Cover letter checklist: You absolutely have to think about this

A convincing letter of application often decides whether you are invited to an interview. It shows your motivation, your qualifications and your added value for the company. Use our checklist to ensure that your cover letter is complete, professional and personalised.

The 3 most important tips for your cover letter at a glance

• Individuality instead of standard text - Always refer to the position and company in your letter of application.

• Clear, structured and error-free - form and language are just as important as content.

• Demonstrate added value - Make it clear what makes you the ideal candidate for the job.

Checklist: What you need to think about in your letter of application

Formal structure of the application letter

• Personalised salutation with contact person

• Clear structure (introduction, main part, conclusion)

• Maximum one DIN A4 page

• Standardised font and easy-to-read font size

• Correct spelling and grammar

Customised orientation to the position

• Reference to the specific job advert

• Clearly recognisable motivation for position and company

• No irrelevant or copied text modules

• Formulate a letter of application specifically for the desired position

Convincing content

• Strong introduction with reason for the application

• Overview of the most important qualifications

• Concrete examples from professional experience, studies or training

• Focus on skills that are relevant to the job

• Clearly emphasise the benefits for the company

Style and language

• Professional, friendly and self-confident

• Active formulations instead of subjunctive

• Easy to understand sentences

• No repetition of the CV

The right conclusion

• Positive, motivated closing sentence

• Reference to availability or start date

• Desire for a personal conversation

• Respectable greeting and full name

Last check before dispatch

• Application letter saved as PDF?

• Meaningful file name?

• Complete application documents enclosed?

• Correct dispatch via e-mail or job portal?

More on the topic

• How to prepare for job interviews with ChatGPT

• How applicants get the right information about potential employers

• 5 tips for good body language to be convincing in job interviews