application letter motivation letter

5 Inspiring Examples: Writing a Motivation Letter (Key Elements)

By Status.net Editorial Team on January 12, 2024 — 10 minutes to read

Crafting a compelling motivation letter can be the deciding factor in whether you land your dream job, secure a place at a prestigious university, or win a competitive scholarship. A motivation letter goes beyond a simple cover letter or personal statement; it’s an opportunity to convey your unique story, professional aspirations, and the driving forces behind your career or academic pursuits.

In this article, we will explore the key elements that make a motivation letter stand out from the crowd. We’ll provide practical tips on how to articulate your goals, showcase your achievements, and demonstrate your passion in a way that resonates with decision-makers. We will share examples to guide and inspire you as you write a motivation letter that leaves a lasting impression.

Structuring Your Motivation Letter

Opening: crafting a compelling introduction.

Start your motivation letter with a catchy opening line. Connecting to the reader on a personal level is key to grabbing their attention. For example, you could mention a shared experience, or your journey towards deciding to apply for the position or course you’re interested in.

In the first paragraph, make sure to briefly introduce yourself and explain your reason for applying. It’s important to also mention how you heard about the opportunity. Keep it concise and focus on setting the tone for the rest of the letter.

Body: Highlighting Your Qualifications

After introducing yourself, it’s time to provide the reader with a clear view of your qualifications and achievements. Use bullet points to organize your information in an easy-to-digest format. Focus on:

• Relevant education or training
• Skills and experiences that match the requirements
• Accomplishments that demonstrate your abilities

For each point, provide a brief example to illustrate how you meet the criteria. Remember to keep it focused on the opportunity you’re applying for, and avoid including unrelated qualifications.

• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from (…) University
• Two years of experience in content creation and social media management
• Increased engagement rates by 15% during my tenure at (…) Company

Closing: Ending with a Strong Conclusion

In the final section of your motivation letter, sum up why you think you’re the right candidate for the opportunity. Emphasize your enthusiasm and drive to succeed in the position or program.

Finally, express your gratitude for being considered and provide contact information where you can be reached. Remember to stay confident but polite, and remind the reader that you’re looking forward to discussing your qualifications further with them.

An example of a closing could look like:

Thank you for considering my application. I believe that my skills and experiences make me an excellent fit for this opportunity, and I am eager to contribute to your team’s success. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my qualifications further. Please feel free to reach me at (your email) or (your phone number).

Personalizing Your Letter

Reflecting your personality.

When writing your motivation letter, it’s essential to show who you are, rather than just tell . Start by thinking about your strengths, skills, and personal traits that make you unique. Consider what aspects of your personality fit well with the institution or company’s values. For example, if the company values teamwork and you have a history of working well in team settings, you should emphasize this in your letter.

To help with personalization:

• List down three key traits that represent you.
• For each trait, write down a specific example of how you have demonstrated this quality.
• Connect the examples to the position or opportunity you are applying for.

Connecting with the Institution or Company

To create a personal connection, research the institution or company thoroughly. Familiarize yourself with their mission, values, and projects or programs. When writing your motivation letter, be sure to weave in details that show you have taken the time to truly understand the institution’s or company’s goals.

• If you’re applying for an internship at a sustainability-focused company, you can mention how your passion for the environment aligns with the company’s mission.
• If you’re applying for a university program, you can include your genuine interest in the program’s unique offerings, such as their lab facilities or specific courses.

To connect with the institution or company:

• Research their mission, values, and notable projects or programs.
• Identify aspects that align with your skills, interests, or values.
• Incorporate these connections into your motivation letter, explaining why they resonate with you.

Key Elements to Include

Relevance to the position or course.

In your motivation letter, always highlight how your background, skills, and experiences are relevant to the position or course you’re applying for. For example, if you’re applying for a management position, you can emphasize your previous leadership roles and your ability to lead teams to success.

• Use bullet points to list your relevant skills and experiences
• Mention any specific courses or certifications you have that relate to the position

Specific Achievements and Experiences

Showcase your specific achievements and experiences that make you stand out from other candidates. Use concrete examples to demonstrate your abilities, such as:

• Successfully completed a project on time and within budget, leading a team of five members
• Increased sales by 15% over a six-month period, as a sales representative at (…) Company

(Don’t forget to include any awards or recognition you’ve received: they reinforce your credibility and capabilities.)

Future Goals and Aspirations

Lastly, discuss your future goals and aspirations as they relate to the position or course you’re applying for. This shows that you have a clear vision of where you want to be, and how this opportunity aligns with your long-term plans. For example, you could say something like:

• “I hope to contribute to the company’s success by implementing new strategies and ideas, eventually progressing into a senior leadership role.”

Revising and Refining

Proofreading for errors.

In this stage of developing your motivation letter, you need to focus on the accuracy and clarity of your language. Mistakes in grammar, punctuation, and spelling can leave a negative impression on the reader. Take your time to read through your letter multiple times, checking for any errors and correcting them. Consider using the following strategies:

• Read Out Loud : Reading your letter out loud will help you catch awkward phrasings, repetitions, or sentence structures that may not be apparent when reading silently. It might also make it easier to spot grammatical errors.
• Use Spell Check : Take advantage of your word processor’s spell check feature to catch common spelling mistakes. Be cautious, though, as it might not catch context-specific errors or homophones (e.g., there/their/they’re).
• Check Punctuation : Accurate punctuation contributes to the clarity and professionalism of your letter. Make sure you’ve used commas, colons, and semicolons correctly, as well as proper capitalization.

Asking for Feedback

Another important aspect of revising your motivation letter is seeking feedback from others. A fresh pair of eyes can help you identify areas that need improvement, point out errors you may have missed, and provide helpful suggestions for strengthening your content. Consider the following steps when asking for feedback:

• Choose the Right Person : Seek input from someone who knows about the opportunity you’re applying for, or who has good writing and editing skills. This could include a mentor, teacher, friend, or family member.
• Provide Context : Briefly explain the purpose of the motivation letter, your goals, and any specific instructions or requirements you need to adhere to as you are writing.
• Request Specific Feedback : Ask your reviewer to focus on content, clarity, and tone, as well as grammar and punctuation. Encourage them to point out any confusing sections or suggestions for improvement.
• Revise Based on Feedback : After receiving feedback, carefully review the suggestions and revise your motivation letter accordingly. Remember, you don’t have to implement every suggestion, but consider each one as it applies to your specific situation.

Sample Motivation Letters

Academic applications.

When applying for academic programs, it’s essential to highlight your passion for the subject, your academic achievements, and your dedication to pursuing further studies.

Dear Admissions Committee,

I am excited to apply for the Master’s program in Environmental Science at [University Name]. As a highly motivated individual, I have always been passionate about environmental preservation and sustainable practices. During my Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies at [College Name], I maintained a 3.8 GPA and actively participated in multiple eco-friendly activities and volunteering projects.

I am confident that my background and enthusiasm make me a great fit for this Master’s program. Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely, [Name]

Example of a motivational statement for educational purposes

Subject: Motivation Letter for the Master’s Program in Environmental Sciences

Dear [Admissions Committee],

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Environmental Sciences Master’s program at [University Name]. My passion for environmental conservation, along with my undergraduate studies in biology, has driven me to pursue a path that combines academic research and practical application in the field.

During my time at [Previous College], I completed an honors thesis on the impact of climate change on marine ecosystems. This experience fueled my desire to delve further into this field and contribute to finding sustainable solutions. By joining the Master’s program at [University Name], I hope to gain advanced knowledge in environmental science and learn from renowned experts in the field.

I am confident that the Master’s program in Environmental Sciences at [University Name] will provide me with the necessary skills and resources to make a meaningful impact in the field. I look forward to joining your esteemed community of scholars.

[Your Name]

Job applications

For job applications, focus on your skills, qualifications, and motivation for joining the specific company.

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the Marketing Manager position at [Company Name]. With over five years of experience in the marketing field and a proven track record of success, I believe I can contribute significantly to your team and help achieve the company’s goals.

I recently completed a marketing certification in digital marketing, which has equipped me with the knowledge to create effective online campaigns. I believe that combining my practical experience and newly acquired skills will allow me to bring fresh, innovative ideas to your marketing team.

Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the prospect of joining [Company Name] and eagerly anticipate the opportunity to discuss further.

Sincerely,   [Name]

Example of a compelling motivation letter for a job

Subject: Motivation Letter for the Marketing Coordinator Position

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am excited to apply for the Marketing Coordinator role at [Company Name]. As a passionate marketing professional with 3 years of experience in the field, I believe my skills and experience would make a valuable addition to your team.

Throughout my career, I have demonstrated the ability to develop and execute successful marketing campaigns. In my previous role at [Previous Company Name], I increased social media engagement by 50% and assisted in coordinating successful events, bringing in over 200 attendees.

I am particularly drawn to [Company Name] because of its innovative approach to marketing and commitment to continuous improvement. I look forward to contributing my ideas and enthusiasm to help your team achieve even greater success.

Thank you for considering my application. I would be thrilled for the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further and am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Brief yet effective motivation letter for a job

Subject: Application for the Sales Manager Position

Dear [Hiring Manager],

I am eager to apply for the Sales Manager role at [Company Name], where I believe my proven track record in leading sales teams will make me a valuable asset.

In my previous role as a Sales Team Lead, I was able to achieve and surpass quarterly sales targets by an average of 20%. My ability to motivate my team and implement effective sales strategies would translate well into the Sales Manager position at [Company Name].

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my skills and experience to [Company Name] and look forward to discussing my qualifications further.

Best regards,

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the essential components to include in a motivation letter.

In a motivation letter, it’s important to include the following components:

• A concise introduction with a clear purpose statement
• An explanation of your interest in the role or program
• Your relevant qualifications, skills, and experiences
• Examples of how you can contribute or make an impact
• A polite closing with a call to action or thank-you statement

How should a motivation letter be structured for maximum impact?

For a well-structured motivation letter, follow these guidelines:

• Start with a specific and concise statement of your purpose
• Use short paragraphs to maintain readability
• Organize your content logically, covering interest, qualifications, examples, and conclusion
• Use topic sentences to guide the reader and transition smoothly between paragraphs
• End with a polite closing and clear call to action.
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Motivational Letter Writing Guide + Examples for 2024

You’re about to apply for the job opportunity of your dreams.

You’ve worked hard, and you can’t wait to take the next step in your career.

All that’s left for you to do is write a motivational letter.

But writing a motivational letter can be nerve-wracking.

Two hours and three coffees in, you’ve scrolled through your Facebook newsfeed (twice), watched one episode of the last season of Game of Thrones, sent angry tweets to its creators, and donated for the knee surgery of two dogs. 

You go back to your open Word doc, and all you’ve managed to write is, “This program seems like fun” or “I’ll totally be a great fit for your organization.”

Don’t worry! We’re here to help.

In this article, we’re going to cover:

• How to Write a Motivational Letter, Step-by-Step
• A Great Example of a Motivational Letter
• Useful Motivational Letter Tips

What Is a Motivational Letter?

A motivational letter, sometimes also called a letter of motivation, is a formal letter that you might have to submit when applying for an educational program or a job. Its goal is to show the hiring manager or admissions officer why you’re the perfect candidate for the position.

Motivational letters are typically submitted alongside your CV or resume . Unlike a cover letter, which gives practical examples of how your skills and experience match the opening, a motivational letter focuses more on your personality, interests, and motivation to apply.

When Do You Need a Motivational Letter?

A motivational letter is usually required when an organization wants to gauge your enthusiasm, cultural fit, and motivations for a particular opportunity.

There are a few situations when you might need to submit a motivational letter, such as:

• You’re applying for an educational program.
• You’re applying to work at a non-profit organization or mission-driven company.
• You’re applying for an internship in a competitive field.
• You’re applying for a volunteer position at a charity or non-government organization.
• You’re applying for a grant, fellowship, or some sort of scholarship .

No matter the situation, a motivational letter serves to express your distinct driving forces and convey your enthusiasm for that specific role, program, or opportunity. That’s why, done right, a motivational letter can convince the reader to go through your application in detail.

However, if the specific position doesn’t explicitly require a motivational letter or other written statement, you might be better off learning how to write a cover letter instead. Cover letters can be a great addition to your application and help you stand out from other candidates who are only relying on their resumes.

How to Write a Motivational Letter

Now that you know what a motivational letter is, it’s time to write your own.

Just follow the steps we’ve outlined, and you’ll be done in no time:

#1. Address Your Letter Appropriately

Your motivational letter should include a header with all the necessary contact details.

For starters, this means you should include your contact information , such as your full name, email address, phone number, and any other details that might be necessary for your application.

Additionally, you should include your intended audience’s contact details. Depending on where and what you’re applying for, this might be either a hiring manager or an admissions officer.

To establish a connection with the reader, include a personalized greeting instead of the generic “To Whom It May Concern.” To do that, you have to find out who the hiring manager or admissions officer is.

Start by doing a bit of research. Review the job listing, the program’s official page, or the application instructions. If you can’t find their name there, check the organization’s website and look for a staff directory.

Once you have their name, address your motivational letter professionally . We recommend using an identifier followed by their last name. But if you’re not sure about their title or gender, you can just use their full name, too. For example:

• Dear Mr. Smith,
• Dear Dr. Singh,
• Dear Cameron Smith,

Just avoid informal greetings like "Hey, John!" – your motivational letter is still meant to be a formal document.

#2. Stick to the Program Requirements

Writing a captivating motivational letter is all about showing the hiring manager or admissions officer how you meet the requirements for the position.

To help get the ball rolling as you start drafting your motivational letter, ask yourself: 

• What kind of applicants are usually admitted to the program? 
• How do you fulfill the requirements?

First, you need to know the exact program requirements and explain how your background and strengths align with the outlined criteria.

Comb through the details the organization has provided about the ideal skills, experiences, qualifications, or personal qualities they’re looking for in a candidate. Maybe they want someone proficient in data analysis , or they’re prioritizing candidates who are passionate about the industry.

Just remember –  you don’t have to highlight how you meet all the listed requirements if your application already includes a detailed academic CV . Just identify the top three to five requirements and give concrete examples of how you meet each.

Here’s an example:

Requirement: Minimum 2 years of volunteer experience

“I was a medical volunteer in Namibia for three years. It’s one of my most fulfilling adventures and transformative experiences so far since I am passionate about helping others. I believe it broadened my horizons and made me more resilient.”

#3. Align with Their Values

Your motivational letter should explain what drives you and show the reader how you share their organization’s values.

Take time to thoroughly research the organization , its culture, objectives, and driving forces. Find what resonates with your own beliefs and goals and mention it in your motivational letter.

But don’t just randomly sprinkle keywords into your letter. Instead, thoughtfully use your passion to build a narrative that shows how your values align with the institution’s mission. 

Be sure to give concrete examples. For instance, if the company values sustainability, you might want to share an anecdotal example, such as:

Values: Sustainability, Climate Action, Nature Conservation

I have a deep passion for nature conservation, and I have volunteered extensively with environmental organizations, especially in restoring local wetland habitats. I also practice eco-friendly habits in my professional life by advocating for reducing workplace waste and single-use plastics.

#4. Express Genuine Interest

Above all, your motivational letter should demonstrate that you really want to be there.

That said, there is a fine line between pleading and showing intelligent interest while also selling yourself. Generic statements can come across as insincere and unmotivated. Instead, write about what really attracted you to the opportunity.

Be as specific as possible and express your passion without necessarily begging them for a chance. For example:

• I would love to live in Aberdeen because I’m fascinated by Highlander culture, and I’m excited to dive into the city’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant community dedicated to the arts, music, and preserving Scottish traditions.
• It is my dream to be part of the Environmental Science Master's program because of its cutting-edge research in sustainable energy solutions and marine conservation efforts, which align with my passion for protecting our planet's ecosystems.

Specific examples and details show you've invested time learning about the organization, which helps your genuine passion shine through your motivational letter.

#5. Personalize It

While showcasing how you meet requirements is crucial, don't be afraid to let some of your personality and voice shine through.

Use descriptive adjectives to paint a fuller picture of who you are beyond just your credentials. Are you an endlessly curious, lifelong learner? A creative problem-solver? Passionate about how technological advancements can be used to increase sustainability?

Let your distinct character and values shine through to make your motivational letter more memorable and help differentiate you from other applicants. This can convey important soft skills and give the reader a glimpse of the person behind the qualifications.

Just make sure you’re still presenting a polished bit of personality and keeping it relevant to the opportunity. For example, if you’re applying for an MA in mathematics, don’t mention your passion for historical re-enactment.

Are you applying for an academic program? Learn how to write an academic personal statement here.

#6. Don’t Just Recap Your CV

Using your motivational letter to simply summarize your CV is a wasted opportunity. If the application requires a motivational letter, they’re looking to get to know you beyond the required stats and qualifications. 

The person reading your motivational letter is looking for the context around your motivations, passions, and aspirations. So, instead of just listing credentials, expand on the driving forces behind your experiences and decisions.

If you’re applying for a master's program, for example, mention your relevant undergraduate coursework, but also explain what sparked your interest in this specialization and why this path is personally meaningful. So, if you’re a History undergrad, elaborate on how volunteering at the archaeology museum made you pursue a graduate degree in Museum Studies and Curatorship.

Here’s a practical example of how that might look:

As a History undergraduate, my passion for preserving and sharing our cultural narratives was sparked by a semester-long museum internship. Working alongside curators as they brought ancient artifacts and stories to life through compelling exhibits opened my eyes to the vital role museums play in education and connecting communities to their roots.

This experience solidified my drive to pursue museum studies at the graduate level, where I can develop professional expertise in responsible collection stewardship, thoughtful exhibition development, and engaging public programming that keeps our shared histories vibrant and accessible for all.

Getting your documents ready for that application? Learn how to write a resume with our detailed guide.

#7. Convey Your Ambitions

Your motivational letter should express your ambitions and aspirations just as much as your relevant achievements . Admissions committees and employers who ask for motivational letters want to clearly understand both your goals and how this opportunity aligns with them.

Share your vision for how you plan to apply the knowledge, essential skills, or experience you'll gain. If it's a job, explain how it will prepare you for further career growth and impact in that field. For an academic program, discuss how you aim to contribute to cutting-edge research or become a leader and mentor.

Don't be afraid to think big - motivated candidates often have big goals of driving innovation, making a difference, or pushing boundaries in their discipline. Just make sure your aspirations are realistic and show that you have a plan and are truly invested in this path for the long term.

Here’s an example of how you can convey your ambitions in your motivational letter:

My long-term goal is to become a leader in sustainable urban design and planning that seamlessly integrates green infrastructure into the built environment. This master's program will equip me with the interdisciplinary skills to develop eco-friendly architectural solutions and climate-resilient city policies that prioritize environmental conservation alongside economic growth and social equity.

#8. Don’t Lie

One of the biggest mistakes you could make while writing your motivational letter is lying.

If you write anything remotely false, the reader will likely sense it. When you lie, you’re likely to unconsciously exaggerate your feelings and ideas. If you tell a fake story or inflate your excitement or achievements, you won’t get anywhere.

Your dishonesty is likely to be exposed and severely damage your credibility, leading to an immediate rejection.

Honesty and integrity are essential to writing an effective motivational letter. The goal of this document is to truly reflect who you are, why you’re the best match for this opportunity, and what you hope to achieve.

Don’t worry if you think your life so far just isn’t impressive enough to write a captivating story. No matter where you’re coming from, you can show the reader your unique perspective, personal growth, and unwavering determination to pursue your passions.

#9. Use a Motivational Letter Template

If you want your motivational letter to make a striking first impression, presentation matters.

A basic black-and-white document from a text editor will hardly stand out. Instead, try one of our professionally designed motivational letter templates for an attention-grabbing solution!

Novoresume offers modern, eye-catching templates that can give your motivational letter a polished look. You can even use the resume builder to match your motivational letter to one of our sleek resume templates for a coherent application.

Save precious time on formatting and create a visually flawless application in no time!

How to Structure a Motivational Letter

You’ve got the gist of how to write a motivational letter down, but it’s just as important to know how to structure it.

If your motivational letter is a messy, haphazard series of unrelated paragraphs, it simply won’t make the cut. You need your motivational letter to tell a coherent story, and this is where the structure comes in.

The whole process will probably require a few drafts until you get to the perfect, polished motivational letter. You might have to move around paragraphs or sentences until you have the ideal story that compliments your application, so don’t worry if you don’t get it right the first time.

Let’s look at what each motivational letter looks like and includes:

#1. Contact Details

Start by adding all the relevant contact information at the top of your motivational letter.

Here’s what to include:

• Full Name. Place your first and last name at the top of the page.
• Professional Title. Match your professional title to the specific position you're aiming for. E.g.: if you’re applying for a Ph.D., write “Ph.D. candidate”.
• Email Address. Include a professional and straightforward email address. We recommend sticking to something that combines your first and last name.
• Phone Number. Include your phone number and add the dialing code in front if you’re applying overseas.
• Location. Adding your city and state/country is more than enough.
• Relevant Links. Optionally, you can include links to any relevant websites or social media profiles, such as a portfolio, a blog, a LinkedIn profile , etc.

Then, add the contact information of the admissions officer or hiring manager reading your motivational letter, such as:

• Organization’s Name. Start with the name of the organization to which you're sending your application.
• Recipient’s Name. If possible, find the name of the exact person who's going to be viewing your application, such as the hiring manager or the admissions officer for the department you're interested in. Check the organization’s website to get a head start.
• Recipient’s Title. Always address the reader professionally. For example, if they’re a professor or doctor in their field, use the appropriate identifier.
• Location. Provide the exact address of the organization you’re applying to. Include the city, state, country, and street number, and even specify the building if necessary.

#2. Introduction

Begin your motivational letter with a strong introduction.

The first few sentences need to be attention-grabbing – do this through a short, engaging pitch about yourself and why you are applying.

Here’s what you can include:

• A summary of who you are and what you do.
• Details about what you’re applying for and where.
• A prelude to the bulk of your motivational letter.

Remember - this part only needs to include the general reasons behind your application, since you’ll have the opportunity to make a deep dive later on in the body of your motivational letter.

Let’s look at an example of what your introduction could look like:

Dear Dr. Octavio,

My name is Jane Doe, and I would like to express my interest in applying for the Ph.D. Robotics program at Columbia University. I’ve always dreamed of becoming a robotics engineer and contributing to advancement in the field, and I believe that a Ph.D. in Robotics from this university would set me miles ahead of reaching my goal.

The body of your motivational letter is where you get to really sell yourself.

It’s also where the bulk of your text is going to be, so it determines your motivational letter as a whole.

There are two things you should keep in mind when writing this section of your motivational letter: the paragraph structure and the paragraph contents.

Generally, there are two main paragraph-based structures for your motivational letter.

First is the classic, three-main-paragraph structure, where each paragraph accounts for your introduction, body, and conclusion. If you’re using a storytelling approach for your motivational letter, we recommend sticking to this one.

However, if you want to be more factual and to the point, we recommend trying the seven-paragraph structure. It divides the main body of your motivational letter into smaller paragraphs according to your main points, where each discusses a specific achievement, experience, or aspiration.

Use the body of your motivational letter to mention the stories behind your achievements, essential skills , and passion for whatever you’re applying for.

This is the right place to be as detailed and factual as possible. Give concrete examples of what motivated you to apply for this position, and show how that directly relates to what the organization is looking for in a candidate.

Here are some sentences you can paraphrase and use to help you write the body of your motivational letter:

• My passion for [field] started when [experience] . 
• I want to [join this organization] because [ motivation] . 
• I have been part of [relevant organization or field] for [amount of time] . It’s the best thing for me because [reason] .
• I remember once when I [experience] , which made me realize that I [gained interest in the specific field] .
• [Organization or program] resonates with me because [specific reason] .
• What distinguishes me from my peers is [something you’re proud of] .

Let’s look at a brief example of how this is put into practice.

I developed my passion for digital marketing during my internship at XYZ Inc. Working for a small startup allowed me to gain surface-level experience in most digital marketing channels. Now, I would like to deep-dive and gain advanced know-how by attending the Buffalo College Marketing program.

#4. Conclusion

After finishing the body of your motivational letter, it’s time to wrap it up and send it in.

Use this section to briefly summarize your main points and remind the reader why you’d be a great fit for the organization or program you’re interested in.

Then, mention your overarching career goal and how that aligns with their organization’s mission.

Finally, thank the reader for their time and sign off on your motivational letter. Here’s an example:

Therefore, I believe that my strong academic foundation in environmental studies and hands-on fieldwork experience are qualifications that position me to make outstanding contributions to your master's program. I believe that the knowledge I gain in the Sustainability and International Relations program will play a pivotal role in my mission of shaping innovative policies and scientific solutions to combat climate change and protect our planet's biodiversity for future generations.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to join UCLA in the fall semester.

George Maxton

How to Format a Motivational Letter

Always review your motivation letter carefully and stick to any stated requirements or guidelines for your application.

Organizations will sometimes include formatting specifications, like word count or page limits, or even questions they want you to answer in your motivational letter.

If you’re writing a motivational letter for an academic program, you can usually find this information on the admissions requirements webpage or within the provided application materials. 

For job applications, these details are usually listed on the job ad or in the company's job application portal.

Always follow these rules exactly as stated. Going off script could get your application immediately rejected since it shows you’re either not attentive or you’re not taking the opportunity seriously.

If, on the other hand, there aren’t any guidelines for your motivational letter, we recommend you follow these tips:

• Keep your motivational letter one page long.
• Use a clear structure with concise paragraphs to make your letter easy to skim.
• Choose a professional font like Lora or Roboto and make sure it’s sized 11-12 pt.
• Set your page margins to one inch on all sides so your page doesn’t look too cluttered or too empty.
• Include the date you wrote your motivational letter for an extra professional touch.
• Use powerful words and action verbs (“designed” and “conceptualized”) instead of cliched phrases (“helped with” and “managed”).
• Smoothly connect your thoughts through transition words.
• Proofread carefully for any spelling or grammatical errors.
• Include a professional closing line like "Sincerely" at the end of your text.
• Print your motivational letter out and sign it, or send it as a PDF to preserve your formatting.

Motivational Letter Example

Let’s look at an example of a great motivational letter for a Ph.D. program at Harvard University and go through just what this candidate does right:

The candidate’s letter to Harvard University’s Department of Political Science starts by addressing the person in charge of admissions for the Ph.D. program they’re interested in.

The general requirements for the Political Science program are:

• Being research inclined
• Having a demonstrated passion for politics
• Showing above-average performance during undergraduate studies 

The values of the university they’re applying to are integrity, education, respect, and accountability.

The candidate’s motivational letter is neatly divided into a total of five paragraphs, of which three make up the body of the text.

Here’s how they highlight their motivation:

• They know the history of the university and share the same values.
• They’re genuinely excited and passionate about the program and the school.
• They show what their qualifications are and how they’ll be a great fit for the program.
• They explain what they hope to achieve if they get the opportunity to study at Harvard.

Essentially, the candidate has listed all their qualifications through a personal story. After reading this letter, the admissions officer will feel like they know the candidate adequately, especially since they have communicated who they are by highlighting how they match everything the Ph.D. program is looking for in an applicant.

Need more inspiration? Check out our 60+ cover letter examples for different professions.

Key Takeaways

You’ve made it to the end of our guide!

Now, you know everything there is to know about motivational letters. We’re confident you’re a shoo-in for that position you have your sights set on!

But before we go, let’s quickly sum up what we’ve covered so far:

• A motivational letter is a formal document that’s usually required when applying for university admissions, a non-profit organization, or a volunteer position.
• Motivational letters are different from cover letters since they focus more on your interests, passions, and ambitions than on your skills and achievements.
• Generally, there are two ways to structure your motivational letter, depending on whether you want to tell a story or factually go through all the points that make you an ideal candidate.
• The introduction of your motivational letter should be brief and immediately grab the reader’s attention. Use it to tell them who you are and why you’re interested in applying for the specific opportunity.
• Always do your research on the specific program or organization. This can help you show genuine interest and convey your aspirations for the future in this field.
• Make your motivational letter stand out by using one of Novorésumé’s templates and giving the admissions officer or hiring manager a gorgeous first impression.

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How to Write a Motivation Letter for Job Application with a Sample

A motivation letter for a Job is also known as the letter of motivation for employment, a motivational letter for a job offer, a cover letter, etc. For now, we will use the terms motivation letter and cover letter.  They are similar concepts.  A cover letter is typically for a job, and a motivation letter can be used for several purposes. The motivation letter is nothing more than a general letter that is attached to any other document or application to accompany them, like your resume or curriculum vitae. It gives you a chance to tell your story and hopefully show the hiring manager or recruiter why you would make a great candidate.

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Getting the Most out of Fiverr

For a job, a motivation letter is very similar to a cover letter. Your goal is to write a letter explaining why you would make a great candidate for the hiring manager or team. An important consideration when applying for a job is that with each step, of course, you want to get hired, but you are trying to stand out from your competition and move to the next step in the process.

A motivation letter for a job application is included with your resume when you submit it. The resume includes your work history, education, etc. The motivation letter tells you more about yourself and why you are a great candidate.

You might hear and read discussions about why the cover letter is dead and see statistics showing as few as 18% of recruiters read. Other studies show the numbers as much higher, with as many as three-quarters of hiring managers reading them if they are included. Given that only about a third of applicants send them in, just because you took the time to send in a motivational letter for a job application, you can stand out. Write an outstanding one that improves your chances of being hired.

Motivation letters and cover letters also give you the chance to explain things that might be different about your background. This can be very helpful when your application doesn’t look as strong as it might with more color in your story.

For example, a motivation letter for a job application can be used to do things like

• Explain Gaps in Your Work History – Maybe you took time off to care for a sick relative, hike across the Himalayas, or just find yourself. These things could appear in a job application as something to avoid, but a good motivation letter and explanation can make these strengths. They can make great stories and have great discussions in an interview. They can also make a recruiter or hiring manager curious to hear more.
• Explain Why You Are Changing Careers – If you have been down one career path and are now exploring another, this is something you might need or want to explain more.
• Describe Your Career Objectives – Showing your drive and ambition can be very exciting for a recruiter or hiring manager.
• Highlight Personal and Professional Achievements – A great motivation letter can be a good opportunity to talk about accomplishments that can help you be a better candidate or that explain you as a person and your goals.

Whatever your motivation, a motivation letter for your job application is a great opportunity to highlight and describe you as a person, a candidate, and your history. You can tell them in your own words why they should hire you and why you would make a great candidate. A job application and a resume can’t do that for you.

10 Sample Motivation Letters for Job Applications

This is a set of ten sample job motivation letters for you to use in creating a powerful motivation letter for that dream job.

Motivation Letter for Job Opening

This is an editable version of our Motivation Letter for a Job .  Use this version to customize the letter for your situation.  Make sure to show your strengths and why you would make a great candidate for the position.

The basic purpose behind writing a motivational letter is to persuade the recruiter or hiring manager that you are suitable for the job you are applying for. It also denotes your skills and knowledge, which can help HR to select you for the applied position. Many people cannot differentiate between a cover letter and a motivational letter they feel that they both are similar, but there is a huge difference between both of them.

How to Write a Motivation Letter for Job Application

The first thing we need to do is to determine what a recruiter or hiring manager is looking for. This will allow us to write the best motivation letter for your job application. You want to start by looking at the job, its requirements and its responsibilities and see how you compare.

1. Determine the Job Expectations – Learn About the Job

Any job description should have a list of the requirements for the job. Go through these and write them down. This gives you an idea of what the hiring manager is looking for.

When you read through the list of job duties, are there any other requirements or suggestions included? Write these down as well.

Lastly, go onto LinkedIn or just search the internet for people with similar positions at this or other companies. Look through their background and write down any education, job experiences, or other traits that you find common to them.

You now have a list of things that a hiring manager may be looking for.

Which Traits Do You Have?

Write down in a few words how you meet any of the requirements. These could be personality traits, education, job experience, or even personal or volunteer experiences.

Review your CV or resume and look for accomplishments, projects, responsibilities, or other activities in your background that can help show that you are the right person for the job.  You want to make as long a list as possible.

Why Do You Want the Job?

Write down why you want the job and what you hope to achieve. Consider your life experiences, personal goals, interests, and motivations.

Research the Company

Research the company and try to understand the candidates they look for, their history, and their achievements. These might also weigh in on why you want the job or why you are good for the job.

2. Start Writing Your Motivation Letter for Job Application

A good technique for writing your letter is a five-paragraph strategy. It should be one page because many recruiters won’t read more than that anyway. This is where our work begins because we need to get everything that we just wrote down into about five paragraphs:

• Introduction – This is usually pretty straightforward, introducing yourself. You need to include the position and company name. If you want, you can include one or two sentences about your excitement about the position.
• Body – This is the meat of the letter. Usually, in three paragraphs, you can usually cover how you are a great candidate, any unusual or explanatory portions, and any unique background items or your future goals.
• Conclusion – Close the letter with a thank you, and your excitement, and you can include a respectful call to action. “You can call me at … to discuss more how I can contribute to the team.”

Sometimes, it’s easiest to write the cover letter out of order.  Start with the body, showing why you think you are a strong candidate or explaining gaps.  Then, you can circle back to the introduction and conclusion with a one or two-sentence summary of your body.

It’s a good idea to start with an outline before you start writing.

Letter Structure

You want to keep your letter to one page.  Typically, this will mean one short paragraph each for the introduction and conclusion and then one to three paragraphs for the body.  So, three to five paragraphs is a fairly normal letter.  More than one page, and the recruiter isn’t likely to read the second page (and maybe not that far.)  You want to get their attention quickly. They are busy and won’t read much.

It’s also a good idea to address the letter to someone.  Usually, this will be the recruiter or the hiring manager.  A letter labeled “to whom it may concern” or other generic addresses doesn’t make a strong connection with a reader.  It’s not horrible, but much better to address it with someone.

Even though we call this a motivation letter or cover letter, it’s not always a letter these days.  You might send an email.  We include a letter format because many of us rarely send written letters and we want to help you with that.  There are just a few small changes to change it to an email.

• Use the Same Verbiage – You can use the same letter for the letter itself. 
• Remove the Addressing – Do not send the whole letter as an email. Remove any address blocks. 
• Send Separate Emails – You may have a couple of email addresses.  Don’t send one motivation letter for a job application to multiple people simultaneously.  Send separate emails and address them separately. So, send one to Mrs. Smith, one to Mr. Amat, etc.  Change the greeting each time.  You might even make some introduction changes if you’ve spoken to anyone.

Overall, the changes are minor but important when you send a cover letter as an email.

Introduction

The introduction is a simple paragraph.  You want a few sentences introducing yourself and the position that you are applying to. You can also include one or two sentences summarizing your strengths for the position.

The body does most of the work for the letter.  Start by reviewing the information you gathered above.  Then write 1-3 paragraphs on why you are a great candidate for this position.   You can include past work experience, past projects, or other similar achievements.  It’s terrific to show how you can do the job rather than send another version of your CV.  Stories and other ways to connect with the reader or great.  

You may also need to include any information on things that may cause questions on your CV.  For example, if you have a gap in your work history or are applying for a job that is completely different from what you’ve had in the past.  Explain the context and an explanation for these inconsistencies in your work history.  Your goal here is to get an interview where you can explain these things in more depth.

“ I had to take a year off to take care of my mother.  She was terminally ill for a little over a year.  My siblings and I each took turns with her but I was the only one without a family and I had the ability to take more time off.  While it meant I couldn’t work full-time, now that she has passed, this is time that I would never be able to make up for and I’ll treasure the time I had with her.  I did everything I could to stay up on our industry during that time, reading about current events and I even did a couple of small contractor projects to keep my skills up.  I’m looking forward to getting back at the work that I love.”

3. Review Your Letter

Before sending your letter, read it carefully for any typos, grammatical mistakes, or inconsistencies. Any experience you mention in your motivation letter needs to match what’s on your application. You also want to ensure that your letter makes sense and is ready to go.

Typos and grammatical mistakes can harm you instead of help you. It reflects badly on your work ethic and your attention to detail. You don’t want that to happen, so review your letter carefully. It can be a good idea to have someone else read it who hasn’t been staring at it for hours. We tend to fix the mistakes in our minds.

A great tool for this is Grammarly . Grammarly is a tool that takes the spell checking of Word or Google and makes it much better. It checks for common grammatical mistakes and common word confusion (e.g., “there” versus “there.” That’s in the free version! If English is not your primary language or you aren’t a strong writer, it might be worth looking at Grammarly Premium. It will also help you with the tone of your writing, improved phrasing, and readability. Well worth checking out!

Above all else, ensure that your letter is honest and backed up by your CV or resume. You may be asked about it in the interview.  It’s okay to put yourself in a positive light, that is expected, but you need to be honest.  Anything that isn’t true is likely to show up in an interview; even if they can’t prove that it’s not true, it can cause a recruiter to doubt you.

Download Motivation Letter For Job in PDF

Apart from this, a cover letter is only used when you apply for any job. While sending your CV, you need to present a cover letter also in which you state the position for which you are going to apply and have to explain why you are suitable for the applied position. In short, a cover letter answers the question, “Why you.” So this is the basic difference between a motivation letter and a cover letter. In this article, we have tried to guide you to make writing your motivation letter for a job easier.  Writing a cover letter can be tough; getting started is the hardest part .  Our goal is to help you out with that.

This is not the only way to write a cover letter.  Some other views and strategies work.  You need a method to help you write an effective cover letter for your job application.  That’s our goal here. Good luck with your job hunt. Please let us know how it goes.  

Other Resources to Help With Your Motivation Letter for a Job

We have written this guide to help you write your letter.  Sometimes, we get asked for more help from our readers.   Unfortunately, we don’t have the resources for that, but we want to give you any help we can.

We offer a template for a motivation letter for a job application that you can download and use to get started. It has a good format that you can use. It works in Microsoft Word format and in Google Docs. We’ve designed it to be very easy and very affordable.

Probably the best resource we have found for such help is to look on  Fiverr  to hire someone.  Fiverr is a marketplace where you can hire someone for a specific project.  They offer different projects at set prices that you can hire them for.   This link  will take you to a search for freelancers that do motivation letters specifically.  We can’t offer any specific names on there because the freelancers change.  We do have an article that gives you some pointers on finding the right person for you, though.

Example Motivation Letter for a Job – Example

Below is a sample motivation letter we created to help you get started. We also offer an editable version here .

This is to help you with the format and concept. You can use this to get started.

Download Sample Motivation Letter for Job Application PDF

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i get started writing a motivational letter for a job application.

We offer a template to help you get started. It’s intended to help give you some ideas and a format to start. You will want to write down all the ways that you meet the job requirements and why you would make an outstanding candidate. You can also purchase a sample motivation letter for job application in Word format here .

I’m a Horrible Writer. How Can I Write the Best Motivational Letter for a Job Application?

You can certainly use our template and our guidance. We have also found Fiverr to have some great resources to help you write an amazing motivational letter for a job.

Motivation Letter for a Job Summary

We hope you’ve enjoyed our article on writing a motivation letter for a job application.

Our goal was to provide you with the best guidance and resources we could when you need to write the best motivational letter for a job application. We’ve provided you with a sample motivation letter in pdf format and you can also download a Word/doc version of the sample motivation letter.

For even more options, we also introduced a collection of the best motivation letters for a job to let you look at many example motivation letters and pick what works best for you.

We have also introduced you to some great resources like Grammarly to help you with your writing or Fiverr where you can hire someone to write that motivation letter for you.

With all of these resources, we hope that we have set you up for the best chance possible for your job hunt. Good luck!

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• Motivation Letter for Students Samples
• Using ChatGPT To Write a Motivation Letter (and other AI too)
• How to Write a Motivation Letter for an Artist – With Sample
• How to Write an Amazing Motivation Letter for a Teacher Position

1 thought on “How to Write a Motivation Letter for Job Application with a Sample”

This is a great post! I have been looking for a good motivation letter for job applications and this is perfect. Thank you for sharing!

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