What is an Anschreiben and Why is it Important?
The Anschreiben is the German equivalent of a cover letter. It accompanies your CV (Lebenslauf) and provides an opportunity to present yourself, explain your motivation, and demonstrate why you are the perfect fit for the job. German employers place a high value on well-structured and personalized cover letters. A convincing Anschreiben shows your communication skills, attention to detail, and understanding of the company’s needs.
Structure of a Convincing German Anschreiben
German cover letters follow a formal structure, and adhering to it demonstrates your professionalism and understanding of business etiquette. Here is the typical structure:
1. Header (Briefkopf)
Include your contact details (name, address, phone number, email) at the top right, and the employer’s contact details on the left. Don’t forget the date and location.
2. Subject Line (Betreffzeile)
The subject line is usually bold and directly states the position you are applying for, e.g., “Bewerbung um die Stelle als Marketing Manager – Referenznummer 12345”.
3. Salutation (Anrede)
Address the recipient by name if possible, e.g., “Sehr geehrte Frau Müller,”. If the name is unknown, use “Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren,” but try to find the contact person for a more personal touch.
4. Introduction (Einleitung)
Start with a strong opening that grabs attention. Mention how you found the job and why you are interested in the position and the company. Show enthusiasm and relevance from the very beginning.
5. Main Body (Hauptteil)
This is the heart of your Anschreiben. Highlight your skills, experiences, and qualifications that match the job description. Use specific examples to demonstrate your achievements. Avoid repeating your CV; instead, focus on how your background fits the company’s needs. For language learners, this is the perfect place to showcase your German proficiency and any intercultural skills.
6. Motivation (Motivation)
Explain why you want to work for this company and how you can contribute to its goals. Research the company’s values, recent projects, and culture to tailor your motivation. This section shows that you have done your homework and are genuinely interested.
7. Closing (Schluss)
Politely ask for an interview and express your willingness to provide further information. End with a formal closing, such as “Mit freundlichen Grüßen”, followed by your signature (for printed applications).
Tips for Writing a Convincing Anschreiben as a German Learner
Use Clear and Formal Language
German business communication is direct and formal. Avoid slang or overly casual phrases. Keep your sentences concise and to the point. Tools like Talkpal can help you practice and refine your written German for professional contexts.
Tailor Your Letter to Each Job
Generic cover letters rarely impress. Show that you have read the job description carefully by addressing the specific requirements and using keywords from the posting.
Highlight Your Language Skills
If German is not your native language, mention your proficiency level (e.g., “Deutschkenntnisse auf B2-Niveau”) and any certificates (such as Goethe-Zertifikat). Emphasize your willingness to improve and your experience working in multilingual environments.
Proofread and Seek Feedback
Grammar and spelling mistakes can harm your chances. Use proofreading tools or ask a native speaker or language tutor to review your letter. Talkpal offers feedback and correction features to help you polish your writing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Sending the same letter to multiple employers without customization
- Repeating information from your CV without adding value
- Using informal language or abbreviations
- Neglecting to mention your motivation for the specific company
- Forgetting to sign the letter (for paper applications)
Sample Phrases for Your Anschreiben
Here are some useful phrases you can adapt for your own cover letter:
- Mit großem Interesse habe ich Ihre Stellenausschreibung gelesen…
- Ich bin überzeugt, dass meine Qualifikationen und Erfahrungen gut zu Ihrem Anforderungsprofil passen.
- Besonders reizt mich an Ihrem Unternehmen…
- Gern möchte ich meine Fähigkeiten in Ihrem Team einbringen und weiterentwickeln.
- Für ein persönliches Gespräch stehe ich Ihnen jederzeit zur Verfügung.
Final Thoughts
Writing a convincing Anschreiben in German is an invaluable skill for any job seeker aiming to work in Germany. As a language learner, approaching this task with care and attention will not only improve your chances of getting hired but also deepen your understanding of German business culture. Remember, practice makes perfect—use platforms like Talkpal to hone your skills and seek feedback. With preparation and persistence, your next Anschreiben could open the door to your dream job in Germany.
