The perfect application: how to write a successful cover letter

An important element that a perfect application absolutely needs is the cover letter. Not only does it have to be grammatically and orthographically correct and attractively written, it must above all set you apart from the other applicants. It must signal to your potential new employer that you are exactly the right person for the job. We will show you how to create the perfect application step by step, starting with the cover letter.

Nicht vergessen: Unterschreiben Sie auf dem Anschreiben und ebenfalls auf dem Lebenslauf immer persönlich.© Fotolia
Don't forget: Always sign your cover letter and CV personally. For online applications: Scan your signature and paste it into the documents.

The perfect application: The introduction to the cover letter

Avoid outdated standard phrases such as "I am hereby applying for ...". Instead, go into more detail about the company. Phrases such as "You are a company that ...","I am offering you ..." or "I have been very interested in the development of your company for a long time ..." are ideal.

The content part

Follow the "I - you - we" principle in the cover letter of a perfect application: The "I" section should consist of the following points: Who am I? What interests do I have? Where am I from? What do I offer? What are my strengths? In the "you" part, you should express your interest in the job offer and convey that the company is a good fit for the applicant. Finally, the "I" and the "you" are brought together in the "we" part. Sentences such as "I am pleased to be able to actively contribute my skills to your company" convey that the company will benefit from hiring you.

The conclusion

Avoid phrases such as "I would be delighted to hear from you" - this makes you look smaller than you are. Better: "I look forward to getting to know you personally."