A strong cover letter (“motivatiebrief” in Dutch), adds context to your resume and makes you stand out. This is your opportunity to make a good first impression by demonstrating why you are a good fit for the position and why the position is a good fit for you.
This guide will help you write clear, tailored letters for both academic and industry roles in the Netherlands.
Your cover letter should:
- Describe your motivation for applying
- Demonstrate how your qualifications align with the role
- Emphasize your drive, organizational fit, and value addition
- Complement, but not repeat, your CV
Consider it a short, compelling narrative about your professional background.
What’s the Difference Between Academic and Industry Letters?
The format of an effective cover letter
Introduction (1 paragraph)
- Describe the job for which you are applying
- Describe how you found it (optional)
- Give a short, captivating introduction of yourself
Motivation & Fit (1-2 paragraphs)
- Why this job? Why this institute or company?
- How do your objectives or interests fit into their projects or mission?
Experience & Value (1 to 2 paragraphs)
- Emphasize accomplishments or relevant experience (don’t repeat your resume)
- Demonstrate how you will contribute to their group, project, or company
Conclusion (one brief paragraph)
- Show that you are prepared for the next step and that you are genuinely interested
- Mention your availability for the interview
- Thank the reader
Tips for academic cover letters
- Complement the department’s current initiatives, research themes or ongoing projects
- Highlight your teaching experience and philosophy (if applicable)
- Mention upcoming research plans or funding goals if relevant
- Maintain a formal tone while emphasizing academic potential
Tip: Refer to specific faculty members, programs, or values to demonstrate that you have done your research.
Tips for industry cover letters
- Refer to the job description as a reference: mirror keywords and necessary skills
- Prioritize impact and results over academic detail
- Exhibit passion for the company’s goals, values, or offerings
- Demonstrate your communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills
Tip: Convert your academic work into transferable skills: Give an example of how you “led multi-year projects under tight deadlines and collaborated across disciplines” instead of “PhD in Molecular Biology.”
Special remarks for international researchers
- Even though it isn’t strictly necessary, a cover letter is customary and expected in the Netherlands
- Unless the job posting is in Dutch, writing in English is acceptable
- If applicable to the position, mention your residency status or permit
- Avoid coming across as too formal or ambiguous to Dutch employers; instead, be straightforward and genuine
Quick Checklist to Use Before Sending your Letter
✅ Does it fit the tone of the role and/or organization?
✅ Is it addressed to the right person (if known)?
✅ Is it a personalized template rather than a generic one?
✅ Have you proofread for spelling, grammar, and formatting errors?
✅ Does it have a clear filename and is it saved as a PDF? (LastName_CoverLetter_Position.pdf)
Resources and Assistance
- University Career Services: Writing support and feedback
- Online resources: Academic job boards, LinkedIn Learning, and sample letters
