If you have been actively looking for a job recently, you may have noticed that no company accepts printed resumes anymore. This is due to the data protection law, which requires organizations to inform candidates, immediately after receiving their resume, about all the information related to data processing. It is much more practical to do this through a digital platform. And you may wonder, why are we explaining this in a post about motivation letter templates? Because in digitalized recruitment processes, competition multiplies exponentially, and competitors can appear from anywhere in the world. In other words, if you want to stand out and add value to your résumé, you’ll need to offer something more to get that first interview, such as a motivation letter.
Would you like to know how to write one? Then keep reading this post where we develop the template for a motivation letter model that you can customize according to your needs.
A motivation letter is used to express your reasons, interests, and motivations for applying for a job, an academic program, a scholarship, or any other opportunity. The goal of this letter is to allow recruiters to get to know aspects of you beyond your academic background.
And also…
Highlight your qualities and skills: it allows you to emphasize your relevant competencies and achievements that make you an ideal candidate for the position or opportunity.
Show your interest: it gives you the opportunity to explain why you are interested in the opportunity and how it aligns with your professional or academic goals.
Personalize your application: it should be adapted to the specific position you are applying for, demonstrating your commitment and knowledge about it.
Explain gaps in your résumé: if you have gaps in your work or academic history, the motivation letter allows you to address them positively.
Show your personality and values: you can share your values, goals, and passion, helping evaluators understand your personality and determine whether you fit the organization or institution.
Stand out from other candidates: a well-written motivation letter can make the difference in a competitive process, allowing your voice and personality to shine beyond your résumé.
Start the letter with your name and personal details at the top right corner.
Then, include the date on which you are writing the letter.
2. Greeting
Address the recipient of the letter. If possible, find out the name of the person who will receive your application and use it in the greeting. For example, “Dear Mr. Perez” or “Dear Admissions Committee.”
3. Introduction
In the first part of the letter, state the reason for writing and mention the position or opportunity you are applying for.
Briefly explain how you found out about the opportunity and why it interests you.
4. Motivation and goals
Dedicate one or two paragraphs to explaining your motivations for applying for the position or opportunity.
Highlight your professional or academic goals and how they align with what the opportunity offers.
5. Experience and skills
Emphasize your past experiences, achievements, and skills that make you a suitable candidate.
Connect your experience with the requirements or qualities the position or opportunity demands.
6. Fit with the organization or institution
Show that you have researched the organization or institution and mention why you would like to be part of it.
Highlight how your values and goals align with those of the entity.
7. Closing and farewell
End the motivation letter by expressing your interest in an interview or an opportunity to discuss your application in more detail.
Use a formal closing such as “Sincerely” or “Kind regards.”
Leave space for your signature.
8. Signature and contact details
Sign your letter by hand if you are sending it in printed form.
If you are sending the letter by email or online, simply type your name below the closing.
9. Review and correction
Carefully review your letter to detect grammatical, spelling, and stylistic errors. Make sure the letter is concise and clear, avoiding unnecessary repetitions.
10. Format and presentation
Use a clean and professional format for the letter, with proper margins and an easy-to-read font.
Add headers and spacing to make reading easier.
When writing a motivation letter, it is essential to maintain a professional yet personal, positive, and enthusiastic tone. You should convey confidence in your abilities and in your interest in the position or opportunity you are applying for, but also show humility and gratitude for the consideration of your application.
It is important to avoid an arrogant or boastful tone, but don’t forget to highlight your achievements and experiences modestly, focusing on how you can contribute to the success of the organization or institution. Also, ensure that your tone is clear and concise, avoiding unnecessary jargon or informal expressions that are not appropriate for the context.
Furthermore, don’t forget to personalize the letter for the company you are applying to — for example, by mentioning it, adding the logo, or designing it with its corporate colors.
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