I am busy preparing for a workshop to show school students how to write a motivation letter, or personal statement, that they can use when applying to universities and thought I’d share a little of what I will be covering.
The term cover letter, motivation letter and personal statement are fairly interchangeable as the contents are basically the same so these tips for writing a motivation letter apply whether you are applying to university or applying for a job.
The motivational letter will introduce you as a viable candidate for the position or course you are applying for. It will let the company know why you are the most qualified for the position and a university know why they should give you a place on your chosen course.
Tip number 1
Do your homework
Before starting on your motivation letter it is best you find out as much as possible about the university and course that you want to study or the company and job that you want to apply for. This will enable you to tailor your motivation letter for the course or position you are applying and make it easier for you to highlight how your skills and experience are a good match – by doing so you will be expressing a genuine interest in the course or job.
Tip number 2
Use brief paragraphs to detail:
– who you are,
– what you are applying for,
– why you are interested,
– what you have to offer,
Tip number 3
Revise and re-write. After taking some time away from your letter, come back and read through it again. Make sure the information is organized in a clear and easy-to-understand way. Also, check for spelling and grammar errors, and make sure your tone is appropriate. The letter should sound both enthusiastic and professional. Ask a friend to check it for you as it is often difficult to see your own mistakes.
Are you struggling to write your motivation letter?
Then you are not alone.
Writing such a letter or statement can prove to be sometimes tricky and challenging for some applicants who often find themselves wondering what it should look like, what it should contain and how to convince universities or companies that they are the right ones to be chosen for the course or job. However, you don’t need to struggle, drop me an email, anne@power-to-change.eu and let me help you.
