Motivation Letters

Video transcript:

Motivation Letters

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Olivier has found a vacancy about a job that he is really interested in. But they ask him for a motivation letter. How can he write a motivation letter? He has no idea.

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Don’t worry, Olivier! Let’s have a look at it together!

A motivation letter, also called a letter of motivation, is a short one-page-long letter that explains why you’re the perfect candidate for the position by using examples of your interests and achievements. It’s usually attached to your CV when applying for a job. 

A motivation letter can also be used for other situations outside the job world such as applying for an educational program at a college or university.

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The motivation letter gives the employer a first impression of Olivier and should not exceed one A4 page. In the motivation letter, Olivier explains why he is applying for a job and why he is particularly suitable for the job. If there is a job advertisement for the job, it makes sense to link the formulated requirements for the job with one’s own professional qualifications and private interests. The motivation letter begins with the salutation. To make sure that the salutation is as personal as possible, the applicant can find out the name of the company contact person and address him or her directly in the salutation. 

In the motivation letter, Olivier can describe his or her motivation for the application and this should be related to the advertised job or the new employer. It’s important that you write a personalized cover letter for each application.

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In the motivation letter, mention your strong points in your letter of motivation, preferably in the first few sentences, and don’t fall into the trap of listing everything in your CV in your letter. Make yourself interesting and give added value to your letter by speaking about yourself. Clearly explain to the recruiter why they should choose you rather than someone else. Make use of all your powers of persuasion. Look at the qualities requested in the job offer and explain they correspond to you. Don’t hesitate to place yourself in the future. Set out your career ambitions in a positive way. Also, talk about what you have achieved and what you are proud of. Finally, support what you say. For example, saying that you are organized or have a sense of responsibility isn’t enough. Avoid set phrases and explain why you are organized by giving examples.

The motivation letter should not exceed one-page A4 and should always finish by asking for an interview, and by saying how you can be contacted (e.g. mail, mobile or social media).

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The best way to go about writing a motivational letter is to use a three-part structure that includes an introduction, body, and conclusion. 

To write a motivational letter introduction that will grab your reader’s attention, use these tips:

• Add your up-to-date contact information in your letter heading. Include the addressee’s details as well.
• Refer to the hiring manager or point of contact by name.
• Mention what you’re applying for specifically; your reader doesn’t have time to guess what you might be interested in. 
• Explain why you’re writing your letter of motivation. Think of your intro paragraph as a pitch that needs to engage the reader enough to want them to read on for more details and examples.

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Now Olivier knows what to do. We wish him good luck with his application!