A motivation letter, also called a letter
of motivation, is a short one-page-long
letter that explains why you’re the
perfect candidate for the position by
using examples of your interests and
achievements. It’s usually attached to
your resume when applying for a job.
A motivation letter can also be used for
other situations outside the job world
such as applying for an educational
program at a college or university.
Due to its nature, a motivation letter is
perfect for candidates applying for an
internship, volunteering role, or for
candidates who have little or no job
experience.
The difference between a
motivation letter vs a cover letter
is that a cover letter gives
specific examples of how your
job experience and skills match
the opening you’re applying for.
A motivation letter, on the other
hand, focuses more on your
personality, interests, and
motives for applying. That’s
what makes it such a great
addition to a volunteer resume,
an internship resume, a resume
with no experience, or an entry-
level resume.
The best way to go about writing a
motivation letter is using the three part
structure that includes an introduction,
body, and conclusion.
To write a motivation letter introduction that will
grab your reader’s attention, use these tips:
Add your up to date contact information in your
letter heading. Include the addressee’s details as
well.
Refer to the hiring manager or point of contact
by name.
Mention what you’re applying for specifically;
your reader doesn’t have time to guess what you
might be interested in.
Explain why you’re writing your letter of
motivation. Think of your intro paragraph as a
pitch that needs to engage the reader enough to
want them to read on for more details and
examples.
The body of your motivation letter is
where you really turn it up a notch
and sell your best points. Don’t just
list a bunch of things you can do or
have done and definitely don’t just
rehash your resume if you’re applying
for a job.