Aside from asking learners to submit an up-to-date CV and qualifications, learnership institutions like Kukhula generally also require them to provide a motivational letter for learnership. A motivational letter for learnership represents the motivation and dedication you possess in participating in the learnership organised by a particular company.
While it may seem straightforward, only a few learners know how to write a motivational letter for learnership programme. An excellent motivational letter should highlight your passion, diligence, and eagerness on how specific learnership can enlighten your career path.
This post aims to help you understand the essential elements of crafting a tremendous motivational letter that can get you on the shortlist for your dream learnership, whichever you’re applying.
Also, we will shed light on the difference between a cover letter and a motivational letter for learnership, the structure of a motivational letter, and its format. Once you are familiar with the elements and structure of a motivational letter, you can create one according to your needs.
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What is a Motivational Letter?
Also known as a personal statement, a motivational letter is a short piece of writing. All it comprises is about you.
It is a document that pitches your professional skills and motivations for applying to a learnership or a training course. The letter accompanies your application form (if any) and other supporting documents, such as your recent CV, certificates, and qualifications.
A motivation letter is essential because it allows you to add details about the information mentioned in your application form. Plus, it will enable management to differentiate between applicants to see who is better. Therefore, it is crucial that you write a good motivational letter to apply to your dream learnership.
What is the Difference Between a Cover and a Motivational Letter for a Learnership?
Generally, people use motivational letters when applying for acceptance to a university, a student programme, a non-profit organisation for volunteer work, a learnership or training course, and many others.
In a motivational letter, people have to explain why they are interested in a particular activity, their goals, why they want to apply to the programme, why they chose the learnership, and more.
On the other hand, people usually use a cover letter when they apply for a job. They must send both a cover letter and their latest CV. The cover letter should explicitly affirm the position they are applying for and justify why their profile matches the role. In short, a cover letter should answer the question, “Why you?”
To put it simply, a motivational letter for learnership is a letter that aims to persuade the committee board that you are the most suitable candidate for a given programme.
Structure of a Motivational Letter
A good motivation letter should have a good structure. You should explain your background in the first paragraph. For instance, mention you are from Port Elizabeth and describe the limitations of the learnership you wish to pursue. It will give you a clearer perspective on who you are.
Then, in the second paragraph, you can mention your recent activities concerning your training course. You can explain the reasons why you chose a particular institution or company in the third paragraph. Finally, present your plans in the fourth paragraph. Write the four paragraphs comprehensively and remember the consistency and continuity of each section.
Motivational Letter Format
At a minimum, an excellent motivational letter has the following details in it:
- Introduction of yourself;
- Mention of the field or industry you are applying for;
- Demonstrate what skills and experiences you have;
- Explain why the learnership is vital to you; and
- Talk about your goals.
How to Write a Terrific Motivational Letter for Learnership
It takes time to compose an outstanding motivational letter, so make sure you work methodically through the steps to write the best possible note. Giving plenty of time to write your motivational letter ensures you include all the critical content and follow each of the crucial steps, including:
1. Write an Outline
Make a point-form outline of the content and arrangement of your motivation letter. Consider whether you’ve included all of the necessary information.
Then, cross-reference your outline with the institution or company data to demonstrate that you possess the attributes and qualifications they seek. Examine your format and structure to see whether rearranging points would result in a more logical flow.
Make changes to your outline until you’re happy with it. To keep on track, refer to your completed outline when composing your polished motivational letter for learnership. Make a list of points that cover the following topics:
- Your qualities or passions; and
- Why you are interested in the programme.
2. Write an Introduction
Write an introduction to the subject in which you introduce yourself. If at all possible, include the recipient’s name to personalise your motivational letter. Also, have facts about your accomplishments in this portion of your introduction to draw your recipient’s attention and convince them to read on.
3. Customise Your Outline for the Body of Your Motivational Letter
The body of your motivational letter is formed by expanding the points in your plan. For each new topic, start a new paragraph. Remember that the goal of your motivational letter is to urge the recipient of your meriting, so appropriate compelling facts to do so.
4. Write the Conclusion
Write a conclusion that outlines your purpose and leaves a favourable impact. You could also express gratitude to your recipient for taking the time to evaluate your application and invite them to contact you if they have any queries.
5. Proofread and Edit Your Motivational Letter (If Necessary)
Proofread your motivational letter to make it more concise and professional. It would be best if you also corrected any spelling and grammatical errors and awkward phrasing. Edit information already listed in your application form or resume to ensure it contains unique data.
You may need to proofread your motivational letter several times to identify all problem areas. If time permits, complete this step two days or more after writing your motivational letter, as time away from your work allows you to view it more objectively.
To help ensure your letter has professional grammar and spelling, ask a trusted friend or colleague to proofread your letter after you.