How to write a good motivation letter (without clichés)

You want to apply for a job that really appeals to you. CV ready? Great. But then that cover letter... How do you write something that stands out without it feeling like you're just rambling? Here's the most important thing to remember: a good cover letter doesn't have to be perfect, but it does need to be genuine. No theatrics. Just who you are, why you're applying and what you bring to the table.

What often goes wrong?

Many cover letters fail because they're too generic. They don't really say anything about the person behind them, and you'll never get that across with a standard letter full of buzzwords you've picked up from the internet. Or a letter you've obviously written with AI. Additionally, recruiters often see a repetition of the CV, without new information or motivation. Or an overly formal tone where you lose yourself. This can be done differently and better.

What recruiters DO want to read

They're not looking for perfect sentences. They're looking for a person who fits their team. Someone who knows why they're applying specifically to THEM. They want to feel motivation and see that you've taken the trouble to learn about their organization.

Five practical tips for a strong cover letter

Leave out irrelevant experience
Applying for a management position in healthcare? Then you really don't need to mention that you cleaned at McDonald's years ago. Focus on what's relevant for the position AND the company.
Connect yourself to the company
Check the mission and vision on their website. What appeals to you? Why does that fit with you? If you can make that concrete, you show that you're not just responding to any vacancy, but have genuine interest in working at that specific company.
Use examples from your own experience
Mention a project or assignment you've successfully completed. State what you did AND what it delivered. Especially if it connects with what they're looking for, this makes your letter much more credible and interesting.
Write as if you're having a conversation
Don't use language you'd never normally say. "I would like to express my interest through this letter..." doesn't sound like yourself. Keep it human and direct.
Close with confidence, not hope
Avoid sentences like "I hope to hear from you". Better to close with: "I'd be happy to explain my motivation further in an interview." This way you radiate calm and initiative.

How Findmino helps you

Is writing a cover letter still difficult? Try the cover letter writer from Findmino. It helps you make your story clear and credible, tailored to the position and without clichés. This way your letter truly becomes yours. A good cover letter isn't a sales trick. It's a chance to show who you are, what drives you, and why you want to work specifically at this company. Short, honest and focused. That works. Want to make it easier for yourself? Start with Findmino's cover letter writer and give your application a convincing start.