How to: write a motivation letter

Your letter of motivation, or covering letter, is as important as your CV.

It tells your potential employer a little bit more about yourself, in your own words!

It should be fluent, confident and explain why you are the best person for the job.

The hardest part about writing these letters is getting started.

Use these phrases to help you structure your letter, highlighting what makes you unique!

The hardest part is getting started

Start with your reason for writing.

I am applying for the position of senior sales executive.

Next, say something about your education or career.

I graduated from Northwood University.

I have worked in sales for more than 15 years.

I have held the position of sales manager for the last 3 years.

I focused on developing new markets.

Use facts and figures to talk about the scope of your previous roles using positive language

I led a team of more than 20 people.

sounds better than

I led a team of 23 people or I led a team of just less than 25 people.

The same applies with budgets:

I was responsible for achieving sales of more than $12 million.

sounds better than

I achieved sales of $12.5 million or I achieved sales of just less than $13 million.

Personal qualities

Use strong words to show your characteristics:

I am confident when meeting new customers.

sounds better than

I like meeting new customers.

I have a strong customer focus.

rather than

I like to keep the customers happy.

Efficiency is important to me.

instead of

I like things to run to schedule.

I am often praised for being adaptable.

sounds more positive than

I always go along with whatever anyone else wants.

How to make language more formal?

In this type of letter it is a good idea to use more formal language. Here are some ideas on how you can change informal phrases into formals ones.

To say you have a job in a particular industry:

I work in

"I work in fashion."

To say you look after something:

I am responsible for

"I am responsible for European customer services."

To say you are enthusiastic about something that might happen:

I am looking forward to

"I am looking forward to hearing from you."

To have a total number of something:

To amount to

"The sales I generated in 2025 amounted to $14 million."

To let someone know you are interested in a job:

To apply for

"I am writing to apply for the role of sales executive."

To be very enthusiastic about something:

To be passionate about

"I am passionate about delivering great quality customer service."

To talk about a skill gained through time spent in a job:

To have experience in

"I have experience in serving customers across the EU."

Have you written a motivation letter in English?

Talk to me about a one-time session where we can review your letter together.