How to Write a Successful Motivational Letter

As you look for a new opportunity, be it seeking a job or applying for school, you may need to write a motivational letter.

Composing inspirational letters requires creativity, thoughtfulness, and an appreciation of the message one intends to convey. When compiled correctly, it can be an effective way to express yourself and your motivation.

This article offers tips on constructing an outstanding motivation statement. We will discuss what should be included in the letter and how to format it. Additionally, the article will cover what words to use to ensure your letter is as strong and persuasive as possible.

Additionally, we will provide some motivation letter samples so you can get an idea of what works best.

Use template Download PDF

Use template Download PDF

Use template Download PDF

Equipped with this advice, you will be armed to construct a noteworthy motivational statement that will help you reach your aspirations.

Prepare all your application materials

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What is a Motivation Letter

A motivation letter is a document that serves to introduce who you are and elucidate your personality. This type of inspirational letter may be used to accompany an application for a job or a college/university program.

The letter of motivation should be written in a professional yet personable tone to show your inspiration to apply for a certain position or a degree. You should also demonstrate your enthusiasm for the opportunity and express what motivated you to apply.

The main goal of the motivation statement is to get the reader to look at your CV or resume.

An effectively written letter of motivation can leave a notable impression on prospective employers or admission counselors. It often can be the deciding factor for the "yes" or "no".

Devote enough time to produce a unique, intriguing letter that will aid you to be noticed among the others!

Motivation Letter Example

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Motivational Letter vs. Cover Letter

Motivational statements and cover letters are documents used in the application process. However, they are different in purpose and content.

What is a motivation letter?

A motivation letter elaborates on why the candidate is passionate about a job or course. It needs to focus on their goals, skills, and qualifications, as well as their enthusiasm for the role.

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is more formal, providing an overview of the applicant's skills and experience. It needs to illustrate their suitability for the position and give reasons why the employer should consider them for it.

The motivation statement must be composed in a friendly, conversational style. It expresses your passion for the opportunity, talks about the talents you have, and how you can help the organization reach its goals.

The cover letter should be professional and concise. It must be well-structured and provide a clear summary of your credentials and skills. It has to be direct and to the point, highlighting relevant experience and qualifications.

Despite the differences, you can try using our cover letter templates for formatting and organizing your motivational letter.

In conclusion, a letter of motivation and a cover letter are two distinct documents. While the two are both important, they serve different purposes and must be written differently.

Ensure that you select the correct type of letter based on the requirements and compose effective supporting materials for your application.

When to Use a Motivational Letter

Crafting a motivational letter may be needed to aid you in being noticed. Here are some occasions when you may need to compose a motivational statement.

A well-written motivational letter serves as a great tool for setting yourself apart from other contenders and exhibiting your keenness for the role or opportunity. Make sure to include all relevant information that is needed to make your application successful!

Motivation Letter Examples

An engaging motivational statement can make the difference between being accepted and rejected. Below you will find examples of letters for various purposes. Use them as a reference for crafting your own.

Example of a motivational letter for a university application:

Dear Ms. Campbell,

My name is Alex Throssell. I am writing to you to support my application for admission to Jackson State University. I am enthusiastic about obtaining a degree in Computer Science. I am confident that your school will give me the ideal opportunity to realize my goals.

I have been interested in the informatics field since I was a child. I have been coding ever since I was 12 years old. I love solving problems and developing new applications. In high school, I completed courses in computer programming and web development, which sparked my interest in software engineering.

In college, I plan to continue to explore the world of computer science. I want to learn more about Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, two topics that fascinate me. Additionally, I plan to become involved with research projects related to these topics as well as other areas of computer science.

I am confident that Jackson State University can provide me with the best education to help me achieve my goals. Not only does it have excellent faculty members and research opportunities, but also offers a stimulating environment where I can grow both academically and personally.

Appreciation for your thoughtfulness in reviewing my application. I anticipate your reply!

Best regards,
Alex T

Sample motivation letter for a scholarship:

Dear Members of the Scholarship Committee,

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Academic Excellence Scholarship to support my studies at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. I believe this scholarship will play a crucial role in helping me achieve my academic and professional goals.

Currently, I am pursuing a degree in Environmental Science at UIUC. Throughout my academic journey, I have maintained a GPA of 3.8 while actively participating in extracurricular activities and community service.

One of my most significant achievements was completing a research project on renewable energy sources, focusing on solar energy implementation in urban areas. This experience not only deepened my understanding of the subject but also ignited my desire to contribute to sustainable solutions in our community.

Receiving the Academic Excellence Scholarship would greatly alleviate my financial burden, allowing me to focus more on my education and research. I have taken on part-time work as a barista, but the demands of both my job and coursework often leave me stretched thin.

In addition to my academic pursuits, I am deeply committed to giving back to my community. I regularly volunteer at Green City, where I assist in organizing community clean-up events and educational workshops on sustainable practices.

I am truly grateful for the opportunity to apply for the Academic Excellence Scholarship. I believe that with your support, I can continue to excel academically and contribute meaningfully to my community and the field of Environmental Science. Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely,
Steve Young

Examples of a motivation letter for an internship:

Dear Mr. Miller,

I am excited to submit my application for the Social Work Intern position at Compassionate Care Services. With a solid academic foundation, I am confident in my ability to contribute meaningfully to your team.

Currently pursuing a degree in Social Work at Towson University, I actively engage in projects that enhance my practical knowledge. Notably, I led the "Youth Empowerment Program" at my university, overseeing skill-building workshops, mentorship programs, and career guidance. This experience sharpened my research, collaboration, and leadership skills, further deepening my understanding of the field.

Beyond my academic endeavors, my strong customer service skills and effective communication make me a valuable addition to your team. My passion for Social Work drives my commitment to community betterment. I am eager to apply my skills to contribute to the mission of Compassionate Care Services.

Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and dedication align with the goals of your organization. Please feel free to contact me for any additional information.

Sincerely,
Elizabeth Tucker

A motivation letter example for a job application:

Dear Mr. Watts,

I am writing to apply for the Landscape Architect role at EcoDesign Studios. I have 5 years of experience in the field. I am confident that I possess the necessary skills and qualifications to make an immediate impact on your team.

I am passionate about architecture and have worked hard to develop a deep understanding of the industry. At my previous company, I led the "Urban Harmony Plaza" project, transforming an underutilized urban space into a vibrant, green hub. Collaborating closely with local stakeholders, I applied my architectural skills to address real-world challenges, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices in enhancing community well-being.

I am highly motivated and eager to contribute to the success of the EcoDesign Studios. I have a proven track record of meeting deadlines, exceeding expectations, and delivering high-quality results. I am also highly organized and take pride in ensuring that projects are completed according to set deadlines and standards.

Furthermore, I have excellent interpersonal skills and enjoy working as part of a team. I am comfortable working with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures and collaborating seamlessly with colleagues at all levels.

I would be delighted to put my skills and experience to work for your organization. I believe my qualifications render me a perfect fit for the role and would welcome the opportunity to discuss this further in an interview. Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely,
Matthew M. Ferrell

A motivational letter example for joining an organization:

Dear Ms. Ruben,

I am thrilled to express my fervent interest in joining the Community Empowerment Hub, captivated by its commitment to fostering social and economic justice. The impactful strides your team has taken in improving lives resonate deeply with my personal mission.

For quite some time, I have closely followed and been inspired by your organization's dedication to ensuring universal access to quality education, healthcare, housing, and other fundamental needs. I firmly believe in the transformative power of collective action to institute enduring change.

My educational background, including a degree in political science, coupled with my experience in the public sector, positions me well for this role. Through my involvement in a recent legislative initiative on climate change, I honed my understanding of policy issues and effective strategies for driving social change.

My passion lies in utilizing my skills to contribute to a better world, and I am enthusiastic about the prospect of bringing my expertise to your team. Eager to contribute meaningfully, I am confident in my ability to aid your organization in advancing its goals and objectives.

Thank you for considering my application to join the Community Empowerment Hub. I am eager to delve deeper into how I can actively contribute to your mission and make a lasting impact on the world.

Sincerely,
Paul Brown

A motivation letter sample for funding application:

Dear selection committee,

I am writing to seek funding for my project, "SustainVisions," which aims to produce a series of educational videos promoting sustainability in our community.

The "SustainVisions" project will showcase individuals from our community who are passionate about sustainability, highlighting their impactful work. These videos will be strategically shared on various social media platforms, with the overarching goal of inspiring viewers to take positive actions towards a more sustainable lifestyle.

The requested funding will be allocated to cover essential aspects such as equipment, production costs, and associated travel expenses. With this support, I envision creating a unique video series that not only educates our community but also has the potential to resonate beyond our local borders. This endeavor is crucial in raising awareness about sustainable practices and encouraging tangible actions that can positively impact our environment and the lives of many.

Beyond my passion for this cause, my experience demonstrates a proven ability to execute impactful projects. I have collaborated with non-profits, government agencies, foundations, and various organizations to develop sustainable initiatives with lasting effects. My skill set includes conducting thorough research, designing effective programs, and establishing valuable relationships with key stakeholders.

I am committed to ensuring that any funding received will be utilized efficiently, meeting deadlines, and staying within budget while delivering top-tier results. With a track record of successful projects, I am confident that "SustainVisions" can make a tangible difference with your support.

I sincerely believe in the merit of this project and hope for your consideration and support. Thank you for your time and thoughtful consideration.

All the best,
Nichole Fisher

How to Format a Motivational Letter

The formatting of the motivation statement has to be concise but appealing. Although the requirements are less strict as compared to the cover letter writing, it is a professional document, not a note to a friend.

By following these simple steps, you can guarantee that your motivational statement has the right format and appears professional.

How to Structure a Motivational Letter

Drafting such a letter can help you make a good first impression. So, it's worth investing time into crafting a well-written document that outlines your skills, qualifications, and suitability for the role.

Your motivational letter ought to be brief and limited to one page. It has to include the following: an introduction, body paragraphs, a conclusion, and your information.

In the beginning, you should articulate your interest in the role and how it complements your career plans. The body paragraphs should explain why you are qualified for the job by showcasing your qualifications and exhibiting your enthusiasm about the opportunity.

The conclusion is that you can share your excitement for the role and thank them for taking the time to look at your application. At the end of your motivation letter, be sure to include contact information. This will ensure you can be reached out if there are any questions or for further discussion of your candidacy.

Make sure your motivational letter is tailored to the job and reflects your enthusiasm, then send it off with confidence!

Tips on How to Write a Motivation Letter

Motivational letters are a necessary component of competition. It helps companies or schools make decisions about who to choose and shows them what kind of person you are.

Developing a compelling motivation letter can assist you in surpassing other applicants and displaying your devotion to the role or program.

Follow the below steps to create an impressive letter of motivation that will leave a good impression on potential employers or admissions boards.

By abiding by the above instructions, you will be able to compose an impassioned motivation letter which will give you a head start on attaining the job or getting into the university.

Addressing Potential Concerns

Applicants can address gaps in experience, low grades, career changes, or other potential concerns in their motivational letter. This can prevent misinterpretations and ensure that the reader has a clear understanding of the circumstances.

Here's how you can address these moments proactively and positively:

• Begin by acknowledging the concern directly but briefly. For example, if you have a gap in your work history, state it concisely without dwelling on it. This demonstrates transparency and shows that you are aware of the potential red flags.
• Offer a brief explanation or context. For employment gaps, this could include personal circumstances, health reasons, or pursuing further education.
• Emphasize what you've learned or gained from the experience, despite the challenges it may have presented. For example, if you took time off to travel, discuss how it enhanced your interpersonal skills.
• Connect your past experiences, including the problems you've faced, with your future aspirations. Explain how they align with the opportunity you're applying for.

Dos and Don’ts

It is important to remember that success comes from within. Here are some dos and don'ts to keep in mind when it comes to creating a motivation statement:

FAQ

What should be the ideal length of a motivational letter?

Typically, a letter of motivation should be around 300-500 words. It needs to be concise enough to maintain the reader's interest while adequately conveying your qualifications and enthusiasm.

Is it acceptable to use bullet points or lists in a motivational letter?

Yes, using bullet points or lists can help organize your achievements, skills, or ideas succinctly and make them easier for the reader to grasp quickly amidst other text in the letter.

What are some effective ways to open a motivational letter?

Begin your letter with a compelling introduction that grabs the reader's attention, such as a personal story, a relevant quote, or a statement of purpose that aligns with the organization's goals.

How can I demonstrate my passion and enthusiasm effectively in a motivational letter?

Showcase your passion by sharing specific examples of how you've engaged with similar work or projects, emphasizing what excites you about the opportunity and how your skills align with the organization's mission.

Is it okay to use personal anecdotes or stories in a motivational letter?

Yes, incorporating them can personalize your letter, making it more engaging and memorable for the reader. Ensure the anecdotes directly relate to your motivation or qualifications for the position.

Should I include references or testimonials in a motivational letter?

It's generally not necessary to provide recommeders' contacts directly in the motivational letter. Save these for your resume or provide them upon request during the application process.

Is it recommended to follow up after sending a motivational letter?

Yes, it's a good practice to follow up politely after sending your letter to express your continued interest in the position and inquire about the next steps in the hiring process.

Conclusion

Constructing a letter of motivation can be laborious. Yet, it does not have to. Follow the provided guidelines and the motivation statement examples to build yours.

Now, send your letter and wait for a response. Remember: be patient, confident, and positive! Good luck with your application!