Writing a Motivation Letter for Job Application

Motivation Letter Purpose

• The main purpose of a motivation letter is to help an applicant to stand out, showcase their skills, and demonstrate their enthusiasm for the position or program.
• A motivation letter helps an applicant to do exactly that, and it is particularly impactful in situations where the applicant needs to explain their motivation, skills, and experiences.

Situations Where a Motivation Letter is Impactful

• A motivation letter can be particularly impactful when applying for a competitive program or job, or when the applicant has a non-traditional background.

Focus of a Motivation Letter for Entry-Level Job

• The focus of a motivation letter for an entry-level job is to demonstrate the applicant's motivation, enthusiasm, and relevant skills for the job.

Motivation Letter Structure

• The recommended structure of a motivation letter is to have an introduction, a body, and a conclusion.
• The introduction should briefly introduce the applicant and their motivation.
• The body should be split into two parts: one explaining why the applicant wants the job, and the other explaining what they can do.
• The conclusion should summarize the key points and reiterate the applicant's interest.

Formatting a Motivation Letter

• The primary function of formatting a motivation letter is to make it easy to read and understand.
• The recommended length of a motivation letter is around one page.
• An applicant's address should be placed at the top right or left corner of the page.

Writing a Motivation Letter

• It is recommended to use a checklist when writing a motivation letter to ensure all necessary details are included.
• A formal salutation, such as "Dear Hiring Manager" or "To Whom It May Concern", is appropriate if the applicant doesn't have the recipient's name.
• The body of a motivation letter should be split into 3-4 paragraphs.
• The conclusion should end with a professional closing, such as "Sincerely", followed by the applicant's name.

Differences Between a Motivation Letter and a Cover Letter

• A motivation letter is more personal and focused on the applicant's motivation, whereas a cover letter is more formal and focused on the job requirements.

Other Uses of a Motivation Letter

• A motivation letter can be used not only for job applications but also for university admissions, scholarships, and other opportunities.

When to Attach a Motivation Letter

• A motivation letter should be attached to a resume when applying for a job, and it should be tailored to the specific job and company.

Learn about the importance of a motivation letter for job applications, when to use it, and how to write an effective one. Explore inspiring examples to guide you through the process.