A motivational letter is written while working, applying for study exchange (Erasmus) programs, it is often requested to be submitted in order to do an internship, volunteer or get involved in various projects and events. It is like a personal appeal to the employer/project manager, an opportunity to reveal your personal qualities and motivation for this job position.
- Form. Traditionally, when we hear the words “cover letter”, we immediately imagine a white sheet of paper with text – however, its form can be varied. It can also be a video presentation. The most important thing is to emphasize that the motivational letter should be adapted to the applied position.
- Motivation. The beginning of the letter must to draw attention. It is worth forming thoughts about what attracts you to this company, what makes it stand out, and what is your personal relationship/attitude towards it.
- Purposefulness. In the middle part, try to reveal how your skills, qualities and competences can be useful for this position. This is your chance to show your experience that you may not have been able to convey in your CV and give reasons why you should be hired. Highlight accomplishments that fit purposefully into the requirements of the position. Avoid general clichés like “I’m self-motivated, detail-oriented, hard-working, a team player” and the like. It is better to convey these qualities with examples of real work done, achievements, thus showing that you are exactly that kind of person.
- Structure. Usually, essential contact information (Name, Surname, phone number, e-mail), date and a polite addressing are provided at the beginning (it is useful to find out the name and surname of the person who is likely to receive the letter, thus showing that you are not sending a template letter and are addressing it only to this company) . The optimal length of the letter is three to five paragraphs, 1 page.