by Writing a letter of motivation, also known as a cover letter, can be a daunting task. It’s a document that introduces you to a potential employer and explains why you’re the perfect fit for the job. With so much riding on this one piece of paper, it’s important to get it right. To help you craft an effective letter of motivation, here are a few dos and don’ts to keep in mind:
DO:
- Do your research: Before you start writing, it’s important to do your homework. Research the company and industry you’re applying to, and familiarize yourself with their mission, values, and culture. This will help you understand what they’re looking for in a candidate and tailor your letter accordingly.
- Do use a professional tone: Your letter of motivation should be professional and formal, but not too stiff or formal. Use a friendly and conversational tone, but avoid using slang or overly casual language.
- Do focus on the employer’s needs: In your letter, focus on the employer’s needs and how your skills and experiences can meet them. Explain how you can contribute to the company and how you’ll fit in with the team.
- Do use examples and anecdotes: To make your letter more engaging and memorable, consider using examples and anecdotes to illustrate your skills and experiences. This can help the reader better understand your capabilities and how you’ve applied them in real-world situations.
- Do proofread and edit: Be sure to proofread and edit your letter carefully to ensure that it’s free of errors and typos. A letter with mistakes can make you look careless and unprofessional, so it’s worth taking the time to ensure that it’s error-free.
DON’T:
- Don’t regurgitate your resume: Your letter of motivation should not be a summary of your resume. Instead, it should highlight your unique qualifications and explain why you’re the perfect fit for the job.
- Don’t use cliches: Avoid using cliches and overused phrases in your letter, such as “I’m a team player” or “I’m a hard worker.” These phrases are often overused and can make you sound unoriginal and uninspired.
- Don’t be vague: Be specific and concrete in your letter, and avoid using vague or general statements. For example, instead of saying “I’m a good communicator,” you might say “I have strong communication skills and have successfully led team meetings and presentations in the past.”
- Don’t use too much jargon: While it’s important to use industry-specific language, be careful not to overdo it. Using too much jargon can make you sound pompous or difficult to understand.
- Don’t forget a call to action: Be sure to end your letter with a call to action, such as asking for an interview or inviting the reader to contact you for more information. This leaves a positive final impression and gives the reader a clear next step.
By following these dos and don’ts, you can craft an effective and professional letter of motivation that showcases your qualifications and leaves a lasting impression on the reader. Remember to keep it focused, concise, and tailored to the specific industry and position you’re interested in, and avoid common mistakes that can detract from your message.
