Writing a Stellar Motivation Letter

A motivation letter is a document you include in an application for study or work that supports other documents like a resume or grade transcripts. Also known as a motivational letter and statement of purpose, this document showcases a candidate’s suitability for the program they’re applying to. While your resume is the main tool to show a recruiter that you have the right academic credentials, experience, achievements, or skill set, a motivational letter can motivate the reader to read about these things in your resume. It differs from a cover letter, and is usually attached to the following applications.

• An application for admission to an educational program
• An internship application
• An application to volunteer for a project or at a nonprofit
• An application for employment at a nonprofit

Learn more: How to Write the Resume Education Section

Make sure to include these items in your comprehensive motivation letter:

• A formal salutation
• Your name and occupation
• The opportunity you’re applying for
• The name of the institution to which you’re applying
• An introductory statement that leads to the rationale for your application
• The rationale, or basis, for your application
• A closing argument that summarizes why you’re a suitable applicant
• A formal closing

To write a motivation letter that maximizes output, consider using the following tips:

• Tell a story efficiently. Use your letter to communicate the background to your application effectively. Use interesting details that capture the attention of the recruiter, active voice, and formal prose that shows your communication skills. Keep each sentence short and clear.
• Communicate your sincerity. Showcase your genuine interest in the opportunity by writing about why the organization and what you’re applying for interest you. Using your research skills to link specific features about these items to your personality and goals can accomplish this.
• Boost relevant resume details. Summarize the qualifications that best suit the opportunity you’re applying for in the motivation letter, so the hiring agent will want to learn more about them from your resume or application form.

Learn more: 3 Ways to Master Self-Promotion Without Sounding Arrogant

Learn how to write a motivation letter with the following steps:

1. Conduct background research. Your letter should demonstrate your suitability for the opportunity, so use your research skills to learn about it. For example, if you’re applying to an educational program, learn about it, the key qualities and qualifications expected from ideal applicants, and the institution that offers it. Make a list of keywords based on your research about the institution, the program, and the requirements for inclusion in your letter.
2. Outline the letter. Start the outline by listing all the points you need to cover. Structure the letter into three sections: an introduction, a body, and a conclusion.
3. Write the content. Fill in the details for each point. Keep the letter positive by taking about your abilities and strengths. Try different content structures until you find the most persuasive one. Use the keywords from your research to make the content relevant to the opportunity and use the most important details to showcase that you’re a great fit. In a single page, write the letter in three paragraphs or break the body section to form up to seven paragraphs.
4. Develop a strong closing argument. End your letter with wording that makes a positive, lasting impression on the recruiter by highlighting your suitability for the targeted opportunity. Use one or two sentences for this section.
5. Polish the letter. Edit the letter until it’s free of any grammar errors, syntax issues, or factual mistakes. After you write the letter, double-check it the next day, so you have a fresh perspective.

You can use the following example to write your motivation letter:

Dear Ms. Wallace,

My name is Jan Roberts, and I’m interested in applying for a place in the environmental science undergraduate program at Reed University. My dream is to become a policymaker focused on the natural environment, and I believe that getting a BA from your institution will accelerate my progress toward this goal.

I have a robust background in traditional sciences, a love for the natural environment, and a commitment to protect our natural resources by managing human-made environments through rational policy. My volunteering experience at GreenAware Inc. has enabled me to understand the immense impact policymakers have on regulating environmental impacts in industries such as transportation, construction, and garment factories. Now, I seek an opportunity to gain the advanced knowledge I need through your comprehensive program with its focus on achieving legal change.

I believe I would be a good fit because of my academic credentials and my commitment to this field of study, and I hope to have the chance to study with you. Please contact me at jan.roberts@email.com if you have any questions. Hoping to hear from you soon!

Sincerely,

Jan Roberts

Consider using the following template to develop your motivation letter:

Salutation:

Introduction (Include your name, what you’re applying for, why you’re sending the application, and an introductory statement that leads to the rationale section).

Body (In the rationale, communicate what makes you suitable for the opportunity. List your key skills, qualities, achievements, and experiences. Mention why you have chosen the specific program or job).

Conclusion (Summarize your suitability for the opportunity based on your rationale, and make a formal closing).