Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

While it may feel like an outdated formality, German companies still expect a well-written cover letter—and yes, it often gets read. Especially in mid-sized firms and traditional industries, HR professionals use it to quickly gauge your motivation, communication skills, and cultural fit. Unlike your CV, which lists facts, the cover letter tells your story—why you want this job at this company. HR uses it to filter applicants who go the extra mile from those who mass-apply with generic templates. It’s your first chance to make a real impression before your documents ever reach the hiring manager.

Why a Generic Cover Letter Doesn’t Work in Germany

In Germany, a German cover letter (Bewerbungsschreiben) is not just a formality—it’s a key part of your job application. Recruiters expect personalization, precision, and professionalism.

A generic letter shows a lack of effort. It might be ignored completely, no matter how good your resume is.

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What Makes a German Cover Letter Different?

📌 Formal Structure

• Your name and address (top left)
• Company’s contact info and date
• Subject line: “Bewerbung als [Job Title]”
• A formal greeting: “Sehr geehrte Frau Müller” or “Sehr geehrter Herr Schmidt”

📌 Focused and Professional

German cover letters are direct. You have one page—use it to answer:

• Why this company?
• Why this role?
• Why you?

📌 Formal Language

Keep it professional, even in English. If writing in German, avoid slang and keep your tone respectful.

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Why Tailoring Matters

Every company is different. German hiring managers look for:

• Cultural alignment
• Motivation to join their team
• A clear connection between your background and their needs

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✍️ This Part Can Stay the Same (Template)

Use the following section as a base and this is your universal structure:

Max Mustermann
Musterstraße 12
12345 Berlin

ABC GmbH
Frau Anna Müller
Recruiting Department
Bahnhofstraße 99
12345 Hamburg

Berlin, 29 April 2025

Subject: Application for the Position of Marketing Specialist

Dear Frau Müller,

I am writing to apply for the position of Marketing Specialist as advertised on your careers page. With over 3 years of experience in digital marketing, I bring a strong understanding of SEO, campaign management, and brand storytelling.

What excites me most about ABC GmbH is your focus on sustainable marketing and your recent collaboration with local NGOs. I believe in meaningful communication that drives both engagement and positive change.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Cologne and currently manage digital campaigns for a mid-sized tech firm. I would welcome the opportunity to contribute my creativity and analytics skills to your growing team.

I am available for an interview at your convenience and look forward to your response.

Sincerely,
Max Mustermann

🟡 Note: Keep the structure above, but customize the second and third paragraphs for every company you apply to!

🧠 Use This ChatGPT Prompt to Tailor Your Letter

Copy and paste this into ChatGPT or any AI tool you use:

Here's my base German-style cover letter. Please customize the parts related to the company and job based on the following job ad:

[Insert your job ad here]

Also, here’s some info about the company:  
[Paste company website or key facts]

Please keep the structure and tone formal, highlight my relevant skills, and emphasize why I fit this specific role.

Here are theFinal Tips Before You Hit “Send”

• PDF format only: Max_Mustermann_Bewerbung.pdf
• Match font and style with your CV
• Always spell-check (especially in German!)

Want a Template or Review?

Let us know, and we’ll send you:

• A German + English editable version
• Phrase bank for common industry terms
• A cover letter review by one of our instructors

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