cover letter is the same as motivation letter

• Resume Writing
• Resume Examples
• Cover Letter
• Remote Work
• Famous Resumes
• Try Kickresume

Motivation Letter vs Cover Letter: What Are the Key Differences? (+Examples)

• Klara Cervenanska , 
• Updated May 10, 2023 4 min read

If you've ever found yourself scratching your head and wondering about the difference between a motivation letter vs. cover letter, you're not alone. 

These two documents, while similar, have distinct uses and contexts that set them apart. 

In a nutshell, the main difference between cover letter and a motivational letter lies in the fact that a cover letter is typically used in career settings , while a motivation letter is more common in academic settings .

In this article, we'll dive into the specifics of each document and provide examples to help guide you on when to use which.

Table of Contents

Click on a section to skip

Motivation letter vs. cover letter 

What is a cover letter, how to write a cover letter, cover letter example, what is a motivation letter, how to write a motivation letter, motivation letter example, motivation letter vs. cover letter our final piece of advice.

What's the difference between a cover letter and a motivation letter?

Let's sum it up:

Now, let's have a closer look at each of these documents, together with an example of both a cover letter and a motivation letter.

Need a cover letter but hate writing it?

Discover Kickresume's AI Writer and instantly generate ready-to-use cover letters.

A cover letter is a document that serves as your introduction to a potential employer, showcasing your background and explaining why you would be a good fit for the position they're offering. 

It should accompany your resume and should complement the information in it.

In essence, it's your chance to present yourself, let your personality shine through, and provide additional details that might not fit within the limited space of your resume. 

Even if you lack previous experience in the field, a well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out by highlighting your enthusiasm and positive qualities. 

When it comes to writing a cover letter, the structure is just as important as the content. Here's a simple breakdown of the key components to include:

• Opening paragraph : Start with a brief introduction, saying who you are and the position you're applying for. This is your opportunity to grab the reader's attention and encourage them to read on.
• Body paragraphs: Use this section to showcase your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements. Be sure to provide concrete examples and explain how they directly relate to the job you're applying for. This is your chance to demonstrate why you're the ideal candidate for the position and how your background aligns with the company's needs and values.
• Closing paragraphs : In your closing paragraphs, restate your interest in the position and summarize your qualifications. This is also an excellent opportunity to express your enthusiasm and eagerness to contribute to the company's success. Don't forget to thank the reader for considering your application and provide any necessary contact information.

Now that you have a better understanding of what a cover letter entails and how to write one, let's take a look at an example to help illustrate the key concepts.

Marketing and Brand Manager Cover Letter Sample

This cover letter sample was provided by a real person who got hired with Kickresume’s help.

While cover letters are designed for job applications, motivation letters serve a different purpose. 

Motivation letter is typically used when applying for academic opportunities such as scholarships, internships, or postgraduate programs, but also when applying for a non-profit organization or voluntary work.

A motivation letter aims to convey your passion for the subject, your personal goals , and how the program or opportunity aligns with those aspirations. 

It's an opportunity to showcase your drive, commitment, and enthusiasm for the field, setting you apart from other applicants. 

When crafting a motivation letter, it's essential to convey your genuine interest in the program or opportunity and provide a clear explanation of your motivations. 

Here's a simple outline to follow:

• Opening paragraph: Begin with an introduction, stating who you are and expressing your interest in the program or opportunity. This is the perfect chance to capture the reader's curiosity and set the tone for the rest of the letter.
• Body paragraphs: In this section, delve into your motivation for pursuing this opportunity, your long-term goals, and how the program aligns with those objectives. Be specific and provide examples, such as relevant experiences or accomplishments, that demonstrate your commitment to the field.
• Closing paragraphs: Wrap up your motivation letter by reiterating your interest in the program or opportunity and expressing your enthusiasm for the potential it offers. Thank the reader for considering your application and provide your contact information.

Now that we've covered the purpose and structure of a motivation letter, let's take a look at an example to help bring these concepts to life. 

This sample motivation letter will demonstrate how to effectively introduce yourself, share your motivations and goals, and express your enthusiasm for the academic opportunity:

University Motivation Letter Example

Throughout this article, we've explored the key differences between motivation letters and cover letters.

In a nutshell, a cover letter focuses on your qualifications and suitability for a specific job, while a motivation letter expresses your enthusiasm and reasons for pursuing a particular opportunity, often in educational or volunteering contexts.

Furthermore:

• Cover letter typically includes your contact information, addresses the hiring manager, and is tailored to a specific job posting or company.
• Motivation letter is more general, often used for educational or volunteer programs, and emphasizes your passion, personal goals, and reasons for choosing the opportunity.

By understanding these distinctions, you can confidently craft the right document for your specific needs, be it an academic opportunity or a job application.

Klara graduated from the University of St Andrews in Scotland. After having written resumes for many of her fellow students, she began writing full-time for Kickresume. Klara is our go-to person for all things related to student or 'no experience resumes'. At the same time, she has written some of the most popular resume advice articles on this blog. Her pieces were featured in multiple CNBC articles. When she's not writing, you'll probably find her chasing dogs or people-watching while sipping on a cup of coffee.

Related Posts

The only cover letter guide you’ll need in 2024 (+examples).

• 13 min read

10 Cover Letter Samples by People Who Got Hired at Volvo, T-Mobile or HubSpot

Share this article, join our newsletter.

Every month, we’ll send you resume advice, job search tips, career hacks and more in pithy, bite-sized chunks. Sounds good?

Resume Templates

Resume samples

Create and edit your resume online

Generate compelling resumes with our AI resume builder and secure employment quickly.

Write a cover letter

Cover Letter Examples

Cover Letter Samples

Create and edit your cover letter

Use our user-friendly tool to create the perfect cover letter.

Featured articles

• How to Write a Motivation Letter With Examples
• How to Write a Resume in 2024 That Gets Results
• Teamwork Skills on Your Resume: List and Examples
• What Are the Best Colors for Your Resume?

Latests articles

• How To Add a Promotion on LinkedIn: Steps and Example
• The Highest Paying Blue-Collar Jobs Offer Stability, While Nearly 300,000 Layoffs Are Blamed on AI
• How To Prepare Your Resume for a Promotion in 2024
• The Essential Guide To Giving Two Weeks’ Notice in 2024

Dive Into Expert Guides to Enhance your Resume

What’s the Difference Between a Motivation Letter and a Cover Letter

If you’re thinking about applying to college or a new job and want to quickly show how motivated you are, you might looking for the best way to get that done. 

Don’t worry, that’s normal, but you need a solution. 

After all, when planning to apply for something, it’s essential to make a great first impression . 

That’s why many applicants send in a cover letter or a motivation letter . 

However, you might be wondering if there’s any difference at all between a motivation and a cover letter, and which one is better for the job you want to land ?

In this article, we’ll explain:

• Cover letter and motivation letter differences
• Benefits of each type of letter
• When to use one letter or the other

Once you understand which is best to include with your application, use our AI-powered resume builder to easily win over employers. 

Keep reading to find out the best way to show off your career goals to employers.

Motivation vs. Cover Letter: Key Differences

Employers want to find and hire applicants who are highly motivated as it leads to a number of benefits for the company such as guaranteeing a great company culture and keeping the employee long term.

However, choosing between a cover letter or writing a motivation letter will depend on the type of program or company .

That’s because each letter focuses on different aspects of your qualifications and experience.

Take a look at the differences between the 2 types of letters :

Motivation Letter

• Centers on personal goals and passion for the field and is more personal and reflective, while discussing long-term aspirations.

Cover Letter

• Highlights professional skills and job suitability and is used for professional positions as it showcases relevant achievements and qualifications.

By picking the letter that best fits the position you want , you’ll guarantee that the hiring manager notices your best qualifications and goals. 

Cover Letter vs. Motivation Letter: When to Use Them

There are a number of unique motivation letter and cover letter differences and strengths. 

This means it’s critical to understand when to use those strengths , or you’ll end up explaining information that isn’t important. 

For example, when applying for college or graduate school programs , you should use a motivation letter as it will help you show your passion for your field of study. 

Here are other examples of when to use a motivational letter:

• Scholarship applications . Share how the scholarship will help you achieve your educational and career goals.
• Internships : Explain how you want to learn from experienced employees, especially in fields where your academic knowledge is essential.
• Volunteer positions : Mention your commitment and reasons for volunteering to an NGO or other organization that you would like to work with.

When to Write a Cover Letter

Cover letters focus more on your professional qualifications , so they should be used when sending your application to a company or business. 

Here are some specific examples: 

• When applying to a job : Use your cover letter to connect your experience and skills to the job’s requirements.
• Changing careers : Explain how your existing skills can transfer to the new role in your cover letter.

Even if it’s optional to send in a cover letter with your application, you should do so anyway.  

It’s been proven that cover letters help candidates when applying for a position. 

Between 2017 and 2021, there has been an 18% growth in the importance of including a cover letter with an application. 

Cover Letter and Motivation Letter Differences in Format

Both cover letters and motivation letters differ a bit when it comes to their format. One is a bit longer, while the other is a bit more formal. 

However, each letter will have an intro, body, and conclusion . 

Cover letter format

If you’re writing a cover letter, you’ll want to keep it to 1 page and keep the vocabulary formal. 

Your cover letter should cover the following in the different sections:

• Introduction : Briefly mention your current role or recent job and the position you’re applying for.
• Body : Mention your skills and achievements relevant to the job. Use examples to demonstrate your achievements and how they apply to the new role.
• Conclusion : Restate your interest in the position and invite the employer to review your resume or contact you for further discussion.

Here’s an example of a well written cover letter that mentions a candidate’s skills, accomplishments and more , so that you can better understand the format and style:

Dear [Employer’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the Accountant position listed on [Where You Found the Job Posting]. With a strong background in accounting principles and a commitment to accuracy and detail, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name].

In my current role at [Your Current Company], I have successfully managed a diverse range of accounting tasks, including ledger operations, financial reporting, and budgeting. 

I am particularly proud of leading a project that streamlined our budgeting process, resulting in a 20% reduction in processing time.

I am eager to bring my expertise in financial management and my proactive approach to problem-solving to your team. 

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience align with the needs of your team. I am available at your convenience for an interview and can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email].

[Your Name]

Motivation Letter Format

A motivation letter on the other hand can be a bit longer and more related to personal goals rather than professional ones. 

Here’s what the different sections should go over:

• Introduction : Start with a personal statement or story that reflects your passion for the field or program.
• Body : Discuss your personal journey, long-term goals, and why the program or opportunity excites you. Include relevant personal achievements as well.
• Conclusion : Summarize your ambitions and how the opportunity aligns with your goals, expressing your desire to contribute and learn.

Here’s how your motivation letter can be formatted to show you are the best candidate for an internship position .

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am writing to express my enthusiasm for the [Specific Internship Position] at [Company/Organization Name]. My academic background in [Your Major/Field of Study] and my active involvement in [relevant clubs or activities] have fueled my interest in [specific aspect of the field or industry], making this internship an ideal opportunity for my professional growth.

During my studies at [Your University/College], I have developed [mention specific skills or knowledge relevant to the internship], which I am eager to apply in a practical setting

I am particularly attracted to this internship at [Company/Organization Name] because of your commitment to [mention something notable about the company or its values]. The chance to learn from and contribute to your team, especially in [mention a specific area or project of the company], is an exciting prospect for me.

Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background and enthusiasm make me a great fit for this internship.

When you write a cover letter or motivation letter, you’ll need to ensure your relevant qualifications and long-term goals shine . 

You can do that if you remember the following:

• Motivation letters should be written for internships, organizations, and academic programs.
• Cover letters are more professional and should accompany a job application.
• Motivation letters are a bit more personal. 

By using our handy cover letter builder , you can easily create a letter that will prove you are motivated and ready to take on your next challenge. 

Trouble getting your Cover Letter started?

Beat the blank page with expert help.

Writing an excellent cover letter: What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is an introductory letter addressed to a hiring manager in response to an advertised job by the hiring company. Typically, a job applicant writes the cover letter elaborating the skills, abilities, experiences, and other factors that would make him or her appropriate for a particular job. Most companies demand a resume be submitted with an application letter to expound on the applicant’s reasons for applying for the position. The main purpose of a cover letter is to express the reasons for applying for an available vacancy for the job. While many people overlook the importance of this document, it plays a primary role in convincing the employer to read the CV keenly and consider the applicant for the job. This is why applicants should strive to write a cover letter that sells their expertise.

A cover letter example - the required format

Here is an example of a cover letter that would be effective in convincing an employer:

Dear Sir/Madam,

I write to convey my interest in the position of a psychologist in your company, which was advertised through the print media. The description in the advertisement matches my skills, abilities, talents, and training. I have worked in a similar position at an international company, and I demonstrated proper professionalism and competence. My experience in working with children and youths as a psychologist qualifies me for this position. If all you need is a competent psychologist who will make noticeable changes in your organization, then I am the right person for the job.  

What is a letter of motivation, and when is it used?

A letter of interest is an introductory letter addressed to an organization that may not necessarily have a job available for the applicant. Writing a letter of interest communicates one’s desire to work with the target company if a chance arises. The synonym for this document is a letter of inquiry, which is composed with an intention to seek for opportunities of an internship, admission to a school or college, a volunteer position in an organization and so on. The applicant can write a letter of interest while in school or other duties. Unlike a cover letter, which is written in response to an available position, a letter of motivation only inquires if there is a job and expresses a desire to work with the company in future. Often, the organization should be related to the training of the applicant.

A motivation letter example that applicants can use

I would like to work with your company as an intern in web design starting January 2019. I am a student of computer science pursuing my degree at the University of Pretoria. My area of interest is web design and coding. I have exceptional skills and abilities in designing websites. Since your company deals with web design, I express my desire to join you in completing my coursework. I would also want to know if you have a web designer or if you would consider such a post in your organization in future. I would be glad to serve in such a position and use my skills to make a difference in your company.

Motivation letter vs cover letter: When to use each of them

The difference between a letter of interest and a cover letter ranges from their definition, their use, and contents. They are essential writings that could warrant a job seeker an opportunity to work with the desired organization. The major difference between a cover letter and a letter of interest is that the latter seeks to inquire about a possible position and express interest for the future. However, the former is a responsive writing to an available position. A perfect cover letter gives a clear demonstration of the job requirements of a specific company or employer. However, the letter of interest can be written any time irrespective of the availability of a job.

Writing effective applications

With the various types of application documents available, it is good to master the content of each one of them. It will not only secure your position and but reveal your professionalism and seriousness with work. Some of the application documents everyone should know how to writer entails:

• Cover letter
• Application letter
• Curriculum Vitae
• Letter of interest
• Personal statement

You could be wondering how to write a proper application document. Worry not: you can get the best cover builder from our platform to help you.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit. Alias aut delectus magni officia quidem quis tempora veniam. Culpa eius expedita mollitia nemo perspiciatis. Atque ipsum quas quis repellat voluptate. Placeat?

• Create Resume
• Resume templates
• CV templates
• Resume Writing Service
• How to Write a Motivation Letter in 2024: Full Guide, Tips & Template
• Resume writing /

A perfectly written resume is enhanced with an articulate and personalized motivation letter. While some call this document a cover letter, its true intent is indeed to motivate the recipient into the action of contacting you for a job interview. This makes it different from a cover letter.

While a well-written letter of motivation can positively impact your job-seeking opportunities, a poorly written one can instantly disqualify you from candidacy. In the information below, we're going to teach you how to write a motivational letter. Our team of professional writers has drafted a motivation letter example for a job application for you to review.

So – if you're curious to discover what is a motivational letter and how to write them correctly, this article will serve as your guide. Let's get started.

What is a Motivational Letter?

There are many ways of articulating your qualifications for a job in your resume and in person. However, many professional positions and continuing education admissions are improved when the candidate submits a motivational letter.

The motivational letter is a single-page document drafted to serve as a closing argument or your opportunity to prove why you are the best candidate for a specific position. It's often submitted in conjunction with an application and/or resume. However, some situations will require an application letter to be submitted.

• Most letters of this sort are submitted to decision-makers vs. recruiters and support the following situations.
• You are applying for admission to a higher education program (including bachelor’s, master’s degree, graduate, and postgraduate).
• You are applying to work for a company serving in a leadership role.
• You are applying to work as a volunteer or intern for a non-profit, company, or other organization.

Why Motivation Letter Matters for Your Application

Here is an interesting question that many job or educational candidates ponder. What is the intent of the resume and cover letter? It's often assumed that these two documents are submitted as a requirement typically tossed out by the employer. And in some cases, they would be correct.

Suppose the information on your application does not improve their interest. In that case, a generic resume and cover letter without any supporting evidence or enhancements to your application will be useless.

On the other hand, the best motivational letter can be the game-changer you need to nudge your candidacy or college application by receiving that critical interview. Some of the key benefits of writing a motivational letter include:

• Helps You Stand Out: When your motivational letter is personalized, passionate, and convincing, it displays dedication, enthusiasm, attention to detail, and your personality.
• Improves The Decision-Making Process: When you are among a smaller pool of final candidates, the individual with a convincing motivational letter may head to the top of the list.
• Teaches You How to Communicate Effectively: Leaders in all industries are those who can clearly articulate their vision and direction. Learning to write a convincing motivation letter for a job or entrance to college provides an invaluable experience you'll use throughout your career.

What to Include in Your Letter of Motivation?

A solid motivation letter is accomplished through organization, format, and using the appropriate language. While choosing the right descriptive and convincing words to use in any letter is a challenge for most, one item that anyone can accomplish is ensuring all required elements are included.

Your primary goal is to capture the reader’s attention while explaining why you’re the perfect candidate. As such, a successful motivation letter will include five sections.

The Greeting : Attention to detail is a vital skill that can make or break your application. As the letter of motivation is a personalized and convincing cover letter, you should always know the company name or title of your recipient. The generic Dear Sir/Madam should be used in a cover letter – not a motivational one.

*Tip – if you don't know the recipient's name, address their job titles, such as Dear Admissions Director or Dear Hiring Manager.

Introduction:  This will be the first paragraph of your letter – and the best shot you have at capturing their attention. In the introduction, your primary goal is to introduce your candidacy, some of your key attributes, and what you will accomplish in the body of the letter. Consider this your opening argument if you were a lawyer in a courtroom.

Body:  This section allows you to sell the sizzle, not the steak. The body paragraph or multiple paragraphs is your chance to highlight your key work experience, accomplishments, skills, and interpersonal abilities that separate you from other candidates.

While you want to sound knowledgeable, confident, and able to eclipse any hurdle, you also have an excellent opportunity to showcase humility. In the body, be transparent about some of the common hurdles you may encounter – and how your skills and experience prepare you to accomplish career goals.

Closing:  This is your chance to seal the deal. In the final paragraph, reinforce your desire to retain the position you're applying for – mentioning it by name and specifically with the organization you are contacting. Express your gratitude for having the opportunity to apply, and finally, close it with a powerful and confident statement, such as "I look forward to working with you soon."

Signature:  Keep this simple – but it's always great to end a motivational letter with a potent closure. Most people will use the common phrase Sincerely Yours. While this will' work' – try to stand out by using the closing phrase, Kindest Regards – followed by your full legal name.

How to Write a Motivation Letter in 5 Simple Steps: Full 2024 Motivational Letter Guide

Like a strong resume, a good motivation letter takes time to craft. However, by following a proven process, you can mitigate several common mistakes found in most cover or motivational letters of interest.

Noted below is our five-step process that will save you time, ensure quality, and allow you to drive your message home. For purposes of demonstrations, we're going to assume that this candidate is writing these motivational or cover letter samples.

Step #1 – Create an Outline 

The best way to ensure all your essential items are included in your letter is to create an outline first. The outline should be formatted by section or broken down into a few primary sections. Here is what we'd recommend for an outline structure for a motivational letter.

Introduction:  In this section, list the key items you want to address, including the name of the position you're looking to retain, the name of the organization or company you're applying to, and a long-term goal that you hope to obtain after being accepted.

Body:  The body of your letter should be three distinct paragraphs. As such, we recommend creating three bullet points to help structure the flow of your letter. Here are a few points we think you should address in a motivational letter.

• The education or job experience you've completed to help prepare you for this application.
• What skills do you have that will permit you to succeed in this position.
• The hard work, life lessons, or interpersonal skills allow you to excel in this industry or combat any objectives.

Conclusion:  The final section of the outline is the conclusion. For the outline, make sure to include the following.

• Thank them for the opportunity to apply for the position (by name).
• Final point as to why you want this position.
• Remind them to contact you with any questions.

Step #2 – Create the Introduction Section

Once you have an outline and you've structured it in such a way to make the letter flow and tell a story from start to finish, it's time to start writing the letter. We'd recommend starting at the top. Take the information or bullet points you've mentioned in the outline, and simply write them in order. Don't focus too hard on picking the perfect words.

Step #3 – Create Each Paragraph of The Body and Conclusion 

After you have a rough introduction draft:

• Continue with the body of the letter.
• Again, use those specifics in the bullet points, and write them in an order that helps elevate the story.
• Complete this for each of the three paragraphs in the body of your letter.
• When you've finished the body, do the same with the conclusion.

By the end of this step, you should have a solid rough draft.

Step #4 – Start to Edit the Entire Document

Editing is not as complex as most assume. The key to editing any written piece of content is first defining the audience. What do they want to read, and how do they want those words structured? One way to start the editing process is to double-check to see if there are any required formatting elements that candidates for your position are supposed to follow.

Some organizations, especially professional educators and scholarships, often have a recommended template they want candidates to follow. Other businesses are open to creativity.

For example, suppose you're writing a letter to a hiring manager who was forwarded your resume and application by an assistant who perhaps pre-qualified you as a good candidate. In that case, you can assume they want to know why you're the best among others. This same concept applies to applying for college entrance or a scholarship.

The second step of editing is choosing the right action verbs and adjectives. An excellent resource for this is a thesaurus. If your initial edit includes multiple versions of the same word, use the thesaurus to select a different word that may amplify the point. A great tool that will help you with this is Grammarly.com . The tool will recommend more powerful replacement words if you upgrade to their premium membership.

Finally, once you've proofread your entire letter, are satisfied with its flow structure, and believe it proves a point, edit the complete document through Grammarly. Read the entire letter aloud multiple times – or have the word document read it.

Step 5 – Use a Cover Letter Template to Format the Document

The final step is to ensure that the letter is properly formatted. You can review samples and replicate them with standard word documents, but this is often more challenging than using a professional template.

When your letter is 100% ready to go, use the cover letter template and paste the information into the recommended sections. If you submit your resume along with this motivational letter, choose a template that matches the resume for the letter. This type of attention to detail showcases professionalism.

Motivation Letter vs. Personal Statement: What's the Difference?

A personal statement is essentially an introduction to yourself, skills, education, and interpersonal traits. A motivation latter takes those basics and explains how they are used to receive the position you're applying for and how that opportunity will elevate your career.

A motivation letter is very much recommended for candidates who are looking to enter a college or a specific program, such as an internship, graduate program, or entry-level leadership position. Your letter aims to explain how you'll use this entry position to elevate your career.

Motivation letter vs. cover letter: What's the difference?

It's easy to confuse this document with a standard cover letter. However, while the structure and format are essentially the same, the intent and content within are different in several ways.

• A cover letter is a simple introduction to your candidacy.
• A motivational letter makes an argument and introduces the resume as supporting evidence to prove your point.
• A cover letter is written with a matter-of-fact tone – while a motivational letter infuses passion, confidence, and a call to action.

3 Extra Tips for a Successful Letter of Motivation to Keep in Mind

Writing a motivational letter is challenging, even for a professional writer. However, by following the tips above, we firmly believe you'll have a better chance of creating an engaging and convincing document.

With that said, here are three extra tips to consider.

Tip #1 – Research Your Audience

Suppose you're going to stand out among the competition. In that case, you need to complete the due diligence to understand some facts about your intended audience. Find out who the decision-maker is and personalize the letter to them directly.

Tip #2 – Never Send a Generic Motivational Letter

This type of letter MUST be personalized for specific applications. Even if you're applying for the same position at multiple locations, take time to personalize some sections of the letter, such as contact information, details about their business, and why you'll fit in with their culture.

Tip #3 – Don't Be Afraid to Seek Help

When you're in the position to submit a motivational letter, it might be an excellent investment to have a professional writer help you with picking the proper phrasing, words, and structure. A professional resume writer and motivational letter writer can also infuse keywords, action verbs, and convincing descriptive terms.

Motivation Letter Template

A motivation letter template makes it easy to format the document professionally and quickly. We've created a downloadable and edible template that you can simply copy and paste your edited content into – to streamline the process of creating an engaging letter.

Insert Downloadable Editable Template

Need Help with Your Motivation Letter? Contact Us!

The team at CVMaker.com is staffed by experts in human resources with years of experience in reviewing and writing resumes, cover letters, and motivational content. Contact us today if you have read the article above and believe it makes sense to have a professional writer help create an engaging and convincing motivational letter. We'd be happy to help.

Final points on writing a motivation statement

As you're preparing to apply for scholarships, entrance into college, or that perfect internship and job, having an engaging and captivating letter of interest is a must-have – especially among a talented pool of other candidates.

• Always remember these necessary steps for writing a motivation statement or letter.
• Define your target audience. Make sure you know who will be reading your letter and write it to them.
• Create an outline to structure your letter into five paragraphs.
• Make sure to use the same font throughout the letter.
• Write the letter on plain white paper with black ink.
• Run your letter through Grammarly.com to ensure it's 100% accurate.

If you follow these tips above, you'll be better prepared to write a powerful motivation letter to help you gain that important interview and hopefully land that scholarship, program entrance, or job.

How long should a motivation letter be for a job?

Best practices for writing motivation letters suggest that it should be a single page. It should include five paragraphs, with a dedicated introduction, three supporting paragraphs, and a conclusion. If possible, you should format it like a professional letter and address it to the intended audience by name or title. Finally, a motivation letter should always be customized for each recipient.

What should you not write in a motivational letter?

Several items should not be included in a motivational letter. For starters, keep personal information out of your motivational letters – such as stories about medical conditions, legal issues, or other potentially uncomfortable topics of discussion. You should also emit too many examples of the same supporting argument. Make sure to also keep the content professional and on topic.

How do I write a motivation letter for a university admissions?

A motivation letter for a University admission should be written in a similar five-paragraph format. However, it's a good idea to contact the admissions office to ask them if they have requirements for submitting cover letters, resumes, or supporting documentation. Reviewing previous examples of University admission letters is strongly recommended.

How do I write a motivation letter for a scholarship?

A scholarship is often rewarded to a candidate with the best criteria but also showcases a spirit that the scholarship is targeted to reward. For example, some scholarships are awarded to candidates who have faced personal struggles or certain personal hurdles. As such, always write a scholarship letter to address the qualifications they are seeking.

Is a motivation letter an essay?

No. An essay is typically a longer formatted article that provides the journalistic who, what, where, why, and what format to answer a question or formulate an opinion. A motivation letter is closer to a cover letter for a resume. It explains who you are, what you're applying for, and why you're the best candidate for that job or position.

Is a motivational letter formal or informal?

Both. A motivational letter should be written with a professional – yet conversational tone that showcases some of your interpersonal skills or ability to communicate effectively. It should be written to tell a story, so the article 'reads' well. Using highly complex words might seem 'stuffy.' However, the best advice we can offer here is to write the letter to fit the recipient's tone.

How to start a motivation letter?

A motivational letter should always begin with addressing the letter to the recipient. It should follow a professional letter writing format, where you list the recipient's name and title, address, and location. You should then introduce the letter through a personal notation, such as Dear Dr. Jones vs. the standard To Whom it May Concern.

How long should a Ph.D. motivation letter be?

A Ph.D. motivation letter should follow the required standards the admissions office recommends. In most cases, they will provide an example of what they're looking for from applicants. However, if the school does not provide this information, it's best to use the five-paragraph methodology.

How do I write a motivation letter for an internship with no experience?

A motivation letter or an internship should focus on your skills, abilities, and extra-curricular activities. It's always a great idea to follow a similar introduction, body, and conclusion format for writing any letter of interest where you are seeking an internship. This is applicable whether you have experience or not. For those with experience, expand the letter to four or five paragraphs vs. three.

How to write a motivation letter for Study Abroad?

As you're looking to write a motivation letter to attend a study abroad program, consider the following tips. First, why are you wanting to study in another country? Second, what qualities do you have that will permit you to learn from this experience. Third, what do you hope to gain by studying abroad? And finally, is there any personal reason for choosing this particular country?

How to write a motivation letter for volunteer work?

A volunteer position is sometimes rewarded to limited candidates who fit the mold, culture, and climate of the organization seeking Help. As such, it's always recommended to write the letter in a way that matches the organization's language, keywords, and phrases often used.

META: A motivation letter helps convince decision makers to reward you that job, college entrance, or scholarship interview. Learn how to write one here.

Related articles

Aviation resume example, template, skills, objective & writing guide for 2024.

For job seekers aspiring to secure a position within the dynamic field of aviation, crafting a...

Uber Driver Resume Example, Description, Skills & How to Write Tips for 2024

Crafting a standout resume is crucial for job seekers looking to drive for platforms like Uber and...

Lifeguard Resume Example, Description, Skills & How to Write Tips for 2024

Crafting a compelling lifeguard resume is a crucial step for anyone aspiring to safeguard the lives...

More than 112.872 users have already made their resume

With CV maker, you can quickly and easily create a distinctive and professional resume within 15 minutes.

Find your Masters

• Masters tips
• News and Dates

Masters Study Fairs

• Masters Search
• Business School
• Medical School
• Music School
• University of Applied Sciences
• University of Technology
• Masters in Australia
• Masters in Canada
• Masters in China
• Masters in the Czech Republic
• Masters in Finland
• Masters in France
• Masters in Greece
• Masters in Hungary
• Masters in Ireland
• Masters in Japan
• Masters in Liechtenstein
• Masters in Luxembourg
• Masters in Malta
• Masters in New Zealand
• Masters in Poland
• Masters in Portugal
• Masters in Russia
• Masters in Singapore
• Masters in Slovakia
• Masters in Turkey
• Masters in the USA
• more »
• Agriculture & Environmental Sciences
• Business & Economics
• Engineering
• Fine Arts & Music
• Information Technology & Telecommunications
• Literature & Linguistics
• Media & Communication
• Medicine & Health Sciences
• Science & Mathematics
• Social Sciences
• Honours degrees
• Blended learning
• Cooperative studies
• Distance learning
• Full-time/Part-time study
• MBA degrees
• Masters degrees
• Research Masters
• Taught Masters
• Masters in a foreign language
• Studying in your home country
• Applying for a job
• Internships
• Traineeships
• Volunteering
• Work and study - how to find the perfect balance?
• How much does education cost around the world?
• Insurance abroad
• Living abroad
• Tuition fees
• Scholarships
• Student jobs
• Student loans
• Studentships
• Improve Your Writing Skills
• Living On-Campus vs. Off-Campus
• Studying with Children
• Time between your Bachelor and Master
• Time Management Tips
• Useful tips for a successful presentation
• Masters Degree Application
• Newsletter signup
• Newsletter archive
• Masters Study Fairs in Europe
• Information for exhibitors

The difference between cover letter, motivation letter and letter of interest

Have you ever thought about the different types of formal letter that exist in the world of… letters? Do you consider better understanding of the content, format, length and relevance of your next writing for a future job or university application? If the answers are yes, then prepare to learn more about the differences between three of the most confusing and problematic letters relevant to the educational and professional environments.

1. What is a cover letter?

2. What is a motivation letter?

3. What is a letter of interest?

What is a cover letter?

In the majority of cases, the cover letter is generally mistaken for being a synonym of a motivation letter. However, it contrasts notably upon a more detailed breakdown. And to start it off, did you know that one of the most distinguishing features of the cover letter is the often mandatory requirement for one? This is because cover letters are mainly used for job applications – where there is a need of a more convincing and personal document attached to the CV.

Furthermore, a cover letter can also be seen as an advertisement of your experiences, skills and possibilities, which is the reason why it also plays a decisive role in many professional outcomes. It allows more freedom for describing the motives behind your choice of a specific job position and ultimately, rewards with the opportunity of stepping out of the crowd with proof that you are the perfect candidate.

Finally, a strong cover letter is no longer than half a page containing personal details (address, name, e-mail, etc.) in the beginning and a strong statement with an expectation of a positive outcome as a conclusion. As for the middle, this is the space left for your most important accomplishments regarding relevant areas that you might want to point out – career experience, education, research or personal skills. To top it off, make sure to provide strong facts whenever possible, while keeping it clean and short. “Times New Roman” is a font you might want to consider set at  size 12 with a line spacing of 1.5 and justified text setting.

What is a motivation letter?

Up next, there is the motivation letter, that can show us some of the first actual differences as a strong example. Unlike the cover letter, here it is not possible to talk about any mandatory requirements as there is rather an optional pattern. To put it simply, a motivation letter is vastly used for university admission, which does not always include a compulsory preparation of such a writing.

Additionally, the main idea behind this type of letter is to provide with more insights and reasons behind a given study application, which is more or less the same story as in the cover letter. But then again, the length, styling and structure of content are entirely different, as the motivation letter focuses more on past study achievements and experiences that have led to inspiration for future new ones.

And with that being said, you would be nicely surprised to know that the MASTER and MORE editing team has previously prepared a dedicated article on how to write an outstanding motivation letter for your Masters ! It can provide a helping hand and a full explanation of the more complex nature of motivation letters, including excellent examples of how to implement study accomplishments, interests and ideas for the best impression in the eyes of the academic committees.

What is a letter of interest?

Lastly, we reach the waters of the final formal letter that we will be looking at today – the letter of interest. Unlike the other two, here we have no specific job position or study programme that the writing will be trying to revolve around. Instead, for a brief moment, imagine that there is a business company that you have always wanted to be a part of – either because of the field, income, professional development, or whatever other reason.

Well then, it would be quite disappointing to find out that there are currently no open job positions, right? No worries, that is exactly when the idea behind the letter of interest steps in; it allows an actual introduction to a prospective employer, that can lead to future employment given that your experience, talents and skills are some that are sought after.

Within the length of one page, a standard letter of interest illustrates contact information on the top, a brief story about your personal awareness and knowledge of the company, followed by a few self-marketing paragraphs and finally, a hopeful ending imposing a probability of receiving a phone call or being invited for an interview. Overall, there are many similarities reminding of the cover letter with the important clarification that letters of interest usually remain in a digital form since they get sent by e-mail or set visible on platforms such as LinkedIn.  

• Cologne, 08.11.2024
• Vienna, 15.11.2024
• Graz, 19.11.2024
• Stuttgart, 22.11.2024
• Frankfurt, 30.11.2024
• Berlin, 04.12.2024
• Hamburg, 06.12.2024

Register now, save your entry ticket and plan your fair visit.

• 5 Best Moments During University »
• Free Education Websites »
• 5 unique ways how Europeans celebrate Easter »
• 25 great apps for university students »
• Application deadlines at European universities 2020 »

Masters Search »

+ more than 30,000 programmes + all fields of study + universities in over 25 countries + 10 filter options Search now »

Masters portal for Germany: www.master-and-more.de

Masters portal for Austria: www.master-and-more.at

• Masters search
• Masters degree types
• Masters degree programmes
• Masters abroad
• Higher Education Landscape

Masters Tips

• Practical tips
• Costs of studying abroad

News and dates

• All fair locations in Europe

General Info

• Social Media
• Legal Notice
• Privacy Policy

Info for Universities

Present your postgraduate study programmes on the MASTER AND MORE fairs! Click here for more information.

Here is a list of cookies we use, divided into three categories. You can choose which cookies you would like to allow and save your settings.

How do I write a professional motivation letter?

Writing a convincing motivation letter takes time, but it is a good exercise ​to practice for an interview! Read the tips and tricks below to get inspired by some important do's and don'ts for your letter.

First of all the words motivation letter, cover letter and application letter are often used interchangeably. They all mean the same thing. In this text, we will talk about motivation letter.

Why do I need a motivation letter?

Recruiters always start by reading your CV, your motivation letter is read afterwards. Your letter is meant as a supplement to your CV, for you to provide additional information about yourself, your motivation, knowledge, and skills. Therefore, avoid a repetition of your CV in your letter!  

Calling in reference to a vacancy

The first step to take is calling in reference to a vacancy. In the Netherlands, it is very common (read: a must!) to do so before you hand in your motivation letter. This phone call is usually meant to request additional information (which you can use in your letter) but is also a good way to establish a first means of contact with the employer and leave a first impression.  

Before calling make sure you are well prepared. You can do so by setting up a small phone script and preparing some smart questions you would like to get an answer to. To help you out, Student Career Services has set up such a script, including several example questions: 

Check the SCS Phonecall Script

Do’s and don’ts for writing a convincing motivation letter

• Do research! ​ 
• ​Do not use the same letter over and over– always customize it ​to your specific application 
• ​Make sure your letter is no longer than 1 page (3 to 4 paragraphs) 
• Refer to the phone call in your letter  
• Include only relevant information (each sentence should have a reason for being there)​ 
• Focus on most important factors mentioned in the vacancy text 
• Use a simple template​ 
• Pay attention to white space​ 
• Brief and clear sentences and use active language 
• Avoid starting each sentence with "I" 
• Ask a few friends or family members to review your letter before sending it 

Tip: Use ChatGPT to help you write a convincing letter. Make sure that you do not copy the text exactly but always rewrite it according to your person. Be careful with what you share in ChatGPT (no personal details) 

Example ChatGPT prompt: "I want to write a motivation letter for this job posting [the link to the job posting]. I am [age] years old and live in [city]. I have completed [name of education and possibly level] education. I have [number of years] years of work experience as [current and possibly previous job title]. My strengths are [name two or three qualities of yours]. Will you write this motivation letter for me? 

Student Career Services provides a useful motivation letter template which you can use as the basis for your own letter. 

Template motivation letter

Structure of a motivation letter

• Your name and contact details​
• Name and contact details of the organization
• ​Place and date
• Subject e.g.: Application for the position of…
• Salutation: Dear…
• Try to find out the name of the hiring manager so you can address your letter to a specific person to make it more personal
• Your opening paragraph should introduce yourself
• Briefly mention where you learned ​about the job opening (if you were referred by someone or ​found the job through a ​particular channel)
• Explain why you're applying for the job, including your excitement for the position and how the job aligns with your career goals
• Be sure to include the job title, the company's name, and what specifically draws you to the company

Example: I am writing to express my sincere interest in the Trainee Recruiter position at [Company Name], as advertised on LinkedIn. With a strong passion for matching people with jobs and a commitment to exceeding expectations, I am excited about the prospect of contributing to [Company Name]'s success in the Life Sciences industry.​

• Elaborate why you want to work for this company (what do you admire about the mission / vision of the organization, mention what you like about the product or services) 
• Make it clear why you are suitable for the job
• List your top qualifications and accomplishments. Tie them to the employer’s needs (job requirements)
• Use examples to explain why you are a good fit for the job according to the STAR method (describe a specific S ituation, your T ask, what A ction you took and what the R esult was)
• Include tangible results, e.g.: I received a 95% satisfaction score from clients​

Example: In my previous role as a [Your Previous Job Title], I was responsible for building and maintaining relationships with a diverse range of clients. Through proactive communication, I consistently exceeded targets, securing a 30% increase in client retention over a six-month period. My ability to establish strong connections allowed me to navigate challenges effectively, resulting in positive client feedback and referrals. ​

This experience has improved my relationship-building skills, and I am confident in my capacity to bring this valuable skill set to [Company Name] as a Trainee Recruiter.

• Reiterate your interest
• Indicate that you would like to be considered for an interview.

Example: Thank you for reviewing my application. I am excited about the prospect of actively contributing to [Company Name] achievements and embracing the challenges and learning opportunities inherent in the Trainee Recruiter role. I am eager to further discuss how my skills and passion align with [Company Name]’s goals during an interview.​

​ Sincerely,​

[Your Full Name]

Get professional feedback on your letter

Consultation hour for job application.

Visit the consultation hours for job applications: get your cover letter, CV, and LinkedIn profile checked!

Navigate through the model to take your next career step

Know yourself.

• Qualities and competencies
• Interests and values

Orientation

• What job or organization suits me?
• Internships
• (Academic) side jobs
• Extracurricular activities

Preparation

• Finding a job or internship in the Netherlands
• Finding a job or internship abroad
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Application

• Motivation letter
• Job interview

Take a next step!

The path to a to a (new) career is different for everyone. What phase are you in? What steps do you still need to take? Click on the buttons above for advice from the Tilburg University career advisors!

Please ask Student Career Services for advice.

Search our website

Other sources.

• Publications
• Library collection
• Study guide
• Univers Online

Find persons

• Experts & Expertise
• Press officers

Find organizations

• Research institutes

Tilburg University Warandelaan 2 5037 AB Tilburg

+31 (0)13 466 9111

Career Services

Each School has Career Services Officer(s), who are ready to help you with your career preparation. Do not hesitate to contact them if you have career related questions, are looking for a sounding board for your plans or can use some career guidance.

Contact your Career Services Officer

• Resume Templates Simple Professional Modern Creative View all
• Resume Examples Nurse Student Internship Teacher Accountant View all
• Resume Builder
• Cover Letter Templates Simple Professional Modern Creative View all
• Cover Letter Examples Nursing Administrative Assistant Internship Graduate Teacher View all
• Cover Letter Builder
• Cover Letter

How to write a motivation letter

Compile a list of motives

Choose the correct letter greeting, how to start a motivation letter, write a motivation letter introduction, craft an emotional story for the middle part of the letter, how do you end a motivational letter, write the motivation letter in your voice, mirror the values of the organization, talk about achievements when context is required, paint a picture of the future as well as your past, proofread the motivational letter, motivation letter for university, motivation letter for scholarship, motivation letter for internship.

Writing a motivation letter to a university, scholarship committee or charitable organization that accompanies your resume and outlines exactly why you want to be there will be far more powerful than a letter which focuses on your (sometimes less relevant) practical experiences. They will be included in your resume, in any case.

It is important to note that a motivation letter is not a cover letter.

Cover letters are used to accompany a resume during a job application and often delve deep into an applicant’s career experience. Previous work experience is less important when applying for university, a scholarship or an intern role, so your “why” has to shine through that little bit more in a motivation letter.

So, how do I write a motivational letter for a job, internship or educational opportunity? This guide will look at the following questions allowing you to write a great motivation letter:

What is a motivation letter?

• Is it the same as a cover letter?
• How to structure a motivational letter

Writing tips for a motivation letter

• Example of a motivational letter for university
• Sample of a motivation letter for scholarship
• Example of a motivational letter for internship

In the case of a university, scholarship or internship application, there will be countless others with similar qualifications. Explaining your motives in a compelling and memorable motivation letter will move your application to the top of the pile. Our guide and motivation letter examples will show the way. Sometimes motivations are more important than educational qualifications - those long nights writing dissertations will need plenty of determination.

Impact vs. intent in the modern job search

So much job search literature advises exploring how the impact of your past actions can inform a potential employer about your future potential. Intent and motivations are often left behind in a hard-hitting achievements-led career narrative. I have done this once, and I can do it again. Undeniable impact, but the “why” often gets forgotten. 

When starting a new university / scholarship / volunteering chapter, your past impact is less important as your future often brings an entirely new experience. What really matters here is your motivation and intent to make the most of the opportunity. 

A motivation letter is a one-page personal pitch of 200-400 words that documents your background, skills and motivations for a course of study at university or college, a scholarship application, internship opportunity or volunteering proposal.

Is a motivation letter the same as a cover letter? No, they are different. A motivation letter is used in specific circumstances to accompany an experience-led resume, and unlike a cover letter (which is used for paid employment) the motivation letter offers more of a glimpse into the motivation of an applicant. The motivation letter answers the question of why you want this opportunity and how you can fit in, collaborate, grow and contribute.

Educational institutions and charitable organizations require only the most dedicated students and volunteers, so it is critical to convey the depths of this personal dimension and make a connection on an emotional level. Show how your journey has led to this moment - hints of motivation should be sprinkled along the way.

When do you write a motivation letter?

Motivational letters are usually divided into types based on what organization you’re sending it to:

• Motivation letter for university or other educational institutions
• Motivation letter for scholarship or other related financial support
• Motivation letter for internship in a corporate or charitable setting
• Motivation letter for volunteering in a non-paid and/or part-time capacity.

But what do you write in a motivational letter? How do you outline what drives you? How do you write about something with depth and conviction without resorting to empty phrases and cliches?

How to structure a motivation letter

While a motivation letter is different in purpose and application than a cover letter, they do have a similar structure, which contains:

• A motivation letter header
• The greeting / salutation
• The motivation letter introduction
• The middle part that conveys the story, reasoning and motivation
• Motivation letter closing (with a call-to-action).

Like any piece of persuasive writing, a motivation letter should hook the reader with a compelling introduction, contain emotionally impactful examples in the body of the text and finish with a sense that there is so much more to tell. The goal of a motivation letter is to secure a face-to-face chat during an interview, so don't give too much boring detail. Tantalize the hiring manager with conversation starters without finishing the stories.

Requesting a scholarship or internship interview in the concluding call-to-action of the motivation letter will not seem presumptuous if it is structured in such a way. An interview is part of the scholarship process and it would be remiss not to mention just how much you want to opportunity to discuss your candidature further.

So, how do I write a short motivational letter?

How to make a motivation letter using Resume.io?

Since the motivation letter and cover letter have basically the same structure, you can use Resume.io’s letter builder to make both types of documents.  The builder makes the process easy and quick by:

• Providing ready-to-go templates for your letter
• Helping you with structure and info placement
• Writing suggestions to prevent writer’s block
• A spell-check function to avoid embarrassing typos.

Save yourself time and stress. All of the advice we provide here has been taken into account when developing our powerful online letter builder!

Firstly, you have to get all those complex emotions in your mind onto paper. 

Before you begin the process of constructing compelling arguments for the specific opportunity at hand, it helps to work out exactly what you want to get out of your next move. Some of your motivations may not fit with the specifics of what is on offer, so an initial brainstorming session will help to flesh out your story. 

Write down an exhaustive list of what you want from the scholarship / university place or volunteering role. Nothing is off limits, so take yourself to the most mentally creative place possible and just let go. This is a huge next step in your life, so what are the motivations that will keep you going when you have an impossible deadline or seemingly unachievable funding goal?

This list of personal motives will likely be bigger than you think, and many will form the core of your motivation letter.

The motivation letter greeting takes up the smallest amount of text compared to other elements but it’s still vitally important. While in most cases, you really can’t go wrong with the traditional “Dear Mr. / Ms. / Mrs.”, you should always remember two important rules:

• Choose the correct tone and level of formality (depending on the recipient organization)
• Always address the recipient by name if at all possible.

The name of the game here is research. Motivation letters can be sent to a variety of organizations so the tone can be very different. If you’re sending a motivational letter to a university / college, the tone is likely going to be more formal with the traditional greeting, use of the recipient’s last name and even his or her job title. However, in some less formal organizations such as volunteer initiatives or for internship positions in forward thinking companies, there may be more freedom for using first names or phrases like “Greetings, Tom!”. The signal for such informal salutations has to come from the recipient however (in the internship listing for example). If in doubt - err on the side of caution.

Research via google, company website or social media will also help with addressing the recipient by name. “To whom it may concern” became stale about half a century ago. Make sure to address the correct person and establish a personal connection. This can often be the difference between success and failure.

Before you sit down to start writing the motivation letter, it is vital to consider exactly how you want the reader to feel as they read it. Your motivation when considering how to start a motivation letter should be clear from the first lines, hitting them like a sledgehammer right between the eyes. This isn't a winding journey of discovery - you know what you want and it is their job that will complete your career contentment. Leave them in no doubt as to why you want to work with them.

The start of a motivation letter also needs to focus on their needs as well as your needs. How can those first few lines set the scene from their perspective and position your motivations as their rocket fuel? If they see that you are on the same page, they will warm to your somewhat lofty hopes.

After you have included your contact details in the header of the motivation letter, and addressed the letter to the correct person, the introductory paragraph is your first opportunity to grab a reader’s attention.

Put yourself in the place of the educational institution or organization. How do they want people to feel when they come to study or work? What opening gambit can you come up with that will set you apart from the other applicants? 

Show them just how they can become a deeply meaningful part of your journey.

The body of the motivation letter gives you the chance to outline exactly how your motivations fit the opportunity that is on offer. 

If you are applying for a PhD programme, go deep into why you are passionate about your subject. If you are seeking a volunteer position, don’t spare the details about why you follow the cause. If you are looking for a scholarship, go beyond your academic record to explain how your education will contribute to your future.

The nature of a free-form motivation letter offers the opportunity to influence a reader in an entirely different way to a resume. A resume appeals to their logical left brain and makes them think: “yes, that makes sense.” A motivation letter appeals to their emotionally-charged right brain, making them think: “do you know what? I feel you.”

The words that you choose for the body of your motivation letter will frame the emotional narrative of your interview. Be true to yourself and the right kinds of opportunities will be sure to come your way. You will struggle if you try to be someone else. Hiring managers can sense fake candidates. A fantastic motivation letter may get you an interview, but you will fall flat if the letter is not true to who you are. If you get the position as a result of exaggerations in the motivation letter and interview, you may not enjoy it much.

Lastly, ensure that your motives fit with the ethos and goals of the school or organization that you are applying for. Even the most emotionally appealing story loses impact if you do not come across as “one of us.”

The end sentences of your motivational letter should culminate in a crescendo of enthusiasm rather than an apologetic “what do you think?”

The depths of your motivation run far deeper than these few brief words could possibly describe, and the call-to-action of an interview request is not so much a job search formality rather than a plea to make your case further.

The conclusion of a motivation cover letter is one last chance to sell your attitude, so avoid repeating yourself. When there is so much more than meets the eye, any repetition can make you seem somewhat one-dimensional. Leave one last powerful story for the final sentence and leave the reader wanting to know more.

Having said this, ask for the interview in hope rather than anticipation. You cannot possibly know the hiring manager’s mind and no matter how impressive your motivations, you should never presume that you are the perfect fit.

5 ingredients of a great motivational letter:

• You fit their academic (and other) requirements.
• You share the values of their organization.
• It is clear why you want to be involved.
• The move would be a natural progression of your journey.
• You reach the reader on an emotional level.

A motivation letter is a carefully crafted piece of persuasion, and while our cover letter templates provide the perfect backdrop for your story, the content is nonetheless critical. Let’s explore a few writings tips that you may wish to consider:

• Write the motivational letter in your voice
• Paint a picture of your future as well as your past
• Proofread and edit your motivational letter

What is the motivation for applying for a job and how do I write a perfect motivation letter? Fitting your story around the following ideas might help.

Imagine that you are sitting in front of the scholarship committee or head of volunteering and you have three minutes to make your case.

What would you choose to say? What words would come naturally to describe that about which you are most passionate? 

A motivation letter that speaks directly to the reader in your voice will be far more effective than one written in stilted and formal language.

Motivation is meaningless to an educational establishment or volunteering organization unless it tallies with their values. They want a body of like-minded students or passionate volunteers who will pull together to accomplish their goals together. 

We have all been in study groups with a disruptive student or worked with people in a team who are simply dancing to their own tune. Research the values and mission of the school or organization that you are joining and make sure that your motivation letter hits the right notes.

While your resume will do the heavy lifting in terms of your (sometimes basic) career achievements, there is still a place to sprinkle some achievements into your motivation letter to offer some context.

You need to anchor your motivations to some quantifiable aspects of your life so that your motivation letter does not seem like wishful thinking. The examples don’t have to be directly related to your future activity, but they do need to be relevant to the motivations that you wish to illustrate.

Like any good story, a motivational letter should immerse the reader with a sense what you want to achieve and the scale of your ambition. A motivational letter that is dull and uninspiring will not persuade anyone to give you that university space or volunteering role. 

Show how your past can connect to your future through the opportunity that is on offer. University, scholarships and volunteering roles are all stepping stones to something more. Without the picture of what comes afterwards, there is a missing piece in the puzzle of why you should be the successful applicant.

While your arguments might be persuasive, the slightest grammatical or formatting error can easily derail someone’s engagement with your story. Mistakes may make the letter feel rushed or not properly thought through. Check it carefully for mistakes - you can't afford to seem careless with your dreams.

Attention to detail is key in most academic and voluntary positions, so take the time to proofread your writing. Even better, get someone who knows you well to read it through. Their comments about the content may prove invaluable.

Explore the essence of your “why” in your motivation letter.

Motivation letters contain the notes of individuality and passion that the formal limitations of a resume fail to deliver. Great motivation letters distil the essence of a candidate’s “why,” allowing them to speak directly and from the heart.

Motivation letter examples

As indicated above, there are three main situations where a motivation letter is commonly used: applications for university, a scholarship or an internship. Volunteering is also common, but as volunteers often have more experience, a volunteering letter is often more like a cover letter (and as already noted, you can use our letter builder .

Here are three motivation letter examples:

What is a motivation letter for university? Here are some things to consider:

• How do you show the personality that you will bring to class?
• Why did you choose to do a PhD or degree course?
• How do you demonstrate a depth of interest in your subject?

Here is a motivation letter example for university that would make any faculty professor curious:

Some key questions arise when writing a motivation letter for scholarship: 

• How do you start a scholarship letter?
• Why do I deserve this scholarship?
• How will my academic qualifications impact my future?

Here is a motivation letter example for scholarship that would compel any scholarship committee to give you a standing ovation:

Securing an internship is competitive – here’s how you rise to the top of the pile using an internship motivation letter:

• What value can you bring for your internship?
• What do you want to learn from your internship?
• How can you benefit those around you as an intern?

Here is a motivation letter example for internship that would send a company owner's heart racing at the though of having you help out on their team:

• Elaborate on what the opportunity means
• Compose a thoughtfully excited letter
• Focus on where your "why" meets their mission
• Be yourself - because everyone else is taken
• Talk about your limited work experience
• Write an apologetic begging letter
• Waffle about irrelevant considerations
• Put on an act - and definitely never lie

Key Takeaways

Whether you are writing for an internship, university place or scholarship, don't get hooked up on your lack of experience. It is the drive and determination of your personality that will see you through, so don't be scared to simply lead with what this opportunity means for you and your future.

• Motivations cannot be faked when you meet someone - be genuine in the letter.
• Only share motivations that are directly relevant to the position in question.
• Back up your dreams with evidence that you have what it takes to get there.

Get out there and write an impactful motivation letter that serves as a gateway to your dreams.

Motivational Letter Writing Guide + Examples for 2024

You’re about to apply for the job opportunity of your dreams.

You’ve worked hard, and you can’t wait to take the next step in your career.

All that’s left for you to do is write a motivational letter.

But writing a motivational letter can be nerve-wracking.

Two hours and three coffees in, you’ve scrolled through your Facebook newsfeed (twice), watched one episode of the last season of Game of Thrones, sent angry tweets to its creators, and donated for the knee surgery of two dogs. 

You go back to your open Word doc, and all you’ve managed to write is, “This program seems like fun” or “I’ll totally be a great fit for your organization.”

Don’t worry! We’re here to help.

In this article, we’re going to cover:

• How to Write a Motivational Letter, Step-by-Step
• A Great Example of a Motivational Letter
• Useful Motivational Letter Tips

What Is a Motivational Letter?

A motivational letter, sometimes also called a letter of motivation, is a formal letter that you might have to submit when applying for an educational program or a job. Its goal is to show the hiring manager or admissions officer why you’re the perfect candidate for the position.

Motivational letters are typically submitted alongside your CV or resume . Unlike a cover letter, which gives practical examples of how your skills and experience match the opening, a motivational letter focuses more on your personality, interests, and motivation to apply.

When Do You Need a Motivational Letter?

A motivational letter is usually required when an organization wants to gauge your enthusiasm, cultural fit, and motivations for a particular opportunity.

There are a few situations when you might need to submit a motivational letter, such as:

• You’re applying for an educational program.
• You’re applying to work at a non-profit organization or mission-driven company.
• You’re applying for an internship in a competitive field.
• You’re applying for a volunteer position at a charity or non-government organization.
• You’re applying for a grant, fellowship, or some sort of scholarship .

No matter the situation, a motivational letter serves to express your distinct driving forces and convey your enthusiasm for that specific role, program, or opportunity. That’s why, done right, a motivational letter can convince the reader to go through your application in detail.

However, if the specific position doesn’t explicitly require a motivational letter or other written statement, you might be better off learning how to write a cover letter instead. Cover letters can be a great addition to your application and help you stand out from other candidates who are only relying on their resumes.

How to Write a Motivational Letter

Now that you know what a motivational letter is, it’s time to write your own.

Just follow the steps we’ve outlined, and you’ll be done in no time:

#1. Address Your Letter Appropriately

Your motivational letter should include a header with all the necessary contact details.

For starters, this means you should include your contact information , such as your full name, email address, phone number, and any other details that might be necessary for your application.

Additionally, you should include your intended audience’s contact details. Depending on where and what you’re applying for, this might be either a hiring manager or an admissions officer.

To establish a connection with the reader, include a personalized greeting instead of the generic “To Whom It May Concern.” To do that, you have to find out who the hiring manager or admissions officer is.

Start by doing a bit of research. Review the job listing, the program’s official page, or the application instructions. If you can’t find their name there, check the organization’s website and look for a staff directory.

Once you have their name, address your motivational letter professionally . We recommend using an identifier followed by their last name. But if you’re not sure about their title or gender, you can just use their full name, too. For example:

• Dear Mr. Smith,
• Dear Dr. Singh,
• Dear Cameron Smith,

Just avoid informal greetings like "Hey, John!" – your motivational letter is still meant to be a formal document.

#2. Stick to the Program Requirements

Writing a captivating motivational letter is all about showing the hiring manager or admissions officer how you meet the requirements for the position.

To help get the ball rolling as you start drafting your motivational letter, ask yourself: 

• What kind of applicants are usually admitted to the program? 
• How do you fulfill the requirements?

First, you need to know the exact program requirements and explain how your background and strengths align with the outlined criteria.

Comb through the details the organization has provided about the ideal skills, experiences, qualifications, or personal qualities they’re looking for in a candidate. Maybe they want someone proficient in data analysis , or they’re prioritizing candidates who are passionate about the industry.

Just remember –  you don’t have to highlight how you meet all the listed requirements if your application already includes a detailed academic CV . Just identify the top three to five requirements and give concrete examples of how you meet each.

Here’s an example:

Requirement: Minimum 2 years of volunteer experience

“I was a medical volunteer in Namibia for three years. It’s one of my most fulfilling adventures and transformative experiences so far since I am passionate about helping others. I believe it broadened my horizons and made me more resilient.”

#3. Align with Their Values

Your motivational letter should explain what drives you and show the reader how you share their organization’s values.

Take time to thoroughly research the organization , its culture, objectives, and driving forces. Find what resonates with your own beliefs and goals and mention it in your motivational letter.

But don’t just randomly sprinkle keywords into your letter. Instead, thoughtfully use your passion to build a narrative that shows how your values align with the institution’s mission. 

Be sure to give concrete examples. For instance, if the company values sustainability, you might want to share an anecdotal example, such as:

Values: Sustainability, Climate Action, Nature Conservation

I have a deep passion for nature conservation, and I have volunteered extensively with environmental organizations, especially in restoring local wetland habitats. I also practice eco-friendly habits in my professional life by advocating for reducing workplace waste and single-use plastics.

#4. Express Genuine Interest

Above all, your motivational letter should demonstrate that you really want to be there.

That said, there is a fine line between pleading and showing intelligent interest while also selling yourself. Generic statements can come across as insincere and unmotivated. Instead, write about what really attracted you to the opportunity.

Be as specific as possible and express your passion without necessarily begging them for a chance. For example:

• I would love to live in Aberdeen because I’m fascinated by Highlander culture, and I’m excited to dive into the city’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant community dedicated to the arts, music, and preserving Scottish traditions.
• It is my dream to be part of the Environmental Science Master's program because of its cutting-edge research in sustainable energy solutions and marine conservation efforts, which align with my passion for protecting our planet's ecosystems.

Specific examples and details show you've invested time learning about the organization, which helps your genuine passion shine through your motivational letter.

#5. Personalize It

While showcasing how you meet requirements is crucial, don't be afraid to let some of your personality and voice shine through.

Use descriptive adjectives to paint a fuller picture of who you are beyond just your credentials. Are you an endlessly curious, lifelong learner? A creative problem-solver? Passionate about how technological advancements can be used to increase sustainability?

Let your distinct character and values shine through to make your motivational letter more memorable and help differentiate you from other applicants. This can convey important soft skills and give the reader a glimpse of the person behind the qualifications.

Just make sure you’re still presenting a polished bit of personality and keeping it relevant to the opportunity. For example, if you’re applying for an MA in mathematics, don’t mention your passion for historical re-enactment.

Are you applying for an academic program? Learn how to write an academic personal statement here.

#6. Don’t Just Recap Your CV

Using your motivational letter to simply summarize your CV is a wasted opportunity. If the application requires a motivational letter, they’re looking to get to know you beyond the required stats and qualifications. 

The person reading your motivational letter is looking for the context around your motivations, passions, and aspirations. So, instead of just listing credentials, expand on the driving forces behind your experiences and decisions.

If you’re applying for a master's program, for example, mention your relevant undergraduate coursework, but also explain what sparked your interest in this specialization and why this path is personally meaningful. So, if you’re a History undergrad, elaborate on how volunteering at the archaeology museum made you pursue a graduate degree in Museum Studies and Curatorship.

Here’s a practical example of how that might look:

As a History undergraduate, my passion for preserving and sharing our cultural narratives was sparked by a semester-long museum internship. Working alongside curators as they brought ancient artifacts and stories to life through compelling exhibits opened my eyes to the vital role museums play in education and connecting communities to their roots.

This experience solidified my drive to pursue museum studies at the graduate level, where I can develop professional expertise in responsible collection stewardship, thoughtful exhibition development, and engaging public programming that keeps our shared histories vibrant and accessible for all.

Getting your documents ready for that application? Learn how to write a resume with our detailed guide.

#7. Convey Your Ambitions

Your motivational letter should express your ambitions and aspirations just as much as your relevant achievements . Admissions committees and employers who ask for motivational letters want to clearly understand both your goals and how this opportunity aligns with them.

Share your vision for how you plan to apply the knowledge, essential skills, or experience you'll gain. If it's a job, explain how it will prepare you for further career growth and impact in that field. For an academic program, discuss how you aim to contribute to cutting-edge research or become a leader and mentor.

Don't be afraid to think big - motivated candidates often have big goals of driving innovation, making a difference, or pushing boundaries in their discipline. Just make sure your aspirations are realistic and show that you have a plan and are truly invested in this path for the long term.

Here’s an example of how you can convey your ambitions in your motivational letter:

My long-term goal is to become a leader in sustainable urban design and planning that seamlessly integrates green infrastructure into the built environment. This master's program will equip me with the interdisciplinary skills to develop eco-friendly architectural solutions and climate-resilient city policies that prioritize environmental conservation alongside economic growth and social equity.

#8. Don’t Lie

One of the biggest mistakes you could make while writing your motivational letter is lying.

If you write anything remotely false, the reader will likely sense it. When you lie, you’re likely to unconsciously exaggerate your feelings and ideas. If you tell a fake story or inflate your excitement or achievements, you won’t get anywhere.

Your dishonesty is likely to be exposed and severely damage your credibility, leading to an immediate rejection.

Honesty and integrity are essential to writing an effective motivational letter. The goal of this document is to truly reflect who you are, why you’re the best match for this opportunity, and what you hope to achieve.

Don’t worry if you think your life so far just isn’t impressive enough to write a captivating story. No matter where you’re coming from, you can show the reader your unique perspective, personal growth, and unwavering determination to pursue your passions.

#9. Use a Motivational Letter Template

If you want your motivational letter to make a striking first impression, presentation matters.

A basic black-and-white document from a text editor will hardly stand out. Instead, try one of our professionally designed motivational letter templates for an attention-grabbing solution!

Novoresume offers modern, eye-catching templates that can give your motivational letter a polished look. You can even use the resume builder to match your motivational letter to one of our sleek resume templates for a coherent application.

Save precious time on formatting and create a visually flawless application in no time!

How to Structure a Motivational Letter

You’ve got the gist of how to write a motivational letter down, but it’s just as important to know how to structure it.

If your motivational letter is a messy, haphazard series of unrelated paragraphs, it simply won’t make the cut. You need your motivational letter to tell a coherent story, and this is where the structure comes in.

The whole process will probably require a few drafts until you get to the perfect, polished motivational letter. You might have to move around paragraphs or sentences until you have the ideal story that compliments your application, so don’t worry if you don’t get it right the first time.

Let’s look at what each motivational letter looks like and includes:

#1. Contact Details

Start by adding all the relevant contact information at the top of your motivational letter.

Here’s what to include:

• Full Name. Place your first and last name at the top of the page.
• Professional Title. Match your professional title to the specific position you're aiming for. E.g.: if you’re applying for a Ph.D., write “Ph.D. candidate”.
• Email Address. Include a professional and straightforward email address. We recommend sticking to something that combines your first and last name.
• Phone Number. Include your phone number and add the dialing code in front if you’re applying overseas.
• Location. Adding your city and state/country is more than enough.
• Relevant Links. Optionally, you can include links to any relevant websites or social media profiles, such as a portfolio, a blog, a LinkedIn profile , etc.

Then, add the contact information of the admissions officer or hiring manager reading your motivational letter, such as:

• Organization’s Name. Start with the name of the organization to which you're sending your application.
• Recipient’s Name. If possible, find the name of the exact person who's going to be viewing your application, such as the hiring manager or the admissions officer for the department you're interested in. Check the organization’s website to get a head start.
• Recipient’s Title. Always address the reader professionally. For example, if they’re a professor or doctor in their field, use the appropriate identifier.
• Location. Provide the exact address of the organization you’re applying to. Include the city, state, country, and street number, and even specify the building if necessary.

#2. Introduction

Begin your motivational letter with a strong introduction.

The first few sentences need to be attention-grabbing – do this through a short, engaging pitch about yourself and why you are applying.

Here’s what you can include:

• A summary of who you are and what you do.
• Details about what you’re applying for and where.
• A prelude to the bulk of your motivational letter.

Remember - this part only needs to include the general reasons behind your application, since you’ll have the opportunity to make a deep dive later on in the body of your motivational letter.

Let’s look at an example of what your introduction could look like:

Dear Dr. Octavio,

My name is Jane Doe, and I would like to express my interest in applying for the Ph.D. Robotics program at Columbia University. I’ve always dreamed of becoming a robotics engineer and contributing to advancement in the field, and I believe that a Ph.D. in Robotics from this university would set me miles ahead of reaching my goal.

The body of your motivational letter is where you get to really sell yourself.

It’s also where the bulk of your text is going to be, so it determines your motivational letter as a whole.

There are two things you should keep in mind when writing this section of your motivational letter: the paragraph structure and the paragraph contents.

Generally, there are two main paragraph-based structures for your motivational letter.

First is the classic, three-main-paragraph structure, where each paragraph accounts for your introduction, body, and conclusion. If you’re using a storytelling approach for your motivational letter, we recommend sticking to this one.

However, if you want to be more factual and to the point, we recommend trying the seven-paragraph structure. It divides the main body of your motivational letter into smaller paragraphs according to your main points, where each discusses a specific achievement, experience, or aspiration.

Use the body of your motivational letter to mention the stories behind your achievements, essential skills , and passion for whatever you’re applying for.

This is the right place to be as detailed and factual as possible. Give concrete examples of what motivated you to apply for this position, and show how that directly relates to what the organization is looking for in a candidate.

Here are some sentences you can paraphrase and use to help you write the body of your motivational letter:

• My passion for [field] started when [experience] . 
• I want to [join this organization] because [ motivation] . 
• I have been part of [relevant organization or field] for [amount of time] . It’s the best thing for me because [reason] .
• I remember once when I [experience] , which made me realize that I [gained interest in the specific field] .
• [Organization or program] resonates with me because [specific reason] .
• What distinguishes me from my peers is [something you’re proud of] .

Let’s look at a brief example of how this is put into practice.

I developed my passion for digital marketing during my internship at XYZ Inc. Working for a small startup allowed me to gain surface-level experience in most digital marketing channels. Now, I would like to deep-dive and gain advanced know-how by attending the Buffalo College Marketing program.

#4. Conclusion

After finishing the body of your motivational letter, it’s time to wrap it up and send it in.

Use this section to briefly summarize your main points and remind the reader why you’d be a great fit for the organization or program you’re interested in.

Then, mention your overarching career goal and how that aligns with their organization’s mission.

Finally, thank the reader for their time and sign off on your motivational letter. Here’s an example:

Therefore, I believe that my strong academic foundation in environmental studies and hands-on fieldwork experience are qualifications that position me to make outstanding contributions to your master's program. I believe that the knowledge I gain in the Sustainability and International Relations program will play a pivotal role in my mission of shaping innovative policies and scientific solutions to combat climate change and protect our planet's biodiversity for future generations.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to join UCLA in the fall semester.

George Maxton

How to Format a Motivational Letter

Always review your motivation letter carefully and stick to any stated requirements or guidelines for your application.

Organizations will sometimes include formatting specifications, like word count or page limits, or even questions they want you to answer in your motivational letter.

If you’re writing a motivational letter for an academic program, you can usually find this information on the admissions requirements webpage or within the provided application materials. 

For job applications, these details are usually listed on the job ad or in the company's job application portal.

Always follow these rules exactly as stated. Going off script could get your application immediately rejected since it shows you’re either not attentive or you’re not taking the opportunity seriously.

If, on the other hand, there aren’t any guidelines for your motivational letter, we recommend you follow these tips:

• Keep your motivational letter one page long.
• Use a clear structure with concise paragraphs to make your letter easy to skim.
• Choose a professional font like Lora or Roboto and make sure it’s sized 11-12 pt.
• Set your page margins to one inch on all sides so your page doesn’t look too cluttered or too empty.
• Include the date you wrote your motivational letter for an extra professional touch.
• Use powerful words and action verbs (“designed” and “conceptualized”) instead of cliched phrases (“helped with” and “managed”).
• Smoothly connect your thoughts through transition words.
• Proofread carefully for any spelling or grammatical errors.
• Include a professional closing line like "Sincerely" at the end of your text.
• Print your motivational letter out and sign it, or send it as a PDF to preserve your formatting.

Motivational Letter Example

Let’s look at an example of a great motivational letter for a Ph.D. program at Harvard University and go through just what this candidate does right:

The candidate’s letter to Harvard University’s Department of Political Science starts by addressing the person in charge of admissions for the Ph.D. program they’re interested in.

The general requirements for the Political Science program are:

• Being research inclined
• Having a demonstrated passion for politics
• Showing above-average performance during undergraduate studies 

The values of the university they’re applying to are integrity, education, respect, and accountability.

The candidate’s motivational letter is neatly divided into a total of five paragraphs, of which three make up the body of the text.

Here’s how they highlight their motivation:

• They know the history of the university and share the same values.
• They’re genuinely excited and passionate about the program and the school.
• They show what their qualifications are and how they’ll be a great fit for the program.
• They explain what they hope to achieve if they get the opportunity to study at Harvard.

Essentially, the candidate has listed all their qualifications through a personal story. After reading this letter, the admissions officer will feel like they know the candidate adequately, especially since they have communicated who they are by highlighting how they match everything the Ph.D. program is looking for in an applicant.

Need more inspiration? Check out our 60+ cover letter examples for different professions.

Key Takeaways

You’ve made it to the end of our guide!

Now, you know everything there is to know about motivational letters. We’re confident you’re a shoo-in for that position you have your sights set on!

But before we go, let’s quickly sum up what we’ve covered so far:

• A motivational letter is a formal document that’s usually required when applying for university admissions, a non-profit organization, or a volunteer position.
• Motivational letters are different from cover letters since they focus more on your interests, passions, and ambitions than on your skills and achievements.
• Generally, there are two ways to structure your motivational letter, depending on whether you want to tell a story or factually go through all the points that make you an ideal candidate.
• The introduction of your motivational letter should be brief and immediately grab the reader’s attention. Use it to tell them who you are and why you’re interested in applying for the specific opportunity.
• Always do your research on the specific program or organization. This can help you show genuine interest and convey your aspirations for the future in this field.
• Make your motivational letter stand out by using one of Novorésumé’s templates and giving the admissions officer or hiring manager a gorgeous first impression.

To provide a safer experience, the best content and great communication, we use cookies. Learn how we use them for non-authenticated users.

The Difference Between a Cover Letter and the Email You Send With Your Application

When it comes to making a job change, getting it right truly matters. You need to get the keywords right , the messaging right , the formatting right . You’ve got to find the right people to endear yourself to, and the right words for your cover letter and follow-up correspondence.

And, for the love of it all, you’ve got to nail the approach.

But, my oh my, there are so many considerations—so many things we all second guess ourselves on when applying for a job.

Should you make the cover letter the body of the email, or attach it separately? (Or both?) Do you address the person by first name, or go with Mr. / Ms. So-and-So? (And, does same rule apply for both?) How casual or formal do you need to be? Is there a right or wrong format for cover letters and emails? Does the cover letter need to be a page or less? How long should the intro email be?

Holy Hannah—it’s enough to make the coolest cucumbers among us start to feel like crazy people. And that’s even before you’ve made an introduction.

Deep breaths, everyone. Deep breaths. Let’s break this cover letter stuff down into manageable chunks. Here’s what you need to know:

Should the Cover Letter Be an Attachment or Just the Body of Email?

The short answer is: either. Not both, either.

If you ask 10 recruiters of hiring managers which they prefer, you’ll probably get five who say attachment and five who say email. But here’s the good news: Nearly all will report that it’s not going to make or break you either way. So, don’t let this topic unravel you.

I happen to be a proponent of “cover letter as body of the email,” and here’s why: It gives you the opportunity to make a strong, memorable first impression the millisecond that reviewer’s eyes open their inbox. You can draw someone in with an incredible opening line, and then showcase the ways in which you could contribute to the team.

If, instead, you decide to go with cover letter as attachment, you should be brief and point the reader to the attachments.

I’ve learned you are seeking a senior project manager with e-commerce experience and knowledge of Jira. That’s me. My attached resume and cover letter outline my qualifications for the role. Thank you very much for your consideration. I hope to hear from you soon!

Keep it brief if you go this route. Those on the receiving end won’t appreciate having to plow through a super long email and all your attachments.

Lastly, don’t even think about replicating the cover letter in both the email and the attachment. That’s just ridiculous (and, makes you look totally indecisive).

Now that we got that figured out, let’s answer the other questions that are probably eating at you:

Do I Use a First Name Salutation—or a More Formal One?

This is best answered with, “It depends”—for both the cover letter and the accompanying email. (I know, just doing my part to make things simple here.)

In all seriousness, it’s best to evaluate the tone and style of the organization you’re attempting to join, and then guess which salutation would be most would the appropriate and appreciated. You can do this pretty easily by reviewing the company’s website and social media presence.

Remember, you’re going to be hired for that next role if (and only if) you’re a “yes” to these three questions

• Do we think she can do this job?
• Do we like her?
• Do we think she’ll fit in around here?

That said, if you can introduce yourself in a way that implies right out of the gates that you’re a triple yes, you’re in business.

Is a Conversational Style Allowed?

In general, I think that job seekers get a bit too revved up about “proper” and end up losing sight of the fact that there’s an actual person at the receiving end of this (assuming you’re emailing your application directly).

Guess what? People like engaging, conversational reading. They notice when an applicant seems genuine, personable, and interesting. They appreciate when plowing through their pile of candidates doesn’t feel like total drudgery.

That being the case, unless you’re applying for a role within an extremely conservative or structured industry or organization, heck yes, a conversational style is allowed. Certainly, this is not your time to bust out a bunch of slang or (gasp) use language that could offend, but it’s a-ok to make your cover letter or intro email read like you’re a real person.

Just be sure and make it clear—in both cases—why you want to work for that company and what, specifically, you can walk through their doors and deliver.

Is the One Page Rule for Cover Letters Still True? What About in an Email?

Hard and fast “rules” make me crazy in general, so I’m not going to announce the exact length that your cover letter or your intro email need to be. I will simply suggest that you get in there, quickly endear yourself to the recipient, and then spell out, specifically, how and why you make perfect sense for the role you’re pursuing. And then wrap it up.

If you can pull it off with a one-page cover letter, absolutely. If you need a page and a half? So long as you’re peeling out any and all unnecessary blabber, knock yourself out. (And this article tells you how to cut it down to make it as effective as possible.)

For the email, again, get to the point and don’t be redundant if you’re also attaching a cover letter.

You can get these things right, for real. Nail the big stuff, sweat the details that truly matter, and get right to the business of making your grand entrance, well, one that’s grand.

Is an Application Letter the Same as a Cover Letter: A Comprehensive Guide

• Career Advice

• Posted On: 2024-09-01
• Posted By: Shacara

1. Definition and Purpose

2. content and structure.

• Introduction: The application letter usually begins with a formal greeting, followed by a statement indicating the position you are applying for and where you found the job listing.
• Body: The body of the letter is where you detail your qualifications, work experience, and relevant skills. You should also explain why you are interested in the job and how your background makes you a suitable candidate.
• Conclusion: The application letter ends with a polite closing statement, expressing your enthusiasm for the opportunity and a request for an interview. You should also include your contact information and indicate that your resume is attached.
• Introduction: Similar to an application letter, a cover letter starts with a formal greeting and a statement of the job you are applying for. However, it is generally shorter and more concise.
• Body: The cover letter’s body provides a brief overview of your qualifications and experience. It is not as detailed as an application letter but focuses on highlighting the most relevant aspects of your background that match the job requirements.
• Conclusion: The cover letter concludes with a polite request for consideration and a mention of your attached resume. You can also express your eagerness to discuss your qualifications further in an interview.

3. Length and Detail

4. tone and style, 5. when to use each.

• Specific Job Applications: When you are applying for a specific job that has been advertised, an application letter is appropriate. It provides the detailed information an employer needs to assess your suitability for the role.
• Formal Job Inquiries: If you are reaching out to a company with a formal inquiry about job openings, an application letter is more fitting as it shows your commitment and interest.
• General Applications: A cover letter is ideal for more general applications, where you may be submitting your resume to a company without a specific job listing in mind.
• Networking and Referrals: When applying for a job through networking or referrals, a cover letter can be a better option, as it allows you to briefly mention the person who referred you and explain your interest.

6. Examples

Get ahead of the competition.

Make your job applications stand-out from other candidates.

Create your Professional Resume and Cover letter With AI assistance.

Contact Info

• Mon to Sun : 24/7 NG +234 813 553 1603
• Do You Have a Question? [email protected]

Quick Links

• Download Apps
• Order a Resume
• Cover Letter
• Word Template

Our Company

• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Affiliate Program
• Sponsorship Program

Copyright 2024 My Cv Creator . All rights reserved