The art of the application: Masterful CVs and motivational writing for your success
In a success-driven world, it's crucial to stand out with a compelling CV and a strong motivational letter.
- February 19, 2024
- 3 Min. reading time
In a world where everyone is striving for success, it is crucial that you stand out from the crowd. This often starts with two key documents: your CV and your cover letter.
Here are some tips on how to craft these two items so that they not only grab attention, but also increase your chances of landing your dream job.
The CV
Your CV is usually the first thing employers see of you. It is your business card. Here are a few points you should bear in mind
- Clarity and structure: organise your CV clearly. Use clear headings and stick to a logical order (personal details, educational background, professional experience, special skills).
- Brevity is the spice of life: Your CV should be no longer than two pages. Employers don't have a lot of time to deal with every CV in detail.
- Consistent colour scheme and modern design: A consistent colour scheme can make your CV more visually appealing. If possible, use the colours that the company you are applying to uses on their website, print products, etc. This shows that you have put some thought into your application and you can also score points with a modern design. If you don't want to design anything yourself, you can find an endless number of templates on the internet. For example, on LiveCareer, Lebenslaufdesigns, Canva or use the CV Creator from talendo.
- Skills: List skills that are directly relevant to the job. These can be both technical skills and soft skills. Be specific and honest when assessing your skills. Also try to present your skills in an interesting way. How about a bar chart or pie chart, for example?
- Professional photo: A professional photo can make a positive first impression. Make sure the photo is recent and shows you in a professional light. Dress as you would for a job interview and make sure you look friendly in the photo. If you don't have a photo yet, visit talendo's Absolvierenden-Messen and get a free application photo on site.
You can find many more tips and tricks for your CV in the "Career Starter" career guide in the Application chapter.
The letter of motivation
The letter of motivation gives you the opportunity to tell your story. Here you can be more personal and show who you are and why you are the right choice.
- Exciting introduction: Start your cover letter with a personal story, for example, that directly shows why you are interested in this field or why you are particularly suited to the position. This introduction can be emotional, describing a challenge you have overcome or a formative experience that has ignited your passion. A captivating opening will arouse curiosity and motivate the person reading your cover letter to find out more about you.
- Passion: Show your enthusiasm for the field you want to work in. Examples from your life that emphasise this passion can be very convincing.
- Personal development: Show how you have developed personally through your experiences, both academically and professionally. What important lessons have you learnt? How have these experiences changed your perspective or approach to challenges? This section provides insight into your capacity for self-reflection and lifelong learning.
- Research: Explain why you are applying to this company. What appeals to you about the company culture, the philosophy of the institution or the specific offerings? Your research and pointing out parallels between your values and those of the organisation can speak strongly in your favour.
- Conclude with a strong call-to-action: End your cover letter with a clear, compelling call to action. Express your hope or expectation of being invited for an interview and reiterate your enthusiasm and willingness to contribute to the organisation's success.
You can find many more tips and tricks for your cover letter in the "Career Starter" career guide in the Application chapter.
As you can see, a concise CV and a lively cover letter are crucial. They are not only proof of your skills and experience, but also of your personality and commitment. With the tips above, you can create documents that not only stand out, but also convince - have fun creating your future.