opening sentence in cover letter

How to Start a Cover Letter: 30 Creative Opening Sentences Recruiters Will LOVE

Wondering how to start a cover letter? Traditional cover letter wisdom might tell you to begin with something like, “Dear Hiring Manager, I am writing to apply for the marketing manager position with the Thomas Company.” But we say: A cookie cutter cover letter intro feels as outdated as a Hotmail address.

A cover letter is your chance to introduce yourself to a hiring manager—who you are, what you have to offer, and why you want the job—but you have an extremely limited amount of space to do it. If you really want to get noticed, you’ve got to start right off the bat with something that grabs your reader’s attention.

What do we mean? Well, we won’t just tell you, we’ll show you. Keep reading to find tips on how to start a cover letter, along with 30 creative cover letter opening lines and sentence examples.

Still looking for that perfect next role? One of these open jobs on The Muse just might be the one »

5 tips on how to start off a cover letter

Here are a few pointers to guide you as you use our example cover letter openings—we’re getting there, we promise!—to craft your own:

1. Avoid boring or overused openers

Recruiters have read cover letters that start with lines like “I’m excited to apply for the front-end engineering position,” or “Your job posting on The Muse prompted me to…” so often they could wallpaper their homes with them. While those are OK and still acceptable, you'll have a better shot at impressing potential employers with a less cliché opening line.

2. Be lively and personable

People like reading interesting, engaging stuff—the kind that paints a picture, tells a story, and maybe even makes them smile. People like it when you’re human, genuine, and memorable. So figure out something about yourself and your background that relates to the company or position you're interested in, and use that to build a connection.

3. Show what you bring the company

You’ll get more into the details after your opening paragraph, of course. But your cover letter opener should still tell the reader, “This person can do something for us,” rather than, “This job would really help them.”

4. Stick to the point

Your opener, while creative, should still be relevant to the job. Don’t begin by highlighting an unrelated accomplishment or recounting an anecdote that never connects back to why you’re applying for the job. Part of writing an effective cover letter is curating key information that relates to that specific job opportunity and shows the reader that you're a good fit for the role.

5. Don't start with “To Whom It May Concern”

Find an alternative to “ To Whom It May Concern .” Seriously, banish those five words from your cover letter vocabulary forever. Nowadays, this phrase is seen as outdated, overused, and even rude—especially when better options exist.

30 cover letter opening sentence examples

We’ve come up with 30 creative cover letter opening sentence examples and separated them by the method they use to grab the reader’s attention. We don’t recommend copying and pasting because, well, your cover letter should be unique to your stories, background, and interests.

But you can most definitely use these examples to get inspired for your next application. (If you’re looking to see what an entire cover letter might look like, check out our article on the best cover letter examples for every type of job seeker .)

Start with passion

Employers want to hire people who care about what they’re doing. If you start your cover letter off talking about your passions and how they relate to the job, you’re telling the reader that you’ll be an engaged and motivated employee who’s likely to stick around. Plus, it’s a good way to tell the company a bit about who you are as a person right off the bat. Just be honest and realistic.

If truly loving data is wrong, I don’t want to be right. It seems like the rest of the folks at [Analytics Company] feel the same way—and that’s just one of the reasons why I think I’d be the perfect next hire for your sales team.

I’ve been giving my friends and family free style advice since I was 10, and recently decided it’s time I get paid for it. That’s why I couldn’t believe it when I found an open personal stylist position at [Company].

After about three years of trying out different roles at early-stage startups around San Francisco, watching more “ find your passion “ keynotes than I’d like to admit, and assuring my parents that, yes, I actually do have a real job, I’m starting to come to terms with the fact that I’m happiest when I’m doing two things: writing great content and getting it out into the world.

The other day, I took a career assessment , which told me I should be a maritime merchant. I’m not quite sure what that is, but it did get me thinking: A role that combines my skills in business development with my lifelong passion for the ocean would be my absolute dream. Which is how I found this role at Royal Caribbean.

As a kid, I once gave up a day of a family vacation to transport an injured lizard I found by our hotel two hours each way to the nearest animal hospital (and talked my dad into driving me pre-GPS!). When I was a bit older, I found out I could care for animals every day for a living, and I’ve been working toward that goal ever since.

I am constantly checking my LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram feeds—and not because of FOMO. Because I’m someone who wholeheartedly believes in the power of sharing ideas in online communal spaces, and I’m positive that I can help spark meaningful conversations as your next social media assistant.

When I was growing up, I wanted to be one of those people who pretend to be statues on the street. Thankfully, my career goals have become a little more aspirational over the years, but I still love to draw a crowd and entertain the masses—passions that make me the perfect community manager.

Start with admiration

Companies often want to hire people who already know, love, eat, and sleep their brand. What better to kick off your cover letter than a little flattery? Of course, remember when you’re telling a company why you love it to be specific and genuine. Because while everyone likes a compliment, no one likes obvious self-serving B.S.

I pretty much spent my childhood in the cheap seats at Cubs games, snacking on popcorn and cheering on the team with my grandfather. It’s that memory that’s shaped my career—from helping to establish the sports marketing major at my university to leading a college baseball team to an undefeated season as assistant coach—and what led me to apply for this position at the Chicago Cubs.

It was Rudy, my Golden Retriever, who first inspired me to apply to your operations assistant opening—not only have we used your app to find other dogs to play with in our neighborhood, he’s really excited about the prospect of coming to work with me every day. As I learned more about how [Company] is using modern tech to help pets thrive in cities, I couldn’t help but get excited to be part of it, too.

Example 10:

When I was seven, I wanted to be the GEICO gecko when I grew up. I eventually realized that wasn’t an option, but you can imagine my excitement when I came across your events manager position, which would have me working side by side with my favorite company mascot.

Example 11:

When I attended SXSW for the first time last month, I didn’t want to leave. So I decided I shouldn’t—and immediately went to check out job openings at the company.

Example 12:

If I could make the NYC apartment rental process better for just one person, I would feel like the horrors of my recent search would all be worth it. So a customer service role at [Apartment Search Company], where I could do it every day? I can’t think of anything more fulfilling.

Example 13:

[Vacation Rental Company] is synonymous with luxury and escape, known for spaces that inspire. I’ve felt this firsthand every time I’ve stayed at one of your properties—whether I was throwing a bachelorette party or working from home in a new locale—and I would love the chance to contribute to this reputation as your destination manager.

Example 14:

I was an hour out from hosting my first big dinner party when I realized I had forgotten to pick up the white wine. In a panic, I started Googling delivery services, and that’s when I first stumbled across [Delivery Service Company]. I’ve been hooked ever since, so I couldn’t help but get excited by the idea of bringing this amazingness to nervous hosts like me as your next social media and community manager.

Example 15:

Though I’m happily employed as a marketing manager, seeing the job description for your company’s PR director position stopped me in my tracks. I’ve been wearing your glasses for many years, and have always been impressed by the way the company treats its customers, employees, and the community at large.

Example 16:

A group of us IT folks were sitting around talking about our favorite Pacific Northwest companies this morning (coincidentally, over coffee). As you might figure, Starbucks was among the first names that came up. What makes you such a standout among Seattle-based corporations? Here’s the list we compiled:

Start with accomplishments

For any given job, you’re going to be competing with a lot of other job seekers—presumably, a lot of other similarly qualified people. A great way to stand out in your cover letter is to highlight something about yourself—a character trait, an accomplishment, a really impressive skill—that’ll quickly show how you stand out.

Example 17:

My last boss once told me that my phone manner could probably defuse an international hostage situation. I’ve always had a knack for communicating with people—the easygoing and the difficult alike—and I’d love to bring that skill to your open office manager position.

Example 18:

Among my colleagues, I’m known as the one who can pick up the pieces, no matter what amount of you-know-what hits the fan. Which is why I think there’s no one better to fill this customer service leader position.

Example 19:

Last December, I ousted our company’s top salesperson from his spot—and he hasn’t seen it since. Which means, I’m ready for my next big challenge, and the sales manager role at your company is exactly what I’m looking for.

Example 20:

After spending three years managing the internal communications for a 2,000-person company, I could plan a quarterly town hall or draft an interoffice memo in my sleep. What do I want to do next? Put that experience to work as a consultant for executives looking to level up their communications strategy.

Example 21:

While you won’t find the title “community manager” listed on my resume, I’ve actually been bringing people together online and off for three years while running my own blog and series of meetups.

Example 22:

If you’re looking for someone who can follow orders and doesn’t like to rock the boat, I’m probably not the right candidate. But if you need someone who can dig into data, see what’s working (and what’s not), and challenge the status quo, let’s talk.

Example 23:

I recently relocated my family to Texas. As we neared our new home, I noticed with intrigue the many wind turbines dotting the landscape. Suddenly, it hit me: “This is the career for me.” After unloading the moving van, I promptly researched companies in this sector that may benefit most from a skilled field engineer with expert electromechanical skills. And I discovered that [Company] is where I want to be.

Example 24:

You might be wondering what a 15-year veteran of the accounting world is doing applying to an operations role at a food startup. While I agree the shift is a little strange, I know you’re looking for someone who’s equal parts foodie and financial expert, and I think that means I’m your person.

Example 25:

Over the last 10 years, I’ve built my career on one simple principle: Work smarter. I’m the person who looks for inefficient procedures, finds ways to streamline them, and consistently strives to boost the productivity of everyone around me. It’s what’s earned me three promotions in the supply chain department at my current company, and it’s what I know I can do as the new operations analyst for [Company].

Start with humor and creativity

OK, before you read any of these, we have to stamp them with a big, blaring disclaimer: Do your homework before trying anything like this—learn everything you can about the company and the hiring manager to gauge whether or not they’d appreciate some comedic relief or a bit of snark. If it seems like they would, it’s a great way to make them smile (then call you). If they don’t? Try a different approach.

Example 26:

Have you ever had your mom call five times a day asking for a status update on how your job search is going, and then sound incredulous that you haven’t made more progress since the last phone call? That’s my life right now. But I’m hoping that soon my life will revolve around being your full-time social media manager. The good news is, I bring more to the table than just an overbearing mom. Let me tell you more.

Example 27:

Thank you so much for offering me the marketing manager position at [Company]! I wholeheartedly accept. OK, I know we’re not quite there yet. But if we were, here are just a few ideas for what I would do once in the role.

Example 28:

I considered submitting my latest credit card statement as proof of just how much I love online shopping, but I thought a safer approach might be writing this cover letter and describing all the reasons I’m the one who can take [E-Commerce Company]’s business to the next level.

Example 29:

I never thought that accidentally dropping my iPhone out of a second story window would change my life (it’s a funny story—ask me about it). But thanks to my misfortune, I discovered [Phone Repair Company]—and found my dream job as an expansion associate.

Example 30:

If we were playing “Two Truths and a Lie,” I’d say: I’ve exceeded my sales quotas by at least 20% every quarter this year, I once won an international pie-eating contest, and I have an amazing job at [Company]. The last, of course, is the lie. For now.

Frequently asked questions

How do you start off a cover letter.

When unsure how to open a cover letter, a good rule of thumb is to steer clear of clichés or overused opening lines. Instead, start by highlighting a passion or accomplishment relevant to the company or role you're applying for. You could also mention something about the company that caught your attention. Get creative, but keep it professional and make sure your narrative makes sense in that context.

How to start a cover letter greeting?

Try to find the hiring manager's name on LinkedIn or the company's website and address them directly, like “Dear Jane Doe”. If you can't find their name, “Dear Hiring Manager” is a good alternative. Avoid using “To Whom It May Concern” as it sounds outdated and impersonal.

How do I introduce myself in a cover letter?

Introducing yourself in a cover letter is straightforward: just share a bit about yourself. For example, “I'm a copywriter with seven years of experience in online content writing. At least officially. Since my first year of college I've been working on personal projects and keeping a track record of my accomplishments throughout the years.” No need to repeat your name since it's already in your contact information at the beginning of the letter.

How to start a cover letter without a name?

If you don't know the name of the person receiving your cover letter, start with “Dear Hiring Manager” or similar. Other possibilities include: “Dear Hiring Team”, “To the Hiring Team”, “To the Hiring Team”, “Dear Recruiter/Recruiting Team”, or “Dear Hiring Committee” if your industry evaluates cover letters and applications through a board.

Jenny Foss , Erica Breuer , Regina Borsellino , Amanda Cardoso also contributed writing, reporting, and/or advice to this article.

How to Start a Cover Letter (Examples Included)

Mike Simpson 0 Comments

By Mike Simpson

When you’re writing a cover letter, nailing the opening is a must. Your cover letter introduction has to draw the hiring manager in, giving them a clear reason to keep reading. That’s why learning how to start a cover letter is so vital; it’s your doorway to success.

After all, more than eight-in-10 recruiters feel that an awesome cover letter is enough to land a candidate an interview even if their resume is only a partial fit for the job. Cool, right?

So, are you ready to make sure that your cover letter opening is everything it can be? Great! Here’s what you need to know.

What Is a Cover Letter?

Alright, let’s begin with the basics. Before you can learn how to start a letter to the hiring manager, it’s helpful to know what a cover letter is in the first place.

We’ve actually taken several deep dives into the world of cover letters, including how to address a cover letter , the best cover letter format , how to end a cover letter , and a full overview of how to write a cover letter .

But the basic gist is that a cover letter is a written elevator pitch. It acts as an introduction to what you have to offer, with a bit more flavor than you can put in a resume.

In many cases, your cover letter is the absolute first impression you’ll make on a hiring manager. As they read, they get a feel for who you are, as well as what you bring to the table.

Do cover letters really matter that much? Yes, they do. Overall, 49 percent of hiring managers think that receiving a cover letter is important to the hiring process, which is a pretty good indication that they value them.

So, what are the parts of a cover letter? In most cases, a cover letter has:

• Contact Information
• Opening Paragraph
• Body Paragraphs
• Closing Paragraph
• Closing Sentiment

While that seems like a lot, it really isn’t. In most cases, you end up with about a page or so of content. After all, a cover letter isn’t an autobiography of your life; it’s a concise, tailored introduction to who you are as a professional.

Generally, when you’re trying to figure out how to start a cover letter, what you need to focus on are the salutation and the opening paragraph. Those are what make the first impression and usually play a big role in whether the hiring manager reads the whole thing or not.

You may want to dig a little deeper, making sure your opening line really packs a punch. But, really, that’s all part of creating a great opening paragraph, isn’t it? Just keep in mind that your leading sentence needs to be an attention-grabber, and you’re in good shape.

Now, is your cover letter opening more important than the rest of the letter? Well, yes and no. If your start to your letter isn’t strong, there’s a chance the hiring manager won’t finish reading it. That means a fantastic cover letter introduction is essential.

But the rest matters, too. In the end, you want your first impression to be a doozy. It’s just that, if you don’t nail the opening to your cover letter, the rest may never get a glance.

Common Mistakes When Starting a Cover Letter

Before we dive into how to start a cover letter, let’s talk about some cover letter introduction mistakes you want to avoid. After all, a misstep at this early stage can cost you the job, so you really need to make sure you get it right.

First, one of the biggest mistakes you can make is not tailoring the content to the position. When you write a cover letter, you are speaking to one particular hiring manager, not everyone who may ever want to hire you. If you don’t focus the content on that specific job, you might not connect with that hiring manager, causing them to move onto a different candidate.

Second, being too generic can come back to bite you. You want to stand out from the crowd, so you need to make sure your cover letter introduction feels a bit unique.

Third, choosing the wrong salutation – or not including one at all – can potentially lead to some trouble. If you go the wrong way, you may not connect with the hiring manager as well or could even offend them a bit. That’s no good.

Finally, spelling and grammar mistakes are a huge deal. They make it look like you lack attention to detail, and that isn’t going to win you any fans.

How to Start a Cover Letter

In many cases, figuring out how to start a letter for your job application is much easier if you take it one step at a time. It lets you tackle everything in succession and gives you a chance to focus on each critical part, increasing the odds that you’ll genuinely nail it.

Here’s a quick step-by-step guide on how to start a letter when you’re trying o land a job:

1. Choose the Right Salutation

The salutation in your cover letter opening serves as a greeting. It’s a chance to acknowledge the reader directly, even if just for a brief second.

Ideally, you want to address the hiring manager by name, using an approach like:

Dear [Mr./Mrs./Ms./Dr.] [First Name] [Last Name]

Now, you can potentially add one more option to the list: Mx. This is a relatively new gender-neutral addition that’s favored by people who consider themselves nonbinary.

Generally speaking, you should only use “Mx.” if you are completely, 100 percent certain that it’s the hiring manager’s preferred title. You don’t want to go with it simply because you don’t know the hiring manager’s gender. Why? Well, since it’s a newer option, not everyone is familiar with it, so some hiring managers might think it’s a typo.

Additionally, people may have a variety of opinions about “Mx.,” and not all of them are positive. Since it’s a bit controversial in certain circles, you could offend a hiring manager by using it if that isn’t what they prefer.

So, what do you do if you know the hiring manager’s name but not their gender or preferred title? Worst case, go with “Dear [First Name] [Last Name]” instead. It’s a bit less formal, but it may be better than getting the title wrong.

If you genuinely don’t know the hiring manager’s name – and can’t figure it out with some research – you can try:

• Dear [Job Title/Role] – Dear Hiring Manager, Dear Operations Manager, Dear VP of Sales, etc.
• Dear [Department] – Dear IT Department, Dear Marketing Department, etc.

Those aren’t as personal, but they can do the trick. They at least speak to a particular individual, making it clear that you had a certain recipient in mind. As a result, they are much better than more generic alternatives.

What about “To Whom It May Concern?” Well, we’ve taken a deep dive into how to use to whom it may concern . But, in most cases, that isn’t your best. It feels outdated, for one. Plus, it doesn’t have a particular reader in mind, which isn’t ideal.

The same goes for “Dear Sir or Madam.” Along with being generic and incredibly old-school, it’s also a bit awkward. Plus, it makes it seem like you didn’t even try to come up with something better, and that’s never good.

2. Nail the Opening Sentence

Your opening sentence in your cover letter is what really needs to draw the hiring manager in. As a result, you want to make sure that it packs a wallop.

Usually, you have a few options that can pull this off. First, if you know someone at the company who referred you to the position, you can try name-dropping. Many hiring managers favor direct referrals, so it’s alright to make that connection clear from the beginning.

Second, you can lead off with a relevant accomplishment. This one can get a little tricky to do well. You really have to relate it to something in the role, and that isn’t always easy to manage without using a sentence or so to build in some context.

Finally, you can focus on your excitement. Hiring managers like people who seem passionate about the opportunity, so this route could let you start your cover letter on a great note.

With all of these, you want to make sure the opening sentence taps on the position you’re trying to land. It’s smart to mention the job title, department, and company, as that ensures the hiring manager knows why you’re writing. If it doesn’t fit in the first sentence, then it needs to come in on the second.

3. Round Out the First Paragraph

Generally, your cover letter opening paragraph is going to be two or four sentences long. If you didn’t get it into your opening sentence, use your second one to mention the job opening. That way, the hiring manager understands exactly why you reached out.

After that, it’s time to tap on some relevant skills. Use the job ad to identify high-priority capabilities. Next, treat them like keywords, using the exact same words and phrases to increase your odds of looking like a great match (and getting past an automated screener).

4. Quantify the Details

Numbers stand out visually in a cover letter. They actually draw the eye, as they aren’t as widely used as letters and most forms of punctuation.

By quantifying a detail or two, you create visual interest. Plus, you’re giving the hiring manager some helpful context about what you’ve achieved, something that can make you look like a stronger candidate.

3 Cover Letter Starting Samples

Sometimes, nothing helps bring some tips to life like a handy example or three. If you want to make sure you understand how to start a cover letter or are looking for some samples that you can use as a template, here are three cover letter introduction examples, each representing a different approach.

1. When You Were Referred

Dear Mr. John Doe:

During my 6 years as a sales professional, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with a number of amazing professionals, including Jane Smith, a member of your team who recommended I apply for the Account Manager opening at ABC Inc. In my last position, I managed a portfolio of 25 enterprise-level clients while also boosting sales by 15 percent year-over-year during my tenure. I believe that my penchant for strategic thinking, as well as my strong negotiation and communication skills, make me an exceptional fit for your position.

2. Leading with an Achievement

Dear IT Department:

Over the past 4 years, I’ve focused my career on the world of project management, recently earning by Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. Additionally, I personally oversaw five $50k+ development projects concurrently, each of which was finished on time and within budget. I feel that my experience as a leader, as well as my expertise in risk assessment and cost management, makes me an ideal fit for the Project Manager position at XYZ Corp.

3. Going the Excitement Route

Dear Hiring Manager:

When I saw the administrative assistant opening at ABC Company, I immediately knew I wanted to apply. As an office assistant with 6 years of experience, I have honed many key skills you’re hoping to find, including scheduling, report writing, and customer service. Last year, among 50 nominated colleagues, I was even recognized as the Employee of the Year, largely because of my passion and dedication to my work, something that I would love to bring to ABC Company.

Putting It All Together

Ultimately, you should now understand how to start a cover letter off in the best way possible. Use all of the tips above, and turn to the cover letter opening samples to serve as guides. That way, you can create an introduction that captures the hiring manager’s attention and keeps them reading, giving you a chance to showcase even more about why you’re such an awesome candidate.

And as always, Good luck!

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com.

His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others.

Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

About The Author

Mike simpson.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com. His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

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How to Start a Cover Letter With Examples and Tips

• How to Start a Cover Letter
• Cover Letter Opening Sentence Examples

Personalize Your Cover Letter

• What to Write in the Rest of Your Letter

Cover Letter Sample

More cover letter examples and templates.

Theresa Chiechi / The Balance

What's the best way to start a cover letter for a job? The first couple of sentences of your cover letter are the most important ones. Recruiters and hiring managers often spend mere seconds scanning your application.

If your cover letter doesn't grab their attention right away, they may never even get as far as the second paragraph. What should these all-important first sentences say? Keep in mind that you're hoping to differentiate yourself from the competition. Your goal is to explain to the reader who you are, why you're writing, and how you can contribute to the employer's success.

Think about why the hiring manager should select you, above all other candidates, for an interview, and you'll be on the right track.

This might mean  highlighting a contact , providing a quick window into your relevant background and experience, or emphasizing a significant accomplishment that would make you an asset to the organization.

How to Start a Cover Letter 

Be direct.  In these opening sentences, you want to explicitly let the reader know which position you're applying for. Hiring managers are often looking at candidates for several open jobs at any given time. Make sure it's easy for them to discover your intent. For example:

I am interested in the coordinator position at ABC company.

Mention a contact.  If someone  referred you to the position , include that information early on as well. Referrals are incredibly helpful in securing an interview, so be sure to mention yours right away. For example:

Jane Doe suggested I contact you about the job, as she feels my skills would be a good fit for the position.

State an accomplishment.  Try to state an accomplishment from your previous job. If you can, show how you added value to the last company you worked for. You might even add the job title you had if it's similar to the one you are applying for. For example:

As coordinator at XYZ Enterprises, I have increased my group's output by 37% over the past 15 months.

Express excitement.  Convey your passion for your work and excitement about the job and company. Your cover letter is an opportunity to sell yourself to the hiring manager and to share why you're well qualified for the job. For example:

I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to meet with you to discuss what I have to bring to the position at ABC company.

Use keywords.  If you can include any  keywords  from the job listing, do so. You can mention a skill you have that was included in the post. For example: 

My track history of successfully managing teams and delivering projects on time and on budget makes me a good fit for this role.

Examples of Cover Letter Opening Sentences 

• As an information technology professional with high-level management experience in the IT industry, I learned that the best way to achieve success was to utilize the resources I had by employing well-defined objectives and an attitude of empowerment.
• I am very interested in the entry-level position that is available at ABC Investment Partners. I recently graduated from XYZ College, and my courses in investments, finance, and business have equipped me with a solid base upon which I plan to build my career.
• I am writing to express my strong interest in the international marketing position open at WellCam, Inc. My colleague Janna Doling recommended that I contact you directly about this position, owing to the years I have spent developing successful campaigns for XYZ company.
• I'm writing to express my interest in the editorial assistant position listed on Monster.com. Given my five years of editorial experience and excellent capabilities, I would appreciate your consideration for this position.
• I have a very strong interest in pursuing a teaching career. With experience working at both elementary and high school levels, as well as in activities outside of the traditional classroom, I have a diverse background with much to offer.
• I have the pleasure of being acquainted with one of the counselors on your staff, Eleanor Seville. She let me know about the open position and recommended that I contact you.
• I was excited to read about the administrative assistant job opening at XYZ company. I have several years of administrative experience in a variety of fields, including insurance and finance.
• I understand that you have been deluged with resumes since  Computer World  released its list of the best companies to work for. Mine is one more, but I do have experience that is hard to come by.
• My proven track record of successfully performing complex analyses on various corporations makes me an ideal candidate for the analyst opportunity that you have advertised.

When you're not sure how to get started, it can be really helpful to review  examples of cover letters . You can use these as a guide, but be sure to tailor your introduction to your circumstances and the job you're applying for.

The more closely you  construct your cover letter  to show that you're a  match for the job requirements , the better your chances of getting selected for an interview.

What to Write in the Rest of Your Cover Letter

Of course,  the rest of your letter  is important too. You'll need to use an  appropriate salutation and make your  cover letter closing  polite and inviting. In the  body of your letter , you have the opportunity to pitch your qualifications for the job in more detail than you have room for in your resume.

If there are specific events or accomplishments you feel are likely to make you stand out, you can briefly mention them and explain in more detail should you secure an interview.

Make sure your  contact information  is complete as well, and format your  signature  to match the letter style you are using.

Download the cover letter template  (compatible with Google Docs or Word Online), or read the example below.

Sample Cover Letter (Text Version)

John Smith 37 Oak Street Middle Village, New York 10502 555-555-555 john.smith@email.com

March 22, 2024

Dr. Jane Doe All Smiles Dentistry 5 Main Street, Suite A Middle Village, New York 10502

Dear Dr. Doe,

My former coworker, Maria Rodriguez, suggested that I contact you to express my interest in the position of dental assistant in your office in Middle Village.

I’m a licensed dental assistant with over 10 years of experience helping dentists and hygienists make their patients smile. In my current role with ABC Dental, I have gained proficiency in the four-handed dentistry technique, as well as mastering Henry Schein Dentix software.

I also have the following skills and qualifications, as outlined in the job description on your website:

• Experience taking and developing dental X-rays
• Infection control expertise, including preparing and sterilizing instruments and equipment
• Knowledge of several different types of scheduling software
• Language skills (bilingual: English/Spanish)
• Excellent customer service skills and attention to detail

Most importantly, I love people. I consider it a great privilege to help dentists improve their patients’ lives by providing the very best support and customer care.

I’ve enclosed my resume, and I hope you’ll contact me at your convenience to arrange an interview.

Signature (hard copy letter)

Review cover letter examples for many different types of jobs, and get downloadable templates you can use to write your own cover letters.

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How to Start a Cover Letter To Keep Recruiters Reading

Customers Interviewed by:

Writing a good cover letter starts with the first word, so you need to know how to start a cover letter right.

Starting a cover letter on the right note is crucial to grab the recruiter’s attention. Whether you’re struggling with a blank document or have a solid foundation, a cover letter needs a punchy opening to make an impact on the hiring team.

What are the key ingredients to starting the perfect cover letter?

Here’s what we’ll cover in this article:

• What to include in your cover letter header.
• How to start a cover letter greeting.
• How to write an impressive cover letter opening paragraph.
• How to start a cover letter off strong.
• Examples of how to start a cover letter.

Each puzzle piece of your cover letter opener creates a detailed picture of who you are as a candidate. It proves to the recruiter that you’re worth contacting for a job interview . Make a standout first impression with your cover letter by including:

• A header with your contact information.
• A personalized greeting.
• A powerful opening statement.

Create your cover letter with AI to customize it for the job description. Optimize your cover letter and resume with Jobscan to get more interviews.

What to include in a cover letter header

The top of your cover letter should include a header with your critical contact information, like:

• Your name and professional title.
• Your phone number.
• Your email address.
• Your LinkedIn profile link.

You can also include other relevant links. These could be to your portfolio website, GitHub, Medium profile, or other industry-specific resources. They will help the recruiter understand your skills.

Include the date, the recipient, the company name, and the address or location of the organization. (This will depend on whether it’s an in-person, hybrid, or remote environment.)

Below is an example of a cover letter including personal information in the header with the date and company information below. This example was created with the Jobscan Cover Letter Generator .

Use our Cover Letter Generator to save yourself time writing your cover letter. The header section will auto-populate based on your resume, so all the details match perfectly.

How to write a cover letter greeting

If you usually start your cover letters with “Dear Sir/Madam” or “To whom it may concern,” it’s time to reinvent your greetings. Not only is this a boring way to start a cover letter, it can come across as lazy.

With a little investigation, it’s easier than ever to find the names of the recruiters or hiring teams. By taking a little time, you can personalize your greeting to boost your chances of a recruiter reading your cover letter from start to finish.

Beat out the 84% of job seekers who don’t find the hiring manager’s name to personalize their applications and go the extra mile.

How can you find the right person to address in your cover letter?

Turn to LinkedIn or the organization’s website.

On LinkedIn, you can either search for the company’s recruiter or talent acquisition team members. Or you can go to the “People” tab of their LinkedIn page to explore the current employees.

Suppose you’re looking for a job at PCL Construction and want to find the name of the recruiter who will likely be reading your cover letter. You can go to the search bar and find the recruiter managing that department by city.

With just a quick search, you’ll find the hiring team members in charge of the role you’re applying for!

You can also go directly to a company’s website and look for the “Team” or “About Us” page for information.

Targeting a greeting to a specific person is easier to do in smaller organizations. If you’re applying for a role at a large company, you can still write an engaging but more general greeting on your cover letter, such as:

• Dear [Department] Hiring Manager,
• Dear [Department] Team,
• Dear [Director of or Head of] Department,
• Dear [Company Name] Hiring Manager,

How to write a powerful cover letter opening paragraph

Recruiters spend just seven seconds scanning a candidate’s application , so it’s critical to capture their attention in the first line.

Be concise in your cover letter and choose your words with the desired impact in mind. Avoid falling into the old traps of opening your cover letter by stating what role you’re applying for and how you found it. Remember, you have a precious few seconds to illustrate how you can help the organization fulfill its needs, so make every sentence count.

Read the examples below and ask which one will have a greater impact on employers.

“I am thrilled to apply for the Research Analyst position at YouGov, where my experience in leading market research projects that boosted client engagement by 25% and my expertise in data interpretation have consistently delivered actionable insights and strategic recommendations. Using my skills in analyzing primary research data, I’m looking forward to helping your organization make data-backed decisions to drive growth and profitability in your projects.”

“I am excited to apply for the Research Analyst position at YouGov, an esteemed global online research company well-known for its accurate data and market insights. With my background in managing market research projects, interpreting data, and delivering actionable recommendations, I believe I can contribute significantly to your team.”

The point of your cover letter isn’t just to restate your skills from your resume . You need to prove the impact of your skills and how you’ll bring that impact to the organization.

It’s not about you, it’s about the company’s needs.

Tips for writing a strong cover letter opener

Now that you know what puzzle pieces you need to start a cover letter right, here are some tips to help wow the recruiter with its content.

1. Let your enthusiasm and passion shine through

Your resume illustrates your skills and qualifications , but your cover letter is the place to tell a story. Share what company qualities excite you, what draws you to the organization’s mission or values, and what direct experience you have with the company’s product or service.

Communicating your enthusiasm gives the recruiter an idea of how engaged and dedicated you’ll be to your performance.

With over five years of hands-on experience in property management, I am deeply passionate about creating exceptional living experiences for residents. Your industry-leading services and premium standards in property management systems make me excited about the opportunity to bring my dedication and expertise to your esteemed team.

2. Mention any mutual connections

If you have a professional connection in the company or were referred to a position, name-drop that connection at the top of your cover letter. A connection can help boost your chances of getting an interview, especially if that person can act as a reference.

Give your connection a heads-up if you discovered the opportunity on your own without a referral. That way, if they’re asked about you informally by the hiring team, they’ll know to expect questions.

If you want to give your cover letter a boost with a connection, you can reach out to someone in the company before you apply. Be genuine and try to connect with someone on the team you would be working with. Ask an authentic question or reach out to discuss their experience in the company. Tell them you want to apply for an opening. But don’t try to reach out to anyone just to get a name to plug in your cover letter. It can come across as disingenuous.

My interest in the Health Systems Analyst role was significantly piqued after speaking with Jane Doe, an eHealth Policy Analyst at your organization. Jane highlighted the cutting-edge technology initiatives and collaborative atmosphere within your IT department, which align perfectly with my 7 years of experience in healthcare IT, focusing on electronic health records (EHR) systems and data security.

3. Incorporate your company research

Writing a compelling cover letter requires that you do some research to show the recruiter that you’re aligned with the company’s values, mission, and culture. You need to express to the recruiter why you want to work at their specific organization .

Keep an eye on industry news and learn about the company’s latest projects. By incorporating details about what the organization is currently achieving, you position yourself as a better interview candidate over other applicants.

Your recognition as an industry leader, demonstrated by winning the Best Employer Award for three consecutive years and your successful launch of the community outreach initiative, highlights [Company Name]’s dedication to both employee well-being and social responsibility. I have a track record of increasing employee satisfaction by 20% through strategic wellness programs and look forward to contributing to your continued success.

4. Highlight your most impressive achievement

A well-written resume illustrates your achievements , but your cover letter is the best vehicle to add context and tell a compelling story to show off your impact. You can directly tie it into the role you’re applying for and help the recruiter forge connections between what you have accomplished in the past to what you can achieve for the future—particularly for their company.

In my previous role as a project manager at Apex Management Co, I spearheaded a comprehensive cost-reduction initiative that saved $500,000 annually by optimizing supply chain operations and renegotiating vendor contracts. This accomplishment directly relates to the efficiency and budget management skills required for the Operations Manager position at your organization, where I am eager to contribute to your mission of streamlining processes and enhancing operational efficiency.

5. Clearly state your unique value

In a sea of applicants, it can feel difficult to set yourself apart. But the truth is, no one has the same combination of experience or skills you do. The key to standing out is learning how to frame your unique value to solve a company’s problems. Expand on the key skills listed in the job description and draw on your research of the organization to explicitly spell out how you’ll benefit the team.

With a unique blend of creative and technical skills, I designed a user interface for the HealthCo App that increased user engagement by 40% through user-centered design principles and rigorous usability testing. I am looking forward to bringing this expertise to your organization as a UX Designer, addressing your need for more engaging and intuitive user experiences, particularly as you expand your digital offerings.

6. Keep your cover letter short

Remember that you want the recruiter to read your cover letter from start to finish, so make sure every sentence is meaningful and cut out the fluff. There should be plenty of white space to break up the text and not overwhelm the reader.

Reference our cover letter examples for inspiration on crafting the perfect cover letter.

Let AI write your cover letter for you

Jobscan’s premium Power Edit includes a cover letter generator that harnesses the power of AI to write a customized cover letter based on your tailored resume and the job description. With one click, you’ll generate a cover letter that follows best practices.

You can use it as a framework to defeat blank page syndrome and include anecdotes, details about your mutual connections, and bits of information from your research to impress the hiring team. You can make any alterations in Power Edit and download the PDF when it’s done and ready to be attached to your tailored resume.

Key takeaways

Your cover letter could be the key to landing the interview. By following these essential tips on how to start a cover letter, you’ll capture the attention of the hiring team from the first sentence.

Remember these cover letter rules as you start your writing.

• Make a clear opening statement that shows passion, knowledge, and your unique value.
• Keep your cover letter short—stick to a few concise paragraphs to make it readable.
• Be specific and clear about what you’ll bring to the role.
• Stay away from humor—the tone can be difficult to read.
• Avoid reusing the same cover letter and write a custom cover letter for each job.
• Don’t overinflate your accomplishments or lie about connections that don’t exist.

When including your contact information on a cover letter or resume, make sure to provide the following details: Full Name: Your first and last name. Phone Number: A number where you can be easily reached. Make sure your voicemail is professional. Email Address: Use a professional email address, preferably one that includes your name. Mailing Address: Include your current street address, city, state, and zip code. LinkedIn Profile: If you have a LinkedIn profile that is up-to-date and professional, include the URL. Professional Website or Portfolio: If applicable, include a link to your personal website or online portfolio showcasing your work. This ensures potential employers have multiple ways to reach you and can view your professional online presence.

A good opening sentence for a cover letter can grab the reader’s attention and introduce your purpose for writing. Here are a few examples: For a job application: “I am excited to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. With my background in [your field or relevant experience ], I am eager to bring my skills and passion to your team.” For a career change: “With a strong foundation in [current field], I am thrilled to apply for the [Job Title] role at [Company Name] to leverage my skills in [new field].” For a specific achievement: “Having recently led a successful [project or achievement], I am enthusiastic about applying for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name] to bring my expertise in [specific skill or area] to your innovative team.” For expressing enthusiasm: “I have long admired [Company Name]’s commitment to [specific value or mission], and I am excited to apply for the [Job Title] position to contribute to your impactful work with my experience in [relevant experience or field].” For a networking referral: “After speaking with [Referrer’s Name], I am inspired to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name] where I can utilize my skills in [specific skill or area] to further your goals.” These starters aim to make a strong first impression by highlighting your enthusiasm, relevant skills, and connection to the company.

Your cover letter opening should contain the following key elements: Your Enthusiasm for the Position: Show genuine excitement and interest in the role you are applying for. This sets a positive tone and captures the reader’s attention. Specific Mention of the Job Title and Company Name: Clearly state the position you are applying for and the name of the company. This ensures the reader knows exactly what role you are interested in. Brief Introduction of Yourself: Include a concise introduction that highlights who you are and what you bring to the table. This can include your current role, relevant experience, or a key achievement. Connection to the Company: Mention something specific about the company that resonates with you, such as their mission, values, recent achievements, or reputation in the industry. This demonstrates that you have researched the company and are genuinely interested in working there. A Hook or Key Strength: Highlight a key skill or accomplishment that makes you a strong candidate for the position. This can be a significant achievement, a unique skill set, or relevant experience that sets you apart from other applicants. Here is an example that incorporates all these elements: “I am excited to apply for the Marketing Manager position at XYZ Company, where I can combine my passion for innovative marketing strategies with my skills in digital advertising. With over five years of experience in driving successful campaigns that increased brand awareness and sales, I am eager to bring my expertise to your dynamic team. I have long admired XYZ Company’s commitment to sustainability and innovative product development, and I am thrilled at the opportunity to contribute to your impactful work. My recent achievement in boosting social media engagement by 40% through targeted campaigns is a testament to my ability to drive results and my dedication to excellence.”

To start a cover letter greeting effectively, follow these guidelines: Address the Hiring Manager by Name: Whenever possible, find out the name of the hiring manager or the person responsible for hiring. Addressing the letter to a specific person shows that you have done your research and adds a personal touch. Use a Professional Salutation: Use a formal greeting such as “Dear” followed by the person’s title (Mr., Ms., Dr., etc.) and last name. Avoid using first names or informal greetings. When You Don’t Know the Name: If you cannot find the hiring manager’s name, use a general but professional greeting such as “ Dear Hiring Manager ” or “Dear [Department] Team.” Avoid Outdated Phrases: Refrain from using outdated or overly formal phrases like “To Whom It May Concern.” A modern, professional greeting is more effective. Examples: When you know the hiring manager’s name: “Dear Ms. Smith,” When you know the hiring manager’s title and department: “Dear Marketing Team Lead,” When you don’t know the hiring manager’s name: “Dear Hiring Manager,” When applying to a specific department: “Dear Marketing Team,” Starting your cover letter with a proper greeting sets a professional tone and demonstrates your attention to detail.

Kelsey is a Content Writer with a background in content creation, bouncing between industries to educate readers everywhere.

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How to Start a Cover Letter - 4 Tips for the Perfect Opening

Here you are, looking at a blank document that’s supposed to be your cover letter.

You have a general idea of what your cover letter is supposed to be about, but you’re having trouble writing those first few sentences.

We get you! Whether you’re writing your resume, an article, research paper, or a cover letter, getting started is sometimes the hardest part.

Lucky for you, though, there is a very straightforward way to get started with your cover letter, and in this article, we’re going to teach you how to do that!

Read on to learn how to effectively get started with your cover letter! 

• What should your cover letter opening contain
• What to include in your contact information
• How to start a cover letter greeting
• How to write an attention-grabbing opening paragraph
• 6 Examples of how to start your cover letter

What Should Your Cover Letter Opening Contain

To successfully get started with writing your cover letter, you should include these 3 main elements:

• The header with contact information. Includes your & the recipient’s contact information.
• The greeting to the manager. This is where you address the cover letter by greeting the hiring manager, department, or company.
• An attention-grabbing opening paragraph. The opening paragraph of your cover letter is your chance to grab the recruiters’ attention and get them to read the rest of your cover letter.

Below, we’ll teach you how to do each of them in the right way.

If you’re applying for an entry-level job and wondering what’s the best way to write your cover letter, head over to our article on entry-level cover letters . 

What to Include in Your Contact Information 

As we mentioned, the first thing to add to your cover letter opening is your contact information. 

The header’s essential information include the following: 

• Full name and professional title (if applicable)
• Phone number
• Email (a professional email, that is)

In some cases, you can also add the following: 

• Social media profiles. By this, we mean profiles that are relevant to the position. This includes websites like LinkedIn , GitHub (for developers), or Medium (for writers).
• Personal website. If you have a personal website you’ve created for your industry (i.e. you’re a writer with a blog), then make sure to include the link to your website on your cover letter.

After you’ve added your information, you should add the date and continue with the recipient’s name and address. So:

• Manager’s name
• Manager’s job title
• Company’s name
• Company’s street address

Once you’ve done this, here’s what your cover letter will look like:

And just like the essential DOs, there are also some things you should NOT include in your cover letter header: 

• Unprofessional email. It’s going to be difficult for a hiring manager to take you seriously if your email address is something you coined when you were still a teenager (i.e. [email protected] ). 

How to Start a Cover Letter Greeting

After you’ve properly listed your contact information, it’s time to start writing your cover letter. 

The first thing this includes is addressing the cover letter to the hiring manager. 

Yeap, that’s right! And by greeting the hiring manager, department, or company, we don’t mean using the old-fashioned “Dear Sir/Madam,” or “To whom it may concern.”

Instead, you want to show your future employer that you’ve done your fair share of research about the job/company and that you’re not just using one cover letter template to apply for ten jobs. After all, one of the most common mistakes job seekers do (84% of them!) is not finding the hiring manager’s name and personalizing the application.

So, make sure to address the hiring manager that’s going to review your manager directly. 

Now, there are a few ways you can do that. 

The simplest - and most obvious - option is to look up the head of the department you’re applying to on LinkedIn. 

Let’s assume that you’re applying as a Communications Specialist at Novoresume. The hiring manager is probably the Head of Communications or the Chief Communications Officer. 

After a quick LinkedIn lookup, you can probably find out who that person is (that’s me!). 

And just like that, you have your hiring manager! Piece of cake!

Not a fan of LinkedIn? You can also check the company’s website and look for the “Team” or " About Us " page.

If none of these work, consider using one of the following greetings when you’re addressing the hiring manager: 

• Dear [Department] Hiring Manager,
• Dear Hiring Manager, 
• Dear [Department] Team,
• Dear Director of [Department],
• Dear [Company Name] Hiring Team

How you conclude your cover letter is just as important as how you start it. To learn how to ace yours, head over to our guide on how to end a cover letter . 

How to Write an Attention-Grabbing Opening Paragraph

The last, but the most important, part of your cover letter opening is your opening paragraph. 

You want your opening paragraph to be engaging and attention-grabbing to ensure that the hiring manager will continue reading the cover letter.

After all, recruiters receive hundreds of applications daily. Obviously, they can’t spend all their working hours reading cover letters, so, instead, they simply skim your cover letter in a handful of seconds, and if it catches their attention, they re-read it more thoroughly.

And the part of the cover letter that helps catch their attention is usually the opening paragraph! 

Compare these 2 cover letter openers and judge for yourself which one you’d rather read:

Dear Mr. Brown,

My name is Anna and I’d like to help your company exceed its sales target as a Sales Manager. My 5-year experience as a Sales Representative at XYZ Inc. has given me substantial skills in sales. During my last year working there, we beat KPIs by around 50%. I believe that my strong track record in sales makes me the perfect candidate for the position. 

Hello, my name is Mary and I am interested in working as a Sales Manager for your company. I have 6 years of experience working as a Sales Manager for Company X, so I think I’m a good fit for the position. 

While there’s nothing inherently wrong with the first example, it’s not all that imaginative. Chances are, every other applicant is going to use a similar opening statement.

The second example, on the other hand, is more customized and personal, helping the recruiter understand why Anna is a good candidate for the role.

In this section we’ll give you all the tips & tricks you need to ace your cover letter introduction:

Tip #1. Show Passion and Commitment

Showing the hiring manager that you’re passionate about the job will instantly boost your chances of getting hired. It’s not a secret that committed employees are more engaged and, therefore, more productive.

After all, research shows that engaged employees are 17% more productive than their peers.  

So, it’s only logical that the hiring manager will greatly appreciate a candidate who shows commitment and enthusiasm. 

As such, these are both qualities that you want to showcase right from the start of your cover letter. Here’s an example of how you can do that:

I have been immersed with human rights since I specialized in Conflict Resolution and started working with Amnesty International. During my 5 years of experience in the field, however, I haven’t seen any organization do the work that you’ve accomplished with human rights. Your dedication makes me want to work for your organization and put my skills to use for the work you do. 

Tip #2. Mention a Mutual Contact (if Applicable)

If someone referred you to the position, the opening paragraph of your cover letter is a great place to mention that. 

Referrals are key to securing an interview, but at the same time they’re not something you can mention on your resume, so take the opportunity to let the recruiter know at the start of your cover letter. 

The idea is that if someone the hiring manager knows recommended you for the position, your skills and qualifications immediately become more credible.

I was excited to learn about this job opportunity from John Doe, who has worked at your firm for five years. John and I worked on an architectural project together for over one year and he thought I’d be a good fit for the role at Company X. 

Tip #3. Prove You Have Researched The Company 

A generic cover letter will not give you many points in the eyes of your potential employers. 

The recruiter reading your cover letter wants to know that you’re excited to be applying for that particular company , and you’re not just applying to dozens of jobs randomly, hoping that one will stick. 

As such, it’s very important to do some research about the company you’re applying for, and in the cover letter, mention why you’re a good culture fit. 

I have always admired the work that your organization does with vulnerable communities. I have always been passionate about social justice and I think the mechanisms you have in place to empower those in need are really making an impact. I believe my previous experience as a social worker could bring value to your mission.

Tip #4. Lead With An Achievement

There’s no better way to grab attention than to lead with an achievement. It immediately gives you credibility and makes the hiring manager curious to read more about you. 

To make sure your achievements stand out, though, do this:

• Whenever possible, make your achievements as quantifiable as possible. “Improved sales by 20% in 2 months” is more impressive than “improve sales.”
• Show how your past achievement is relevant or can add value to your current position. 

As a Public Relations representative for Company XYZ, I worked with the press to improve its reputation and public image. This translated into a 40% increase in customer satisfaction and better public reception of the company’s values and identity. I am eager to yield the same results as the Head of Communications in your organization. 

Tip #5. Start With a Powerful Belief

A short and impactful belief statement that represents your work ethic and professional values is another great way to attract the recruiter’s attention. Obviously, you get bonus points if said belief statement aligns with the company’s goals and objectives. 

However, don’t just copy-paste the company’s mission statement to make a good impression. Rather, use your own words and beliefs to sound more genuine and original.

As a teacher, I believe every child should have access to quality education early on. This is the only way to ensure future generations’ equity and the best chance we have at improving our society. I admire your institution’s commitment to enabling quality education in the most remote areas of our country and I’d be honored to contribute to those efforts by becoming a teacher here. 

Tip #6. Be Direct  

Oftentimes, beating around the bush gets you nowhere. So, a great strategy to follow when you start writing your cover letter is to just be direct about the position you’re applying for and the reasons you believe make you the perfect fit for the job. 

There’s another upside to this. Recruiters receive hundreds of applications daily - sometimes, even for different positions within the same department - so it helps them to know what position you’re applying for early on, as well as what exact qualifications make you the perfect fit for the job. 

I’d like to officially apply for the marketing manager position at Company X. Over the past 7 years, I’ve worked with 6 clients, helping them drive more than $2,000,000 worth of sales. I am confident that my marketing skills and proven sales results make me a perfect match for the position. 

Match your cover letter with your resume to make a better impression on the recruiter and reinforce your personal brand !

Key Takeaways 

And that’s a wrap! 

Hopefully, you’re now more confident about how you can start your cover letter!

Now, let’s do a small recap of the most important points we covered in the article:

• Your cover letter opening should contain a header with contact information, a greeting to the hiring manager, and an attention-grabbing opening paragraph.
• Your header should include your contact information, such as your name, phone number, and professional email, the date, as well as the contact information of the recipient.
• You should try to find the hiring manager’s full name in order to greet them. If you can’t find their name or title anywhere, then you should greet them using Dear Hiring Manager , Dear [Department] Team , or something similar.
• The opening paragraph of your cover letter should grab the hiring manager’s attention and make them want to read your cover letter. Some tips to write an attention-grabbing opening paragraph include being direct, starting with a strong belief statement, or leading with a relevant achievement.

Related Readings 

• How to Write a Cover Letter in 2024
• Cover Letter Tips 
• Cover Letter Mistakes
• Do I Need a Cover Letter?

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How to Start a Cover Letter That Gets You Your Dream Job

Published: May 22, 2024

Thousands of other job seekers are applying for your dream job. So, if you want to get hired, you must learn how to start a cover letter that makes you stand out from the crowd.

As someone who’s written several cover letters — including the one that landed me my dream job at HubSpot — I’ve found that a compelling cover letter introduction makes the hiring team excited to know more about you. That’s something a resume alone won’t do for you.

Today, I’ll show you how to start a cover letter that hooks employers at first glance.

Table of Contents

Cover Letter Opening Lines

How to start a cover letter for a job, contact information checklist for a cover letter.

I took some time to study the best cover letter examples , and one thing stood out to me: They all have compelling opening sentences.

To help you overcome writer’s block, I’ve put together some crisp cover letter opening lines so you can get your creative juices flowing.

• It’s uncanny how much the job posting describes me.
• Since [moment you were inspired], I have wanted to work in [company name].
• In [year], I generated [ballpark figure] in revenue, [figure] leads, and nearly tripled content marketing ROI for my previous employer.
• I knew I had to apply when I realized [company name] was hiring.
• I’m passionate about [industry]. That’s why I was thrilled to learn of [company name]’s incredible breakthrough on [breakthrough details].
• It’s likely that you don’t know me, but your client services team certainly does. Now, I’d like to join the vendor that made me a successful [type of profession].
• With my strong oral communication skills, I can effectively engage with clients to understand their needs and provide tailored solutions, ultimately driving customer satisfaction and retention for your company.
• I know you’re my current employer’s competitor. But why can’t we be friends?
• My role as a [current position] has given me a ton of experience in [relevant skill]. Accordingly, I’ve learned that the best way to achieve success is through [important lesson you learned].

Featured resource: 5 Free Cover Letter Templates

Start off your cover letter (and finish it) with a bang with 5 Free Cover Letter Templates . These fill-in-the-blank templates can help you impress recruiters and land your next job interview.

5 Free Cover Letter Templates

Five fill-in-the-blank cover letter templates to help you impress recruiters.

• Standard Cover Letter Template
• Entry-Level Cover Letter Template
• Data-Driven Cover Letter Template

Download Free

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Click this link to access this resource at any time.

The Dos of Starting a Cover Letter

I used to think my writing was the secret sauce that made my cover letters stand out. But over time, I realized there were other elements that really brought them to life.

Based on my experience, here are some things I recommend doing:

• Indicate interest in the company. It’s obvious you’re interested in the job. But how interested are you in the company? I always go the extra mile by explaining why I’m drawn to the company — more on this later.
• Stand out from the crowd. Show the hiring team what makes you better than other applicants. Here’s where I highlight my skills, passion, and accomplishments.
• Dig into the company. Once you understand the company culture, goals, and values, you’ll know how to adjust your tone accordingly.
• Keep your sentences short. I get it — you have a lot to write about yourself. Aim for the least amount of words, though. Three to four paragraphs is the magic number. Always works for me!
• Address the hiring manager by name. Here’s your chance to cut through the “dear sir/ma’am” clutter in your salutation. LinkedIn and company websites always come in handy when I want to get a hiring manager’s name without contacting the company directly.

The Don’ts of Starting a Cover Letter

When writing a cover letter , here are some things to avoid if you want to land a job interview faster:

• Avoid information dumps. I know you’re proud of your skills and accomplishments, and you should be. But instead of overwhelming the hiring manager with loads of information, highlight the value you bring to the company.
• Don’t sound arrogant. There’s a thin line between confidence and arrogance. So, instead of making bold claims about your qualifications, quantify your accomplishments and present yourself as an enthusiastic team player.
• Don’t highlight your weaknesses. Instead of apologizing for a lack of specific qualifications, focus on your strengths and show how you’ll provide value to the company.
• Don’t forget to proofread. If your cover letter needs a second pair of eyes, go for it. Typos and grammatical errors can portray incompetence, so normalize asking your friends and family for help.
• Don’t copy and paste your resume. You shouldn’t list all your hard skills and experience in a cover letter — that’s what your resume is for. Instead, present unique selling points you wouldn’t include in your resume.
• Don’t be cliché. Avoiding clichés involves describing what makes you unique . For example, instead of writing, “I have excellent oral skills,” explain how you’ve used those skills to accomplish something in a previous role. For instance, “My excellent oral skills and unique storytelling abilities helped me close 40% more deals and bag the Salesperson of the Year Award in my previous role.”

• Share a quantifiable accomplishment.
• Mention something they don’t know.
• Start with facts or news about the company.
• Mention a mutual connection.
• Share a lesson you’ve learned in your career.
• Start with your mission statement.
• Express passion for what you do.
• State your unique value proposition.
• Start with excitement about the company.
• Start with an element of surprise.

A cover letter is a lot like a professional bio — it highlights your expertise and accomplishments. The difference is that while a bio is static, a cover letter is tailored to a specific role, which means you’ll need to impress the hiring manager from the get-go.

When starting a cover letter for a job, here are ten methods I recommend.

1. Share a quantifiable accomplishment.

It isn’t enough to mention you’re a “digital marketer with proven success in SEO strategies.” Proven success? Okay, where’s the proof?

Don’t expect the hiring manager to just take your word for it. Toss in some stats instead. How have you contributed to your company’s bottom line? Did your Facebook marketing campaign grow your social media following, or has your blog content increased organic traffic?

Unsurprisingly, while researching this topic, I found that I’m not the only one who believes in starting a cover letter with a quantifiable accomplishment.

Corissa Peterson , a certified resume writer at Resume Genius says, “When a candidate quantifies their accomplishments, it tells me that they get the importance of results and business impact. In our business, it’s all about the results.”

Sure, past success doesn’t guarantee future results, but employers love seeing numbers anyway — stats mean measurable performance.

“Over the past year as a digital marketing manager at [company name], I’ve generated over $25,000 in revenue, increased organic website traffic by 15%, and tripled our social media ROI.”

Why This Works

Employers want to see whether you’re capable of achieving long-term results. By including stats, this candidate goes straight to the point and gives employers just what they’re looking for.

Pro tip: Not all achievements are quantifiable. If you don’t have the work experience to report impressive numbers, I recommend a qualitative approach. Ever received positive feedback from your boss? That counts!

2. Start with something they don’t know.

Hiring managers are busy people. So, I wouldn’t waste their time when applying for a job. That’s why I never state the obvious. They already know I’m writing to apply for the open position at their company, and my resume highlights everything they need to know about my job history and educational background. Why waste my opener on something so boring?

In my years of experience, I’ve learned it’s an instant rejection. So, I start my cover letters by offering something new, expanding on what the employer already knows about me, and presenting new details about what I can bring to the company.

“My resume will tell you I’m a certified content marketer. Your records will tell you I’ve interviewed for a few different [company name] positions in the past. What neither of these will tell you is that I’ve been working with your customer success team to build a new campaign strategy for my company — one of your newest (and largest) clients.”

The candidate steals the show with a unique intro that demonstrates they’re not interested in wasting anyone’s time. Not even theirs. This impressive tactic effuses the kind of confidence that makes other cover letters pale in contrast to yours.

3. Start with facts or news about the company.

You can’t go wrong with company news and facts in your first sentence. These little add-ons show you’ve done your research about the company.

I love including company news in my cover letters because it allows me to incorporate my own values. For example, if a company I’m interested in wins an award for its high-tech solutions, I can sprinkle in a few words about how much I value technological advancements.

Besides facts and news, here are other things worth including in your opening sentence:

• Recently released studies, surveys, or reports.
• Prevailing challenges in the company.
• Technologies the company is currently using.

Let’s see how to start a cover letter by mentioning a newsworthy event.

“When I saw that [company name] was featured in Fortune Magazine last month for its commitment to renewable energy and reducing waste in the workplace — all while experiencing triple-digit revenue growth — I was inspired.”

Not many job applicants will even think of including newsworthy events in their cover letters, so this candidate is off to a great start by mentioning the company’s most recent wins.

4. Mention a mutual connection.

If an internal employee suggested you apply for a role at their company, don’t be shy to include this in your cover letter opening line. However, you’ll need to get their permission first. I find this helpful because it lets me build a sense of familiarity with the hiring manager.

According to Gitnux Marketdata Report 2024 , 70% of employers share my sentiments; they believe referred employees fit better with their company culture.

That being said, be tactful with your approach. When mentioning a mutual contact, I always make sure it’s more than just a name drop but something that adds value to my cover letter.

For instance, I provide context by highlighting how my relationship with the person has prepared me for the role. And if there are any shared values that make me an ideal candidate, I mention them as well.

According to Jess Munday , the people and culture manager of Custom Neon , “the risks of mentioning someone include the possibility that the connection might not have a positive relationship with the hiring manager or may not endorse the candidate as strongly as assumed.”

To mitigate these risks, Jess suggests confirming the connection has a good professional relationship with the hiring manager.

“At the suggestion of my former colleague, [colleague’s name], I’m submitting my resume for the graphic designer position and [company name]. I worked with [colleague’s name] at [previous company name]. She referred me to this job because she believes my proficiency in Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator makes me a great fit for the role.”

There was no beating around the bush here. The applicant seized the first opportunity to hook the hiring manager’s attention by mentioning a mutual contact. It’ll get them wondering how much of an asset the person is. That’s the kind of curiosity that gets you hired.

5. Share a lesson you’ve learned in your career.

Learned something noteworthy in your previous job? Let’s hear it. Employers expect some level of expertise from their employees. Well, unless you’re applying for an entry-level job.

If you want to impress employers, spice up your cover letter opening line with a lesson you’ve learned in your career. Let’s see an example of this tip in action.

“As a [previous job position] with high-level management experience in the [industry], I’ve learned that the best way to boost conversions was to [biggest lesson you’ve learned].”

Notice how this candidate demonstrates their ability to learn and adapt? They sure are committed to professional development. That’s a surefire way to stand out from the rest!

6. Start with your mission statement.

I’m a big advocate of applying for a role that aligns with my values. So, I wouldn’t want to work in an organization whose vision and mission I don’t share. Our goals must align to a great extent. It helps me strike a healthy work-life balance that contributes to my overall job satisfaction.

If you don’t already have a personal mission statement , you might want to take some time to create one. I’d recommend checking out personal brand statement examples or LinkedIn profiles of industry leaders for inspiration.

Bryan J. Driscoll , owner of Bryan J. Driscoll, JD, LLC , says, “Opening with a personal mission statement […] isn’t about grandiose declarations of intent but about succinctly aligning one’s professional purpose with the organizational mission.”

Bryan further provides an example of how to start a cover letter using a personal mission statement.

“Driven by a commitment to foster inclusive work environments, I’ve dedicated my career to developing HR policies that not only comply with legislation but celebrate diversity — reflecting the company’s core values.”

The candidate doesn’t stop at mentioning what motivates them. They take things one step further by linking their motivation to the company’s core values. They’re essentially telling the hiring manager, “I know the importance of this role, so I won’t slack off on it.”

7. Express passion for what you do.

When researching this article, I was surprised to find that companies spend almost $4,700 to recruit new talent. So, I don’t blame recruiters for using strict screening methods to choose the right candidate for each role. And part of what makes you suitable is your passion.

Passionate employees are more likely to be content with their jobs and stay longer in their positions than discontent employees. In my case, I’ve been a seasoned writer at HubSpot for over six years, and my passion for storytelling is one of the things that keeps me going.

So, if I want to express passion for what I do, I’ll include at least one of these things in my cover letter:

• What inspires me.
• What I enjoy doing.
• My career goals.

Then, I’ll link my passion to the role I'm applying for. The example below demonstrates how to achieve this.

“My proficiency in using design tools like Adobe Photoshop aside, what truly drives me is the power of telling stories through compelling visuals. I enjoy consuming complex information, breaking it down, and presenting it in a simple-to-understand, colorful visual that resonates with my target audience.”

Every job applicant will boast about their skills. Only a few, like this one, will truly express genuine passion for what they do. It’s a breath of fresh air that hiring managers will really appreciate.

8. State your unique value proposition.

Because hiring managers receive hundreds of job applications, they may spend less than 30 seconds reading each cover letter to find out how each candidate can provide value to the company. Why not make their job easier by writing your unique value proposition upfront?

It’s not enough to just state your hard skills. Instead, highlight how your skills, accomplishments, and experience make you a valuable asset to the organization.

George Moulos , managing director of Ecommerce Brokers , shares this sentiment. He says, “Simply listing skills in a cover letter can come across as generic and impersonal. Effectively highlighting skills involves connecting them to the specific needs and goals of the company.”

In the example below, George demonstrates how to start a cover letter by highlighting what you bring to the table.

“With my strong communication skills, I can effectively engage with clients to understand their needs and provide personalized solutions, ultimately driving customer satisfaction and retention for your company.”

I love how concise this intro is! Plus, the candidate shows they understand the requirements of the customer-facing role they’re applying for. Looks like a win to me.

9. Start with excitement for the company.

It makes sense to mention why you’re interested in the role you’re applying for. But to hiring managers, that’s just another bland section of a cover letter. Tell them why you’re excited to work for the company, and you’ll totally blow them away.

For instance, if I’m applying for a content writing role, I could say, “I’m excited to work at [company name] because I’m passionate about content writing, and I think my skills and experiences will be a good match.”

Sure, I’ve expressed my passion for the job, but I’ve done nothing to explain why the company specifically suits my interests. So, instead, I’ll want to highlight how my expertise relates to the company’s goals.

“When I discovered [company name] was hiring, I knew I had to apply. I’m excited to find a company where I can use my content writing expertise to generate organic traffic. I’ve gone through the feedback of past and current employees on Glassdoors, and your organizational culture is something I can seamlessly fit into.”

Employers want to hire people who are excited about working for them. I like how the candidate shows they appreciate the organizational culture, proving that it’s not just about the money — they’re genuinely interested in the company.

10. Start with an element of surprise.

Imagine if you had to flip through a hundred cover letters a day, and each one began with the same cliché phrase: “I’m writing to express interest in…”

Boring, right? It’ll be easy for such applications to get lost in the clutter. That’s exactly what you don’t want to happen in your job search.

Hiring teams need a break from cliché cover letter opening lines. So, you’ll be at an advantage if you quickly build intrigue from the first line. It spurs them to keep reading.

One thing I’ve learned, though, is that if you start your cover letter with an element of surprise, you need to follow it up with some concrete information.

“I like to think of myself as a round peg thriving in a square hole kind of world. What does this mean? It means that my diverse background makes me a well-rounded candidate who is able to comprehend, develop, and execute various functions in business.”

Finally, a cover letter where the job applicant’s personality shines through! That’s something you don’t see every day. When hiring managers feel like a real person is behind a job application, they’ll want to keep reading.

In some cases, you’ll submit your cover letter separately from your resume. So, you need to make sure the hiring manager can reach you if the need arises. That’s why I always double-check to confirm I’ve included my contact information and everything else that belongs in the header.

Here’s a checklist I swear by:

• Your full name.
• Your phone number.
• Your email address.
• Your location.
• Name of the recipient.
• Job title of the recipient.
• Company name.
• Company address.

After you’ve written a good cover letter, though, your resume can determine whether or not you make it to an interview. So, learning how to write a resume is just as important as polishing your cover letter writing skills.

If you want to boost your chances of getting your dream job , I’d recommend following our ultimate resume-writing checklist , straight from recruiters.

Crafting a Compelling Cover Letter

When making a career change, learning how to start a cover letter is a soft skill worth gaining. It can significantly boost your job search and help you land multiple interviews.

If you want to craft a great cover letter in half the time it’ll take to write one from scratch, the cover letter formats I provided earlier are all you need. Whether you want to write a skimmable cover letter or a data-driven one, you’ll find unique formats you can customize to get your dream job.

Remember the dos and don’ts I outlined? They’ll come in handy whether you write a cover letter from scratch or use a template. While there’s no hard and fast rule, following these tips will help your job application stand out from the rest.

Don't forget to share this post!

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How to Start a Cover Letter That Grabs Attention

11 min read · Updated on August 03, 2021

Get your cover letter off to a strong start by addressing it appropriately, greeting your reader, and writing a memorable opening sentence.

In this age of digital job postings and applicant tracking systems, many believe that a cover letter is no longer expected or necessary--but thinking this can put your job application at risk. It's imperative to know how to write a cover letter , and how to do it well.

While there are many mixed messages out there about cover letters, one that's well-written can still put you ahead of other job candidates and sometimes be the deciding factor that gets you hired in that it gives the hiring person a good first impression of you. 

In fact, unless the job posting specifically states that no cover letter is required (in which case the posting instructions take precedence), you should always plan to include a cover letter with your application.

What is a well-written cover letter ? One that grabs attention right from the start with the correct company name and address, the proper greeting, and a memorable opening sentence.  

Addressing a cover letter (including an email)

Always place the company's name and address just before the greeting. If at all possible, find and include the name of the recruiter or hiring manager. (More on this coming up.) 

Use the same heading, font type, and font size as your resume to create a feeling of organization and flow. 

As for your name and contact information, there are several acceptable options. Remember that your name is the thing that immediately grabs attention, so make sure it's there along with the contact details. 

Add only your name, phone number, and email address just above the company information as shown below. This gives a recruiter two ways to contact you at a glance. Leave a space between the end of your information and the start of the section with the company's details. 

Here is an example of the layout:

[Your Name]

[Contact Phone Number]

[Email Address]

[Name of Recruiter/Hiring Manager]

[Street Address]

[City, State ZIP]

Dear [Name],

Or you can choose to add more information if you like.

Use your name, full address, phone number, and email address in this same space at the top.

[Your Street Address]

[Your Contact Phone Number]

[Your Email Address]

Use either Option 1 or 2 under your signature line at the bottom of the cover letter.

When I was a recruiter, I liked having all the candidate's information all  in the same place rather than broken up between the top and bottom of the cover letter, so I suggest choosing one or the other. It just makes life easier for the person (or system) reviewing your cover letter. 

This information would generally be on a separate cover letter attached to an email. In this case, keep your email brief, and simply use a closing (Sincerely) with your first and last name at the end of the email.

However, if the email is actually the cover letter then choose one of the options above and use it in the actual email.

The correct cover letter greeting

Believe it or not, this can be what ends your job prospects with that particular organization. People take pride in their names and in their gender status. Depending on the hiring person, they could feel insulted if you get it wrong, especially because you might have found this information with a little research or didn't opt for something gender neutral.

Use the hiring manager's name

You can find the hiring person's name in any number of places. Here's an excerpt from another TopResume cover letter article with more detailed information.

If you're not given the name of the hiring manager, here are some effective ways to discover their name by using:

The job description: Check this document for the hiring manager's name. While it's not generally listed, you never know. If it's not obvious, there's also a trick to quickly discover an email in the job description that might contain the name; while in the document, press Ctrl +F or run Command + F and search for the @ symbol.

An email address: If you discover an email address, it may not have a full name but rather a first initial and last name or just a first name like [email protected] or [email protected]. A Google search combining the person's name as shown in the email and the company name might find you the person's full name.

 A LinkedIn post: A name connected to the LinkedIn job posting is probably that of the hiring professional who posted it, so use that name in your greeting.

The supervisor's title: It's more likely that a job description will list who the new hire will report to — such as the director of accounting — without listing a name. In this case, there are several search options:

Search the company's website for listings of staff members by title.

Run an advanced LinkedIn or Google search for all directors of accounting at that specific company.

Check with your network for someone who might know the person's name or search the appropriate professional networking sites.

Contact the company by phone or email. Tell them you're applying for [job title] and want to address your cover letter to the right person.

Use job titles/department names if necessary

When asked about how to address a cover letter effectively , one of our TopResume Writers states, “ As a general rule, I always stay away from anything approaching 'To Whom it May Concern' (this may be obvious).”

Next, unless you are absolutely sure of the person's gender or gender preference, don't use “Mr.” or “Ms.” in your greeting. I also advise against using “Mrs.” at any time, since you generally can't discern a woman's marital status. 

You can also use the person's job title if you have it along with their last name: 

Hello Director Smith

Greetings Vice President Jones

Hi Accounting Manager Johnson

If you only have the person's job title or their general department from the job description, consider these options:

Dear Head of Design

Hello IT Department

To Company ABC Recruiter/Hiring Professional

Hello Marketing Hiring Team

Greetings Customer Support Hiring Group

Professional titles such as “Professor” or “Dr.” are definitely acceptable as a cover letter salutation and should be used with last names as a sign of respect. Be on the lookout for these and other titles to include.

If after all this you still don't have a name, job title, or department name, simply use Dear Hiring Manager.

Stay Professional

There's another less-common scenario worth mentioning: You already know and are on a first-name basis with the hiring manager. In this situation, I recommend staying with a formal greeting using the person's last name. 

You never know who else is going to see your cover letter, and accusations of potential favoritism (even if false) will hurt both you and the hiring manager. Always be professional in the hiring process.

Never Leave It Blank

All these greeting options may seem awkward, but they are much better than using the wrong name or gender in your greeting, or worse: adding no greeting at all. 

There's no reason to leave the greeting blank when there are so many options that can be used effectively in how you write your cover letter. Including a greeting, even a general one, will impress any hiring professional and greatly improve your chances of moving along in the hiring process.

Punctuate properly

In truth, it doesn't really matter what punctuation you use in your cover letter greeting. Generally a comma or a colon are equally acceptable after the person's name. However, don't include a comma between the words of greeting ( Dear/Hello/Greetings ) and the person's name and/or title.

This is correct for both a separate cover letter and an email as a cover letter.

Check (and check again) before you hit “send”

As a job applicant, it's generally fine to re-use the same cover letter for similar or even non-similar positions. However, you must make it a habit to review each cover letter thoroughly before you submit it.

Double and triple check that you've used the correct hiring manager name/company in both the address area and the greeting. The minute a recruiter/hiring manager sees a different name and company than their own, the cover letter--along with your resume and hopes for that job--will be thrown in the trash.

Next, be sure the position title matches the company. You might get by with this mistake, but a good recruiter will catch it and potentially toss your application.

Finally, review the body of the letter to know that you've included the right set of experience and skills for that job. The section below offers more details on this.

Crafting a great opening sentence

Your cover letter opening sentence should make it obvious to the reader that you're applying for that company's specific position. 

This means you should include the job title in your first line. “Always include the position you are applying for,” says TopResume writer Brandon C. “Customize this sentence to make the rest of the cover letter feel custom as well - even if there is nothing else that you change as you use it for different applications.” 

If the positions you're after are very similar, there's really no need to change other parts of the letter except the hiring manager name and position title--but it's always in your best interests to make sure.

When cover letter changes matter

Start by reviewing all your job descriptions against each other, looking closely and the skill requirements. If it appears that each job is looking for pretty much the same skills and experience, you can use the one cover letter for each of those applications (remembering to change the specifics mentioned above).

However, if you spot any major difference in what's required for each role you will want to change each cover letter to point out that you possess those specific skills and qualifications. If a company wants product development experience and you don't show them that or show completely unrelated skills from a generic cover letter, you likely won't get the job.

Also, check the education requirements for each role, and adjust that accordingly on your cover letter.

Once you have a basic cover letter, it only takes a few minutes to review and change any parts that show you to be a well-qualified candidate for the job.

Good opening sentence examples 

Here are some additional examples of strong cover letter opening sentences from TopResume writers.

I like to begin by introducing the customer as who they are as a professional, including their line of work and a few adjectives. For example: "As an executive product development professional with a passion for transforming new concepts into finalized, breakthrough products and solutions, I am an ideal candidate for your (Job Title) opening."

If someone is a recent grad or new to the workforce, I tend to highlight their recent degree, a few transferable skills, and/or their passion for whatever industry they're trying to tap into.

Niki Beaulieu, Senior Resume Writer

I would always recommend something along the lines of, "As a dedicated and established leader in (career field) with a passion for driving (specialty) operations, I eagerly submit the attached resume in hopes of joining your organization as a valuable member of your (specified field) team."

This is of course just one example, and this particular opening could be broken up in a multitude of ways as well.

Brandon C., TopResume Writer

There are a variety of ways to create your opening sentence, but as the above examples show you should include whatever specifics make sense and will get you noticed, including:

Your current or desired career field

Specific skills applicable to the job

Related work experience

Related education

On-going career goals

And it bears repeating: Always include the correct position title, company name, and greeting.

One final note: Since this article focuses on starting a cover letter, you might want to check out some good sources on how to effectively complete the cover letter , including additional paragraphs and the best way to close your letter. You might also want to review another great article on how to avoid cover letter mistakes .

To sum up, hiring managers do read cover letters , so always plan to include one with your application. It will help you stand out from the crowd and improve your chances of getting hired.

Is your cover letter is cutting it?  Our resume writers don't just help you with your resume . 

Recommended Reading:

What You Should Include in a Cover Letter For a Job  

Ask Amanda: How Do I Write a Great Cover Letter?

• How to Address a Cover Letter to Recruiter or Hiring Manager

Related Articles:

High-Paying Careers: No Degree Required - Discover Now!

7 Best Problem-Solving Skills for Your Resume + Examples

7 best time management skills on a resume (with examples)

See how your resume stacks up.

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How to Start a Cover Letter: 7 Great Cover Letter Openings (+Examples)

Beginnings are always hard. The same goes for writing a cover letter. You know exactly what you want to say, but you’re not sure how to start a cover letter.

Generally speaking,  the cover letter intro is a place where you should:

• introduce yourself in detail
• explain why the job is exciting for you
• show you’re a great fit for the position

Of course, there’s no single right way to do it. That means that you’ve got multiple options and can get a little creative.

Whether you’re looking for a traditional cover letter introduction, or something more unconventional, you’ll find it in this article — together with a quick guide and cover letter openings examples.

Alternatively, you can also just watch this quick video guide on how to write a cover letter below.

Successful cover letter introductions (examples)

We’ve gathered some really good opening lines from successful cover letters that got people hired in well-known companies such as HubSpot, Siemens, or Lush:

HubSpot Director of Business Development Cover Letter Sample

Account Executive Cover Letter Intro Sample

Sales Associate at LUSH Cover Letter Intro Example

Siemens SCADA Engineer Cover Letter Intro Template

Warner Bros. Public Relations Intern Cover Letter Example

Do you want to know how to craft such a strong cover letter opening yourself? Follow a quick guide below.

And if you prefer to see more examples from hired professionals or find a job-specific cover letter example for your industry, visit our  cover letter library .

Intro paragraph: a quick guide on how to start a cover letter

When it comes to cover letter openings, rule number one is that you should always start your cover letter in a way that grabs a recruiter’s attention from the get go.

On the other hand, be careful and stay professional. Don’t overdo it.

So the question is — when should you pick a standard opening paragraph and when to go with something more creative?

Well, it all depends on a particular job and the company culture .

Take time to research each company where you’re applying for a job and identify its tone of voice.

Are they formal or casual? Look at the job description, their website, and social media accounts and you’ll be able to get the right idea.

Then in your cover letter opening, follow at least one of these 7 main principles :

1. Be direct

Employers are busy people who usually don’t have time to read long texts or overused  cover letter phrases . What they want to know is simply whether you’re a good fit. Why not make it easier for them and be specific from the very beginning?

Let them know what position you’re applying for and use your cover letter opening to highlight years of experience in your field and any relevant  hard or soft skills   you bring to the table.

It’s a universal, yet effective answer to how to start a cover letter.

Cover Letter Intro Example #1

I am very interested in the Sales Specialist opportunity at [Company XYZ] that was advertised on LinkedIn. I am a hard-working and dedicated individual with over two years of extensive industry experience, a Business & Management degree from McGill University, and a strong determination to meet and exceed all business goals and objectives.

2. Respond to the company’s needs

Employers want to know how you can contribute to their company. The first paragraph of the cover letter is a great place to demonstrate that.

Have a look at the job offer, go over the company’s needs, and pick those that you can easily relate to.

Then take a look at your achievements and impressive skills, and use them to illustrate how you can bring value to the new job. Ideally by mentioning any quantifiable results from your previous jobs.

Cover Letter Intro Example #2

Over the course of last year, I more than doubled [Company XYZ]’s Twitter followers and ran two successful Instagram ad campaigns that generated $35K+ in revenue. I’d love to bring my expertise in organically expanding the social reach and delivering ROI to the social media manager position at [Company XYZ].

3. Include company facts and news

Companies want to see that you’re interested in them and their industry. If you show that you already know about them and have done your research, you can make a great first impression.

Browse their website and scour the internet for related news articles. They can provide you with interesting facts that pertain to your role.

It can be anything — a specific event, fact, notable statistic, or an award that the company has recently received.

Cover Letter Intro Example #3

When I saw that [Company XYZ] was featured in Fortune Magazine last month for its commitment to renewable energy and reducing waste in the workplace, I was truly inspired. With my track record of reducing costs by over 30% and promoting sustainable technologies, I’m excited about the opportunity to take on the account executive role to expand your company’s growth and work towards a greener future.

4. Highlight a mutual connection

Referrals can work like magic when it comes to getting invited to a  job interview . So if someone has recommended you for a position or you know anyone at the company who can vouch for you, mention their name right away.

After reading your cover letter, recruiters will most likely want to learn why your referrer thought you’d be a good fit. If nothing else, it will make recruiters pay attention to the rest of your cover letter.

Cover Letter Intro Example #4

I was excited to learn of this job opportunity from my former colleague, Lucy May. We’ve worked closely together for several years, most recently on a complex data analysis project at [Company XYZ]. She advised me to apply as she thought I’d be a good match for this position on your team.

5. Show passion for what you do

Employers love job candidates who are enthusiastic about what they do. These candidates tend to perform better and are more dedicated to their roles.

So if you’re all hyped up about your job, don’t hesitate to infuse your cover letter with a couple of sentences demonstrating your excitement about what you’re doing.

Cover Letter Intro Example #5

I knew I had a knack for writing ever since I was the main editor of our high school magazine. Thanks to my 15+ years of experience, I’ve transformed my passion into a fashion blog with 30K+ monthly readers, featured articles on Time and Cosmopolitan that have garnered over 50K views, and a writer’s workshop I founded for young up-and-coming writers.

6. Open with a relevant accomplishment

Hiring managers like achievers. If you’ve accomplished something noteworthy while with your previous employer, there’s a good chance you can bring the same value to your next job too.

What’s more, it shows that you’re an expert in your field.

If you have any special skills or accomplishments that will make you stand out from other job candidates, mention them right away in your cover letter opening.

However, try to make no general claims without providing evidence. Support your arguments with real numbers and statistics.

Cover Letter Intro Example #6

Over the past year as digital marketing manager at [Company XYZ], I’ve generated $50k+ in revenue, increased organic traffic to our blog by 18%, and almost tripled our social media ROI.

7. Use humor and creativity

Recruiters are human beings, too (shocking). In a pile of boring resumes and repetitive  cover letters and motivation letters , they may find a good joke, juicy pun, or funny opening line a nice refreshing break.

It can even be a reason to call you up for an interview.

So if the company seems to have an easygoing vibe, use humor to bring attention to your skills or relevant personal traits that are needed for the position you’re targeting.

Cover Letter Intro Example #7

Before I flood you with all the reasons why I’m going to be your next writer, I would like to tell you a little about myself. I didn’t learn to hold a pencil until I was about six years old, which made everyone think I’d never pen a single letter. And now here I am, bidding to become your next Shakespeare.

Cover letter beginning: What other things to include?

Now that you saw some great examples of cover letter openings, you may wonder what else can you do to perfect your cover letter introduction.

Well, there are a few other key elements that a good cover letter beginning should include :

• contact information both for you and the company
• headline (optional)
• personalized greeting

To know where to put this information, just scroll down.

Find out your resume score!

This is the place for your and your company’s contact information.

Make sure that right at the top of the page you list your contact details such as:

• phone number

Optionally, you can also include:

• your professional title
• date of birth
• current date
• personal website/LinkedIn

Additionally, never forget to add company-related information . You should always include the manager’s recruiter’s name (if it was made available to you), job title department, the name of the company, and their address.

Left align all of this information. Or make it easy for yourself and choose a pre-designed  cover letter template   and only fill in the details.

Headline (optional)

You don’t have to include it, but it can help you grab the hiring manager’s attention.

In your cover letter headline, you can use numbers, questions, or interesting adjectives .

It can be something like “5 Ways I Can Help You Improve Your Company’s Marketing.”

Alternatively, you can just state the name of the position you’re applying for.

Salutation (or how to address a cover letter)

Try to avoid using “To Whom it May Concern” or “Dear Sir/Madam” . This form of address, while correct, has become so overused it won’t help you stand out at all.

Instead, try to research the hiring manager’s name online . Look at the job posting, and check the company’s website or  LinkedIn . (Did you know that you can turn your LinkedIn profile into a great resume  with just one click?)

Alternatively, you can address it to the whole team or HR.

Generally, stick to these rules:

• How to address a cover letter to a recruiter or hiring manager:  The best practice is to use a personalized greeting in the following form: “Dear [first name]” or “Dear Mr./Mrs. [last name]” for formal companies.
• How to address a cover letter to multiple recipients: If you’re addressing your cover letter to the entire team or human resources, you can use “Dear [name of the company/department] Team” or “Dear Human Resources” .
• How to address a cover letter to an unknown person: If you fail to find the hiring manager’s name and don’t want to address your cover letter to an entire team or HR, use “Dear Hiring Manager” , or “Dear Recruitment Officer” .

After the salutations, you can continue with an attention-grabbing intro paragraph.

HR expert tip: Christy’s word of advice

“In general, a traditional formal cover letter is the safest bet. But there are times when you can totally throw that advice out the window and have a bit of fun putting your personality on paper! Take a look at how the company brands its ‘voice’ on its website and in the job description. Do they sound relaxed and personality-driven? Is formality anathema to them? If yes, don’t be afraid to reciprocate (while still keeping it professional). After all, you’re not just applying for a job: you’re applying to be part of the company’s culture”. —  Christy Morgan, Resident HR Expert

Key takeaways: How to begin a cover letter

To sum up — the beginning of your cover letter will determine whether the hiring managers will read the rest of it or not.

If you want them to pay attention to what you have to say, make sure your cover letter opening:

• Uses a personalized greeting
• Says who you are
• Shows you’re passionate about the job or the company
• Highlights your top (and relevant) accomplishments and skills
• Mentions a mutual contact
• Reflects the company’s tone of voice
• Is tailored to a specific position and company’s needs
• Uses keywords from the job description
• Is short, nice, and direct

Of course, the rest of your cover letter is important too.

If you’d like to know what to write in the rest of your letter, check out our complete  cover letter guide , get inspired by  cover letter examples , or learn how to  end a cover letter .

This article was recently updated. The original article was written by Nikoleta Žišková in 2021.

Kaja Jurčišinová

Kaja Jurcisinova is a fresh graduate and a junior copywriter at Kickresume. Kaja completed her undergraduate degree in Art History at the University of St Andrews in 2018 and graduated with a Master’s in Arts and Culture from the University of Groningen in 2021. She was an intern at multiple cultural institutions across Europe, including the Dutch Museum Association in Amsterdam, the Matter of Art Biennale in Prague, and the European Cultural Centre in Venice. At the moment, she resides in Visby on the Swedish island of Gotland.

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25 Cover Letter Opening Examples to Make an Impact

A compelling cover letter is essential for making a strong first impression on potential employers. One of the most critical components of an effective cover letter is the opening line, which sets the tone for the entire document and grabs the attention of hiring managers. To help you craft the perfect introduction for your cover letter, we've compiled a list of 25 powerful opening lines tailored to various industries and roles. These examples will inspire you to create an engaging and memorable opening that showcases your own skills, experience, and enthusiasm for the position.

25 Example Cover Letter Opening Lines:

These are mere samples that you can start of from with your own opening lines. They are meant to inspire and help you aide your own, personal

1. As a highly motivated and detail-oriented financial analyst with a proven record of identifying investment opportunities and managing risk, I am eager to apply my skills and expertise to the Financial Analyst position at [Company Name]. <br>

2. With a strong background in project management and a track record of completing projects on time and within budget, I am excited to bring my expertise to the Project Manager role at [Company Name]. <br>

3. As a professional graphic designer with a passion for creating visually engaging content and a deep understanding of branding, I am confident that my skills make me a perfect fit for the Graphic Designer position at [Company Name].

4. As a recent graduate with a degree in [Major] from [University], I am eager to apply my academic knowledge and passion for [Industry] to the [Job Title] role at [Company Name].

5 . As an accomplished sales professional with a history of exceeding targets and cultivating long-lasting client relationships, I am excited to contribute my skills and experience to the Sales Representative role at [Company Name].

6. With extensive experience in managing social media campaigns and a deep understanding of online marketing strategies, I am the ideal candidate for the Social Media Manager position at [Company Name].

7. As a Certified Public Accountant with a strong background in financial planning and analysis, I am confident that my expertise makes me the perfect candidate for the Senior Accountant role at [Company Name].

8. With a passion for writing and a strong background in creating compelling content for various platforms, I am excited to bring my skills to the Content Writer position at [Company Name].

9. As an experienced human resources professional with a proven ability to recruit top talent and develop effective employee relations strategies, I am eager to contribute my skills to the HR Manager role at [Company Name].

10. Having successfully managed events ranging from corporate conferences to charity galas, I am excited to bring my event planning expertise to the Event Coordinator position at [Company Name].

11. As a certified data analyst with a strong background in statistical modeling and a passion for uncovering insights from complex datasets, I am eager to bring my expertise to the Data Analyst position at [Company Name].

12. With a proven ability to develop and implement effective digital marketing strategies, I am confident in my ability to contribute to the success of the Digital Marketing Specialist role at [Company Name].

13. As a results-driven engineering professional with expertise in [specific engineering field], I am eager to apply my skills and experience to the [Job Title] position at [Company Name].

14. With extensive experience in customer service and a passion for creating positive customer experiences, I am highly motivated to bring my skills and expertise to the Customer Service Representative role at [Company Name].

15. As a seasoned business development executive with a track record of identifying and securing new clients, I am eager to contribute to the growth and success of the Business Development Manager position at [Company Name].

16. With a strong background in product management and a passion for creating innovative solutions, I am confident that my expertise makes me the perfect fit for the Product Manager role at [Company Name].

17. As an experienced administrative professional with exceptional organizational and multitasking skills, I am excited to bring my talents to the Executive Assistant position at [Company Name].

18. With a strong passion for [Industry] and a track record of creating impactful communications strategies, I am excited to contribute my skills and experience to the Public Relations Specialist role at [Company Name].

19. As a creative and talented web developer with expertise in [specific programming languages], I am confident that my skills make me a strong candidate for the Web Developer position at [Company Name].

20. As an accomplished operations professional with experience in streamlining processes and improving efficiency, I am eager to apply my skills to the Operations Manager role at [Company Name].

21. With a passion for teaching and a proven ability to engage and motivate students, I am excited to bring my skills and experience to the [Subject] Teacher position at [School Name].

22. As a highly skilled and adaptable software engineer with experience in [specific programming languages], I am eager to contribute to the success of the Software Engineer role at [Company Name].

23. With a strong background in supply chain management and a track record of improving efficiency and reducing costs, I am confident that my expertise makes me the perfect candidate for the Supply Chain Manager position at [Company Name].

24. As an experienced medical professional with a deep understanding of patient care and a commitment to providing compassionate service, I am excited to bring my skills and experience to the [Job Title] position at [Company Name].

25. With a passion for research and a proven ability to analyze and interpret data, I am eager to contribute my skills and expertise to the Research Analyst role at [Company Name].

Nothing Found

30 Opening Sentences to start your Cover Letter

Writing a cover letter is not something most people look forward to. It is one of those tasks that come with every job application but not something that is easily done. Eventhough the cover letter has become less crucial for a job application over recent years (first selections based on just a short look at the CV’s or LinkedIn profiles has almost become the standard procedure). But nevertheless you are still expected to send a cover letter to accompany your job application. Particularly the start or the first sentence of the cover letter can cause difficulty. Some believe that the first sentence is crucial for your job application and that it should blow away the reader of your cover letter. Fortunately this is almost never the case (maybe when you are applying for a position as a creative writer…). Using a traditional (or conservative) first sentence is not something a recruiter will see as a dealbreaker, especially when the content of your CV stands out from other candidates. But when the competition in your area is fierce and the content of your CV is not (yet) sufficient to differentiate yourself from other candidates, your cover letter, and especially the first sentence, can help you to grab the recruiter’s attention.

There are several starting points possible for your cover letter. You can use a tradional or conservative first sentence. A traditional first sentence is very acceptable when you are applying for a formal position or at a very formal company. A very appreciated way to start your cover letter is to express your excitement or enthusiasm for the job opening. If you want to create more personal connection between the company / the recruiter and yourself you can start your cover letter on a more personal note by sharing your passion or inspiration. Another smart way to demonstrate a connection between the company or the recruiter and yourself is to use name-dropping. Do you want to get straight to the point and you immediately want to differentiate yourself from the competition? You can start your cover letter by pointing out your strengths and experience in the first sentence. When you are writing a speculative job application requires a different approach. For each category we have composed several example first sentences.

TRADITIONAL / CONSERVATIVE OPENING SENTENCES

  I’m writing to express my interest in the position as [position title] at [company name]

I’m writing to apply for the position of [position title] at [company name].

I would like to propose my candidature for the position of [position title] with [company name].

I was very interested to read the job post for [position title] at [company name], I herewith send you my CV to consider.

Please find enclosed my CV as application for the position as [position title] at [company name].

SHOWING ENTHUSIASM / EXCITEMENT AT THE START OF YOUR COVER LETTER

With great enthusiasm, I am writing in reponse to your advertisement for [position title] at [company name].

I was excited to come across the job post for [position title] at [company name].

I’m excited to be applying for [position title] at [company name].

I’m excited to present my CV to you for the position as [job title] at [company name].

Throughout my career I have always been eager to accept exciting challenges. The opportunity to work for [company name] as a [position title] and to work on the challenges described in the job description sparked my enthusiasm.

USING NAME DROP AT THE START OF YOUR COVER LETTER

I was excited to receive a message from John Adams about a job opening in the [department name] department of [company name].

Last week I met John Adams from your sales department at the London fashion week event. He kindly informed me about the job opening for [job title] at your company.

A mutal friend of ours, John Adams, recently suggested I should apply for [position title] at your company.

When I visited your store in [location] last week I was excited to come across the job post for [position title] at the message board.

FOCUS ON EXPERIENCE OR STRENGTHS IN YOUR COVER LETTER

As an experienced account manager, I strongly believe in data analysis as a source of new opportunities.

As a marketing manager I have experienced the rise of digital marketing in a highly competitive business environment.

My extensive experience in sales, marketing and leadership, as well as my excitement for new challenges, has motivated me to apply for the position of [position title] at [company name].

After spending five years of leading a marketing team in an international business environment, I am looking for an exciting new challenge.

As a sales expert with a passion for the travel industry, I read your advertisement for the position of [job title] with great interest.

USING A PERSONAL APPROACH

Ever since I was in nursery school I wanted to become a teacher.

As a passionate traveller, I enjoy meeting new people, learning about new cultures and adapting to changing circumstances. I was excited to see all these elements in the job post for [position title] at [company name].

As a inspired volunteer in my own local community, I have watched [company name] efforts to support local communities all over the UK with great admiration.

I’ve wanted to work in the hotel industry ever since I visited a hotel with my parents for the first time when I was five years old.

[company name]’s goal to reduce the co2 emission in the transportation industry inspired me to visit your website. There I was excited to see there is the current job opening as [position title].

As a social worker, I believe that every child should have the opportunity to explore life in a safe environment.

OPENING SENTENCES FOR A SPECULATIVE COVER LETTER

I’m writing to enquire whether there is an opportunity available to join [company name] as a [position title].

I’m interested in working for [company name] for some time, therefore I am writing to explore if you have any current [position title] vacancies.

I’m writing to inquire into your need of a [position title] at [company title].

I’m very interested in the business activities of [company name], I’m writing to enquire whether there are any current [position title] vacancies.

Do you need someone that can motivate your sales team to reach challeging targets and to explore new opportunities? If so, look no further!

There are probably many more categories of first sentences you can think of. In some industries it is popular to write a bold or creative first sentence to draw the attention to your job application.  think that there is one category of first sentences missing from this overview; the bold and creative first sentences. It is not that we don’t believe a bold or creative first sentence can help you to stand out from other candidates. Making a bold or creative statement at the start of your job application is something that has to come from your own creativity and it has to suit your personality. If you write “look no further, I am the perfect candidates” you should be able to back this attitude up during a job interview.  Bold or very creative statements are a bit of a acquired taste, there is a chance that you strike exactly the right chord, but there is also a good chance that you strike out and reduce you chances.

We have gathered the sentences above to give you inspiration to start your cover letter. We know from our own experience that the first sentence of your cover letter can sometimes feel like the most crucial element of your job application. But in reality it hardly ever is, even with a very traditional or conservative first sentence you can be successful. Don’t let the first sentence of your cover letter hold you back from applying for your dream job!

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09 Sep 5 Creative Cover Letter Openings (& examples)

What you'll learn

Compelling cover letter openings with cover letter opening sentence examples

If you’ve read a few of my posts, then you know I am a firm believer that writing a cover letter is a requirement and not an optional component in your job-hunting arsenal.

But not just any ol’ cover letter will do.

If the opening of your cover letter doesn’t grab attention and captivate the reader, they won’t bother getting to the rest of your cover letter, or resume, to ever find out why you are a perfect fit for the role.

Submit a thrown-together, few sentence, or uninspired cover letter, and it won’t serve its purpose to:

• Validate to the hiring manager or recruiter exactly why you are THE PERFECT candidate for the position and how you will add value to the company
• Answer any questions the hiring manager or recruiter would have about your candidacy, so they put you in the “interview” pile rather than the “pass” or “circular” file
• Demonstrate your professionalism, as well as your interest and enthusiasm for the position and the company

To learn more, see my post on “ Why You Need a Cover Letter ”

Yes, a cover letter can be a powerful tool to get you an interview and on your way to landing the job of your dreams…but only if it’s compelling and holds the reader’s attention.

A boring or cookie-cutter cover letter can have the opposite effect and turn the hiring manager off from continuing to read about your incredible work experience.

Need more assistance getting noticed in your job search? Receive my free resume checklist, “ Resume Dos and Don’t That Get You Noticed .”

How to write a compelling opening for your cover letter (with examples)

Everyone knows you only have one shot at a first impression, and your cover letter is no different. So, your cover letter opening sentences need to be strong, compelling, creative and informative.

Whew, that’s a lot to pack into the opening sentences of a cover letter. But do not fear, it can be done!

Here are my strategies for writing a creative and compelling cover letter opening that will grab the attention of the hiring manager and get you noticed. I’ve even included example sentences you can personalize and add to your own cover letter:

1. What You Are Known For

Include in your opening sentences what you are known for (generating sales, saving money, motivating teams, improving results). Then connect the dots on how those skills will not only pertain to the position you are applying for, but also will benefit the company.

Example: My specialty is driving public relations programs that grow health and wellness companies through media coverage. I have driven PR and Communication strategies for both startup and large companies where I created measurable results within the first six months. I am excited about the prospect of creating significant awareness for [Company Name] as the [Position Title].

2. Relevant Experience

Open your cover letter by providing the work experience (not necessarily job title) you have that aligns with the position you are applying for and why this experience will drive results at a new company. This is a strong strategy if you have not held the exact title of the position for which you are applying , but have the required experience per the job description.

Example: I have successfully been leading sales teams to unprecedented results for the past 8 years. By implementing ongoing training programs, initiating sales rep check-ins, and creating new motivation and incentive tools, I have increased our close rate by 25% and revenue by 15% in the past eighteen months. I am excited about the prospect of delivering similar results for [Company Name] as the [Position Title].

3. Results and Accomplishments

By including impressive results and accomplishments from your previous positions in the opening of your cover letter (or, actually, anywhere in your cover letter), it validates you will achieve results wherever you go. Be sure to include quantifiable results and the numbers or percentages of how they were measured so the reader will understand the value you added at your previous companies and how it will be applicable to the new role.

Example: In one-year at [Current Company], I increased search-engine marketing (SEM) leads 150% while decreasing cost per lead (CPL) by 26%. I am excited by the prospect of bringing my experience and expertise in digital media to [Company Name] and drive similar results as your next [Position title].

4. Key Requirements

Use a few key requirements of the position (i.e. keywords from the job description) in your opening to immediately showcase how you have the relevant experience and skills. This strategy is particularly effective when applying at larger companies likely to be using an applicant tracking system scanning for keywords.

Example: Budget planning and financial analysis are two of my strongest areas of expertise. I not only oversee, review, and adhere to the budgets for each business department of [Current Company], I also ensure that all of the company’s financial practices are in line with regulations and legislation. Through my years of experience in finance, I have perfected my skills in financial analysis, budget development, and strategic planning, and I look forward to exploring the opportunity to bring this unique skillset to elevate the department at [Company Name] as your next [Position Title].

5. Network Referral

If a person from your professional network refers you to the hiring manager or recruiter, or recommends you apply to the position or company, include that information upfront of your cover letter. Having a personal introduction is one of the best ways to get (and keep) the attention of the hiring manager, so don’t be shy about using that in your opening.

Example: Joan Smith, my former supervisor, thought I would be a great fit for [Position Title] and recommended I reach out to you. I worked with Joan for three years. During this time, Joan witnessed firsthand how my unique ability to recognize real talent in a stack of resumes and get candidates excited about working for [Company Name] through phone interviews improved and streamlined our recruiting and hiring processes. I am enthusiastic to use these special skills, and many more, to help [Company Name] improve its employee team and corporate culture as the [Position Title].

Cover Letter Opening Sentences Not to Use

Sadly, I’ve seen too many articles and blog posts that provide what I believe to be poor advice on how to write the opening of a cover letter. Some of the tips and examples they share are not what I would consider a “compelling, attention-grabbing” opening.

Instead, some of these recommendations and examples look like the tired, overused, and outdated openings that I’ve read far too often in cover letters I read as a hiring manager.

I recommend you DO NOT open your cover letter by:

• Simply stating the position for which you are applying
• Providing general work experience without specifics or results
• Relying solely on your enthusiasm for the position or company
• Focusing on what’s in it for you, rather than what you can deliver the company

Examples of cover letter opening sentences I DO NOT recommend you use:

• I am very interested in the junior finance position that is open at Acme Company. I recently graduated from State University with a degree in economics and took courses in accounting, investments, and analysis, which have given me a solid base upon which I plan to build my career.
• I’m writing to express my interest in the Social Media Marketing position listed on your website. Given my two years of social media experience and excellent capabilities, I would appreciate your consideration for this position.
• I am writing to express my strong interest in the Human Resources Coordinator position open at Acme Company. My colleague Bobby Jones recommended that I contact you directly about this position, due to my years successfully performing similar responsibilities for ABC Company.
• I have a very strong interest in pursuing a sales career. With experience working in both traditional retail and outbound phone sales, I have a diverse background with much to offer.
• I was excited to read about the Public Relations Assistant position at Acme Company. I have several years of PR experience in a variety of fields including software and insurance.

Final Advice

The opening sentences are just that, the opening of your cover letter. Be sure to continue developing your cover letter with engaging language, strategically placed keywords, results and achievements, and a proactive close ( click here for more information on each of these points).

Once you have written your cover letter, read, proof, edit, read and proof it again so there are no mistakes. Your cover letter and resume reflect your work abilities, so don’t let them be a poor representation of your abilities by having errors in them.

Be sure your cover letter (and resume) includes how to contact you (email, LinkedIn, phone). You don’t want all that hard work to go to waste because they don’t know how to find you!

Finally, customize your cover letter for every position you apply. You can begin with your own version of a template that includes your significant positions and corresponding results. Then, take the time to customize each cover letter to include the keywords, principal requirements, and desired experience outlined in the job description for which you are applying. You will find you have much better results if your cover letter (and resume) are clear, direct and specific to the position you are applying for and the requirements of the role.

Crafting a compelling opening to your cover letter can really make a difference in getting noticed by the hiring manager or recruiter.

I hope these creative cover letter openings work for you. If you use one of these ideas, please let me know, and share how it worked. If you have creative and compelling cover letter openings of your own, please share those too! I would love to see them!

For more on writing a cover letter, check out 5 Components of a Cover Letter (with a Cover Letter Example)

When you are ready to send your cover letter, read how to send a cover letter to learn the best way to do so..

Grab a copy of Your Complete Guide to Cover Letters for free and get a cover letter template, creative opening templates, and more to help you craft a compelling and effective cover letter!