How Can I Write a CV Letter: A Beginner’s Guide

Okay, writing a CV letter (a.k.a. cover letter, motivation letter, or whatever fancy name people give it) can feel like the job application version of sending a risky text. You’re basically putting yourself out there, hoping the other side doesn’t leave you on “read.” Like… you’re showing off your professional side, but also trying not to sound like ChatGPT wrote it for you (ironic, I know).

If you’re sitting there, staring at a blank doc while Spotify plays the same three sad songs on repeat, I got you. Let’s break down how to write a CV letter in a way that actually sounds human — yours truly included. We’ll talk format, examples, tips, and all the messy in-between stuff. Think of this as your friend giving you the lowdown, not some boring career coach with a PowerPoint.

Wait, What Even Is a CV Letter?

So, quick definition: a CV letter is that one-page note you send along with your resume (CV). Your resume is the “here are the facts” doc, and the CV letter is the “let me explain why I’m cool and why you should care” doc.

It’s like when you send your dating app profile (resume) — cute pics, basic stats, hobbbies — and then you slide into DMs with a funny or thoughtful opener (CV letter). Both matter. Both can flop. But together? Chef’s kiss.

The Vibe You’re Going For

Here’s the deal: recruiters skim resumes like they scroll TikTok. Fast. Your CV letter has to slow them down long enough to say, “oh wait, this person might actually fit.”

The vibe should be:

• Professional (but not robot mode)
• Confident (without sounding like you invented the internet)
• Personal (but not oversharing like a diary entry at 2 a.m.)

Think: “Yes, I know what I’m doing, and here’s why I’d be awesome for this job, also I’m not boring.”

The Basic Format (Because We Gotta Talk Structure)

Before we freestyle, you should know the general CV letter format. Don’t worry, it’s not rocket science:

1. Header: Your contact info + the company’s info (yeah, old school, but still matters).
2. Greeting: Ideally use a name (“Dear Alex,” > “To whom it may concern”). If you can’t find one, “Dear Hiring Manager” is fine.
3. Intro: Start with a hook, not a snooze. Mention the job you’re applying for and why.
4. Body (1–2 paragraphs): Show off your skills, achievements, and why you’re excited. Connect dots between you and the company.
5. Closing: Wrap it up nicely. Call to action (like, “I’d love to chat more”).
6. Signature: Yours truly, boom.

That’s it. Easy-ish.

Tips for Writing a CV Letter (That Don’t Suck)

Here are some actual tips that’ll keep you from sending something cringe:

• Make it specific: Generic letters scream “copy-paste.” Mention the company name, role, or even a recent project they did that caught your eye.
• Flex your wins: Don’t just say “I’m hardworking.” Everyone says that. Drop a quick achievement: “Increased social media engagement by 35%” hits harder.
• Keep it short: One page. Nobody’s reading your novel.
• Tone check: Read it out loud. If you sound like a Victorian butler, tone it down. If you sound like you’re texting your BFF, maybe tone it up.
• Keywords matter: Many companies use software to scan apps. Sneak in words from the job description. It’s not cheating, it’s strategy.

A Little Example (Because Sometimes You Just Gotta See It)

Here’s a mini CV letter example (don’t copy-paste, but steal the vibe):

Dear Hiring Manager,

I’m excited to apply for the Social Media Coordinator role at [Company]. As someone who has grown brand TikToks from zero to 50k followers (without resorting to dance trends… okay maybe one), I know how to create content that actually connects.

At my last job, I boosted engagement by 35% in three months by mixing data-driven insights with creative storytelling. I’d love to bring that same mix of strategy and creativity to [Company], especially since I’m obsessed with how you’ve built such a relatable online presence.

Thank you for considering me — I’d love to chat more about how I can help grow [Company]’s community.

Best,
[Your Name]

See? Professional, but not stiff. Confident, but not braggy. Also short.

Common Mistakes (aka The “Don’t Do This” List)

• Writing like a robot: “I hereby submit my application for your consideration.” Ew.
• Too much me-me-me: Yes, it’s about you, but frame it around how you help them.
• Oversharing: No one needs to know about your cat’s vet appointnent mid-paragraph.
• Typos: Spellcheck is free. Use it. (Though like, one tiny typo? Human. A CV letter that reads like it was built by AI? Sus.)
• Repeating your resume: Don’t regurgitate. Add color and context instead.

Advanced Tips (For Overachievers and Anxious Millennials)

Okay, if you really wanna go the extra mile:

• Mirror their language: If the job ad says “collaborative team player,” echo that in your letter (without being obvious).
• Storytelling works: Slip in a mini anecdote: “I once fixed a client crisis with a 2 a.m. email campaign” is memorable.
• Format hacks: Use short paragraphs. White space is your friend. Recruiters skim. Don’t make it a wall of text.
• Save as PDF: Formatting stays clean, and it looks pro.

CV Letter vs. Resume: The Duo You Need

Here’s the tea: resumes are like your dating profile pics (facts, stats, the basics). The CV letter is the witty bio that makes someone swipe right. You really want both. One without the other? Meh. Together? Power couple.

FAQs People Lowkey Google at Midnight

Do I need a CV letter for every job?
Honestly? Yeah, mostly. Unless the job ad says “don’t send one,” send one.

Can I reuse the same one?
Sorta. You can have a template, but tweak it each time. Lazy letters show.

Should it be creative?
Depends on the job. Marketing? Sure. Law firm? Maybe not. Know your audience.

Final Thoughts (And a Pep Talk)

Listen, writing a CV letter isn’t supposed to feel like pulling teeth. It’s literally just your chance to say: “Hey, here’s who I am, here’s what I’ve done, and here’s why I’d vibe well with you guys.” That’s it. Don’t overthink.

And ngl, your first draft might be kinda rough. That’s okay. My first drafts usually look like a toddler banged on the keyboard. But you clean it up, make it sound like you (on your best day), and hit send.

So, friend, go write that CV letter. Land that interview. Then maybe treat yourself to some boba or Netflix bingewatch after. You earned it.

Call-to-Action

Alright, now it’s your turn. Open that blank doc, pull up this guide, and start typing. Don’t wait until “tomorrow” (we both know tomorrow = 3 weeks later). You’ve got the tools, the format, examples, tips, and the vibe. Go make it happen — your future boss is literally waiting to be impressed.

You got this ✨