in the role, mentioning your motivation, relevant skills, and how the job fits your career goals.
• 😀 The third section of the cover letter should detail why you're a strong candidate for the job, emphasizing your skills and relevant experience.
• 😀 A personalized approach is important—tailor your cover letter to the specific role and company by showing you’ve researched their values and mission.
• 😀 It's beneficial to mention any previous experiences, such as internships, that demonstrate your familiarity with the company or the role.
• 😀 A clear and concise cover letter will make it easier for the HR team to open your resume and evaluate your skills in detail.
• 😀 Including links to your work (like GitHub) and demonstrating relevant technical skills can help you stand out to recruiters.
• 😀 The cover letter should be polite, professional, and enthusiastic, leaving the door open for further communication.

Q & A

What is the primary purpose of a cover letter?

The primary purpose of a cover letter is to introduce yourself to the employer, highlight why you're a suitable candidate for the role, and explain how your skills and experience align with the job position you're applying for.

What are the key elements that should be included in a cover letter?

A cover letter should include three main elements: an introduction about who you are and the purpose of your application, a description of why you are interested in the job and how it aligns with your career goals, and an explanation of why you should be hired, focusing on the value you bring to the company.

How does a cover letter help in getting your resume noticed?

A well-written cover letter serves as a compelling introduction to your resume, providing context and a personal touch that encourages the employer to review your resume in detail. It highlights your qualifications and shows how you align with the job role.

Why is it important to answer specific questions in your cover letter?

Answering specific questions in your cover letter, such as 'Who are you?', 'Why are you interested in the job?', and 'Why should you be hired?', helps to demonstrate your suitability for the role, clarify your motivation, and provide insights into how you will contribute to the organization.

What should be the structure of a cover letter?

A cover letter should typically follow a clear structure: start with a brief introduction (who you are and why you're writing), follow with a paragraph about your interest in the role and how it fits your career path, then explain why you are the right candidate for the job, and finally conclude with a professional sign-off and your contact information.

How can you demonstrate your motivation and enthusiasm for the role in the cover letter?

You can demonstrate your motivation by explaining how the role fits into your career goals, sharing any personal experiences or projects that sparked your interest in the field, and showing your passion for contributing to the company's mission.

Why is it important to show that you've done research on the company?

Showing that you've researched the company and its culture in your cover letter indicates that you're genuinely interested in the role, and it gives you the opportunity to align your values with the company's vision, making your application stand out.

What should you avoid when writing a cover letter?

Avoid making your cover letter too generic or overly formal. It should be personalized to the specific role and company you're applying to. Additionally, don't restate your resume verbatim; instead, highlight the most relevant skills and experiences that directly apply to the job.

How can you make your cover letter stand out to an HR professional?

To make your cover letter stand out, tailor it to the job description by addressing the key skills and experiences the employer is looking for. Be specific about how your qualifications match the role and express genuine enthusiasm for the position and company.

How can mentioning a senior or mentor help strengthen your cover letter?

Mentioning a senior or mentor you worked with, especially if they are connected with the company or the industry, can serve as a form of endorsement and provide additional credibility to your application. It shows that you've built meaningful professional relationships and can leverage them to your advantage.