Cover Letter
In this section, you will find information on the structure and content of a compelling cover letter. The document gives you the opportunity to demonstrate your motivation and qualifications for the position you are applying for. It is essential that your cover letter is tailored to the requirements of the position and the company.
Please note that many recruiters read the CV first. Therefore, do not simply repeat in your cover letter what is already stated in your CV.
GENERAL
- Use a formal letter format for your cover letter
- Maximum length of one page
- Use the same font and font size as in your CV
- Write each cover letter individually and always tailor it to the position and the company
- Use a clear structure
- Use clear and precise wording
- Use active verbs and examples to describe your experience
- Describe your skills and achievements objectively, without evaluating yourself
- No spelling or grammar mistakes
STRUCTURE
We recommend the following sections as a guide:
- Address
- Place and date
- Clear and meaningful subject line
- Salutation
- “YOU” – The company and the position that interest me
- “I” – My professional experience and most important skills
- “WE” – What the company and I could achieve together
- Closing
Personal Contact Details:
First name and last name
Full address
Email address
Telephone number
Company Address:
Company name
Department
Contact person (if you do not have a specific contact person, use the department name, e.g. HR)
Address
Place, date
Clear and Meaningful Subject Line:
Exact title of the position you are applying for and, if available, the reference number
Salutation:
Address your contact person directly. If you do not know their name, use the formal salutation: “Dear Sir or Madam”
This section is the core of your cover letter. Here, you describe the highlights of your profile that make you an interesting candidate for the position. A strong cover letter requires time; the literature refers to approximately one working day.
“YOU” – The Company and the Position That Interest Me
Why are you interested in the company and the position? Explain the reason for your interest. Describe your motivation and mention as many relevant points of contact as possible, such as guest lectures, career fairs, acquaintances, career events at your university, etc. Be specific and think carefully about why the company interests you. Use concise sentences. This will make your letter authentic and individual and allow you to avoid empty phrases.
“I” – My Professional Experience and Most Important Skills
Why do you believe you are the right person for the position? Which of your qualifications and skills are relevant to the company? Support these relevant qualifications with examples from your experience and refer to the requirements stated in the job advertisement. Select up to four relevant skills and link them to examples instead of simply listing them.
“WE” – What the Company and I Could Achieve Together
This is the concluding section. Summarise your key messages here. What could the company and you achieve together? Formulate a concluding sentence in which you thank the reader while also expressing your wish to learn more about the company and the position.
Closing and Signature:
When uploading your documents digitally or sending them by email, it is sufficient to type your name instead of adding a signature. You may also insert a scanned copy of your signature. Do you have any further questions? Then contact one of our services.
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