A good motivational letter for a job application is personal, shows your strengths, sounds optimistic, gives specific examples, and is free of mistakes. Below you will find what each of these means, with a short checklist for every point.
The article on how to structure a motivational letter shows how to set up the letter. With that structure, you are already one step closer to a motivated and attractive application. Now it is time to fill the skeleton with content. Here are some general tips to follow when you write your letter of motivation.
Be personal
Your future employer wants to know why you chose this particular job, of course, but also why you want to work for their company above all others. Find as much information as you can about the company that offers the job, and use it in your letter. This shows your interest in the company, your motivation to work for them and no one else, and your ability to gather relevant information.
Also, take a personal approach. If you can find out the name of the human resources manager or of the person who handles the applications, address him or her directly.
In short:
- Be concise and clear
- Gather information about the company and the position
- Gather information about the person you will be in contact with
- Express your genuine motivation
Be strong
The motivational letter is the place to show your strengths, knowledge, and experience. Your weaknesses do not belong in this letter: there is enough time to discuss them in a job interview. Mention accomplishments in areas that the job requires or that are linked to its requirements. It is also a good place to look into the future: where do you see yourself one year after joining the company?
But by no means boast. Be realistic, and present your strengths in a practical and objective way. How to write an accomplishment statement shows how.
In short:
- Avoid mentioning your weaknesses
- Point out accomplishments in both your education and your career
- Mention past experience that matters for the job posting
- Express your career perspective
- Do not boast
Be optimistic
Bring some optimism into your writing, and let your words reflect it. Show that you think positively about the opportunity to work for the company and that you look to the future with confidence.
The motivational letter is what sets you apart from other applicants. Instead of stating that you lack experience in certain fields, show your enthusiasm and your will to improve your skills and knowledge. Give examples of your qualifications where they fit.
In short:
- Show that you are eager to improve
- Be optimistic and positive about your possible future in the company
- Make your application stand out from the others
- Mention your qualifications
Be specific
Don't be vague, especially when you can focus on problems for which you could offer a detailed solution. This applies to the company information you have gathered as well as to your experience and qualifications. Give detailed, specific facts and examples. It is also a good idea to weave in some information about yourself as a person if it underlines your qualifications or strengths.
On the other hand, don't drift away. Your facts should be relevant to the position you are applying for and should not wander into less relevant fields. Be as specific as you need to be, but keep things clear and brief.
In short:
- List concrete facts and examples
- Only state relevant facts
- Suggest your own solution to a common or known problem in the company or the field
- Tell the reader something about yourself as a person
Be correct
Once you have added all the important information to the structure of your motivational letter, it is time for one last check. You can avoid some common mistakes simply by rereading your letter; others are easier to catch with the Spell Checker.
- Is your contact information correct?
- Are the company's contact details free of typos and misspellings?
- Is the date correct?
- Did you forget any important qualifications, experience, or achievements?
- Did you drift into vagueness or irrelevance?
- Did you sign the letter?