How to write a motivational letter

Date published 24 January 2024
Date modified 8 October 2024

To write a good letter of motivation. it is important to learn more about the company and the job opening beforehand. Know to whom and why you are writing the letter of motivation! Know how to write a good cover letter for an internship or that job you want. With this preparation you are already well on your way!

A good motivation letter is built using the AIDA model. The AIDA model is a step-by-step "manual," in which the individual steps Attention, Interest, Desire and Action must be completed in order.

Attention:

Reference reason or context, previous contacts and availability. Why does the job appeal to you?

Your motivation for choosing this particular company. For example, what appeals to you about this company? Then substantiate this concretely.

Interest:

What qualities and specific experiences do you possess that fit the job opening?
What makes you so suitable for this future job? Give a brief explanation and provide a reference to your curriculum vitae.

Desire (preference):

Why should the company take you? What distinguishes you from another student?
What characteristic or skill makes you so suitable for the company's job opening?

Action (action):

  1. Offer to explain your cover letter in a follow-up interview.
  2. Refer to references or something similar. However, preferably do not mention names.
  3. Refer to the attached curriculum vitae.
  4. Make sure the company sends you an invitation for an interview. If the company does not respond to your cover letter, show initiative and call the company or if necessary pay them a visit. After all, a company appreciates your commitment.

Further tips & tricks for a good cover letter or motivation letter:

  1. Write short and concise information.
  2. The document should not exceed one A4 page.
  3. Give concrete examples from work or project experiences.
  4. The document does not contain a description of your CV. The company can already infer this information from your CV.
  5. Try not to write 'I' too often.
  6. Make absolutely no spelling mistakes.

After these tips, can you write a good letter of motivation? Student employment agency Recruit a Student has the best vacancies and will find you the job that suits you.


More tips for writing a letter of motivation or want to know how to build a good CV? Read it on our website.

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