Cover letter

The cover letter is a central element of every application. It serves as the first point of contact between applicants and potential employers. The aim of the cover letter is to arouse the reader's interest, make a positive first impression and create the basis for an invitation to an interview. It offers the opportunity to link your own qualifications and motivations directly to the requirements of the advertised position and to stand out from other applicants.

An effective cover letter should contain the following elements:

• Introduction: Brief introduction and explanation of interest in the position.
• Main part: Presentation of your own qualifications, experience and special skills that make you the ideal candidate for the position. Here it is important to use concrete examples to back up your statements.
• Conclusion: Summarize the reasons why you are the best choice for the company and express your desire for a personal interview.

• Individuality: Avoid general formulations and adapt the cover letter specifically to each application.
• Clear structure: Pay attention to a logical structure and a fluent writing style.
• Professionalism: Correct spelling, grammar and formal design are a must.
• Brevity and conciseness: The cover letter should be no longer than one page and convey the most important information in a compact form.

• Standard phrases: Refrain from using worn-out phrases and make the cover letter authentic.
• Repetitions: Do not simply repeat your CV, but include new information.
• Negativity: Avoid negative formulations or mentioning failures.

Does a cover letter always have to be handwritten?

No, in most cases a typed cover letter is preferred. Handwritten cover letters are only necessary at the express request of the company.

How do I address the cover letter if I don't know the name of the contact person?

In this case, you can use general salutations such as "Dear Sir or Madam", but it is advisable to research the name of the contact person in advance.

Should I mention my desired salary in the cover letter?

As a rule, the desired salary is only mentioned in the cover letter if this is explicitly requested in the job advertisement.

Can I use the same cover letter for several applications?

It is important to tailor each cover letter individually to the respective position and company in order to have the best chances.

How important is the cover letter compared to the CV?

The cover letter gives you the opportunity to explain in your own words why you are the ideal candidate for the job, complementing the information in your CV. Both documents are equally important for a successful application.