resume and cover letter deutsch

German Cover Letter Guide [With English Sample]

Researched & written

by Yvonne Koppen

May 27, 2024

A cover letter ( Anschreiben ) might be the least important thing of the application in some countries; however, not so in Germany. Depending on the company and recruiter receiving your application, a German cover letter might be the most essential part after your CV.

A  survey  of HR Recruiters in Germany states that 42% ignore an application without an individual cover letter. The same survey also shows that for 71% of HR, a cover letter is an essential document in a job application. A job application letter conveys your level of professionalism, research capabilities, and ability to sell yourself without much fluff. 

🖌️ Table of Contents

Simple German cover letter sample in English

A cover letter in Germany ( Anschreiben ) needs to complement  your CV , but not repeat it. You can regard a cover letter as a letter of motivation filled with examples and facts. A cover letter in Germany is a very formal document that should follow a particular layout.

Read Our Related Guide

German CV Template in English

Our German-Style CV Template In English helps you to craft a killer CV. We have also created a German cover letter sample in English for you to understand what your finished document should look like.

To save you loads of time, you can download our German cover letter template . Simply go to ‘file’ and select ‘ make a copy ‘. You can then edit it to your needs.

How to write a cover letter in Germany?

We will walk you step-by-step through the areas you should include in a German cover letter. You will also learn about what the content of the cover letter should convey. 

German cover letter formal format

As mentioned before, the German cover letter is a very formal letter that should follow the following format for it to look familiar to the German eye:

• Maximum one page and don’t fill it up completely. Leave enough white space when glancing over it.
• Put your full address, including email (ideally including your name) and phone number, in the top right corner.
• Put the company’s full address on the left with one paragraph below your address. Include the name of the contact person in the second line.
• Place the date of your application right-aligned underneath the addresses.

As you might know already, Germany has tons of rules, regulations, and guidelines. Naturally, there is also a guideline for professional letter writing and correspondence, the so-called  DIN 5008 norm . It states the following margins on a DIN A4 (standard German letter paper format):

Left margin: 2,5 cm Right margin: 2,0 cm Top margin: 4,5 cm Bottom margin: 2,5 cm

Please take this information with a grain of salt. Not following this layout does not mean that any German manager or recruiter will ignore your cover letter; however, the German eye is trained and used to reading this format. Anything appearing too much out of the ordinary might get noticed negatively. Again, you can shine with your cover letter’s content, but don’t try to stand out with the format unintentionally.

1. Subject Line

The subject line in a German cover letter needs to stand out. It needs to convey with one look what position you are applying for, and you should bold it. 

2. Salutation

The salutation is extremely important – the more personalized, the better. Reflect your understanding of the company’s culture by using the first name or last name; however it is appropriate. If you can’t find enough information or are unsure, always refer to the last name. If you can’t find the relevant person’s name, don’t be shy and pick up the phone to find out more. This shows initiative and determination.

When it comes to the cover letter’s main body, you should try to stick to four paragraphs. Remember to point out what value you will bring to the company, not what you can get from the company. Your cover letter’s content needs to reflect the expectations and requirements mentioned in the job ad. So make sure to connect the dots and position yourself ahead of other candidates.

Introduction (3 – 4 lines)

The introduction should answer why you are applying for the position and how you became aware of it (through a friend, an employee at the company, a job portal, etc.). Be confident in your word choice. Don’t use insecure words such as ‘I think I would be a good fit’ but rather ‘I am confident that I will contribute to …’.

Second paragraph (5 – 6 lines)

Now it is time to shine with your skills, experience, and qualifications. Never just list things, but choose the relevant achievements and prove them with results. Don’t only refer to achievements in your work life, but if relevant, also mention efforts with private projects. This will show your personality, drive, and willingness to learn and grow beyond what you get paid for. It is absolutely ok to also write in bullet list style in this part, as long as you don’t just list things.

Third paragraph (5 – 6 lines)

After you have showcased yourself, it is time to translate how these experiences and skills will contribute to the role and company. Convey that you have taken the time to research the company by referring to the company culture, possible awards the company has won, or projects that inspire and motivate you. Be authentic and confident.

Closure (3 – 4 lines)

To close your cover letter:

• Reemphasize your eagerness to join the company in the relevant position.
• Describe your future goals and the value you can bring to the company.
• State when you will be available to start work.
• Emphasize that you’d be happy to answer any questions via phone or in a personal interview . 
• Only mention salary expectations if they are asked for in the job ad.
• Be sure to sign the cover letter with your name. 

4. Attachments

Add the word ‘Enclosure’ ( Anlage ) underneath your signature. List all the additional documents you will hand in with your application, like your CV, certificates and diplomas, reference letter, etc.

Further cover letter and job applications tips

Don’t use the same CV and cover letter for different applications. As mentioned above, you must individualize your application to each company’s needs and requirements.

If you send your application directly by email, you have two options. You can either make the email body your cover letter. In this case, remove the address and date part from the email and place the subject line in the email’s actual subject. The body of the email remains a formal letter, though.

Or you can attach the cover letter to the email and briefly point out your application to the specific position in the body of the email, referring to the attachments. 

Ensure that any attachment always has the pdf format, regardless of whether you send it by email or upload it to an online application system. Also, pay attention to the naming of the attachments and keep it clear and professional.

Your job application, namely your resume and cover letter, should answer the recruiter’s main three questions:

• Can you do the job? (Skills)
• Will you do the job? (Motivation)
• Will you fit in with the company culture? (Personality)

Be sure to evaluate your documents based on these questions before you hand them in. The goal of your CV and cover letter is to get an invitation for a job interview .

Job Interview In Germany [How-To + Tips In English]

We hope that you now have a better understanding of how a German cover letter looks and feels like. But never forget to adapt your cover letter and application to the style of the company you are applying for. There is a big difference in culture between a young international StartUp and a big traditional German enterprise. 

Download the Cover Letter Template

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About the Author

Yvonne Koppen is a researcher and writer at Simple Germany, focusing on demystifying German bureaucracy for international skilled workers.

She has lived and worked abroad, which helps her understand how difficult a move to a new country can be. Beyond her professional pursuits, Yvonne loves to plan and go on road trips, puzzle, and do a triathlon here and there.

She is committed to creating accessible, empowering content through her writing and YouTube videos. Yvonne's passion for continuous learning and her ability to simplify complex topics make her an invaluable resource for expats seeking to navigate their new life in Germany.

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German Cover Letter + Must Know Best Practices [2024]

by Live in Germany Team | Work in Germany

Last Update: Feb 23, 2024 @ 9:07 pm

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So, it is quite clear that cover letters are taken seriously in the German job market since it is an applicant’s initial impression on the company. If someone hasn’t attached a cover letter to their application, the recruiter might think that if the applicant hasn’t put effort in making a cover letter, why even consider him/her for a position at our company?

🔶   Related Topic :   How to Find English-Speaking Jobs in Germany

Structuring German Cover Letter

Salutation:.

Try to keep the cover letter at a personal touch rather than just making a cut paste document. Make sure we are specifying the reason for joining the xyz company/organization. Present the company research in this phase as well. We can say things like we have been impressed with the company culture or we have recognized the mission and vision for which the company is moving forward and we want to play a pivotal role in this journey.

By now, we have told the company/organization why we want to work for them. What shall we do next? We are going to use the mentioned job description in telling a story regarding how and why we are enough qualified for the position. There is no need to exaggerate the story and write down a whole passage. Here we will provide a short trailer-kind of summary. This is because we want to gain their interest so that the company reaches us out and contact for further interview.

In the end, we should be thanking the company and let them know that they are welcome to schedule things further. Availability has to be mentioned along with contact details where the company can get in touch.

Attachments:

The word Anlage (Enclosure) has to added once the cover letter is signed. All the certificates and documents which are part of the application should be listed down there. This includes CV , educational documents, reference letter etc.

Cover Letter Framework

The cover letter has to written in accordance with DIN 5008 . This is a dedicated framework when it comes to formal writing in Germany. Following are the standards:

• Left margin: 24.1 mm
• Right margin: at least 8.1 mm
• Bottom margin: 16.9 mm
• Top margin: 16.9 mm

Please ensure this format is taken seriously. If an applicant hasn’t followed this framework, it doesn’t necessarily mean rejection but on the same time, recruiters in Germany have a habit of reading cover letters in this format. Hence, if a cover letter appears to be different from the mentioned format, it might get noticed in negative manner.

Top 8 Best Practices To Consider Before Writing Your Cover Letter

Customizing cover letter for each job, keeping cover letter short and concise, be honest on cover letter.

We have to be honest and humble about things. This includes the work experience, education and language proficiency. It is quite usual to exaggerate or lie when trying to get a job. There is a common saying “fake it until we make it” and people at times follow that too and it turns out favorable in getting a job. But such behavior is extremely unethical and unprofessional.

A recent example is a LinkedIn profile of a former work colleague who stated on the profile that he managed quite a high-end project all on his own at his company. Later it was brought to notice that project didn’t even start until after the colleague left company. He was falsely taking full credit for someone else’s efforts and work.

These kinds of claims can haunt back an applicant. There could be a chance that new employer knows someone from the applicant’s former organization. Moreover, it is common for employers to informally reach out previous companies of candidate to extract some information. This can cost a job and even reputation.

Writing Cover Letter in German

There are better chances that HR software will notice a cover letter written in German. This also works with algorithms set on LinkedIn. With that being said, we have to be vigilant and use our judgment properly. As it can backfire as well. Make sure that actual German language proficiency is reflected in the cover letter.

There was an instance where the hiring company received an application from a person abroad where the candidate sent CV and documents in German. During the first interview, the company was surprised to know that candidate didn’t know any German. In fact, the documents were actually translated by paying someone else. This resulted in the rejection of a candidate.

Showing Personality

The cover letter should portray all the candidate’s creativity. Coming up with a unique approach is going to make you stand apart in the competition. We can provide a video link in the cover letter where we have explained the reason why we wish to work for that particular company. Also, a sample can be shared explaining insight about how the candidate will approach his/her job. Moreover, the company can be invited to see the candidate’s social media.

🔶   Related Topic : Job Interview Questions in Germany

Making Cover Letter Visually Pleasing

We can type some paragraphs in a document and send it to the company. but its much better to create a cover letter that is visually pleasing. Canva is one of the platforms that can help choose from variety of cool and professional templates.

Fonts should be large enough to increase readability. Other tips include avoiding lengthy paragraphs. Accurately set the spacing between lines.

Quality Check

Grammatical mistakes and spelling errors convey a negative impression of the company. Before sending the application, make sure to avoid such mistakes and take care of these negligible errors. Also briefly check employer information and other related details. A good way of reviewing the cover letter is to have a second pair of eyes proofread it. This is an important task that most people overlook but quite frequently there are job applications having multiple errors on them.

Avoid Using Automatic Text Generators

It is suggested that the candidate write down the cover letter themselves. A professional writer can be hired to provide this service. There are numerous text generators available but they are almost useless. Automatic text generators can produce text that doesn’t make any sense. When reading, it is obvious that a robot has written it down. A cover letter has to be a reflection of a candidate. It should portray how the candidate approaches the job and how they communicate.

We have put enough emphasis on the importance of a cover letter in Germany. One of the most pivotal instruments in a job application is a good cover letter. If it doesn’t shine enough or fails to reflect the candidate’s potential, employers are likely to ignore it and move forward with other applications.

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German Cover Letter Guide: Complete Examples [+Tips]

Germans take their cover letters seriously. It's not a document they just glance at and trash like in most other regions. To get a well-paid job in a German company, you need a solid German Cover Letter.

All cover letter examples in this guide

German Cover Letter Example

Julia Brad Gastgeberin [email protected] 01 36 23 98 24 Berlin 10. Juni 2022

Herr Tobias Schmidt, Geschäftsführer, Restaurant Dae Mon, Berlin, Deutschland

Anschreiben für die Stelle der Hostess

Lieber Tobias,

ich bin eine zertifizierte Hostess mit mehr als 2 Jahren Erfahrung in der Hotelbranche und mache derzeit meinen Bachelor-Abschluss in Hospitality Management an der Universität der Künste Berlin.

In meinem vorherigen Job als Hostess bei Gabriel Kreuther in New York habe ich alle Aufgaben einer Hostess effizient ausgeführt, einschließlich der Entgegennahme von Essensreservierungen, der Planung der Sitzordnung und der Bearbeitung von Telefonanfragen. In meiner 2-jährigen Tätigkeit wurde ich außerdem dreimal als Mitarbeiterin des Monats ausgezeichnet.

Ich wollte unbedingt in eine deutsche Küche eintreten, um die Hostessenkultur in Europa kennenzulernen, und hoffte, dass das Restaurant Dae Mon ein großartiger Ort dafür sein würde, insbesondere wegen seiner langen Geschichte in der deutschen Esskultur.

Es wäre mir ein Vergnügen, die Stelle in einem Vorstellungsgespräch zu erörtern, und ich hoffe, dass dies der Beginn einer für beide Seiten vorteilhaften Zusammenarbeit sein wird.

Mit freundlichen Grüßen,

Beilage: Lebenslauf Referenzschreiben Zeugnis und Abschrift des Bachelor-Abschlusses

According to research carried out in 2013, about half of the applications German companies received without a cover letter were rejected – that’s how important your cover letter is in Germany.

Creating a cover letter in German-style needs you to have a clear understanding of what the German recruiter is looking for in the letter – it should demonstrate the academic and professional qualifications of the candidate and how that would help them achieve the company’s objectives.

Here, in this complete guide, we have discussed everything you need to write and create a perfect German cover letter for your next job.

This also includes:

• Style guide for German cover letters to impress native hiring managers.
• Detailed instructions on how to write each section of the cover letter.
• Pro tips to make your cover letter stand out from the rest.

Try out our resume builder for FREE to create your next German resume and cover letter . We have created a set of awesome templates to make your whole application process faster and smoother.

Read our complete German cover letter example and see how you can write yours.

How to Write a German Cover Letter

Your resume and the cover letter are what makes the first impression for the hiring manager about any applicant – create it right, and they will remember you in the interview. Well-written and well-structured cover letters increase your chances of getting shortlisted while making your attempt a solid one at the interview.

Writing a cover letter for a German employer is quite different from that of any other region – especially with the writing style and structure. German recruiters consider cover letters as an important part of a job application – they wish to speak to candidates who demonstrate their immense interest in the role.

These general guidelines would give you an idea of what the German hiring manager expects from you:

• Single-page is the standard length for cover letters in Germany.
• Do not write long sentences and paragraphs – make them short and clear.
• Stay formal throughout – don’t get emotional.
• Keep the body of the letter to 3 to 4 short paragraphs.
• Avoid self-promoting statements about the candidate.
• Use a modern cover letter template – ideally matching your resume.

Overall, a german cover letter should sound polite and it should always be in a formal language, whether it is in German or English. Draw a fine line between selling yourself and plain bragging - German hiring managers prefer raw data over-exaggerated self-promotional material.

German cover letter structure

Having a proper structure from the beginning would help you write an outstanding German cover letter – we also call this the layout.

We recommend the following:

• Subject line
• Opening greeting
• First Paragraph: candidate into
• Second Paragraph: skills, experience, and expertise
• Third Paragraph: motivation
• Fourth Paragraph: Call to Action (CTA)

Let’s discuss how each of these sections comes together to create your perfect cover letter.

Begin with the Header

As in your resume, the header of the cover letter consists of your name and contact details. The only difference here is that you should include the details of both the sender and the receiver, considering this a formal document.

Sender Information

Start with your name – write the first name and the last name – use a bigger font size and bold it. Put the job title under your name followed by your email, mobile number, location, and the date.

No need for your full physical address as you’re not mailing the letter.

Jason Smith

01 67 43 23 65

10 May 2022

Receiver Information

Put the receiver's name, job title, company name, and company address. If you don’t know the name of the person who would read your application, just address the “Hiring Manager”.

Frau Julie Zeigler

Einstellungsmanager

München, Deutschland

In German formal writing, “Frau” is used to address women and “Herr” is used for men.

• Frau for Mrs. and Ms.
• Herr for Mr.

On certain occasions, you’ll get to know the name of the hiring manager. However, if you’re not sure, do not include a name as most companies have more than one person involved in the hiring process.

The Subject of the Letter

Your German cover letter needs a subject as in any formal letter. Include the position you’re applying for in your subject.

Opening Greeting

You could use a formal greeting to open your cover letter either in English or German. There’re a couple of variations in greeting your hiring manager in the letter.

When you know the gender of the recipient:

Dear Mr - Dear Mr.

When you don’t know the gender of the recipient:

Paragraph 01: Candidate Information

Your first paragraph on the cover letter should hook the reader. The way you hook an American hiring manager and a German one would be quite different though. The job market in Germany is degree-focused – you should start with your qualifications and relevant experience to the job.

In the American job market, you could hook the recruiter with a sales pitch – talking about your special achievements and accomplishments in your previous jobs.

In Germany, if the position you’re applying for is an academic-based one, having the relevant degree or the academic qualification would most probably get you an interview – therefore, reveal them in the first paragraph itself.

See the following example of a production manager job:

Six sigma green belt certified production manager with a bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing from Massachusetts Institute of Technology seeks to join BMW to further my career in production planning and automation. I have 5 years of extensive experience in the automobile production industry working for Ford in the USA.

I got my bachelor’s degree in manufacturing and I am a six sigma green belt certification holder. I am passionate to join BMW in Germany for a well-paid managerial position in the factory.

State your academic qualifications in detail – most German hiring managers are looking for the right qualified individuals to call for interviews. Detail such as the institutions, GPA, class of the degree, and the name of the course could be included.

In writing your experience, state the number of years, the position you held, and the company name.

Keep it clean and simple – easy to read within 3 to 4 seconds.

Paragraph 02: Skills, Experience, and Expertise

Now, you’ve got the attention of the hiring manager as you got the qualifications they’re looking for. Let’s enlighten them with your key skills, the responsibilities you’ve held, the decisions you’ve taken – and their results.

It’s important to read the job ad and understand the keywords they have put on the job description. Most German companies use an applicant tracking system (ATS) – a system that is used to shortlist job applications. ATS recognizes the right applications by calculating the keyword density and a couple of parameters – the more relevant keywords you have on your cover letter, you got more chances of passing the automatic test.

Identify any troubling questions the hiring manager or your potential line manager faces – provide your solution with an example of how you tackled a similar situation at work.

Consider including your greatest professional achievement – with the results you generated for the company and its impact on the key performance indicators (KPIs) of you and the management.

As a production assistant manager at Ford, I headed a six sigma implementation project with a third-party consulting firm that resulted in a 12% increase in overall production efficiency. I have extensive experience in production line planning, automation, material requirement planning, and logistics.

I have experience in production and manufacturing at the Ford automobile factory in LA. Worked on many process optimization projects that saved lots of money for the company.

Paragraph 03: Motivation

Express your interest in joining the company. Convey your passion for the industry and how the job aligns with your short-term and long-term career objectives.

Here, your research about the company culture, vision, mission, and purpose would help – you could find more information on the about section of the company website.

This paragraph of the cover letter is an exceptionally important part as this is where the cover letter gets tailored to the employer. You need quite some research to identify the likes and dislikes about the job and the similarities of your career objectives with the company’s objectives.

The purpose of the cover letter is to convey your interest in the position and to demonstrate that you are a great match for the role. The purpose of reading a cover letter from the employer’s side would be to identify a good match for the role who is also excited to be part of the team.

Therefore, show your excitement throughout this paragraph.

My passion for the automobile industry and its future changes have made me want to become part of a European automobile manufacturer. I am especially excited about the new electric driving experience BMW is developing for the global market and hope to become part of the team in the future.

As BMW is one of the pioneers in manufacturing automobiles in Germany, I was excited to apply for this position.

Paragraph 04: Call to Action (CTA)

It’s always advisable to finish your cover letter’s body with a call to action. In any formal letter, you should inform the reader, of the move you’re expecting from their side. Any formal letter has an objective and you should remind it at the end – which is the CTA.

Ask the hiring manager for an interview – state your excitement to meet them.

Also, in the same paragraph, you could include the following information:

• Your availability for an interview.
• The type of visa you possess.
• The day you could start if they select you.

It will be my pleasure to discuss with you my role as a production manager in the BMW Munich factory and demonstrate how my experience and skills in automation and production optimization could easily be incorporated into your future sustainable driving vehicle projects.

You are welcome to contact me at your earliest convenience.

The German Cover Letter Closing

End your German cover letter with a formal salutation – you could use the same language as you write your letter.

Consider using the following closing sentence:

• Kind Regards: mit freundlichen Grüßen
• Sincerely: Mit freundlichem Gruß
• best regards: Freundliche Grüße

Put a note about the attachments you’re sending along with your cover letter. This could include your resume, academic and professional reference letters, degree certificates, transcripts, and other relevant certifications.

However, do not attach unnecessary certifications and documents with your job application as that would result in the important documents getting less attention from the hiring manager.

Tips to Improve Your German Cover Letter

If you followed the steps, you should already have an exceptional cover letter ready to send to any German recruiter. Optimize it further with these tips:

• Ask your native German friend to proofread the letter if you wrote it in German.
• Use a tool like Grammarly to check for any mistakes – your cover letter should have absolutely no spelling errors or grammar mistakes.
• Don’t use automatic text generators to write your cover letter – make it sound like an actual human being.
• Read the job description thoroughly to identify the relevant keywords.
• Do not use long wordy sentences – be clear and concise in your writing.
• don’t use bullet points.
• Try to find the person who reads your cover letter and tailor it to them.
• Don’t send the same cover letter for two jobs.
• Use a professional font such as Times or Arial.
• Maintain a consistent writing style that is formal and respectful – do not use passive voice.
• Consider using a modern cover letter template to make your application stand out.

Key Points: Writing a Perfect German Cover Letter

• Pick the right cover letter template that goes with your resume.
• Give priority to your academic and professional qualifications.
• Follow the generally accepted German styling guide for formal letters.
• Tailor your cover letter to each job you’re applying for.
• Write 3 to 4 solid paragraphs on your qualifications, skills, and enthusiasm.
• Finish with a CTA.

Complement Your Cover Letter with a Well-written Resume

You could apply to most jobs with just a resume – therefore, it's important that you get your resume done right. In fact, your German job application completes with a resume and a cover letter that complements each other.

A resume highlights the candidate’s skills, experience, and academic qualifications while a cover letter is a tailored document to each job on the candidate’s fit for the position.

Complement your cover letter with a great German resume – pick a template that matches your personality. You may try our resume builder to create your CV and the cover letter – which would allow you to apply for jobs faster than ever.

Do I need a cover letter to apply for jobs in Germany?

It's not mandatory to submit a cover letter in Germany. Most companies accept job applications with just a resume. However, sending a cover letter along with your resume indicates your interest in the job. It means you’re a serious candidate – not someone who applies to every job you see on the internet.

Should I include a picture on my German cover letter?

You can. Check whether your German cover letter template allows you to put a photograph. German companies are generally fine with applications that include pictures of the candidate. However, if you’re applying for jobs in international companies and multinationals – especially, USA, UK, or Australian companies based in Germany, consider not including a photo as these companies may cause immediate rejection of your applications.

Read our complete guide to including pictures on your resume .

Can I write my German cover letter in English?

You can and you should if you don’t know how to write your cover letter in the German language. A mistake some candidates make is that they get a freelancer to write a perfect German-language cover letter and a resume and send it to jobs in Germany. The problem here is that the recruiters often misread the attempt as the candidate is fluent in German. This may get you an interview, but you’ll probably fail it when they realize your level of fluency.

Should I put my salary expectations in my cover letter?

We do not recommend you to put your salary expectations in your cover letter or anywhere in the job application unless the hiring manager has explicitly asked for it. Keep it for the interview – you’ll get time to discuss it or they’ll give you an offer.

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• 3 Lisage järgmised osad, apellatsioonivorm, lühitutvustus, kirja sisu ja järeldus
• 4 Ärge unustage viimast viisakusvalemit. Vaadake kaaskirja viisakusvalemite näiteid.
• 5 Isiklikuma ja formaalsema ilme lisamiseks lisage lehe allossa oma allkiri
• 6 Kui soovite saata selle meili teel, eksportige oma kaaskiri PDF-vormingus.

Teised kaaskirjade näidised

Kaaskirja struktureerimise nõuanded.

Kaaskirja kirjutamise hõlbustamiseks pidage meeles, et koguge eelnevalt kogu vajalik teave. Näidake toimetaja loovust, järgides samal ajal tüpograafiliste reeglite õiget kasutamist ja jälgides, et ei tekiks kirjavigu. Sest hea kaaskiri peegeldab teie kuvandit inimese ja professionaalina. Olge oma kirjutamisel loominguline ja originaalne, jäädes samas lihtsaks, kokkuvõtlikuks ja täpseks. ‍ Näidake läbitud punktide ohutust, enesekindlust ja meisterlikkust. Rõhutage, mida saate ettevõttesse tuua ja mainige oma erialast kogemust vastavas valdkonnas. Märkige ka kõik põhipunktid, mis panevad teid end uute ideedega täitva transformeeriva agendina ilmuma. Täpsustage oma võimet saavutada kavandatud eesmärgid ja kohaneda uute suundumustega.

Näita ennast positiivselt. Ärge langege sellesse viga, et kasutate sama kaaskirja mitme ettevõtte jaoks. Koostage kaaskiri iga taotletava töö kohta. Seda tüüpi kiri võimaldab tööandjal kujundada teie isiksuse kohta arvamust, sest see annab teile võimaluse täpsustada oma motivatsioone, mida lihtsas CV-s tegelikult ei kirjeldata.

Lihtsa ja tõhusa kaaskirja kirjutamise soovitused

• Laiendage Intro ‍ Pidage meeles, et pärast kõne valemit peate välja töötama sissejuhatuse, kus tutvustate end ametlikult ja isiklikult. Ärge unustage märkida peamist eesmärki, mis ajendas teid seda kirja kirjutama.
• Struktureerige oma kirja sisu Laske end juhinduda järgmistest küsimustest: – Miks?, Mis eesmärgil?, Kuidas?, Miks soovite selles ettevõttes töötada? → selles osas peate kirjeldama, mida saate ettevõttele tuua. – Rõhutage, kuidas teie teadmised võivad oluliselt mõjutada ettevõtte funktsioonide arengut ja majandussektorit, kus ta tegutseb. - Kuidas te seda teeksite tee seda? → lihtsalt rõhutab teie teadmisi ja võimeid professionaalina – Rõhutage oma õnnestumisi, varasemaid kogemusi, diplomeid, saadud tunnustusi või auhindu.
• Olge oma järeldustes otsekohene Andke teada, et olete vestluseks saadaval, esitades kontaktteabe, näiteks oma e-posti aadressi, telefoninumbri ja postiaadressi. Kui need kontaktandmed muutuvad, ärge unustage uuendada oma CV-d ja kaaskirja ning saata need uuesti ettevõtetele, kes on need juba saanud.
• Hoolitse paigutuse eest Teie kaaskiri peab olema kooskõlas teie CV-ga. Värbaja peab esmapilgul nägema, et need 2 dokumenti moodustavad ühe taotluse. Kasutage oma kaaskirjas samu värve, fonti, ikoone jne, mis oma CV-s. See väike näpunäide aitab teil luua tõhusa ja professionaalse rakenduse.

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How To Write A German Cover Letter – A Step By Step Guide

by Cheryl Howard | Apr 7, 2024 | Berlin Guides , Job Applications , Working In Berlin | 0 comments

HOW TO WRITE A GERMAN COVER LETTER – A STEP BY STEP GUIDE

Have you been l ooking for a job in Germany, applying for several positions, and finding that you’re not getting any responses? It happens to the best of us, even to those who work in   highly demanded professions   like software developers, marketing professionals, economists, and more.

Searching for a job , especially one right for you, is a daunting task that takes   a lot   of work, patience, and perseverance. When you add looking for a job in a foreign country like Germany into the mix, it’s even more challenging. You’re probably unfamiliar with the country’s norms when creating job applications and could unknowingly be making mistakes. What’s more, a lot of the information about how to write a German cover letter is often outdated and/or created by people with zero experience in recruiting.

The most significant part of getting noticed by German employers is your ability to put together a solid job application, which usually includes a well-written and designed cover letter and CV that tells a story about you and why you’re uniquely qualified for that position.

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 WRITE A GERMAN COVER LETTER LIKE A SEASONED PRO

📖 📖 📖 Bookmark THIS extensive guide on how to write a German cover letter and use it as a frame of reference when applying for jobs in Germany.

1) Are Cover Letters Really Needed?

As you’re searching for a job in Berlin, or anywhere in Germany for that matter, have you asked yourself these questions:

1) Do I need to write a German cover letter when I’m applying for jobs?

2) Are cover letters relevant when my CV already tells my story?

3) Does anyone even bother to read cover letters?

Let me tell you a story:

I worked for one company when a member of senior management asked, “Why do people write cover letters? I   never   read them. I only want to see their CV, and I’ll get in touch if it’s interesting. I’m way too busy to read both cover letters and CVs.”

A very fair point and I agree with him 100%. His pain was also my pain, as I was reviewing several job applications each day and looking at people we could potentially add to our team. It was time-consuming and tedious, especially when we wanted to ensure whoever applied was given a fair shot.

It’s true that not every recruiter or hiring manager will read it (like that manager), and some companies (like where I currently work) even ask candidates   not   to submit cover letters. However, many companies still expect to see one.

So do you need a German cover letter? Yes, most definitely. Even though they feel like a waste of time (and sometimes really are), cover letters are essential when applying for jobs in Berlin or elsewhere in Deutschland.

2) Why Should I Write A German Cover Letter?

There are a number of good arguments about why you should take the time to write up a cover letter for your job applications:

1) There’s a slight chance that not submitting a cover letter will result in immediate rejection. A recruiter or hiring manager may think that if you didn’t put in the effort to make a cover letter, why should they even consider you for the job? While this is silly, don’t take a chance and make it a habit always to include a cover letter.

​2) Some (not all) HR software scans submitted documents looking for specific keywords. A cover letter that mentions certain keywords from the job description could help you bubble to the top of the candidate pool, where you’re more likely to get noticed before other candidates.

3) Called a motivation letter in Germany ( Motivationsschreiben ), a cover letter is your chance to shine. It’s when you can tell the company why you want to work for them, explain how uniquely qualified you are for that role, and really make your personality come through.

​Think of it like this – when you go to the theatre to watch a movie, you’ll see trailers for upcoming flicks. They only last one or two minutes, but if the trailer is really good, they’ve hooked you, and eventually, you’re going to go out and watch that movie.

Your cover letter is exactly like that movie trailer. It’s a preview of your CV and you as a person. A cover letter’s main call to action is to make the person reading it want to know more. They’ll spend time reviewing your CV and, hopefully, contact you for that first interview.

4) A cover letter shows diligence and interest from your side. Employers are keen to know why you want to work for them, learn why you’re the person they should hire, and if you’re passionate about your chosen field.

If a cover letter is done well, in the sense that it’s framed as a well-written and compelling narrative, it’ll motivate the employer to contact you for an interview. Most people do really read them, so it’s worth spending time writing one that makes you stand out from other applicants.

3) How Do I Structure A German Cover Letter?

Following a fixed structure and method that you can repeat for each new job application makes writing a cover letter way easier.

Always include these vital elements in a cover letter:

1)   Salutation   – Address your cover letter to that person using formal German greetings such as “Dear Herr Müller” or “Dear Frau Schmidt.” If no contact is listed or you’re unsure about which greeting to use (you don’t ever want to address someone as Herr when they’re a Frau, for example), use a generic greeting such as “Dear hiring manager” or “To whom it may concern.” If you read other online texts saying that you  always  have to specify a specific contact name, this is very untrue. More and more German companies are refraining from adding contact names to job descriptions to avoid being spammed by applicants. So don’t stress out on this point at all, as using a generic greeting is not only expected but completely acceptable.

2) Intro   – This section should be one paragraph maximum. Personalize your cover letter by telling the company  why you want to work there.  Be specific and use supporting examples gleaned from company research. Doing so will impress the company and show you did your homework before applying. Remember that this section is not about you but about them as an organization. Avoid self-serving statements when telling them why you want to work there. For example, don’t say you want to work there because the office is down the street from your flat or you heard they pay exceptionally high salaries. Instead, say you’re impressed with the company culture, that you identify with their sustainability mission, and that you want to be part of building out the next stage of their growth.

​ 3) About You   – This section can be one or two paragraphs long and is the “meat” of the cover letter and where you need to sell yourself. Pull points from the job description to tell your potential employer   why you’re uniquely qualified for the position . Build on those points by using personal examples that draw from your experience, education, and more. Ensure your examples are specific, build on one another in a complementing fashion, and tell an exciting story. Say that the role calls for someone with leadership experience. You can tell them that you have 10 years of experience managing distributed teams of varying sizes. You can further say that you excel at creating and maintaining high-performing teams with a track record of meeting deadlines. And finish by telling them how you launched a project that helped the company make millions of euros. Whatever you do, don’t just list a bunch of keywords, repeat the job description itself, or write a novel.

4) Closin g   – Reiterate your excitement about the company and the open position. Let them know you want to learn more and would welcome a chance for an interview. Be sure to tell them about your availability and how to best get in touch.

A few more tips about how to structure a German cover letter:

1) If you’re sending the cover letter by email or uploading it to an applicant tracking system, you don’t need to include the address information of yourself or the company. For that matter, a signature isn’t required either. These things are entirely unnecessary and irrelevant as we no longer live in the Stone Age.

2) If anyone prints or references your cover letter for an interview, you can leave the date on it so they know when you applied for the role.

Strive to ensure the narrative in the letter flows well and tells a unique story about you and why they should hire you over anyone else out there.

4) Should I Customize My Cover Letter For Job Applications ?

Yes, we know. It’s   a lot   of work to create a new cover letter every time you apply for a job, but sending the same cover letter out won’t do anymore. You need to show employers you took time to research their company, tell them why you want to work there, and why they should hire you.

This is why personalizing the cover letter is really important. They need to see the real you and that you were thoughtful in your job application. Anything less makes it look like you’re not really interested in the role and could see your job application land in the recruiter’s NO pile.

Suppose a cover letter is simply a regurgitation of the job description or a generic copy-and-paste text you’ve used for every job application. The recruiter or hiring manager will easily be able to spot this and may make the company less likely to contact you. Again, don’t take a chance.

Read about how to customize cover letters when you’re submitting unsolicited job applications . 

5) How Do I Use Company Research In My Cover Letter?

Before writing a cover letter, we recommend that you complete in-depth research on the company to which you’re applying. The research will help you a lot, especially as it’ll give you the information you can embed in your cover letter and use later to ask questions during an interview.

You need to tell the employer why you like their company and show you did your research, by looking at   Glassdoor reviews , browsing through their website, reading their press releases, etc.

Read our detailed guide about how to   research a German company .

6) How Long Should A German Cover Letter Be?

Keep the cover letter to a single page and not more than 3 – 4 paragraphs. Be succinct (i.e., avoid long wordy sentences or overuse of adjectives) and   summarize, summarize, summarize .

Pick key points from your CV and/or job description but don’t repeat things verbatim.

7) Should I Use An Automatic Text Generator or AI?

I’ve played around with ChatGPT and boy, is it good. Like really really good!

Call me old school, but in general, I’d still suggest writing your own cover letter without the help of predictive text generators or AI.

I say this for two reasons:

1) Many of these generators like Speedwrite yield text that doesn’t make much sense at all. It often reads as if it were written by a robot and spits out alternative text that says exactly the same thing but in a slightly different way.

2) Even worse, it won’t sound like you. A cover letter should be an honest and accurate reflection of who you are and how you communicate. I cannot stress that enough, especially if you’re being hired into a role where communication skills are key.

What you could do is use AI to write that very first draft cover letter. Then you could use that text as a baseline and improve it using your own words. Try out this beta AI from Imagine to get started! 

Alternatively, you can write a draft first and then use a tool like Grammarly to better what you’ve written.

We know this can be tough if you’re not writing in your native language. In these cases, make sure you get other people to proofread your cover letter or even hire a professional to help you out.

8) Should I Write My Cover Letter In German ?

Writing your cover letter in German may help you get noticed by HR software or LinkedIn search engine algorithms.

Be careful and use your best judgment here, though. It could backfire when they discover that your level of German doesn’t match the level of what’s in your cover letter.

Let me tell you another story:

A recruiter I used to work with told me that she’d found a dream candidate for a position that had been open for a long time. This person was applying from abroad and had submitted   both   their CV and cover letter in German.

The first interview was scheduled, and during the call, the recruiter was surprised to find that the candidate didn’t know any German at all. Turns out they’d paid someone to translate their documents.

Sadly, the candidate was rejected for their false claims of being fluent in German and wasting the recruiter’s time. And contrary to what many say, German fluency is absolutely essential for most available positions in the country. 

Of course, it could go the other way and the company may still hire you anyway because you’re such a good fit. But please, be honest upfront and if you decide to write your cover letter in German, indicate your language level (like B1 or C1) very prominently on your CV and in your cover letter. Then the decision will be left to the employer to contact you.

9) Can I Stretch The Truth Because Everyone Fibs A Bit?

Above all, be humble and honest about things, like your education, work experience, level of German, etc.

It’s easy to lie or exaggerate when you want a job, and we’ve all been told to “fake it until we make it,” and in many cases, it can work in your favor. But let’s be real here, this behavior is unprofessional, not to mention unethical.

Not long ago, I was shocked to read the LinkedIn profile of a former colleague who claimed to have led a high-profile project for our company. That project wasn’t even started until after that person left. This person was blatantly lying and taking credit for other people’s work that she didn’t do.

Don’t be that person. 

False claims could come back to haunt you. For example, the Berlin community is small and people know each other. A potential employer may know someone at one of your former companies and informally reach out to them for information about you.

If they uncover any lies, it will likely cost you the job, even your reputation.

Of course, be confident in your accomplishments, and don’t undersell yourself. Just make sure you’re telling the truth.

10) How Do I Create A Well Designed Cover Letter? 

You could just type of bunch of text into a Google document and send it off. But how about making your cover letter look nice using websites like   Canva   or   Edit.org , where you can find beautiful and professional templates for free?

Other things to keep in mind:

1) Use a large and readable font that considers general accessibility guidelines. Sometimes people try to jam as much information as possible onto a cover letter and to make it fit a single page using ridiculously small font sizes. Trust me – no one wants to use a magnifying glass to read your cover letter.

Use this   guide from Indeed   which speaks to the right font and font size to use on CVs, which also applies to cover letters.

2) Don’t make your paragraphs too long and use sensible spacing to make your cover letter easier to read.

3) Your   German CV   should have a similar look and feel. This way, the cover letter, and CV will appear as one fluid job application package.

11) Do I   Really   Have To Follow These Rules?

No, of course not! Our guidelines are simply here to help you write a good cover letter that’s more likely to get you noticed by German employers.

There’s no reason not to get creative and have fun with your cover letter. This may also mean breaking some of the “rules” outlined here.

Be bold and dare to take unique approaches that challenge the status quo. Perhaps give them a link to a video you made telling them why you want to work there. Share a sample of what you can do for them by sharing some insight on how you’d approach your job. Invite them to check out your blog or social media.

The sky’s the limit. A unique cover letter will help you stand apart from other candidates.

12) How Can I Ensure My German Cover Letter Is Of High Quality?

Make sure there are no spelling or grammatical errors, get the company name and other details right, and if you can, have a second or third pair of eyes review your cover letter. This can be a friend, partner, or even, a paid professional. Proofreading is essential, as if you’ve been staring at the same documents for hours, it can be super easy to miss out on small mistakes you might’ve made.

This advice might sound really obvious and basic, but trust me, I’ve seen tons of job applications with errors on them. I must also confess that I once put the wrong company name in a cover letter and somehow still got several interviews with them. Miracles happen, folks! 🤣

Anyway, avoid sloppy mistakes if you can, and make sure your German cover letter is top-notch.

What do I recommend?   Join my   Facebook community   of more than 8,000 people and ask someone there for a   cover letter exchange . Another person can review your cover letter and give you feedback and you can do the same for them.

That’s a wrap! Follow these tips to write a really good German cover letter that’s going to land you a job in Germany.

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The combination of my personal and professional experience means I know  exactly  what it takes to move to Berlin and find work.

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How to Write the Perfect German Cover Letter: Best Practices

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When a company searches for a new employee, several hundreds applicants could send their CVs. The HR department of the company I work for told me that sometimes a cover letter could be a crucial element in why they might decide to invite someone for an interview or not. If you plan to apply for a job in Germany, you have to learn how to write a German cover letter.

Let’s start and let me provide you with the essential information about cover letters in Germany in this article.

Key takeaways

• This article sheds more light on what the German cover letter is all about.
• A cover letter is a helpful extension of your CV .
• It gives you a great chance to introduce and position yourself as the person your new employer should choose.
• I am also providing you with some tips about the length , essential formulas , writing styles , and the required contents of the cover letter in Germany.
• At the end of this article, you will find a personal recommendation for finding professional cover letter writers online who can help you write it.

What is the German cover letter?

Alongside the German CV , you should also make sure that you are sending a cover letter. Even if the cover letter does not prioritize the preselection of candidates for further interviews, it might make a significant difference in the end.

The German SPIEGEL Magazine published an article about the importance of cover letters for an application in Germany. The interviewed recruiting professional states in this article:

“However, a job application is about working together in the future. Therefore, you’d better use the cover letter to tell a potential employer what is important to you in your job and how you would like to work together in the future.”

Based on my experience, you should never miss that chance to impress your future employer. It may make a difference if your CV is similar to others or might not fit 100% to the job offered.

Definition of the cover letter in Germany

Think about a motivation letter as an extended introduction to:

• who you are
• the reason you are sending the application
• why you are a good fit
• and why you could be of benefit to the company you are applying to.

It allows you to paint a more detailed picture about yourself instead of relying only on your CV. This strings together all the stages of your professional and educational life.

As you can see, a German job seeker’s letter can include quite some information about yourself.

This leads me to the next point, why an email instead of a cover letter is not enough.

In Germany, the cover letter is not an email

Most applications are now submitted online and no longer by mail. Whether you send your email or submit your CV and cover letter via a recruiting platform, they should not confuse a cover letter with an email.

If you send your CV via email, you should not mistake the email with your written cover letter. Your email can be short and sweet. There you can provide some basic information, such as your name and the name of your contact person, if available.

In the email you’ll be stating that you are sending your CV and your cover letter and asking for a reply.

The cover letter should be a separate PDF file or Microsoft Word Document.

Tipps regarding the German cover letter

Here are a few tips that I collected from my German friends.

Length of German employment cover letter

A cover letter for German employers should be roughly one to two DIN A 4 pages long.

I recommend you not write a cover letter that’s longer than this because hardly anyone will be willing to read it.

In general, using a larger spacing between lines and a comfortable to read font size will support the recipient’s efforts to read it.

Opening and closing formulas

It would help if you always used polite and formal addressing and closing formulas.

As you might be aware, there is a standard version for “you” in German: “Sie.” This is how Germans address everyone they are not closely acquainted with.

Even if you know your first point of contact in the company you apply to, I’d still not recommend the informal version for “you” used as “Du” in German.

But why is that?

Most likely, more people will be reading your cover letter throughout the application process. And it’s considered impolite in Germany to use “Du” instead of “Sie.”

Standard addressing formulas are, for example:

“ Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren ,” meaning “dear sir or madam,” is the most general variation.

If you know your first point of contact by name, you can also address them by using, for example, “ Sehr geehrter Herr Weidel ,” which means “Dear mister Weidel” in English.

Always address them with their family name, not with their first name.

It’s best to close a cover letter using the standard formula “ Mit freundlichen Grüßen ,” similar to “Best regards” in English.

Make sure you add your name with some white space in between so that you can sign the letter manually before sending it out.

Sentence length

You should make sure not to write any lengthy sentences. Better keep your sentences as short as possible. This helps the reader quickly grasp the content and understand what you are writing about without having to overthink it.

Individual cover letters

Even if you are applying for more than just one position at once, make sure you rewrite your cover letter every time.

You should tailor he cover letter should to the company you apply to.

You can’t use the central part of a cover letter for more than one job application.

Give examples

Reading through the job offering or job ad is crucial. It is better if something stands out that you can refer to in your cover letter. If specific personal strengths are required, give a short and easy-to-understand how you meet up.

Answers to questions

Are there any questions included in the job advertisement? If so, answer them and make sure that you answer all of these in your letter.

Refer to the company you apply to

Since nobody likes to receive a mass-produced application, make sure that you mention something that stood out for you while informing yourself about the company you apply to. Allow them to understand why you chose to apply for that specific job in their company.

Grammar and spelling

Of course, taking care of any grammar or spelling mistakes is always a good idea. If possible, let a professional read through your cover letter. If you have no professional at hand, you might have to find someone capable of reading and writing German fluently enough to support you here. I have always used Fiverr * for that kind of service in the past.

The structure of the application letter in Germany

From a structural point of view, a formal job inquiry letter can be a bit longer than you might have experienced that so far in your home country.

Basic information

At the very top of the page, please include:

• your full name
• phone number
• and other contact information

Also Include the full name and address of the company. And the name of the contact person you address the cover letter to, in case you know the name.

As a last formality, include the date and subject matter.

You can then address the person the cover letter is written for by name or use the standard formula of “Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren” as mentioned above.

Now it’s time to divide the cover letter into four different paragraphs.

First paragraph – Introduction

Make sure that you introduce yourself and give the reader why you are applying for the specific job. Some ideas might be that you recently relocated to Germany and are now searching for a job. Another option might be that you want to make a career change. It should be clear to the reader what your intention is.

Second paragraph – Your professional experience

The second paragraph is about your professional experience, skillset, and abilities. If there is anything worth mentioning that you believe would help you stand out from other applicants, please consider mentioning it.

Suppose you are still working outside of Germany. In that case, you might also consider providing some details about your current position, the company you are working for, and the daily tasks you are regularly doing.

If you achieved anything remarkable in the past that might benefit your future employer, let them know about it. It’s another chance for you to shine.

Third paragraph – About the company and the reason why

Before writing this paragraph, think about why the company should hire you instead of someone else.

How can you be of benefit to your future employer?

Try to describe why you are a good fit for the position, the job offered, and how you might fit into the team.

You should consider finding out more about the company you apply for and get some background information.

Since it’s not unlikely that people will search for you on LinkedIn, do the same and search for the company there.

You will most likely get a good idea about their corporate structure and maybe even about the team you would be working with.

Fourth paragraph – Closing

In the last paragraph, you should state that you are interested in the company and the position. Thank the person or the people who would read your cover letter for considering you for the offered job.

Also, please mention that you’d be looking forward to meeting them in person or virtually for the interview soon. And that you are looking forward to a reply.

Let professionals write the German introduction letter for you

Germans who changed their position quite often are all used to writing those cover letters as they have a long history in the German application process.

Writing a cover letter as a foreigner based on German standards can be challenging.

Why use a professional cover letter writer?

You should use a professional cover letter writer for your application if you are not 100% familiar with the German language and application process.

Cover letter writers whose native language is German can help you create a perfect cover letter for you.

Your chances of success with your application, assuming your CV already looks interesting, will be significantly higher when you send over a well-written letter for German employers.

Where to find a professional cover letter writer?

From my own experience, finding an excellent motivation letter writer is not difficult.

I have a great experience with the freelancer platform called Fiverr *. You can search for “ German cover letter ” there and find good results.

I want to give you one piece of advice to choose someone located in Germany and whose native language is German.

They are most likely very familiar with the specifications and can write fluently in German.

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* The links that are marked in this way are affiliate links and indicate that we receive a small commission if you decide to buy the products or services offered by our partner sites. But for you, it won’t cost you anything extra.

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Employment guides & Tools

Cover letter in germany (anschreiben).

Together with your CV ( Lebenslauf ) , the cover letter is a key component of any job application in Germany. Far more than a mere formality, a cover letter is an important means of presenting yourself to a prospective employer. It would be difficult to land a job in Germany without one. This page walks you through the process of crafting a job-winning cover letter, with a few hints and tips about what is expected in the federal republic. 

Cover letter in German ( Anschreiben )

First things first: what is a cover letter? Although it may be tempting to send in your job application without one, a cover letter is an important part of job applications in Germany, and most hiring managers will expect to receive one, even if the vacancy listing does not explicitly specify this. 

A cover letter is a short (usually no more than one page) document that you submit together with your resume as part of your job application. Rather than simply repeating the information contained in your CV, its purpose is to expand upon it, summarising your skills and experience, explaining what makes you a good fit for the role, and (hopefully!) piquing the hiring manager’s interest. While a CV lays out the facts, your cover letter conveys more personality. You can expect to be asked about both if you make it to a job interview .

In Germany, a cover letter ( Anschreiben ) generally follows a prescribed format, which makes it easier to structure your own. 

Cover letter templates

Using a template can be a good way to get started, and will also ensure your cover letter is well-formatted. If you used a template for your CV, it’s a good idea to use the same design for your cover letter, to make your application look professional and consistent. 

The following websites offer cover letter templates: 

• Novorésumé

How to write a cover letter in Germany

German cover letters are not fundamentally different to those in other countries, with the only possible difference being they are rather formal and matter-of-fact, with no credit given to pomp, exaggerations or overly flowery language. 

As with elsewhere in the world, your cover letter in Germany should be succinct - no more than one side of A4 in size 12 font. You also do not want to present the hiring manager with a dense wall of text, so make sure to break it up into sizeable paragraphs. 

It may be time-consuming, but you should also write a unique(ish) cover letter for each job you apply for. Recruiters don’t like to receive form letters - and sending off a generic letter is a sure-fire way to ensure your application ends up in the bin. You need to explain why you want this specific position , and what makes you particularly suited for it - so tailor your cover letter based on the responsibilities and requirements outlined in the job description, and what you know about the company. 

Cover letter format

If you’re not sure where to start, it can help to break the letter down into a few sections. Almost all cover letters are structured around the same tried-and-tested format: 

• A header with your contact information
• A greeting to the hiring manager
• An opening paragraph that will grab the reader’s attention
• A second paragraph that explains why you’re the perfect fit for the job
• A third paragraph that outlines why you’re a good match for the company
• A formal closing

How to start a cover letter: With a header

Writing your contact header is a good way to ease yourself in, and ensure you’re not staring at a blank page. As with a CV, it’s important to include some basic contact information on your cover letter. You should include: 

• Phone number
• Email address
• Name of the hiring manager
• Name of the company you’re applying to

You might also consider adding your social media profiles or the address of your personal website, if these are relevant in your field and to the job you’re applying for. 

Address the hiring manager

This is where you can score some easy marks. You’d be surprised how many people open their cover letters with, “Dear Sir or Madam.” That’s one way to turn off a hiring manager. It’s much better to address your letter to them personally. That means you need to do some research. 

If you’re lucky, this information is included in the job description. You should also check the “Team” or “About us” page on the company’s website. Alternatively, you could turn to LinkedIn to find out who’s head of the relevant department. If in doubt, call up the company and ask who you should address your application to. It might make your name stick out when it comes to sifting through CVs. 

As a last resort, if you really can’t get hold of a name, address your cover letter using one of these greetings:

• Dear [Department] Hiring Manager
• Dear Hiring Manager
• Dear [Department or Company Name] Team

Write your introduction

This is worth taking your time over. Companies typically receive hundreds of applications for single positions, and so they’re not going to be reading every cover letter from top to bottom. You need to grab their attention from the first paragraph. 

The key here is to not be too generic - most applicants will probably have similar work experience and interests. Instead, you need to explain what makes you unique. What is your bottom-line USP? That’s what the recruiter wants to know. 

Explain why you’re a good fit for the job

Next, it’s time to get into the meat of your letter, by outlining your professional skills, and explaining why this experience makes you better-qualified than the other applicants. It’s a good idea to have the job description to hand when you write this section. Match the requirements listed by the company to elements from your own skill set and work history, and elaborate on them. 

But there’s no way you’ll have space to cover every single detail. Instead, pick two or three of the most important requirements and use them to spin a couple of compelling stories from your own experience. 

Explain why you want to work for the company

The final section of your cover letter is just as important: explaining why you want to work for this specific company. Hiring managers want to know that you’d be a good fit for the company culture - that you want this job, not just any job - otherwise you’d be a risky hire. 

This might require you to do some extra research - what do you know about the company and its products or services? What’s the work culture like? What about that enthuses you? It pays to be super specific. 

Wrap things up

That’s it - you’re almost there! Now you need to finish with a conclusion that wraps up your letter. If you have anything else you want to say, now’s your chance. Finally, thank the hiring manager for their time (it’s only polite). 

Then, it’s time to sign off with a formal closing. You could use: 

• Best regards
• Kind regards
• Yours sincerely

Once your cover letter is finished and proofread, you’re ready to send off your application. Put your feet up and wait for a response. 

Should I write my cover letter in German?

Whether or not you should write your cover letter in German depends on a few factors, namely: 

• The language requirements of the job
• What is specified on the job description
• Your own language ability

If a job description specifies that applications should be made in German, it’s best to follow this advice. If your language ability isn’t up to the task of writing a CV and cover letter in German, it may be that the job itself is also beyond your language capabilities. 

However, an increasing number of companies in Germany, specifically international companies , are now offering English-speaking roles, although some still require you to apply in German. In this instance, it’s worth submitting your documents in German (you can ask a German-speaking friend to help, at least by checking your finished CV and cover letter over). To really show off your language skills, you could submit both English and German versions of your application. 

Cover letter examples

Not sure where to start? It can be a good idea to read some example cover letters to give you an idea of what is expected. But don’t be tempted to copy them word for word - you want to convey your own, unique personality, not someone else’s.

English cover letter sample

The internet is full of examples of cover letters written in English. Check out popular websites like Novorésumé, Monster.com, Reed, Indeed, and LiveCareer. 

German cover letter example

Checking out a German cover letter example can also be a good way of getting started, especially if German is not your native language. Look at websites like Karrierebibel, Bewerbung.net and Staufenbiel, or simply search “ Anschreiben Beispiel ”, to get a good idea of how German cover letters are structured. 

Cover letter tips

• Make sure your cover letter is correctly formatted and free of spelling and grammatical errors - ideally, have a friend check it over for you before sending it. 
• Include your personal details at the top of your letter.
• Do your research to address the hiring manager by name.
• Always tailor your cover letter to match the job description.
• Use specific, concrete examples from your work history to back up your points.
• End with a formal signing-off.
• Make sure your letter is no longer than one side of A4. 

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Résumé - Amerikanischer Lebenslauf

Ein Beitrag von Ben Dehn

Arbeitslosigkeit im Lebenslauf angeben

Ausführlicher Lebenslauf

Berufserfahrung

Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Video & Vorlagen

EDV-Kenntnisse

Englischer Lebenslauf

Europass Lebenslauf

Familienstand Lebenslauf

Gefälschter Lebenslauf

Handschriftlicher Lebenslauf

Hard Skills

Hobbys im Lebenslauf

Krankheit im Lebenslauf

Kurzlebenslauf

Video & Tipps

Lebenslauf Ehrenamt

Lebenslauf Schüler

Lebenslauf Vorlagen

Kostenlos als Word-Datei

Lebenslauf online erstellen

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Lebenslauf unterschreiben

Lücken im Lebenslauf

Video & Beispiele

Persönliche Daten im Lebenslauf

Sprachkenntnisse Lebenslauf

Tabellarischer Lebenslauf

Inhaltsverzeichnis (ausklappen)

Definition – was ist ein résumé, unterschied résumé, cv & deutscher lebenslauf, résumé vorlage – kostenloser download, aufbau & inhalt des résumés, wichtige vokabeln für dein résumé, weitere häufig gestellte fragen zum résumé, checkliste für ein gelungenes résumé.

Bei dem Résumé handelt es sich um den üblichen Standard im nordamerikanischen Raum . Wenn du dich also in den USA oder in Kanada bewerben möchtest, kommst du für gewöhnlich nicht darum herum, ein Résumé anzufertigen. Den Personalverantwortlichen soll mit diesem One-Pager ein prägnanter Überblick über deinen Werdegang und deine Fähigkeiten verschafft werden.

Das „Résumé“ oder „resume“ ist eine Form des englischen Lebenslaufs . Nicht zu verwechseln mit dem englischen Anschreiben, welches als Cover Letter bezeichnet wird. Während das Résumé einem tabellarischen Aufbau folgt, gestaltet sich der Cover Letter als Fließtext. Der Cover Letter geht in der Regel Hand in Hand mit dem Résumé. 

Das Wort „Résumé“ kommt aus dem Französischen und bedeutet auf Deutsch übersetzt „Zusammenfassung“. 

Bevor du dich mit dem Verfassen deines Lebenslaufs beschäftigst, solltest du dich vergewissern, welche Form des Lebenslaufs gefordert wird. Bewirbst du dich beispielsweise in akademischen oder forschungsorientierten Bereichen , wird auch im amerikanischen Raum oftmals ein Curriculum Vitae (CV) erwartet . Da diese Form des Lebenslaufs umfangreicher ist und mehr Details über deine akademische Karriere preisgibt.

Allgemein ist der amerikanische Lebenslauf wesentlich kürzer als der deutsche und der britische Lebenslauf (CV) . Er umfasst nur eine Seite , denn im Résumé hat die gute Übersicht deines Werdegangs und deiner Skills höchste Priorität. Ein bedeutender Unterschied zum deutschen Lebenslauf liegt darin, dass es im internationalen Raum üblich ist, sich vorher bei einer Ansprechperson zu melden . Darum ist es besonders wichtig, dass du den Namen deiner Kontaktperson notierst und diese Person später in deinen Bewerbungsunterlagen direkt ansprichst. Das zeigt, dass du interessiert bist und dich mit der Stelle auseinandergesetzt hast.

Viele Aspekte des amerikanischen Lebenslaufs ähneln grob denen der anderen Formen, jedoch gibt es zentrale Unterschiede. So ist beispielsweise die Angabe von Referenzen wie beim deutschen Lebenslauf optional oder nur bei ausdrücklicher Anfrage vorzuweisen, beim CV hingegen gehört sie zu einem festen Bestandteil.

Während in Deutschland nur ungern auf persönliche Angaben verzichtet wird, werden die Angaben zur Person sowohl im Résumé als auch im CV auf das Nötigste beschränkt . Diese Form der anonymen Bewerbung soll vor allem Vorurteilen und Diskriminierung vorbeugen, damit jede*r Bewerber*in eine faire Chance auf eine Einladung zu einem Vorstellungsgespräch bekommt.

Deshalb solltest du im Résumé unbedingt auf folgende Angaben verzichten:

Bewerbungsfoto

Religionszugehörigkeit

Unterschrift

Résumé Template mit Mustertext – Das steckt drin:

Bei einem Résumé hat die Übersichtlichkeit höchste Priorität. Nachdem du in einem kurzen Text dein berufliches Profil zusammengefasst hast, folgt der berufliche Werdegang sowie die schulische und akademische Bildung in antichronologischer Reihenfolge . Je nachdem, wie viel Platz du noch zur Verfügung hast, kannst du noch relevante Informationen zu deinen Kenntnissen und Qualifikationen einfügen. 

Personal Information – Persönliche Daten

Deine persönlichen Daten beschränken sich im amerikanischen Lebenslauf auf deine Kontaktdaten , damit sich Personalverantwortliche mit dir in Verbindung setzen können. Weitere Angaben zu deiner Person werden weggelassen , um möglicher Diskriminierung vorzubeugen. Umlaute wie „ä“, „ö“ und „ü“ sind im Englischen nicht üblich. Denk also dran, diese Umlaute in deinem Namen und deiner Anschrift als „ae“, „oe“ oder „ue“ zu umschreiben . 

Deine Kontaktdaten solltest du in der Kopfzeile unterbringen, damit du den restlichen Platz der Seite für relevante Informationen rund um deinen Werdegang und deine Qualifikationen nutzen kannst. 

Deine Kontaktdaten bestehen aus:

Vorname und Nachname

Telefon- oder Handynummer

E-Mail-Adresse

Optional: Profil bei LinkedIn und professionelle Social-Media-Kanäle

Executive Summary / Résumé Objective

Sowohl bei dem Résumé Objective als auch bei der Executive Summary handelt es sich um eine Einleitung in dein Résumé. Diese ist wichtig, um herauszustechen und direkt mit den ersten Worten zu überzeugen und Personalverantwortliche zum Weiterlesen anzuregen. Du solltest zusätzlich angeben, wieso du dich im Ausland bewirbst. Auch wenn beide Einleitungen einige Gemeinsamkeiten aufweisen, gibt es dennoch Unterschiede, weshalb es wichtig ist, die passende Form für dein Résumé auszuwählen . 

Bei einer Executive Summary handelt es sich um eine kurze professionelle Einleitung , welche deine bisherigen Erfolge und relevantesten Kompetenzen in kurzen und wirkungsvollen Sätzen hervorhebt.

Du solltest deiner Zusammenfassung eine professionelle Überschrift geben wie zum Beispiel „Executive Summary“, „Summary“, „Résumé Summary“, „Career Profil“ oder „Summary of Qualifications“.

Du solltest dich beim Verfassen deiner Zusammenfassung kurzhalten und maximal einen kurzen Abschnitt oder eine kurze Liste verfassen. Daher ist es wichtig, dass du dich lediglich auf die relevantesten Kompetenzen und deine größten Erfolge beschränkst.

Ein „ Résumé Objective “ oder auch „ Career Objective “ hingegen ist ein Statement , welches sich auf deine Karriereziele bezieht und darauf, wie diese mit der anvisierten Stelle zusammenhängen. Dieses Statement soll die Aufmerksamkeit der Personalverantwortlichen wecken und darf nicht mehr als ein bis zwei Sätze umfassen. Es ist außerdem wichtig, dass deine beschriebenen Ziele, mit denen des Unternehmens und den Bedingungen der ausgeschriebenen Stelle zusammenpassen . 

Areas of Expertise / Summary of Skills

Bei dem Abschnitt „Areas of Expertise“ oder „(Summary of) Skills“ handelt es sich um einen optionalen Teil deines Résumés. Er kann helfen, die Struktur etwas aufzulockern und Personalverantwortlichen auf einen Blick einen Eindruck über deine Kompetenzen zu ermöglichen. Die „Areas of Expertise“ geben relevante Schlagwörter wieder und können beispielsweise durch farbliche Hervorhebungen helfen, dein Résumé optisch ansprechender zu gestalten. 

Hier bietet es sich an, die wichtigsten Schlagworte der Stellenanzeige aufzugreifen (natürlich nur, wenn du diese Kompetenzen auch wirklich mitbringst!). Es geht hier vor allem darum, alle Qualifikationen aufzulisten , die für den neuen Job wichtig sein könnten. Bleibe besonders an dieser Stelle nicht zu bescheiden , denn deine Qualifikationen können darüber entscheiden, ob du für den Job infrage kommst oder nicht.

| Beispiel für die Areas of Expertise im Résumé |

Professional Experience – Beruflicher Werdegang 

Der berufliche Werdegang bildet wie auch im deutschen Lebenslauf den Hauptteil dessen. Diesen gibst du ebenfalls wie im Deutschen antichronologisch wieder. Das bedeutet, du beginnst mit der beruflichen Station, die du als Letztes ausgeübt hast bzw. aktuell ausübst. Dein Résumé enthält alle Stationen deines Werdegangs. Berufe, die lange zurückliegen oder nichts mit der ausgeschriebenen Stelle zu tun haben , kannst du zusammenfassen . Bist du Berufseinsteiger , solltest du hier deine bisherigen Praktika und alle Tätigkeiten einfügen, die du während deiner Schul- und Studienzeit ausgeübt hast.

Bei der Jobsuche auf dem amerikanischen Markt ist Bescheidenheit fehl am Platz: Anders als in Deutschland, wo eine sachliche Formulierung der Beschreibung deines Tätigkeitsbereichs angebracht ist, wird die Nutzung von enthusiastischen und aktiven Formulierungen im amerikanischen Raum gewünscht. Auf diese Weise vermittelst du Leidenschaft und Engagement für die Stelle.

Im Deutschen würde es beispielsweise heißen: „Realisierung des E-Commerce Webshops“, während im Amerikanischen aussagekräftige Adjektive hinzugefügt werden: „successfully realized an e-commerce webshop“. Im Deutschen sind substantivierte Formulierungen üblich (z.B. „Entwicklung der Vertriebsstrategie“), im Englischen hingegen wird auf die dynamische Progressive-Form zurückgegriffen („Developing sales strategy“).

Jede Station deiner „Professional Experience“ enthält folgende Informationen:

Deine Position: diese wird durch Fettdruck oder farbliche Markierung hervorgehoben

Name und Standort der Firma

Beginn und Ende deiner Stelle: Denk dran, dass die Schreibweise des Datums im Englischen wie folgt aussieht: 01/2023 statt wie im Deutschen 01.2023.

Tätigkeitsbeschreibungen und Erfolge: Welche Aufgaben, Projekte und Erfolge hast du geschafft? Beschränke dich auf maximal 10 Stichpunkte pro Position. Nenne nur Tätigkeiten, die für die ausgeschriebene Stelle relevant sind.

| Beispiel für die Professional Experience im Résumé |

Ben Dehn Fachautor von bewerbung.net „Aus deiner Bewerbung sollte hervorgehen, dass sie für die ausgeschriebene Stelle maßgeschneidert angefertigt wurde und ein wirkliches Interesse am Unternehmen besteht. Ein erfolgreiches Résumé passt exakt zur Position, auf die du dich bewirbst. Deine Erfahrungen und Skills müssen genau diese Stelle widerspiegeln, ohne dass du dich im Detail verlierst.“

Education - Bildung

In dieser Kategorie bringst du deine relevantesten Abschlüsse unter. Der Grundschulabschluss kann dabei weggelassen werden, da er bei deinem Karriereweg nicht ausschlaggebend ist. Bei der Auflistung deiner (Aus-)Bildungsstationen gehst du wieder antichronologisch vor und beginnst mit deinem aktuellsten Abschluss. 

Da du dich bei deinem Résumé auf eine Seite beschränken musst, kann es sein, dass du Platzprobleme bekommst. Sollte dies der Fall sein, kannst du dich auf deinen akademischen Hintergrund beschränken. Dazu solltest du die Kategorie in „Academic Education“ umbenennen. Grundsätzlich beinhaltet jede Station die Art deines Abschlusses , die Institution / Schule und den Ort und optional deine Haupt- und Nebenfächer .

Deine Abschlüsse solltest du immer in eine professionelle englische Formulierung übersetzen:

Allgemeine Hochschulreife (Abitur) – General University Entrance Qualification

Fachhochschulreife – Subject-related University Entrance Qualification

Mittelere Reife / Realschulabschluss – Intermediate School-Leaving Certification

| Beispiel für die Education im Résumé |

Additional Skills and Qualification – Weitere Kenntnisse 

In diesem Bereich hast du die Möglichkeit, verschiedenste zusätzliche Kenntnisse und Qualifikationen anzugeben. Da du nur einen sehr begrenzten Platz dafür zur Verfügung hast, musst du abwägen, welche Informationen für deine Bewerbung relevant sind und dir einen Vorteil gegenüber anderen Bewerber*innen verschaffen können.

| Beispiel für Additional Skills im Résumé |

Languages – Sprachen

Liste alle deine sprachlichen Kenntnisse auf und füge das entsprechende Niveau hinzu. Sei dabei ehrlich, denn spätestens im Vorstellungsgespräch kann es sonst sehr unangenehm werden, wenn die Wahrheit ans Licht kommt. Wenn du dir nicht sicher bist, welches sprachliche Niveau auf dich zutrifft, kannst du die Beschreibung der einzelnen Niveaus auf der Webseite zum Europäischen Referenzrahmen nachschauen.

Deine Sprachniveaus kannst du folgendermaßen ins Englische übersetzen:

Muttersprache native – speaker (C2) 

Verhandlungssicher – business fluent (C2)

Fließend in Wort und Schrift – fluent written and spoken (C1)

Sehr gute Kenntnisse in Wort und Schrift – very good knowledge written and spoken (B2)

Gute Kenntnisse in Wort und Schrift – good knowledge written and spoken (B1)

Erweiterte Grundkenntnisse – advanced basic knowledge (A2)

Grundkenntnisse – basic knowledge (A1)

Computer Skills – IT-Kenntnisse

Orientiere dich bei der Angabe deiner Kenntnisse unbedingt daran, welche EDV-Kenntnisse in der Stellenausschreibung als besonders relevant herausgestellt werden. Eine große Anzahl verschiedener Skills ist zwar beeindruckend, nimmt jedoch auch viel Platz im Résumé ein.

Lege daher den Fokus auf die wichtigsten Programme und fasse sie so zusammen:

MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)

Web Skills (HTML, JavaScript, CSS, WordPress, CMS, code libraries)

Graphics (Adobe: Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, Acrobat)

Social Media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter)

Certificates – Zertifikate

Solltest du Zertifikate erlangt haben, die deine relevanten Kompetenzen belegen, kannst du diese in einer eigenen Kategorie auflisten. Dazu solltest du die Inhalte der Weiterbildung übersetzen und ebenso wie bei den IT-Kenntnissen platzsparend auflisten . Wenn du nur ein Zertifikat erlangt hast, kann es sich anbieten, dieses an passender Stelle bei der Berufserfahrung unterzubringen anstatt eine eigene Kategorie dafür anzulegen. 

Driver’s licence – Führerschein

Die Angabe eines vorhandenen Führerscheins ist im amerikanischen Résumé nicht so üblich wie im deutschen Lebenslauf. Du kannst die Angabe in deinem Résumé machen, wenn du davon ausgehst, dass sie dir einen Vorteil gegenüber anderen Bewerber*innen verschafft. Die korrekte Formulierung zur Angabe des deutschen Führerscheins der Klasse B (ggf. mit vorhandenem Fahrzeug) lautet: „Driver’s license – European type B (own vehicle available)“ . 

Interests – Interessen

Diese Kategorie ist ebenfalls optional und sollte bei Personen mit Berufserfahrung ausgelassen werden, da sie häufig irrelevant ist. Wenn du dich allerdings als Berufseinsteiger*in bewirbst und nur wenig Berufserfahrung vorzuweisen hast, kannst du deine Interessen nutzen , um zu unterstreichen, wieso du für die ausgeschriebene Stelle geeignet bist. Dabei ist es wichtig, dass du keine allgemeinen Hobbys angibst, sondern lediglich vorteilhafte Interessen, die dich für diese Stelle qualifizieren. 

References – Referenzen 

Referenzen sind vor allem bei einer Bewerbung im internationalen Raum von Vorteil , weil du dein deutsches Arbeitszeugnis nicht als Referenz anhängen kannst. Im englischsprachigen Raum nutzen Personalverantwortliche häufig die Möglichkeit, sich bei ehemaligen Vorgesetzten und Referenzgeber*innen über das Arbeitsverhalten des / der Bewerber*in zu informieren.  

Bei der Angabe einer Referenz ist es deshalb von Bedeutung, dass die Person in der Lage ist, auf Englisch zu kommunizieren. Du solltest deine*n Referenzgeber*in über die Bewerbungsfristen informieren , sodass sich diese*r auf eine mögliche Kontaktaufnahme vorbereiten kann.

Folgende Angaben solltest du bei der Nennung von Referenzen auflisten: 

Name des /der Referenzgeber*in

Unternehmen / Institut

Position des / der Referenzgeber*in

Telefonnummer des / der Referenzgeber*in

E-Mail-Adresse des / der Referenzgeber*in

Im Gegensatz zum deutschen Lebenslauf wird dein Résumé weder mit dem Datum noch mit deiner Unterschrift versehen .

Dieses Team bringt 4 von 5 Personen ins Vorstellungsgespräch! Durch mehr als 10 Jahre Erfahrung und Expertise aus über 50.000 erstellten Bewerbungen verhelfen Die Bewerbungsschreiber auch dir mit einer professionellen und individuell auf dich zugeschnittenen Bewerbung zum Erfolg . Klicke hier und hol dir die beste Bewerbung deines Lebens

Damit du dich von deiner professionellen Seite zeigen kannst, reicht ein optisch ansprechender Lebenslauf nicht aus. Hier überzeugst du vor allem mit einwandfreiem Englisch . Dabei solltest du immer beachten, dass es einige amerikanische Begriffe gibt, die sich deutlich von den britischen unterscheiden . Während „spezialisieren“ in Großbritannien zum Beispiel „specialise“ heißt, wird es im amerikanischen Englisch „specialize“ geschrieben.

Allgemeine Begriffe, die du zur Erstellung deines Résumés verwenden kannst:

Abschluss – qualification / graduation

Ausbildung – professional training

Beruflicher Werdegang – work experience

Diplom – degree

Hobbys – activities

Praktikum – internship

Schulischer Werdegang – education

Weitere Kenntnisse – additional skills

Weiterführende Schule – secondary school

Kraftvolle  Action Verbs , mit denen du deine bisherigen Tätigkeiten und Erfolge beschreiben kannst:

Du hast etwas verändert / verbessert: centralized, customized, merged, modernized, redesigned, refocused, simplified, strengthened, transformed, updated, upgraded

Du hast etwas recherchiert / analysiert: analyzed, calculated, discovered, examined, identified, mapped, measured, quantified, tracked

Du hast entwickelt / vorangebracht: administered, arranged, built, created, developed, founded, implemented, pioneered, planned

Du hast jemanden / etwas geleitet: arrranged, directed, delegated, guided, managed, mentored, operated, organized, supervised, taught, trained

Du hast etwas erreicht: achieved, advanced, boosted, consolidated, decreased / enhanced, expanded, improved, saved, sustained

Bei einem Résumé handelt es sich um einen Lebenslauf für den nordamerikanischen Raum – nicht zu verwechseln mit dem Anschreiben, welches als Cover Letter bekannt ist .

Nein, ganz im Gegenteil. Du solltest bei der Erstellung deines Résumés unbedingt auf die Verwendung eines Bewerbungsfotos verzichten . Im englischsprachigen Raum ist es nicht üblich ein Foto einzufügen, da sehr streng auf das Antidiskriminierungsgesetz geachtet wird. Ebenfalls aus diesem Grund verzichtest du auf die Angabe persönlicher Informationen, beispielsweise zu deinem Geburtsort.

Ja, im Rahmen deiner Bewerbung bei Google wird ausdrücklich ein Résumé von dir verlangt . Es wird auf der Google-Karriereseite der Ablauf des Recruiting-Prozesses beschrieben, welcher unter anderem ein Résumé-Screening als einen der ersten Schritte beinhaltet. Ein Anschreiben hingegen wird nicht verlangt und wird als optional angesehen.

Ich habe dir hier die wichtigsten Punkte zusammengefasst, die du beachten solltest, um ein gelungenes Résumé zu erstellen. Dabei geht es neben Formalia auch um gestalterische Aspekte.

Folgende Punkte solltest du berücksichtigen:

Achte auf ein einheitliches Design deiner Unterlagen.

Beschränke dich auf eine DIN-A4-Seite.

Überfülle dein Résumé nicht mit Text, denn Übersichtlichkeit hat höchste Priorität.

Verwende nicht zu viele Abkürzungen, um Platz zu sparen. Das wirkt unprofessionell.

Konvertiere dein Word-Dokument in eine PDF-Datei, um zu garantieren, dass alle Elemente genauso angezeigt werden, wie sie von dir erstellt wurden.

Verwende schmale Seitenränder und kleine Zeilenabstände.

Greife Schlagwörter und die Berufsbezeichnung aus der Stellenausschreibung im Lebenslauf auf.

Erstelle deinen Lebenslauf mit einem Textverarbeitungsprogramm wie Word, statt zu einem Grafikprogramm zu greifen.

Prüfe deine Unterlagen sorgfältig auf Rechtschreib- und Grammatikfehler.

Verzichte auf die Verwendung eines Bewerbungsfotos . Ansonsten kann es passieren, dass deine Bewerbung direkt im ersten Schritt aussortiert wird.

Verzichte auf die Nennung persönlicher Daten wie dein Geburtsdatum und -ort, deine Staatsangehörigkeit oder deinen Familienstand.

Verzichte auf die Unterschrift unter deinem Résumé.

Die Überschrift deines Résumés und die Zwischenüberschriften deiner Kategorien solltest du zentrieren.

Übersetze deine Schul- und Berufsabschlüsse.

Denke an die antichronologische Darstellung deines Werdegangs (wie im Deutschen).

Nenne (anders als im Deutschen) deinen Jobtitel zuerst, gefolgt vom Unternehmensnamen und Standort in der zweiten Zeile. Hebe deine Position durch Fettdruck hervor.

Beschreibe deine Tätigkeiten in der Progressive-Form (-ing). Für in der Vergangenheit liegende Positionen kann wahlweise auch die Simple-Past-Form (-ed) genutzt werden. Achte dabei auf die einheitliche Verwendung.

Verwende dokumentübergreifend die amerikanische Schreibweise, da ein Résumé hauptsächlich im nordamerikanischen Raum verlangt wird.

Die Checkliste für dein perfektes Résumé erhältst du hier als kostenloses PDF Dokument zum Download .

Autor: Ben Dehn

Ben entschied sich nach seinem Lehramtsstudium dazu, seinen Weg zunächst im Journalismus zu bestreiten. Nach sieben Jahren bei Print, Online und Radio heuerte er 2013 bei der webschmiede GmbH an und betreute im „Die Bewerbungsschreiber“ Team Personen auf sämtlichen Hierarchieebenen. Durch seine Tätigkeit konnte er sein Know-how im Karrierebereich stetig vertiefen. Heute schreibt Ben Dehn hilfreiche Fachartikel, hält Vorträge und gibt Interviews, Workshops & Seminare.

Zu Bens Autorenprofil

JobinBerlin .

How To Write a Cover Letter in German? Tips & Examples

To apply for a job or an internship in Germany, your cover letter must be not only impeccable but also personalized because German recruiters scrutinize cover letters!

We will give you all the translations you need and explain everything: what wording to use and how formal it should be, how to start it, how to end it, what to put and what format to choose, so that you can get the job you want. In addition to our tips, you will find at the end of the article an example of a German cover letter in word and pdf for free download.

How do you say cover letter in German?

The translation of cover letter in German is "das Motivationsschreiben". It simply means the motivation letter.

The application is called "die Bewerbung" in German and the applicant is called "der Bewerber" or "die Bewerberin".

➜ See our tips for writing a German CV .

Salutation and opening greeting to use in a German cover letter

The cover letter in German is formal and you have to pay attention to the politeness, even if you apply by e-mail.

When you know the name of the person, write :

Sehr geehrter Herr Müller or Sehr geehrte Frau Müller,

If the person has a doctorate or is a professor, use the following salutation:

Sehr geehrter Herr Dr. Müller or Sehr geehrter Herr Professor Müller,

Namely: If the person is a professor and also has two doctorates, it was usual (not so long ago) to write:

Sehr geehrter Herr Prof. Dr. Dr. Müller,

But nowadays, it is enough to put only the highest title (Professor in this example). On the other hand, these titles must be specified in the address (at the very top of the letter).

If you do not know the name of the person, for example for an unsolicited application, simply write:

Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren,

This is also the standard, polite way to greet someone unknown in an e-mail in German, in a formal cover letter or in any business letter.

If you are applying for a job in a start-up or a rather young and untraditional organization, you can simply write:

Hallo Herr Müller,

Please note: The sentence that follows does not start with a capital letter: "Hallo Herr Müller, hiermit bewerbe ich mich...".

💡 Our advice: Start with "Sehr geehrter Herr Müller" and if your interviewer changes to "Hallo Herr Dubois" or "Hallo Nicolas", then do the same.

How to start your cover letter in German?

The introduction should arouse the recruiter's curiosity and make him or her want to read the rest. It should immediately highlight your profile and show your determination and passion for the position and the company you are applying to. This is how you will stand out from the other candidates.

It is also the first impression you give of yourself and we know that the first impression is always the strongest. It is indeed very difficult to get rid of a first impression, it is a cognitive bias called in psychology the anchoring or confirmation. So if your introduction is successful, it's half the battle won (well, almost).

Avoid ready-made sentences, banal formulas and don't repeat what's in your resume or your CV. The introduction should be concise and not exceed 3 sentences.

Here is an example of a very effective personalized introduction:

Sehr geehrter Herr Müller, seit sechs Jahren verfolge ich die Entwicklung von Elektroautos und die Fortschritte der Automobilbranche mit großem Interesse und habe mit Begeisterung von einem Praktikum (or von einer Stelle als …) in Ihrem Unternehmen gelesen. Als Student der Elektroingenieurswissenschaft mit abgeschlossener Ausbildung zum Mechatroniker verfüge ich über viel Knowhow gepaart mit Leidenschaft für Autos und technischem Feingefühl.

Another possibility is to emphasize your skills and successes, for example like this:

mit 6 Jahren Erfahrung als Sales Manager im Bereich B2B für große Saas- und Softwareunternehmen und einer langjährigen Affinität zu den Themen Preisstrategie und -Verhandlung bin ich der perfekte Kandidat für Ihre Stelle.

The candidate starts with his strongest asset (his 6 years of experience) and then emphasizes his expertise.

💡 Pro Tip: 99% of all applicants write the same introduction in their cover letter almost word for word, so make sure you stand out if you want to have a chance of getting the job of your dreams!

What to put in your cover letter for a job application in Germany?

The objective of the cover letter is to convince the recruiter that you are the ideal candidate and that you correspond exactly to the profile sought. Basically, you must explain why the company should hire you and not someone else.

Do not copy your CV into your cover letter! Explain that you have the required skills, gained from your various experiences, and that they will be put to good use by the company.

For example:

Ich habe 4 Jahre Erfahrung als E-Commerce-Marketing-Analyst bei Fashionista (your position) gesammelt und war in dieser Zeit verantwortlich für die SEO-Strategie des Online-Shops und die Kundengewinnung. Ich konnte den Umsatz um 12% monatlich steigern und die Conversion Rate um 17% optimieren (mention your role, main responsibilities and results).

Als Marketingmanager des Fashionista Online-Shops erwarb ich fundierte Kenntnisse über Techniken zur Verkaufsoptimierung und lernte prägnante und überzeugende Texte zu verfassen.

In this example, the candidate does not go back to his professional experience, which has (surely) already been presented in his resume, but focuses on the skills he has acquired that he can bring to the company he is applying to.

You can also list your key skills, those that interest the recruiter, in the following way:

Meine Kernkompetenzen sind: - Online Kundengewinnung (SEO und Content Marketing) - Techniken zur Optimierung der Conversion Rate - Verfassen von prägnanten und überzeugenden Texten - Übersichtliche Darstellung von komplexen Daten

The recruiter quickly sees what interests him: it is clear, simple and effective!

Be as concise as possible: it is better for the recruiter (some prefer half-page cover letters) and it will force you to avoid length and repetition. In any case, do not exceed one page.

💡 Our advice: The word "motivation" can be misleading. In reality, it is not a question of showing off your motivations but of showing the company what you could bring to them, what your qualities, skills and areas of expertise are.

How do you conclude a cover letter in German?

You can end your cover letter by showing that you would like to know more about the position and the company:

Auf die Gelegenheit, Ihr Unternehmen in einem persönlichen Gespräch kennenzulernen und mehr über die Position des Marketingassistenten zu erfahren, freue ich mich sehr.

Or finish by emphasizing your value:

Sehr gern überzeuge ich Sie in einem persönlichen Gespräch von meinen Fähigkeiten als Sales Agent und freue mich darauf, mehr über Ihr Unternehmen und die Stelle als Marketingmanager zu erfahren.

If you are applying for an internship, you can end your cover letter as follows:

Auf eine persönliche Vorstellung, in der ich Sie von meiner Leidenschaft für die Energiebranche, meiner Motivation für ein Praktikum im Projektmanagement sowie meinen Kenntnissen in der Auswertung der Energiedaten überzeugen kann, freue ich mich.

The most common greeting at the end of an email or a letter in German is:

Mit freundlichen Grüßen

If you already know the person or after several mail exchanges, you can use either of these two polite formulas which correspond to Cordially in German:

Viele Grüße or Beste Grüße

Skip a line after the greeting and add your signature and your name below.

💡 Pro Tip: Unlike in English, there is no comma after the greeting at the end of a german letter.

Sample cover letter in German to download

Here is a sample cover letter in German in PDF and Word for free download.

Lexicon and vocabulary to translate your cover letter into German

Here is a list of useful words with their translations in German:

Jerome Feys Job in Berlin's Founder As a recruitment expert and founder of Job in Berlin, I have corrected over 1,000 resumes. Since 2015, I've been sharing my expertise and delivering tips on resume and cover letter writing, as well as techniques for a successful job interview. 👋 Receive the latest job offers via email 1x per week Job in Berlin is the job board for French speakers in Berlin: Customer Services jobs, Sales, Marketing, Communication and Country Manager jobs. Find a job in Berlin Customer Service Jobs Country Manager Jobs Area Sales Manager Jobs Resume Templates French CV Templates Best CV Templates 2023 © 2024 Job in Berlin. All Rights Reserved.  Privacy Policy .  Imprint . Press ESC to close Life in Berlin » Find a proper job in Berlin – a guide to a better work life » German cover letter guide – what recruiters expect German cover letter guide – what recruiters expect Writing a German cover letter in another hurdle on your path to getting a job in this country. While the general purpose & content is probably similar to what you already know in your home country, some adaptation work might be necessary . This guide points out to the elements to include so you can convince recruiters you are the right one for the job. Is a German cover letter still relevant? Before putting in the efforts to actually write a German cover letter ( Bewerbungsschreiben , Motivationsschreibe n or Anschreiben ), you might wonder if it’s necessary at all. A lot of recruiters don’t read it This 2018 study by German recruitment agency Robert Kraft found out that 48% of recruiters didn’t find cover letters so relevant anymore , meaning that applications with CV only were considered valid. In 2019, the Deutsche Bahn even stopped requesting cover lette rs all together, mentioning a lack of relevance. German ecommerce giant Otto did the same in 2016. That lines up with my small experience as a recruiter & professional involved in the recruiting process. Motivation letters are rarely a differentiator, especially for more senior profiles. However, even if there is a trend to do away with it, most German recruiters will request a German cover lette r. I will tell you why. It still helps you to get an interview Even if hiring managers will never glance over it, more & more companies are using Application Tracking Systems (ATS). It’s a piece of software that automates part of the recruiting process. Its purpose is to filter most applicants so the actual human HR manager only need to assess a few profiles for interviews. ATS will compare requirements set by HR with what is on your CV and… your cover letter! It will search for the right keywords and compare them with the initial job ad. Formatting your cover letter the right way, with the right keywords, it will maximize your chances to get invited to an interview. Can I send my cover letter in English? Since many applicants will only consider English-speaking jobs in Berlin or the rest of the country, it is a legitimate question. I actually answered the same question on my post about German CVs . It applies to cover letters as well. (Spoiler alert: it depends.) How should a German cover letter look like At first glance, it looks like this. Read on for more details. The header contains the typical information you would expect: Your contact details First name and family name Street, street number Postal code, city e-mail address phone number The employer contact details Correct company name Name of hiring manager Street, street number, It also contains the date at which the application was made Subject line The subject line simply includes what position you are applying for. Consider it a reminder for the hiring manager who has to process several applicants per day. Copy-paste the title from the job description. Salutation A simple and personal touch by greeting the hiring manager by their names. Avoid “To whom it may concern” at all costs. Get a feel of the company policy about using first names or Mr/Mrs/Ms. The actual cover letter You will read a lof of tips on how to properly structure your content. German cover letters don’t differ so much from what you can find anywhere in the world. You should answer the 3 following questions well: Why you are a good fit or the job : this refers to how well your career/work experience has prepared you to take on the responsibilities listed in the job description. You should prove that the path you are on is naturally leading you to this position. What makes you think you can do the job : this refers to quantifiable/tangible achievements that can prove that you can solve the challenges ahead. Refer to specific skills mentioned in the job description and demonstrate how you already own them. Why this company attracts you in particular : you need to demonstrate a genuine interest in having this job at THIS company. This requires a little bit of background check on the company’s missions and vision. You need to get a feel of the identity of the company. Show that they align with your values and that it’s a good place to grow for you. Check the company’s LinkedIn feed to see if there are events, achievements you could relate to. Leave a lasting impression after mentioning practical details: State your availability and when you can start. If it was requested in the job description, state your salary expectations . State again how much you would like this job and how much you can demonstrate your motivation in an interview. Tips for success Stay formal & don’t get emotional Match the linguo/wording used by the company in the job description. Each company culture is unique Do not use bullets points Keep your letter machine readable by using a simple layout Sprinkle your letter with the right keywords so the ATS software puts your profile on top of the pile. Match the font & styles used on your CV. Do not use passive voice . Make sure you only use active verbs. Prefer sentences that show ownership & confidence (eg: “I think I could” -> “I am confident I will”) I hope this little guide was useful. Feel free to ask questions the comments. Bastien German cover letter – FAQ The actual content of the letter should not be longer than 4-5 paragraphs, with 2-4 sentences each. It should fit on a single page with plenty of space towards the bottom. You can probably find a job in Berlin without a German cover letter, as a lot of international companies conduct their hiring processes in English only. However, that limits your opportunities a lot. Share Article: Bastien - settle in berlin. Active since 2011, I help any newcomer tackle all practical aspects of moving to Germany. Everyday, up to 2500 visitors come find answers on registration, tax returns, unemployment, insurance, visa applications and more. Over the years, the value of this work has been recognized and featured on Expat.com, Vice, Berliner Zeitung, Financial Times & more.   Crafting a German CV for success – get noticed by recruiters This should included on an invoice in germany. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed . Sample cover letter for job application in Germany A sample cover letter for a job application in Germany can be a critical component in your quest for employment in the country. Crafting the perfect cover letter involves understanding the expectations of German employers and adapting your writing style and content accordingly. In this blog post, we will provide you with comprehensive guidance on creating an effective cover letter tailored for the German job market. We will cover the importance of structure, cultural nuances, best practices, and common mistakes to avoid, ensuring your cover letter stands out to potential employers. A cover letter, known as an “Anschreiben” in German, is a crucial element of your job application. It is your opportunity to make a strong first impression and demonstrate your motivation and suitability for the role. In Germany, cover letters are often seen as equally important as the CV, if not more so. Employers use cover letters to assess not only your writing skills and attention to detail but also your understanding of the company and the position. This is why tailoring your cover letter to the specific job and company is vital to your success. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover the following topics: Key Components of a German Cover Letter Sample Cover Letter for a Job Application in Germany Cultural Nuances and Best Practices Common Mistakes to Avoid Tips for Making Your Cover Letter Stand Out By following the guidelines and best practices outlined in this article, you’ll be well-equipped to create an impactful cover letter that sets you apart from the competition and paves the way for a successful job application in Germany. A well-structured and carefully crafted cover letter can significantly increase your chances of securing a job interview in Germany. Understanding the key components of a German cover letter and its significance will help you create a compelling and impactful letter that resonates with potential employers. In this section, we will dive into each component and provide guidance on how to make your cover letter shine. 1. Personal Information At the top of your cover letter, include your full name, address, phone number, and email address. This information should be right-aligned, ensuring it is easy to locate and follows the standard German formatting. You may also include your professional title and LinkedIn profile link if relevant. 2. Recipient’s Information Below your personal information, left-align the recipient’s details, including their name, title, company name, and address. If you’re unsure of the recipient’s name, it’s worth conducting some research to find the appropriate contact person, as addressing the letter to a specific individual demonstrates your diligence and attention to detail. Include the date below the recipient’s information, following the German date format (DD.MM.YYYY). 4. Subject Line A concise and informative subject line helps the reader quickly understand the purpose of your letter. Begin with “Bewerbung um die Stelle als” (Application for the position of) followed by the job title. This makes it easy for the recipient to identify the position you are applying for. 5. Salutation In Germany, formality is crucial. Address the recipient with “Sehr geehrte(r)” (Dear) followed by their last name and a comma. If you don’t know the recipient’s name, use “Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren” (Dear Sir/Madam). 6. Opening Paragraph The opening paragraph sets the tone for your cover letter. Briefly introduce yourself and mention the position you are applying for, where you found the job posting, and, if applicable, any mutual connections or referrals. 7. Body Paragraphs In the body of your cover letter, showcase your qualifications, skills, and experiences relevant to the job. Focus on how your background aligns with the requirements listed in the job description, and provide concrete examples to demonstrate your accomplishments. Also, show your knowledge of the company and explain why you are interested in the position and how you can contribute to the organization’s success. 8. Closing Paragraph In the closing paragraph, reiterate your interest in the role and express your enthusiasm for the opportunity. Politely request an interview and thank the recipient for considering your application. 9. Sign-off and Signature End your cover letter with a formal sign-off such as “Mit freundlichen Grüßen” (Kind regards) followed by your full name. If sending a physical letter, include your handwritten signature above your typed name. 10. Enclosures Finally, mention any enclosures, such as your CV, references, or certificates, by adding “Anlagen:” (Enclosures:) at the bottom of the letter. This ensures the recipient is aware of the additional documents accompanying your application. Now that you have a clear understanding of the key components of a German cover letter, let’s move on to a few sample cover letters and dissect their elements to help you craft your own. Sample Cover Letters for Job Applications in Germany To give you a better understanding of how to craft a cover letter for different job domains, we have provided three sample cover letters: one for an IT position, one for a marketing position, and one for a nursing position. Each cover letter showcases a different format or style, allowing you to choose the approach that best suits your individual preferences and the specific job you are applying for. Sample 1: IT Position (Software Developer) [Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address] [LinkedIn Profile Link (optional)] [Recipient’s Name] [Recipient’s Title] [Company Name] [Company Address] [Date (DD.MM.YYYY)] Bewerbung um die Stelle als Softwareentwickler Sehr geehrte(r) [Recipient’s Last Name], I am writing to apply for the Software Developer position at [Company Name] as advertised on [Job Portal]. As a skilled professional with over five years of experience in software development, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your company’s success. Throughout my career, I have developed and maintained numerous software applications, consistently meeting project deadlines and exceeding client expectations. My technical expertise includes proficiency in Java, Python, and C++, as well as experience with Agile methodologies and DevOps practices. I am also passionate about continuous learning, which has enabled me to stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technologies. I am particularly attracted to [Company Name] because of its reputation for innovation and commitment to employee growth. I believe my skill set and dedication to software development would make me a valuable addition to your team. I would welcome the opportunity to further discuss my qualifications and how I can contribute to [Company Name]. Thank you for considering my application. Mit freundlichen Grüßen, [Your Full Name] [Handwritten Signature (if applicable)] Anlagen: Lebenslauf Zeugnisse Arbeitsproben Sample 2: Marketing Position (Content Marketing Manager) [Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address] [LinkedIn Profile Link (optional)] [Recipient’s Name] [Recipient’s Title] [Company Name] [Company Address] [Date (DD.MM.YYYY)] Bewerbung um die Stelle als Content Marketing Manager Sehr geehrte(r) [Recipient’s Last Name], As an experienced Content Marketing Manager with a strong background in developing and implementing successful marketing strategies, I am excited to apply for the position at [Company Name] that I discovered on [Job Portal]. During my six years in the marketing industry, I have managed content creation, search engine optimization, and social media campaigns for various clients, leading to significant increases in web traffic, engagement, and conversion rates. My strengths lie in my ability to analyze target audiences, identify content gaps, and create compelling content that drives results. What draws me to [Company Name] is its focus on providing exceptional value to customers through innovative marketing techniques. I am confident that my expertise in content marketing, combined with my passion for creating engaging experiences, will enable me to contribute significantly to your company’s growth and success. I appreciate your consideration of my application and look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further. Mit freundlichen Grüßen, [Your Full Name] [Handwritten Signature (if applicable)] Anlagen: Lebenslauf Zeugnisse Arbeitsproben Sample 3: Nursing Position (Registered Nurse) [Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address] [LinkedIn Profile Link (optional)] [Recipient’s Name] [Recipient’s Title] [Company Name] [Company Address] [Date (DD.MM.YYYY)] Bewerbung um die Stelle als examinierte Krankenschwester Sehr geehrte(r) [Recipient’s Last Name], I am writing to express my interest in the Registered Nurse position at [Company Name], which I came across on [Job Portal]. With over seven years of nursing experience and a commitment to providing exceptional patient care, I am confident in my ability to make a positive impact at your healthcare facility. Throughout my nursing career, I have honed my skills in patient assessment, treatment planning, and health education. My experience includes working in diverse healthcare settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and outpatient clinics. This background has allowed me to develop strong communication and teamwork skills, adapt to different environments, and provide high-quality care to patients from various backgrounds. I am drawn to [Company Name] because of its reputation for excellence in patient care and commitment to employee development. I believe my nursing experience, passion for healthcare, and dedication to patient well-being make me a strong candidate for this position. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further and explore how I can contribute to the success of [Company Name]. Mit freundlichen Grüßen, [Your Full Name] [Handwritten Signature (if applicable)] Anlagen: Lebenslauf Zeugnisse Zertifikate These three sample cover letters demonstrate different formats and styles tailored to specific job domains. Bonus : Looking for additional cover letter templates? Here is a list of free CV and cover letter templates that you can use for your next job application in Germany. Analyze the elements of each sample and use them as a starting point to create a cover letter that effectively showcases your unique qualifications and experiences for the position you are applying for in Germany. Do you have further questions? Join our community of job seekers and expats from Germany. You can ask your doubts and get suggestions on topics related to getting a job in Germany and several other related topics. When applying for a job in Germany, it’s essential to be aware of the cultural nuances and best practices to ensure your cover letter makes a strong impression. Understanding the expectations of German employers and adapting your cover letter accordingly will increase your chances of success. In this section, we will discuss some key cultural aspects and best practices to follow when crafting your cover letter. 1. Formality and Politeness German business culture places a high value on formality and politeness. Ensure that your cover letter adheres to a formal writing style and tone. Use appropriate salutations and sign-offs, and address the recipient by their last name. Avoid using slang, colloquialisms, or overly casual language. 2. Addressing the Recipient Properly Take the time to research the correct name and title of the person responsible for reviewing job applications. Addressing the recipient personally demonstrates your diligence and attention to detail. If you cannot find the recipient’s name, use the generic salutation “Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren” (Dear Sir/Madam). 3. Demonstrating Knowledge of the Company and the Role German employers appreciate candidates who show a genuine interest in their company and the specific role they are applying for. Research the company’s mission, values, and recent projects, and mention how these align with your own professional goals and interests. Additionally, carefully review the job description and emphasize how your skills, qualifications, and experiences make you a strong fit for the position. 4. Focusing on Achievements and Contributions Instead of merely listing your previous job duties, highlight your achievements and the impact of your work. Use specific examples to showcase your accomplishments and demonstrate your ability to contribute to the success of the company. This approach shows employers that you are results-oriented and can make a meaningful difference in their organization. 5. Tailoring Your Cover Letter to the Specific Job Avoid using a generic cover letter for every job application. Instead, tailor your cover letter to the specific job and company by addressing the unique requirements and expectations outlined in the job description. This not only demonstrates your genuine interest in the role but also shows that you have taken the time to understand the employer’s needs and how you can fulfill them. By considering these cultural nuances and best practices, you can craft a compelling cover letter that resonates with German employers and sets you apart from other applicants. Common Mistakes to Avoid in a German Cover Letter To increase your chances of securing a job interview in Germany, it’s crucial to avoid common mistakes that can detract from your application’s effectiveness. In this section, we will discuss some common pitfalls and provide tips on how to prevent them. 1. Spelling and Grammar Errors Mistakes in spelling and grammar can significantly damage the credibility of your application. Proofread your cover letter thoroughly and consider using a grammar-checking tool to ensure accuracy. If possible, ask a native German speaker or a professional proofreader to review your letter for any errors or inconsistencies. 2. Overly Casual Tone As mentioned earlier, German business culture values formality and politeness. Avoid using an overly casual tone, slang, or colloquialisms in your cover letter. Instead, maintain a professional and respectful tone throughout your letter. 3. Lengthy Cover Letters A cover letter should be concise and to the point. Aim for a length of one page, focusing on the most relevant and compelling information. Avoid long-winded explanations and unnecessary details that can detract from the impact of your letter. 4. Failing to Address the Job Requirements Not addressing the specific requirements outlined in the job description can give the impression that you are not genuinely interested in the position or have not taken the time to understand the employer’s needs. Tailor your cover letter to the job description, highlighting your skills, qualifications, and experiences that align with the requirements. 5. Underselling or Overselling Yourself Striking the right balance between confidence and humility is crucial in a cover letter. Avoid underselling your skills and accomplishments, but also refrain from overselling yourself or exaggerating your qualifications. Focus on providing accurate and relevant examples that demonstrate your suitability for the role. 6. Neglecting to Research the Company Failing to demonstrate knowledge of the company and its values can give the impression that you are not genuinely interested in the role. Research the company and mention specific aspects that resonate with your professional goals and interests to show your enthusiasm for the position. 7. Using Generic Cover Letters Submitting a generic cover letter for multiple job applications can harm your chances of securing an interview. Tailor your cover letter to each specific job and company to demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and your understanding of the employer’s needs. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can create a compelling and impactful cover letter that stands out to potential employers and increases your chances of success in the German job market. Tips for Non-Native German Speakers If you are a non-native German speaker applying for a job in Germany, crafting an effective cover letter can be particularly challenging. However, by paying attention to certain aspects and following some best practices, you can overcome language barriers and make a strong impression. In this section, we will discuss some tips to help non-native German speakers create an impactful cover letter. 1. Language Proficiency First and foremost, ensure that your German language skills are sufficient for the job you are applying for. If the job requires a high level of proficiency, it’s essential to have a strong command of the language, both in writing and speaking. If necessary, consider taking German language courses or working with a language tutor to improve your skills. 2. Use a Professional Translation Service If you are not confident in your ability to write a cover letter in German, consider using a professional translation service. This can help ensure that your cover letter is accurate, clear, and adheres to German business etiquette. However, remember that using a translation service is not a substitute for learning the language, particularly if the job requires fluent German skills. 3. Seek Feedback from Native German Speakers Ask native German speakers to review your cover letter and provide feedback on your language usage, grammar, and overall structure. This can help you identify any errors or inconsistencies and ensure that your cover letter adheres to German business conventions. 4. Highlight Your Language Skills If you are fluent in multiple languages, including German, highlight this skill in your cover letter. Many German companies value employees who can communicate effectively in multiple languages, particularly in international settings. 5. Research German Business Etiquette Familiarize yourself with German business etiquette and incorporate appropriate conventions into your cover letter, such as formal salutations, sign-offs, and language usage. This demonstrates your understanding of the local business culture and your willingness to adapt. 6. Address Potential Visa and Work Permit Requirements If you are not an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen, make sure to address any potential visa and work permit requirements in your cover letter. Briefly mention your eligibility for a visa or work permit, or your intention to obtain one, to reassure the employer that you are aware of the necessary procedures and willing to take the required steps. By following these tips, non-native German speakers can create a compelling cover letter that effectively communicates their skills, qualifications, and experiences while adhering to German business etiquette and addressing potential language barriers. Adapting Your Cover Letter for Remote Work Opportunities With the increasing prevalence of remote work, many job seekers are looking for opportunities to work from home or outside of their home country. In this section, we will discuss how to adapt your cover letter to showcase your suitability for remote work positions in Germany. 1. Highlight Relevant Remote Work Experience If you have previous experience working remotely, be sure to emphasize this in your cover letter. Explain how you successfully managed your workload, communicated with your team, and adapted to a remote work environment. This demonstrates your ability to navigate the challenges of remote work and remain productive in a virtual setting. 2. Showcase Your Adaptability and Time Management Skills Remote work often requires adaptability and strong time management skills. Highlight any experiences or accomplishments that demonstrate your ability to adapt to changing circumstances, manage your time effectively, and stay organized. 3. Emphasize Your Communication Skills Effective communication is crucial for remote work, as much of the interaction with colleagues and supervisors happens via email, phone, or video calls. Showcase your written and verbal communication skills in your cover letter and provide examples of how you have effectively communicated in remote work settings. 4. Familiarize Yourself with German Business Etiquette Even when working remotely, it’s essential to understand and adhere to German business etiquette. Familiarize yourself with the expectations and conventions of German business culture, and ensure that your cover letter reflects this understanding. 5. Address Time Zone Differences If you are applying for a remote position from a different time zone, address this in your cover letter. Explain your willingness to adapt your work schedule, if necessary, to accommodate meetings or other collaborative activities during the company’s standard working hours. 6. Mention Relevant Tools and Technologies Remote work often relies on specific tools and technologies for communication, collaboration, and project management. Mention any familiarity or experience you have with these tools in your cover letter, as this demonstrates your ability to quickly adapt to the company’s remote work infrastructure. By adapting your cover letter to emphasize your suitability for remote work, you can increase your chances of securing a remote position with a German company. This approach demonstrates your understanding of the unique challenges and requirements of remote work and showcases your ability to thrive in a virtual work environment. Crafting an effective cover letter for a job application in Germany requires attention to detail, an understanding of local business culture, and the ability to showcase your unique qualifications and experiences. By following the guidelines and best practices discussed in this article, you can create a compelling cover letter that stands out to potential employers and increases your chances of securing an interview. In summary, remember to: Familiarize yourself with German business etiquette and conventions Use a clear structure and include all essential components Tailor your cover letter to the specific job and company Showcase your accomplishments and provide concrete examples Avoid common mistakes and maintain a professional tone Consider cultural nuances and adapt your cover letter accordingly For non-native German speakers, seek feedback and support as needed Adapt your cover letter for remote work opportunities, if applicable By putting in the effort to create a well-crafted, tailored cover letter, you demonstrate your professionalism, commitment, and genuine interest in the position. This can set you apart from other applicants and ultimately help you land your desired job in Germany. Stay persistent in your job search, and don’t be afraid to refine and revise your cover letter as you gain more experience and insights into the German job market. HOME ● FAQ ● Auf DEUTSCH lesen Login / Register Why German? German language Certificates & diplomas Austria & Germany Beginner's Lessons 1-10 Beginner's Exercises 1-10 Beginner's Examples 1-10 Advanced Lessons 1-8 Advanced Lessons 9-16 Advanced Lessons 17-24 Advanced Exercises 1-8 Advanced Exercises 9-16 Advanced Exercises 17-24 German with Sisi Test your German Online-Test General Thoughts Write your CV/Resume Sample CV/Resume Write your cover letter Sample cover letter E-Mail or regular mail? Job Interview International Work Experience Partner Links German Jokes German Quotes Job Application Visit ActiLingua Cover Letter How to write your cover letter in german. Generally speaking a cover letter should be concise and to the point and definitely no longer than one page. Points you should consider when writing a cover letter To be effective, your cover letter should follow the basic format of a typical business letter and should address three general issues: First Paragraph - Why you are writing Middle Paragraphs - What you have to offer Concluding Paragraph - How you will follow-up Do not repeat your what is already in your CV, simply refer to it! "As you can see from my CV, …". If a particular work experience listed in your CV especially qualifies you for the job you can refer to it and emphasise its relevant points. Your cover letter should NEVER be longer than 1 page. Why you are writing? In some cases, you may have been referred to a potential employer by a friend or acquaintance. Be sure to mention this mutual contact by name as soon as possible as it is likely to encourage your reader to keep reading! If you are writing in response to a job advert , indicate where you learned of the position and the exact title of the position you are applying for. More importantly, remember to convey your enthusiasm for the job and the likely match between your credentials and the position's required qualifications. If you are writing a prospective application letter - a letter in which you enquire about potential job openings - state your specific job objective. Since this type of letter is unsolicited, it is even more important to capture the reader's attention. It is a good idea to mention why you are interested in that specific company, esp. when you write a prospective application letter. Do not give the impression that they are one of two hundred applications (badly copied CVs, serial letters, etc.). What You Have To Offer In responding to a job advert , refer specifically to the qualifications they have listed and illustrate how your particular abilities and experiences relate to the position for which you are applying. In a prospective applicationg letter express your potential to fulfil the employer's needs rather than focus on what the employer can offer you. You can do this by giving evidence that you have researched the organization thoroughly and that you possess skills that are used within that organization. Emphasize your achievements and problem-solving skills. Show how your education and work skills are transferable, and thus relevant, to the position for which you are applying. How You Will Follow Up Bid directly for the job interview or an informational interview and indicate that you will follow-up with a telephone call to set up an appointment. Be sure to make the call within the time frame indicated. Even if you do not mention it explicitly in the letter, it is a good idea to make a follow up phone call. Timing is important: do not call on the very next day or after more than one week. If you are applying from outside the employer's geographic area you may want to indicate if you'll be in town during a certain time frame (this makes it easier for the employer to agree to meet with you). In conclusion, you should also indicate that further references are available on request. Also, if you have a portfolio or certificates to support your qualifications, inform prospective employers that they are also available on request. Deutsch-lernen.com recommends: Learn Business German at ActiLingua Academy in Vienna. Deutsch-Lernen.com in cooperation with ActiLingua Academy, German course Vienna ! Year-round courses for adults 16+ years in Vienna Summerschool for young people: 12-17 and 16-19 years Learn German German Lessons Job Appliation Jokes and Quotes Special Offer Tel.: + 43 1 877 6701 [email protected] skype: actilingua For Companies For Candidates Hospitality Real Estate Career in Recruitment How to write a German cover letter? Table of Content What is a cover letter? How to format a German cover letter? What are the characteristics of German cover letters? A cover letter is an essential document in your job search. It gives the recruiter more information about your experience and who you are. Writing a cover letter in German is not easy, as the structure and the language are different from other languages. Unlike American or British cover letters, for example, a German cover letter must be very concise. They usually do not exceed 1 page. This guide explains the structure and the vocabulary of a German cover letter. It will help you write one that will grab the attention of your recruiter.   1. What is a cover letter? A cover letter is a document to send with your resume and references to introduce yourself , explain your motivations and ask for an interview . It is important to write one as it shows companies why you are qualified and your motivation to work for them. It is your opportunity to explain why you are a good fit for the job and it is also the first point of contact between you and the employer. A German cover letter is different and has a different goal than a resume. It is not simply another way of writing what is already in your CV. You need to go deeper into your career path in correlation with the job description, and you need to show your motivation . Usually, the cover letter is the second document that a recruiter will read, after the resume. But you need to know that fewer companies are requesting these letters, but most formal companies do. 2. How to format a cover letter? A good German cover letter should be a 1-page long A4 letter that you write yourself, and includes the following: Contact details: Your address and contact details , so the employer can get in touch with you. Introduction: A short paragraph with relevant information about yourself to show why you would fit the job. The position you’re applying for. Your experience and qualifications as prompted by the job description. The name of the person or people who have referred you to the company (if applicable). A list of your achievements , showing how you’ve used the previous experience to benefit your current role. An explanation of your motivation to get this job. Your earliest starting date If specifically asked, your salary expectations Regards and signature 3. How to write a German cover letter? The first question you should answer in your cover letter is:. What does the recruiter get out of reading my application and inviting me for an interview? You need to answer this question at the beginning of the letter, to tell them if you can do the job or not. In the first paragraph write about your experience , studies and for which job you are applying. “mit fast fünf Jahren Berufserfahrung als Marketing Manager für die Hotelgruppe XXX in London, vorherigen Stellen im Bereich Marketing und Kommunikation, sowie einem abgeschlossenen Studium in der BWL in England und Deutschland, bewerbe ich mich um Ihre ausgeschriebene Stelle als “Senior Marketing Manager”. It shows the first reasons why you could do the job. It is like the short profile on your resume. The second question you need to answer is: What do I get out of this job? You need to express your motivation to do the job. Why are you applying? Why do you want this job? It also shows the recruiters, that you see this job as an opportunity for your career . That you thought about it. Don’t simply write what you did, your resume is already showing it. Write what are your experiences , which projects , or what you have learned about yourself . For example, explain that you wish to work for them to deeper your experience in X domain, to keep learning x skills or to put into practice what you have just learned. 4. What are the characteristics of cover letters? Cultural differences in cover letters:. Your cover letter needs to reflect your personality . It also needs to be adapted to the German way of thinking . There are several differences between German, French, Spanish or British cultures for example that you need to know when writing a German cover letter. Use formal greetings: Most German companies are formal , and you should be too. Address your recruiter as “Dear Mrs Müller” or “Dear Ladies and Gentlemen” if there is more than one person in the company that you are applying for. “Sehr geehrte Frau Müller / Sehr geehrter Herr Durant / Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren” Use formal language: Do not use slang words like „cool“, „awesome“ or „sweet“ or informal style like „it’s my pleasure“, “I’m looking forward to hearing from you”, etc… “Ich freue mich auf Ihre Rückmeldung“ „Ich würde mich sehr über eine Einladung zu einem persönlichen Vorstellungsgespräch freuen“ Go straight to the point: Your German cover letter should be short and straight to the point . Do not try to impress your recruiter with a long and too descriptive story. Make it personal: If you know someone that works at the company, mention them by name. If you have heard about the company through word of mouth, mention that. Explain how you have learned about it. Make a connection: Express your interest in the company, your desire and motivation to work there, and your willingness to develop your skills further within the company. Don’t write about your salary requirements (unless specifically requested): Salary negotiations are best done in person. It’s better to wait for the interview before talking about your salary. If they ask for a salary range, use a large one like: “Meine Gehaltsvorstellung liegt zwischen 55.000 und 75.000 Euro brutto im Jahr je nach Aufgabenprofil und Marktvergleich mit anderen Unternehmen.” Sign with your name: Always remember to sign your cover letter with your full name and contact details in case it is separated from your resume. Are you looking for a new job? Don’t hesitate to contact us to talk with our recruiters and consultants at LHC International . Their role is to help and advise you in your career. CONTACT THEM. Not found what you were looking for? Please send us your CV and contact details via email. We will get back to you asap. Central Europe: [email protected] Southern Europe: [email protected] Asia: [email protected] LHC International is a leading executive search firm for the hospitality and operational real estate industry. Continue Reading Related Posts The Impact of Inflation on the Hospitality Industry – Update 2024 Navigating the Changing Tides: Hospitality Trends in 2024 and Beyond How to become a better leader at work? Login to your account. Username/Email Address: Forgot Password? Login with Twitter Login with Google Reset Password Already have an account? Login Enter the username or e-mail you used in your profile. A password reset link will be sent to you by email. Account Activation Before you can login, you must activate your account with the code sent to your email address. If you did not receive this email, please check your junk/spam folder. Click here to resend the activation email. If you entered an incorrect email address, you will need to re-register with the correct email address. Your Email: Activation Code: Value Package Blocked Account Health Insurance Bank Account Indian Education Loans Expatrio Scholarship Studyfinder Study Eligibility Checker Accommodation Learn German German Visa Solutions Studying in Germany German Universities Free Studies in Germany Financing your Studies in Germany Application Process to Study in Germany Study IT in Germany Study Medicine in Germany Study Nursing in Germany Study Engineering Study in Germany Financing Your Studies Study Engineering in Germany Working in Germany German Business Culture Best Cities in Germany for Expats After your Bachelor's in Germany After your Master's in Germany Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) Work in Germany GET A BLOCKED ACCOUNT How To Draft a Perfect German CV [Format and Template Guide] Did you know that Germany is one of Europe's most economically stable and job-friendly nations? The German job market is so strong that many people migrate to Germany to find work. Before you can begin searching for a job in Germany, you must first make sure your CV ( Lebenslauf ) is correctly formatted. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about drafting the perfect German curriculum vitae (CV). We'll start with an overview of the standard CV format in Germany, including tips for formatting, content, and design. We'll also focus on critical elements that every CV should include. Finally, we'll provide you with a German CV template that you can use to get started on your job search. Let us have a look at the Do's and Don'ts while drafting a CV! What is a German CV? A German CV is similar to a standard resume or curriculum vitae in other countries. It typically includes basic personal information, such as your name, contact details, and educational background. It also provides information about your work experience and skills, such as language proficiencies or technical skills. Read on to learn more about the specifics of the German CV format. German CV Format The standard format is similar to structures used in other countries. However, there are a few key differences that you should be aware of. First, German CVs typically start with your personal information, followed by your work experience and education. Unlike in other countries, it is not mandatory to include a section on your hobbies or interests. The ideal length for the CV would be one page and can be up to 2 pages in length. You can use a simple and easy-to-read font such as Times New Roman or Roboto. The ideal font size is 11pt for general information and 14-16pt for the headers. All sections of your CV should be clearly labeled. Ensure you read the job description and company information thoroughly. While applying, some companies may, for example, want you to leave your citizenship out of it. So, keep an eye open for details! What to include in a German CV? A German CV typically starts with your personal information, followed by your work experience and education. Your German CV should include the following sections: 1. Personal Information:   Include your name, date of birth, address, and contact information, such as email address and contact number. 2. Work Experience:   List your most recent positions first, followed by your previous jobs. If you have worked in the same field for many years or have an employment gap, you can list the posts in reverse chronological order. Include the company name, your job title, the dates you worked, and a brief description of your responsibilities. 3. Education:   Educational history, degrees you've obtained, schools attended, and the dates, should be included in your CV. 4. Skills:   Outline any talents you have for the job you are applying for, such as language skills, IT knowledge, project management expertise, computer skills, or anything else you may find relevant. In addition to the above sections, it is good to include a part for a   short personal summary . This brief one or two-sentence introduction should highlight your essential skills or experience. Although not mandatory, many German employers prefer to see a photo of the applicant on the CV. If you decide to include a picture, it should be a passport-style recent and professional headshot. Optional Section In addition to the mandatory sections mentioned above, there are some optional sections. These can include fields for your interests, additional certifications or training, or volunteer work. If you have any relevant information to share, you should include it in one of these sections. What to NOT include in a German CV? 1.   Irrelevant information:   Only include relevant information about the job you are applying for. Please do not include personal details such as your marital status, number of children, or religious beliefs unless stated in the job description. 2. Excessive information:   The CV must be concise and to the point. Avoid including too much information or repeating information already included in other parts of your CV. 3. Lies or False Statements:   Avoid   lies or false statements while drafting your CV, as it will likely result in you being caught during the interview process. And it could even result in you being rejected from the hiring process. 4. Grammatical or spelling errors:   Thoroughly proofread your German CV before sending it to employers. A mistake-free, well-formatted CV is a must if you want to make a good impression on potential employers. 5. Avoid Overusing Keywords:   While it is essential to include keywords in your CV, you should avoid overusing them. Keywords should be used sparingly and only if relevant to the job you are applying for. Your CV will sound spammy and not so professional if you include too many keywords. How do I tailor my German CV to specific job openings? When you are applying for a specific job, you will need to tailor your CV to the requirements of that position. This means including information that is relevant to the job, such as the skills required and the relevant experiences. You may also need to adjust your CV format to match the format used by the company you are applying to. For example, if the company uses a bullet point format, include lists or bullet points in your CV. Additionally, you can use keywords from the job description throughout your CV to help make it more relevant to your application. Tip : When applying for a job in Germany, it is always a good idea to submit a   cover letter   along with your CV. The cover letter introduces yourself to the reader, highlights your essential skills and qualifications, or explains why you are interested in the position more in detail. German CV Template Ideas If you are looking for a professional and well-written German CV, consider using a template. Many free and paid online resources are available, offering high-quality templates. This file will help you create a CV tailored to your specific needs and the job requirements you are applying for. When you're in an interview, it's important to be engaging and personable. Avoid reading from your resume word for word. Instead, you can summarize the information on your resume and focus on highlighting relevant experience and skills. Let's have a look at some of the finest CV template sites: Novoresume   is a website that offers free CV templates and customized designs for CVs. Refer to the German CV samples on this website to get an idea of the German CV structure. When you use the free features and limit the CV length to one page, you may download your CV. CVmaker   is another popular website offering German CV templates. You can choose from various templates and designs and then download your CV as a PDF or Word document. Resume.io   is another website that offers both free and paid CV templates. The free templates are high quality and easy to use, while the paid options offer more customized design options. A well-crafted German CV is a must if you want to make a good impression on German recruiters. We hope this article provided you with the guidelines on drafting a German CV and some valuable tips. Follow this CV guide while writing your CV to create an outstanding CV that will wow hiring managers and lands your dream job. Happy Job Hunting! Want to learn more about the German Business Culture? Click on our post below to learn more! Sino-German Higher Education Cooperation | expatrio.com The most liveable cities in Germany | expatrio.com This might also be of interest to you 10 steps for a successful application at German universities for Indian Applicants How to Draft a Perfect German Cover Letter [Format, Guide] The Cover Letter Job Interview Working Abroad Entrepreneurship Volunteering German CV Template | Lebenslauf If you are looking for a job in Germany  the German CV is one of the most important documents. The CV and a well-written German Cover Letter are key factors for being called back for a job interview . In this section you can find free samples and templates of CVs in German languange, that will help you in creating your own German CV. It is much easier to write a CV, if you have a sample at hand. There are mainly three differents kinds of German CVs. There is the functional CV, the chronological CV and the combined CV. Templates of German CVs | Der Lebenslauf For downloading one of the sample  CVs in German you just clic the link below. Chronological CV template in German The chronological CV , also called reverse chronological CV or “American CV ” is very commonly used by Germans. The most recent and therefore the most relevant post is named on top of the CV. Especially people with a lot of  professional experience tend to opt for this kind of CV. Young professionals can choose to write a chronological CV if they want to highlight their most recent activity. As mentioned above; the first section of the CV is usually about the professional experience, but the structure can be adapted individually if for example the academic education is considered more important. Free Download Chronological German CV Functional CV template in German The functional CV highlights the personal skills . They are structured according to expert knowledge (Fachwissen), role (Funktion) and area of resposability (Verantwortungsbereich). The temporal aspect is less important . Key factor in the functional CV is the professional experience that shaped you especially . Always keep in mind what kind of experience might be relevant in your possible future job. In other words the functional CV has to be authored and matched for each application individually. This kind of CV is not that commonly used since HR professionals are more used to the chronological CV. Since the functional CV is sometimes used in order to hide temporal gaps such as time of unemployment, they could suspect you to have such gaps in your professional career. Free Download Functional German CV Combined CV template in German The combined CV is something in between the functional and the chronological CV . At first the abilities are described in an impressive text and later the different professional activities are listed in reverse chronological order. A combined CV could be very convincing if it is well written s ince both abilities and activities are highlighted. Free Download Combined German CV Back to Germany Best Cover Letter Maker Make your new, visually-stunning cover letter within minutes.. No credit card required. Basic Free forever. 13,000,000+ Registered Users Some landing jobs at See what our customers think Pick from 16+ cover letter templates. Traditional Cover Letter Template The traditional cover letter template is one of the most common formats that employers expect to see. Minimalist Cover Letter Template A crisp and simple cover letter is key to making the right impression with your minimalist resume or CV. Combined Cover Letter Template A cover letter that matches your resume and helps you explain your achievements and skills. Novorésumé Cover Letter Generator One Cover Letter Builder. Tons of Awesome Features. Cover Letter Optimizer Great Visuals Ease of Use Match Your Resume & Cover Letter Want your application to stand out? Match your cover letter with your resume & catch the recruiter's attention! Builder FAQ What is a cover letter maker. Novorésumé's cover letter maker is an online tool that helps you create a visually-stunning, professional coverletter. You can pick from one of our 16 cover letter templates, and our builder will help you customize it toyour needs. Why should I use a cover letter generator? If you've ever tried to format a cover letter or resume with a normal text generator, you've just answered yourown question! You make a SINGLE design change, and your entire cover letter gets messed up. Using a cover lettermaker lets you skip all the hassle of formatting your cover letter, allowing you to focus on what counts: thecontent. Who is the cover letter generator for? Pretty much everyone! Whether you're a recent university graduate, or a senior professional with a decade's workexperience behind your back, you can use the Novorésumé cover letter maker to create your new cover letter. Is Novorésumé cover letter maker free? No - the cover letter maker is an add-on for our Premium Resume Builder. So, you'll need to upgrade to Novorésumé Premium to download your cover letter. If you do upgrade, though, you're going to get a LOT more than just a new cover letter, including: Full access to our resume & CV builder 16 job-winning resume templates and CV templates Built-in content optimizer that helps you create a convincing CV Video content that guides you through the process of creating a resume step-by-step Try Our Cover Letter Maker Now! No credit card is required For Beloiters Beloit College Student Life Campus Events Calendar This site uses cookies to improve your experience. Read our Web Privacy Policy for more information. 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Suit-A-Bull is open by appointment only .  Undergraduate Students Graduate Students Prospective Students Faculty/Staff Parents/Families Employers & Industry Connections Students of Color/BIPOC First Generation/Low Income International LGBTQ+ Community Students With Disabilities &/ Neurodiversity Exploring Careers & Interests Student Employment/FWS Resumes, CVs, & Cover Letters Internships & Jobs Interviewing Networking & Informational Interviews Career Fairs Negotiating an Offer Preparing for Graduate or Professional School Exploring Options Arts, Entertainment, & Media Business, Consulting, & Entrepreneurship Communication & Marketing Education, Academia, & Non-profits Engineering & Technology Environment, Energy, & Sustainability Law, International Relations, & Public Service Health & Medical Professions Life Sciences, Biotech, & Pharma Manufacturing, Logistics, & Transportation St. Petersburg Sarasota-Manatee Recruit at USF Meet the Teams Resume/Cover Letter Workshop for ECH 3002 Share This: Share Resume/Cover Letter Workshop for ECH 3002 on Facebook Share Resume/Cover Letter Workshop for ECH 3002 on LinkedIn Share Resume/Cover Letter Workshop for ECH 3002 on X One more step: Spread the word by sharing this event with your social networks, save it to your calendar, add to calendar. 288 IMAGES How To Write A German Cover Letter German Language Cover Letter Cover Letter Template Germany Sample Cover Letter Format for Job Application Sample German Cover Letter Sample German Cover Letter COMMENTS German Cover Letter Guide [With English Sample] Naturally, there is also a guideline for professional letter writing and correspondence, the so-called DIN 5008 norm. It states the following margins on a DIN A4 (standard German letter paper format): German Cover Letter Format Example. Left margin: 2,5 cm. Right margin: 2,0 cm. Top margin: 4,5 cm. Bottom margin: 2,5 cm. German Cover Letter + Must Know Best Practices [2024] Cover Letter Framework. The cover letter has to written in accordance with DIN 5008. This is a dedicated framework when it comes to formal writing in Germany. Following are the standards: Left margin: 24.1 mm; Right margin: at least 8.1 mm; Bottom margin: 16.9 mm; Top margin: 16.9 mm; Please ensure this format is taken seriously. How to Write a German Cover Letter At the very top of your German cover letter, you should include your full name, address, phone number and email address. Section 2 - The date. Here you simply enter the date you are writing the cover letter. Section 3 - The employer's details. In section 3, you list the details of the recipient. Here you should enter the contact person ... Cover Letter Der Cover Letter ist das englischsprachige Äquivalent zum deutschen Bewerbungsschreiben und somit oft die erste Seite einer internationalen Bewerbung. Im Cover Letter stellst du dich und deinen bisherigen Werdegang vor, erläuterst deine Motivation und gibst einen Überblick über deine wichtigsten Qualifikationen, Kenntnisse, Soft Skills und Erfolge. ... German Cover Letter Guide: Complete Examples [+Tips] Key Points: Writing a Perfect German Cover Letter. Pick the right cover letter template that goes with your resume. Give priority to your academic and professional qualifications. Follow the generally accepted German styling guide for formal letters. Tailor your cover letter to each job you're applying for. Write 3 to 4 solid paragraphs on ... How To Write A German Cover Letter Keep the cover letter to a single page and not more than 3 - 4 paragraphs. Be succinct (i.e., avoid long wordy sentences or overuse of adjectives) and summarize, summarize, summarize. Pick key points from your CV and/or job description but don't repeat things verbatim. How to Write the Perfect German Cover Letter: Best Practices The cover letter should be a separate PDF file or Microsoft Word Document. Tipps regarding the German cover letter. Here are a few tips that I collected from my German friends. Length of German employment cover letter. A cover letter for German employers should be roughly one to two DIN A 4 pages long. Cover letter (Anschreiben) guide in Germany Together with your CV (), the cover letter is a key component of any job application in Germany.Far more than a mere formality, a cover letter is an important means of presenting yourself to a prospective employer. It would be difficult to land a job in Germany without one. This page walks you through the process of crafting a job-winning cover letter, with a few hints and tips about what is ... How to Draft a Perfect German Cover Letter [Format, Guide] The cover letter introduces you to the potential employer and explains why you are the ideal applicant. The German cover letter should be formal and polite. The tone should be positive and professional. Tip: You may submit your resume and cover letter in English or German when applying for a position. If the employment opening is in German, it ... German Resume Guide + Cover Letter Kit™ 29-Page German Resume Guide + German Cover Letter Template Kit. Exactly What You Need to Know about Writing a Resume in Germany. Perfect for international applicants wanting to apply in English, while fulfilling German resume standards. NEW BONUS Now including a German-style cover letter template! Résumé Das „Résumé" oder „resume" ist eine Form des englischen Lebenslaufs. Nicht zu verwechseln mit dem englischen Anschreiben, welches als Cover Letter bezeichnet wird. Während das Résumé einem tabellarischen Aufbau folgt, gestaltet sich der Cover Letter als Fließtext. Der Cover Letter geht in der Regel Hand in Hand mit dem Résumé. How To Write a Cover Letter in German? Tips & Examples The cover letter in German is formal and you have to pay attention to the politeness, even if you apply by e-mail. When you know the name of the person, write : Sehr geehrter Herr Müller or Sehr geehrte Frau Müller, If the person has a doctorate or is a professor, use the following salutation: German cover letter guide This 2018 study by German recruitment agency Robert Kraft found out that 48% of recruiters didn't find cover letters so relevant anymore, meaning that applications with CV only were considered valid. In 2019, the Deutsche Bahn even stopped requesting cover letters all together, mentioning a lack of relevance. German ecommerce giant Otto did ... Sample cover letter for job application in Germany Salutation. In Germany, formality is crucial. Address the recipient with "Sehr geehrte (r)" (Dear) followed by their last name and a comma. If you don't know the recipient's name, use "Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren" (Dear Sir/Madam). 6. Opening Paragraph. The opening paragraph sets the tone for your cover letter. How to write your cover letter in German Concluding Paragraph - How you will follow-up. Do not repeat your what is already in your CV, simply refer to it! "As you can see from my CV, …". If a particular work experience listed in your CV especially qualifies you for the job you can refer to it and emphasise its relevant points. Your cover letter should NEVER be longer than 1 page. Cover Letters in Germany After listing the addresses of you and the company, what follows is the place and date in the top right corner of the cover letter. If you are in Germany, you can just write the cite, e.g. "Augsburg, 11.10.2025". Both should match the information on the resume. Ideally, the cover letter should be addressed to a specific contact person. German Cover Letter: Our Tips to Write it. A cover letter is a document to send with your resume and references to introduce yourself, explain your motivations and ask for an interview.It is important to write one as it shows companies why you are qualified and your motivation to work for them. It is your opportunity to explain why you are a good fit for the job and it is also the first point of contact between you and the employer. How to write the perfect cover letter Here is an example of a cover letter: Include your address and contact details in the upper part of the cover letter. Include a subject line with a reference to the position you are applying for. If a contact person is mentioned address it to him/ her. First part: The opening. Express your interest for the job opening you would like to apply for. Free Cover Letter Sample CV/Resume; Write your cover letter; Sample cover letter; E-Mail or regular mail? Job Interview; International Work Experience; ... German cover letter example. Mag. Julia Müller Fürstendamm 18 5020 Salzburg Tel: (++43) 662-874455. XYZ AG ... Deutsch-lernen.com recommends: How To Draft a Perfect German CV [Format and Template Guide] The ideal length for the CV would be one page and can be up to 2 pages in length. You can use a simple and easy-to-read font such as Times New Roman or Roboto. The ideal font size is 11pt for general information and 14-16pt for the headers. All sections of your CV should be clearly labeled. German CV Template The CV and a well-written German Cover Letter are key factors for being called back for a job interview. In this section you can find free samples and templates of CVs in German languange, that will help you in creating your own German CV. It is much easier to write a CV, if you have a sample at hand. 16+ Cover Letter Templates [Get Started in 1 Click] From there, you can add your cover letter contents, as well as personalize and edit them as you see fit. The Novoresume builder is very intuitive and user-friendly, allowing you to create your cover letter lightning-fast. Build a professional cover letter within minutes. Pick one of our 16 top templates, fill it in online, and download it in ... Create a Professional Cover Letter in Minutes No - the cover letter maker is an add-on for our Premium Resume Builder. So, you'll need to upgrade to Novorésumé Premium to download your cover letter. If you do upgrade, though, you're going to get a LOT more than just a new cover letter, including: Full access to our resume & CV builder; 16 job-winning resume templates and CV templates PDF www.cdn-careerservices.fas.harvard.edu www.cdn-careerservices.fas.harvard.edu 25 'Excellent' Synonyms for a Resume & Cover Letter Resume Checker Get your resume checked and scored with one click.; CV Maker Create a CV in 5 minutes. Get the job you want. Cover Letter Builder Write a cover letter that convinces employers you're the best. Grafixhubs_1: I will make design, write, update your resume, cv and Jul 7, 2024 - Fiverr freelancer will provide Resume Design services and make design, write, update your resume, cv and cover letter including Number of pages within 1 day How to prepare a Resume/CV/Cover Letter • Campus Events Calendar Learn how to prepare an effective Resume/CV and Cover Letter. Light snacks and beverages will be served. Feel free to bring your own food. How To End a Cover Letter (With Examples) While starting a cover letter correctly can grab the hiring manager's attention, your cover letter closing is where you reinforce your strongest selling points as a candidate. To accomplish this, when closing your cover letter, ensure you include the following three sections: To accomplish this, when closing your cover letter, ensure you include the following three sections: PDF OCS COVER LETTERS RESUMES RESUMES AND COVER LETTERS. A. resume is a concise, informative summary. of your abilities, education, and experience. It should highlight your strongest assets and skills, and differentiate you from other candidates seeking similar positions. Although it alone won't get you a job or internship, a good resume is an important Resume/Cover Letter Workshop for ECH 3002 Share This: Share Resume/Cover Letter Workshop for ECH 3002 on Facebook Share Resume/Cover Letter Workshop for ECH 3002 on LinkedIn Share Resume/Cover Letter Workshop for ECH 3002 on X; Copy Link; Date: Friday, September 20, 2024 Time: 11am - 12pm Location: EDU 115 Resume/Cover Letter Workshop for ECH 3002 ... essay homework paper phd project resume review speech study thesis