First Impressions Matter: Why a Professional CV and a Convincing Cover Letter Are Crucial for Career Starters
Starting a career is an exciting yet challenging phase for many. Whether it's about an internship, vocational training, or a first permanent job – the first impression often determines whether you're invited for an interview or not. And this first impression usually isn’t made in person, but through your application documents: CV and cover letter.
A CV Is More Than Just a List
A well-structured CV shouldn't just be a list of experiences. It should immediately show the employer:
- Who you are
- What you can do
- And why you’re a good fit for the company
Career starters often make the mistake of presenting themselves too briefly or in a disorganized way. But especially for young applicants, a clear structure, highlighting relevant skills (e.g., soft skills or language abilities), and selecting the right information is key. Even the design can make a difference.
The Cover Letter – Your Personal Business Card
While the CV is more factual, the cover letter offers the chance to show who you are as a person. It’s where you answer questions like:
- Why are you applying for this specific position?
- What motivates you?
- Why are you a good fit for this company?
A generic or unstructured letter has no place here. Employers can quickly tell whether someone put in the effort or not. A well-written cover letter can make the difference – even if your CV still has some gaps.
👉 If you need help creating a professional CV and cover letter, we’re happy to support you:
➡ Click here to access our application service section.
Good German Skills – Often a Must
Especially in German-speaking countries, strong language skills are essential – not only for workplace communication but also for writing convincing application documents. If you feel insecure about your German, you should start improving it early on.
Your CV and cover letter are not just formalities – they’re your business card. Paying attention to quality here significantly increases your chances on the job market. Remember: You don’t get a second chance to make a first impression.