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Write your cover letter

Where your CV lists what you have done, your cover letter explains who you are. It is your opportunity to make a personal case for why you are the right candidate. Keep it clear, keep it relevant, and use the tips below to get started.

How to write a Dutch cover letter

A cover letter is an essential part of any job application in the Netherlands. While your CV deals with facts, a cover letter lets you explain why you are a good fit for the role and what you can contribute. In no more than one page, it is your chance to show the motivation and personality that a CV cannot capture. In the Netherlands, the terms 'cover letter' and 'motivation letter' are used interchangeably. 

  1. 1

    Header

    Like any formal letter, the first part of your cover letter should include some basic contact information:

    • Personal details and contact information, such as first and last name, email address and telephone number.
    • Company details, such as the company name and hiring or HR manager.
    • Add a tailored subject line about the job application.
  2. 2

    Introduction

    • Start your letter by addressing the right person. Try to find the hiring manager or responsible recruiter to avoid a general greeting.
    • Stand out with a strong first line to grab the recruiter's attention. Summarise your enthusiasm and interest, level of experience and current position in the first opening paragraph. Describe how the job and company fit your career goals.
  3. 3

    Your experience for the job

    • Outline your professional experience and skills, and why this qualifies you for the job. Connect the job description and requirements to your own history and skills. 
    • Highlight your most important and relevant work or academic achievements. Prepare your answers as you have limited space to elaborate. 
    • Outline your academic background if you have limited professional experience relevant to the job you are applying for. 
  4. 4

    Your connection with the company

    • Beyond your experience and skills, recruiters want to know whether you fit in with the company's mission and values. 
    • Outline what motivates you to work for this specific company. Indicate how your interests match with the innovation, impact or culture of the company. This also shows you show a genuine interest and have done your research.
  5. 5

    Conclusion

    • End your letter by reminding the recruiter why you are the perfect candicate for the job. Summarise how your previous experience, academic background and cultural fit will benefit the company. 
    • Add important restrictions for the recruitment process, such as your availability for interviews, salary indication, notice periods or sponsorship requirements. 
    • Finish by thanking the hiring manager or recruiter for their time and consideration and end with a formal closing.
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Tips for writing a cover letter

  • Tailor your cover letter for each job application. Match the job description and prevent sending generic cover letters. 
  • Match the template of your CV by using the same design for your cover letter. This makes your application look consistent and professional. 
  • Limit your cover letter to one A4 page with size 12 font size.  
  • Do not summarize the facts and figures already on your CV. Make sure information aligns between your letter and CV. Your cover letter offers the opportunity to reveal your personality beyond the facts in your CV. 
  • Ask someone to proofread your letter so it better reflects your personality and to make sure you avoid spelling and grammatical mistakes.