You’ve polished your CV, your GitHub is clean, and you’re scrolling through jobs in the EU. You find the perfect role at a startup in Berlin or a scale-up in Warsaw. Then you see it: “Cover Letter (Optional).”
Is it really optional? Let’s be blunt: no.
In the European tech market, “optional” is a test. It’s your first chance to prove you’re a serious candidate who can communicate, not just a CV-blaster. A great cover letter is your personal introduction, and it’s what convinces a human to spend more than six seconds on your application.
Here’s how to write one that actually gets you the interview.
✍️ The European Tech Format: Clean, Formal, and Direct
First, let’s clear up some confusion.
- Photos? While in some traditional German or Spanish industries a photo on your CV is still common, in tech, it’s a distraction. Recruiters are trained against bias. Stick to the US/UK model for tech: no photos, no marital status, no date of birth. Let your skills do the talking.
- Formality: European business culture, especially in jobs in Germany, leans more formal. Always use “Dear Mr. Müller,” or “Dear Hiring Team” if you can’t find a name. Avoid “Hi” or “Hey!”
- Length: One page. Period.
The Recruiter’s Perspective
When you work with a recruitment agency get-talent.eu in Europe or a staffing agency in the EU, they’ll tell you the same thing: we can get your CV on the desk, but your cover letter is what makes them want to talk to you. It shows professionalism, high motivation, and clear communication—three skills no code test can measure.
Take the extra 20 minutes. It’s the highest-ROI activity in your job search.
For more information, please refer to our blog
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