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Startup Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

Picturing yourself as the next big thing in the cutting-edge startup world? Your startup cover letter is your secret handshake with the top leaders. It's where your talents and tenacity come together in a pitch-perfect symphony.

We've put together a comprehensive guide overflowing with handy tips, examples from the real world, and straightforward templates to give you a leg up on your startup cover letter. 

Keep reading to learn all about:

• Exploring valuable startup cover letter examples
• Formatting properly your cover letter
• Crafting an effective startup cover letter header & headline
• Creating a personalized greeting on your startup cover letter
• Writing an eye-catching startup cover letter introduction
• Showcasing your value as a startup professional
• Ending your cover letter with a powerful closing statement
• Avoiding common mistakes in a startup cover letter
• Pairing your startup cover letter with a resume
• Understanding the average salary and job outlook for business and finance professionals
• Accessing the best job search resources for startup professionals

Still looking for a job? These 100+ resources will tell you everything you need to get hired fast.

Business operations manager cover letter example

Why does this cover letter sample work?

• Highlight of relevant experience from the start: The candidate successfully outlines their experience right from the beginning, immediately establishing themselves as a qualified candidate for the role.
• Clear listing of accomplishments:  The use of bullet points to clearly list accomplishments and responsibilities helps readability and allows the hiring manager to quickly grasp the candidate's skills and experience.
• Reasons stated for job change:  The candidate has provided a legitimate and clear reason for leaving their current role, addressing what could potentially be a question in the hiring manager's mind.

What could make this sample even better?

• Personalized greeting:  Rather than addressing it to "Head of Human Resources," applying some effort in researching specifically who to address it to can come across as attentive and diligent. This displays added insight and respect for the reader, which surely doesn't go unnoticed.

Business development intern cover letter example

What are the strengths of this intern cover letter sample?

• Relevant academic achievements: The applicant clearly makes a case for strong academic performance, not just by stating a GPA but by showing a thoughtful course selection process and a high level of involvement in extracurricular activities that directly relate to the job.
• Multilingual and tech-savvy: Demonstrating fluency in multiple languages as well as proficiency in tech tools required for the job increases the applicant's allure in today's increasingly global and digital workforce.

What are the weaknesses of this cover letter example?

• Overuse of personal pronouns: The cover letter, while understandably about your fit for the role, reads better if you strike a balance between the use of "I" and other pronouns. This will help to emphasize not just what the job can do for you, but also what you can do for the company.
• Blocks of text: Kareena's achievements, skills, and experiences are currently presented in lengthy paragraphs. To improve readability, these key points could be listed in bullet format. This ensures that recruiters, who often have limited time to read through numerous applications, can quickly spot her standout points and understand her value proposition.

CEO cover letter example

What are the sweet points of this CEO cover letter sample?

• Career span and experiences: Erich emphasizes his extensive career span as a CEO and his experiences in diverse organizations, from startups to Fortune 500 companies. This demonstrates a breadth of experience and adaptability, both key for a leadership role.
• Relevant qualifications: Mentioning his MBA and an Advanced Certificate in Leadership Principles gives Erich a solid boost. It shows targeted knowledge-building, reinforcing his leadership claim.

What could be improved?

• Cliché phrases and lack of quantified achievements: Terms like "action-oriented," "performance-driven," "reliable person with a proven track record of success" are cliched and often overused, which can make them feel empty without solid, quantified proofs backing them up. Instead, demonstrating these qualities through specific, number-backed accomplishments can make a much stronger impact.
• Generic closing statement: Erich's closing statement is quite common and doesn't really stand out. A bit more personal touch or a brief mention of what he appreciates about J&O Technologies could make a striking difference.

1. Properly format your startup cover letter

How to properly format your startup cover letter

Good content is just the starter in the meal of creating a compelling cover letter — presentation is the main course. Let's navigate through the key ingredients for format perfection.

• Clarity rules: Go for a professional and easy-to-read font, such as Arial or Times New Roman in 10-12 point size. Skip the decorative fonts — we're not throwing a font party here!
• Set the pace: A cover letter that's easy on the eyes has well-spaced lines. Play it cool with 1.15 or 1.5 line spacing and keep the margins to around 1"-1.5" on all sides.
• Keep it light: A bulky cover letter can be a bore. Stick to a one-page document that piques interest without draining the reader's energy.
• Stay digital-ready: Ensure it's formatted for digital consumption, preserving your layout even when opened on various devices. A PDF file usually does the trick.

Remember, your startup cover letter needs to be user-friendly and easy to navigate. No errors, no excess, just a neat layout that lets your application shine.

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2. craft a well-formatted startup cover letter header & headline.

To begin writing your startup cover letter, the first key steps are to create a properly formatted header and headline.

Cover letter headers are often found in the top left corner of the document and detail all the necessary information about the company and applicant.

Comparatively, a cover letter headline is similar to a title, placed directly after the header but before the greeting of the cover letter.

To better demonstrate how to craft each of these elements, here are more-in depth explanations and examples of each:

Formatting the header

In the header of your startup cover letter, there should be between 3 to 4 lines of text that include:

• Your name and professional title
• Your professional contact information (phone number, email address, location, LinkedIn profile link)
• The name of the hiring manager or the department department you are applying to, the company name, and the company address

Bad cover letter header example 

Joe King, Phone: (123) 456-7890 [email protected] Bronze Group

What's the issue? This falls short, missing out on necessary details such as full addresses and the professional title of the sender. There's an absence of LinkedIn profile link and no punctuation to separate contact details, creating a cluttered look.

Good cover letter header example

From: Joe King, Startup Specialist (123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | Stockton, CA 95204 | linkedin.com/in/joe-kin

To:  Peter Broke, Hiring Manager The Bronze Group, Business Development Department 3501 Maple Avenue, Stockton, CA 95204

Why does it work? This example ticks all the boxes — it is concise, clean, and comprises all important information. Each sender's detail is separated by a pipe symbol, creating a clear and easy-to-read layout. Including a LinkedIn profile link and mention of the specific person within the company gives it a professional and fine-tuned touch.

Writing the headline

In the fast-paced world of startups, you need to catch attention quickly. Your cover letter headline does just that — it's your first impression, your elevator pitch. But how do you create a headline that hooks a reader?

Bad cover letter headline example

Applying for Startup Job

Why does it fall flat? This headline does not make a strong impact. It's generic and lacks specific details about the role or your unique offerings.

Good cover letter headline example

Dedicated Growth Hacker with 5-Year Track Record, Ready to Propel Your Startup to New Heights

Why is it strong? This revamped headline amplifies its allure with the mention of a 5-year experience history. It reiterates the candidate's specialized skill set and shows readiness to actively contribute. Tying this with a clear benefit to the prospective company, it promises a tangible value — taking the startup to new heights. It's a perfect concoction of experience + skills + intent + targeted benefit!

Remember, a successful headline instantly communicates your value and readiness to contribute to the dynamic startup landscape.

3. Create a personalized greeting on your startup cover letter

Whenever you write a startup cover letter, it is crucial to use a personalized greeting rather than a generalized one.

Generalized greetings — such as “To Whom It May Concern” — fail to show employers any attention to detail or help to hook their attention. On the other hand, a personalized greeting will address a specific person or department by name, revealing to employers that you have completed thorough research on their company before applying.

Personalized greeting examples for your cover letter

Dear Julie Marking, Dear Ms Marking,  Dear Hiring Manager Julie Marking,

If you are unable to pinpoint the exact person or department who will review your application, try out one of these alternatives:

General greeting examples

To the [Company Name] Team To the [Company Name] Hiring Manager

4. Craft an eye-catching startup cover letter introduction

The headline and greeting of your startup cover letter help to initially hook the employer’s attention — but to keep them intrigued, you will need an eye-catching introductory paragraph .

A strong cover letter introduction will include:

• A brief overview of your professional history and goals
• A statement on why you are enthusiastic about applying to this company
• A mutual acquaintance (when possible)

Bad startup cover letter opening example

I'm writing to apply for the position posted on your website. I think I would be a great fit because I like startups and have some experience in the field.

Why is it ineffective? The opening is vague and fails to mention any specific expertise or enthusiasm about the company. It lacks the necessary details to grab the hiring manager’s attention and make the candidate stand out.

Here is an example to help demonstrate how to write a startup cover letter introduction

To the [Company Name] Hiring Manager,

I am a Startup Advisor & Specialist with 3+ years of experience working with technology company founders and experts. After meeting your Head of FinTech Communications at a recent conference and learning about your company’s ongoing objectives and mission, I found that I share your professional outlook on the FinTech industry and decided to apply for this position.

Why is this one better? The opening mentions specific qualifications, the applicant's connection to the company and alignment with its objectives, and the action of deciding to apply after being impressed by the company. This precisely recaps the candidate's professional history and their shared vision with the company while demonstrating genuine interest.

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5. Showcase your value as a startup professional

Following the introduction to your startup cover letter are the body paragraphs. Most cover letters will contain between 2 to 4 body paragraphs that offer in-depth answers to these 4 key questions:

• What excites you about working at this company?
• What do you hope to learn from working at this company?
• What accomplishments or qualifications make you stand out as an applicant?
• What key skills do you possess that are relevant to the position?

What's more, integrating action words while describing your accomplishments adds dynamism, and brings your various roles and achievements to life. These verbs emphasize the actions you've taken and paint a picture of you as a proactive and impactful professional.

Few powerful action words for a startup cover letter include

• Spearheaded
• Conceptualized
• Streamlined
• Implemented
• Revolutionized

Recalling your achievements with these action verbs can immensely bolster the real-world value you present to your prospective employers.

Take this example of an accomplishment:

Examples of how to describe an accomplishment in a startup cover letter

• As the Startup Advisor for [Former Employer], I negotiated with major investors to help fund the company’s launch and initial product development. These negotiations led to the acquisition of 3 key investors who offered a market value of more than $3M to help support the company’s launch.
• In my role as Operations Manager at ABC Start-up, I implemented an agile workflow system, optimizing task delegations and enhancing cross-functional collaboration. This strategic intervention improved project delivery timelines by 30% over a period of six months."

To wrap up, spotlighting your key accomplishments in your IT cover letter shows employers not just what you've done, but what you're capable of achieving. It quantifies your impact, convincing potential employers of the unique value you could bring to their organization. 

6. End your cover letter with a powerful closing statement

To end your startup cover letter, you need a powerful closing statement that includes:

• An enthusiastic sentence saying you are looking forward to hearing from them
• An additional sentence stating you will follow up, including how you will contact them or how they can contact you
• A formal sign-off

Bad example of a cover letter closing statement

I hope you'll contact me. 

[Applicant Name]

Why is it weak? This conclusion lacks enthusiasm, doesn't outline how the candidate will follow up or how they can be contacted. It also uses an overly casual sign-off which may not be deemed professional.

Good example of a closing statement on a startup cover letter

With my years of experience and successes as a Startup Specialist, I am confident I can provide your company with the support it needs during its development and launch. I am eager to meet with you directly to discuss further what I can bring to the table, and am available for calls or in-person meetings Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The best way to reach me is at (123) 456-7890, or via email at [email protected].

Warm Regards,

Why is it strong? This definitive statement communicates the contender's confidence in their ability to contribute significantly to the company. By offering specific availability for further discussion and providing a preferable contact method, it shows preparedness and anticipation for the next steps. Using a professional, yet cordial sign-off strikes the right balance.

Follow this cover letter outline for maximum success.

7. Avoid common mistakes in a startup cover letter

Slip-ups in your startup cover letter can be like icebergs for your budding career — unseen yet potentially disastrous. Here's a quick look at these common errors and how you can sidestep them.

• Generic and impersonal tone: Startups often appreciate a touch of personality. Avoid sounding like a corporate bot. Use a conversational tone that reflects your character. Remember, you're not just showcasing your skills, but also your fit within a usually close-knit startup team.
• Ignoring the company's values: Startups are typically mission-driven. Ignoring the firm's values or not aligning your letter with them is a missed opportunity. Research the company. Understand their mission and values. Show how these resonate with you personally.
• Mistaken 'cut and paste': Understandably, you're applying to multiple jobs. But, startups are unique beasts. A generic cover letter isn't your best friend. Tailor each cover letter to fit the specific startup. 
• Typos and grammar mishaps: These errors can cast doubts on your attention to detail, a critical quality in the dynamic startup environment. Proofreading , or better yet, getting a third-party review, can help you steer clear of these issues.

Remember, a startup cover letter isn't just your key to a desired job, but your ticket to being part of bringing a vision to life. Avoid these pitfalls and you're already a step closer.

8. Pair your startup cover letter with a resume

Crafting a winning startup cover letter and a knockout resume might seem like two different ball games. Truth is, they're more like two sides of the same coin — complementary and equally crucial.

Your cover letter tells your professional story . It’s where you spell out your passion, your alignment with the company's vision, and elaborate on relevant experiences. 

Meanwhile, your resume — the fact-fueled counterpart — lists down your skills, experiences, and achievements, providing validating evidence to your cover letter claims. 

So, how do you pair them effectively? 

Consistency is key: Use the same font , formatting , and design style for both. This not only ensures they look part of a unified set but also speaks volumes about your attention to detail — a valued quality in a fast-paced startup world.

Ultimately, your cover letter and resume are the dynamic duo that collectively reflect your strengths and fitment for the startup role, proving you're more than just another application in the pile.

9. Salary and future prospects for those in business & finance

If you're considering breaking into the business and finance industry, the conditions look promising. Recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) forecasts a faster-than-average surge in job opportunities in this sector from 2022 to 2032.

Every year, an impressive average of 911,400 job openings is projected in these realms. 

It's not just prospective job positions that are juicy, the paychecks are attractive too. Take note — the median annual wage in this sector clocked in at $76,850 in May 2022, significantly outperforming the median annual wage of $46,310 across all fields. 

With flourishing job prospects and potentially hefty pay, it's fair to say that the world of business and startups is set to charm fresh and seasoned professionals alike in the years to come.

10. Best job search resources for startup professionals

Navigating the job market as a startup professional presents its unique challenges and opportunities. The key lies in knowing where to look and which resources can provide the most relevant guidance, connections, and openings. Here are some of the best tools and platforms that can aid in your search:

• Networking platforms:  In the startup ecosystem, it's often about who you know. Platforms like LinkedIn and Meetup allow you to connect with other startup enthusiasts and professionals, join relevant groups, and attend events that can help you expand your network.
• Specialized job boards:  There are several job boards specifically targeting startups. Websites like AngelList  or  CrunchBoard  are excellent platforms to discover opportunities in startups.
• Startup events and meetups:  Tech conferences, startup weekends, and meetups are invaluable for making connections and getting your foot in the door. Websites like Eventbrite or Meetup can help you find relevant events.
• Startup news sites:  Staying informed about the latest in the startup world is crucial. Websites like TechCrunch , VentureBeat , and Startup Grind not only provide news but also list job openings on occasion.
• Online learning platforms:  Websites like Coursera , Udemy , and LinkedIn Learning offer a range of courses that can help you upskill and stay ahead in the competitive startup landscape.
• Social media:  Don't underestimate the power of social media. Following startup influencers and joining relevant discussion groups on platforms like X  and Facebook can also lead to potential job opportunities.
• Resume builders:  A well-tailored resume can make you stand out. Online tools like Kickresume can help you create a resume best fit for a startup job application.

Remember, finding the right position in a startup takes persistence, creativity, and a hefty dose of networking. Using these resources can streamline your job search process and help you find the right match sooner than you think.

Startup Cover Letter FAQ

What essential elements should i include in my startup cover letter.

A great startup cover letter should contain your contact information, the date, a professional greeting, a compelling opening paragraph highlighting your interest in the role, a brief summary of your relevant skills and experiences, a closing paragraph expressing enthusiasm for the job opportunity, and a professional closing. 

How long should my startup cover letter be?

Keep your startup cover letter concise and to the point. Ideally, it should be no longer than one page. 

Should I customize my cover letter for each startup I apply to?

Absolutely! Each startup is unique, and your cover letter should reflect that you have taken the time to understand their specific needs, values, and culture. Customizing your cover letter for each startup shows your genuine interest in the role and the company. 

How formal should my tone be in a startup cover letter?

While it's important to maintain professionalism, startups generally appreciate a more conversational, yet respectful tone. Show enthusiasm and let your personality shine through. 

Should I mention my startup experiences in my cover letter?

Definitely. If you have been part of other startups or similar environments in the past, mentioning these experiences can be very beneficial. It demonstrates that you are familiar with the flexible, multi-tasking, and fast-paced nature of startup work.

Milan Šaržík, CPRW

Milan’s work-life has been centered around job search for the past three years. He is a Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW™) as well as an active member of the Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Careers Coaches (PARWCC™). Milan holds a record for creating the most career document samples for our help center – until today, he has written more than 500 resumes and cover letters for positions across various industries. On top of that, Milan has completed studies at multiple well-known institutions, including Harvard University, University of Glasgow, and Frankfurt School of Finance and Management.

All business cover letter examples

• Account Manager
• Business Development
• Entrepreneur / Business Owner
• Procurement

All startup cover letter examples

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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 To Keep Recruiters Reading

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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 Write a Cover Letter: Your Full Guide (With Tips and Examples)

It’s a familiar cycle: You sit down to write a cover letter, open a blank document, check your email, browse cover letter examples , do some chores, watch that cursor blink a few more times, and finally Google something like “how to write a cover letter”—which hopefully brought you here. But you still might be thinking, does anyone really read cover letters? Why do they even exist?

First: Yes, we can assure you that cover letters do, in fact, get read. To some hiring managers, they’re the most important part of your job application. And regardless, you don’t want to miss the opportunity to tell prospective employers who you are, showcase why they should hire you, and stand out above all the other candidates.

To ensure your letter is in amazing shape (and crafting it is as painless as possible), we’ve got easy-to-follow steps plus examples, a few bonus tips, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Get that cover letter out there! Browse open jobs on The Muse and find your dream job »

What is a cover letter and why is it important?

A cover letter is a brief (one page or less) note that you write to a hiring manager or recruiter to go along with your resume and other application materials.

Done well, a cover letter gives you the chance to speak directly to how your skills and experience line up with the specific job you’re pursuing. It also affords you an opportunity to hint to the reviewer that you’re likable, original, and likely to be a great addition to the team.

Instead of using cover letters to their strategic advantage, most job applicants blabber on and on about what they want, toss out bland, cliché-filled paragraphs that essentially just regurgitate their resume, or go off on some strange tangent in an effort to be unique. Given this reality, imagine the leg up you’ll have once you learn how to do cover letters right.

How long should a cover letter be?

An ideal cover letter typically ranges from a half page to one full page. Aim to structure it into four paragraphs, totaling around 250 to 400 words, unless the job posting states otherwise. Some employers may have specific guidelines like word or character limits, writing prompt, or questions to address. In such cases, be sure to follow these instructions from the job posting.

How to write a cover letter hiring managers will love

Now that you’re sold on how important cover letters are, here are eight steps to writing one that screams, “I’m a great hire!”

Step 1: Write a fresh cover letter for each job (but yes, you can use a template)

Sure, it’s way faster and easier to take the cover letter you wrote for your last application, change the name of the company, and send it off. But most employers want to see that you’re truly excited about the specific position and organization—which means creating a custom letter for each position.

While it’s OK to recycle a few strong sentences and phrases from one cover letter to the next, don’t even think about sending out a 100% generic letter. “Dear Hiring Manager, I am excited to apply to the open position at your company” is an immediate signal to recruiters and hiring managers that you’re mass-applying to every job listing that pops up on LinkedIn.

At the same time, there’s nothing that says you can’t get a little help: Try out one of our free cover letter templates to make the process a bit easier.

Step 2: Add your contact info

At the top of your cover letter, you should list out your basic info. You can even copy the same heading from your resume if you’d like. Some contact info you might include (and the order to include it in):

• Your pronouns (optional)
• Your location (optional)
• Your email address
• Your phone number (optional)
• Your Linkedin, portfolio, or personal website URL (optional)

Note that only name and email are mandatory, and you don’t need to put a full address on a cover letter or resume anymore. A city and state (or metro area) are more than enough. So your header might look like this:

Inigo Montoya he/him Florin Metropolitan Area [email protected] 555-999-2222

If the job posting tells you to submit your cover letter in the body of an email, you can add your contact info at the end, after your name (and if you’d like to forgo the email address here, you can—they have it already). So your sign off could look like this:

Violet Baudelaire she/her [email protected] 123-123-1234

https://www.linkedin.com/in/violet-baudelaire/

Step 3: Address your cover letter to the hiring manager—preferably by name

The most traditional way to address a cover letter is to use the person’s first and last name, including “Mr.” or “Ms.” (for example, “Dear Ms. Jane Smith” or just “Dear Ms. Smith”). But to avoid accidentally using the wrong title—or worse, inadvertently misgendering someone—first and last name also work just fine.

If “Dear” feels a bit too stiff, try “Hello.” But never use generic salutations like “ To Whom it May Concern ” or “Dear Sir or Madam.”

For more help, read these rules for addressing your cover letter and a few tips for how to find the hiring manager .

Step 4: Craft an opening paragraph that’ll hook your reader

Your opening sets the stage for the whole cover letter. So you want it to be memorable, friendly, conversational, and hyper-relevant to the job you’re pursuing.

No need to lead with your name—the hiring manager can see it already. But it’s good to mention the job you’re applying for (they may be combing through candidates for half a dozen different jobs).

You could go with something simple like, “I am excited to apply for [job] with [Company].” But consider introducing yourself with a snappy first paragraph that highlights your excitement about the company you’re applying to, your passion for the work you do, and/or your past accomplishments.

This is a prime spot to include the “why” for your application. Make it very clear why you want this job at this company. Are you a longtime user of their products? Do you have experience solving a problem they’re working on? Do you love their brand voice or approach to product development? Do your research on the company (and check out their Muse profile if they have one) to find out.

Read this next: 30 Genius Cover Letter Openers Recruiters Will LOVE

Step 5: Convey why you’d be a great hire for this job

A common cover letter mistake is only talking about how great the position would be for you. Frankly, hiring managers are aware of that—what they really want to know is what you’re going to bring to the position and company.

So once you’ve got the opening under wraps, you should pull out a few key ideas that will make up the backbone of your cover letter. They should show that you understand what the organization is looking for and spell out how your background lines up with the position.

Study the job description for hints . What problems is the company looking to solve with this hire? What skills or experiences are mentioned high up, or more than once? These will likely be the most important qualifications.

If you tend to have a hard time singing your own praises and can’t nail down your strengths , here’s a quick trick: What would your favorite boss, your best friend, or your mentor say about you? How would they sing your praises? Use the answers to inform how you write about yourself. You can even weave in feedback you’ve received to strengthen your case (occasionally, don’t overuse this!). For example:

“When I oversaw our last office move, my color-coded spreadsheets covering every minute detail of the logistics were legendary; my manager said I was so organized, she’d trust me to plan an expedition to Mars.”

Step 6: Back up your qualifications with examples and numbers

Look at your list of qualifications from the previous step, and think of examples from your past that prove you have them. Go beyond your resume. Don’t just regurgitate what the hiring manager can read elsewhere.

Simply put, you want to paint a fuller picture of what experiences and accomplishments make you a great hire and show off what you can sashay through their doors with and deliver once you land the job.

For example, what tells a hiring manager more about your ability to win back former clients? This: “I was in charge of identifying and re-engaging former clients.” Or this: “By analyzing past client surveys, NPS scores, and KPIs, as well as simply picking up the phone, I was able to bring both a data-driven approach and a human touch to the task of re-engaging former clients.”

If you're having trouble figuring out how to do this, try asking yourself these questions and finding answers that line up with the qualifications you’ve chosen to focus on:

• What approach did you take to tackling one of the responsibilities you’ve mentioned on your resume?
• What details would you include if you were telling someone a (very short!) story about how you accomplished one of your resume bullet points?
• What about your personality, passion, or work ethic made you especially good at getting the job done?

Come up with your examples, then throw in a few numbers. Hiring managers love to see stats—they show you’ve had a measurable impact on an organization you’ve worked for. Did you bring in more clients than any of your peers? Put together an impressive number of events? Make a process at work 30% more efficient? Work it into your cover letter!

This might help: How to Quantify Your Resume Bullets (When You Don't Work With Numbers)

Step 7: Finish with a strong conclusion

It’s tempting to treat the final lines of your cover letter as a throwaway: “I look forward to hearing from you.” But your closing paragraph is your last chance to emphasize your enthusiasm for the company or how you’d be a great fit for the position. You can also use the end of your letter to add important details—like, say, the fact that you’re willing to relocate for the job.

Try something like this:

“I believe my energy, desire to innovate, and experience as a sales leader will serve OrangePurple Co. very well. I would love to meet to discuss the value I could add as your next West Coast Sales Director. I appreciate your consideration and hope to meet with you soon.”

Then be sure to sign off professionally , with an appropriate closing and your first and last name. (Need help? Here are three cover letter closing lines that make hiring managers grimace, plus some better options .)

Step 8: Reread and revise

We shouldn’t have to tell you to run your cover letter through spell-check, but remember that having your computer scan for typos isn’t the same as editing . Set your letter aside for a day or even just a few hours, and then read through it again with fresh eyes—you’ll probably notice some changes you want to make.

You might even want to ask a friend or family member to give it a look. In addition to asking them if they spot any errors, you should ask them two questions:

• Does this sell me as the best person for the job?
• Does it get you excited?

If the answer to either is “no,” or even slight hesitation, go back for another pass.

Cover letter examples

Here are four example cover letters that follow the advice given above. Keep in mind that different situations may require adjustments in your approach. For instance, experienced job seekers can emphasize accomplishments from previous roles, while those with less experience might highlight volunteer work, personal projects, or skills gained through education.

Example #1: Cover letter for a job application

Alia Farhat San Francisco Bay Area [email protected] 444-000-1111

Hello Danny Tanaka,

If I’m being honest, I still haven’t fully gotten over the death of my first Tamagotchi pet when I was six years old. (His name was Tommy, and I’ve gotten far more creative since then, I promise.) When I was older, I discovered NeoPets and I was hooked for years—not just on the site, but on the community that surrounded it. So when I heard about FantasyPets last year, I immediately started following news about your development process, and that’s how I saw your post looking for a marketing strategist. Not only do I have eight years of experience in digital marketing, but as a lifelong gamer with a passion for pet-focused titles who’s spent years in online communities with like-minded people, I also know exactly what kind of messaging resonates with your target audience.

You’re looking for someone to help you craft a social media marketing campaign to go along with your game launch, and I’ve been a part of three launch-day marketing campaigns for mobile and web-based games. In my current role as social media manager at Phun Inc., I proposed a campaign across Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok based on competitor research and analysis of our social campaigns for similar games to go along with the launch of the mobile game FarmWorld. Using my strategy of featuring both kids and adults in ads, we ended up driving over one million impressions and 80k downloads in the first three months.

I’ve always believed that the best way to find the right messaging for a game is to understand the audience and immerse myself in it as much as possible. I spend some of my research time on gaming forums and watching Twitch streams and Let’s Plays to see what really matters to the audience and how they talk about it. Of course, I always back my strategies up with data—I’m even responsible for training new members of the marketing team at Phun Inc. in Google AdWords and data visualization.

I believe that my passion for games exactly like yours, my digital marketing and market research experience, and my flair for turning data into actionable insights will help put FantasyPets on the map. I see so much promise in this game, and as a future player, I want to see its user base grow as much as you do. I appreciate your consideration for the marketing strategist role and hope to speak with you soon.

Alia Farhat

Example #2: Cover letter for an internship

Mariah Johnson

New York, NY [email protected] 555-000-1234

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am excited to submit my application for the software development internship at Big Tech. As a student at New York University majoring in computer science with a keen interest in social studies, I believe I would be a good fit for the role. Big Tech's mission to promote equality and a more sustainable world is deeply inspiring, and I would be thrilled to contribute to this mission.

In a recent hackathon, I demonstrated my ability to lead a team in designing and developing an app that directs members of a small community to nearby electronics recycling centers. My team successfully developed a working prototype and presented it to a panel of industry experts who awarded us second place.

I’ve also been an active volunteer at my local library for over four years. During this time, I organized book donation drives, led book fairs, and conducted reading sessions with children. This experience strengthened my presentation and communication skills and confirmed my motivation stems from supporting a good cause. I would be more than happy to bring my passion and dedication to an organization whose mission resonates with me..

Through these experiences, along with my coursework in software engineering, I am confident I am able to navigate the challenges of the Big Tech internship program. I look forward to the opportunity to speak with you about my qualifications. Thank you for your consideration.

Example #3: Cover letter with no experience

Sarah Bergman

Philadelphia, PA [email protected] 1234-555-6789

Dear Chloe West,

I’m excited to apply for the entry-level copywriting position at Idea Agency. As a recent graduate from State University with a major in mass communications, I’m eager to delve deeper into copywriting for brands, marketing strategies, and their roles in the business world.

Over the past two years, I’ve completed courses in creative writing, copywriting, and essentials of digital marketing. I’ve also been actively involved in extracurricular activities, creating content and promoting student events across multiple online platforms. These experiences expanded my creativity, enhanced my teamwork skills, and strengthened my communication abilities.

As an admirer of your visionary marketing campaigns and Idea Agency’s commitment to sustainability, I’m enthusiastic about the prospect of joining your team. I'm confident that I can contribute to your future projects with inventive thinking and creative energy.

I welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further. Thank you for considering my application.

Best regards,

Example #4: Career change cover letter

Leslie Smith

Chicago, IL [email protected] 111-222-3344

Dear Paul Jones,

Over the past year, I’ve volunteered to represent my company at a local fair and there I discovered how much fun working face to face with clients would be. Everytime I sold a product for The Solar Company, I often wished it was my full-time job. Now, I'm excited to submit my application for the sales coordinator position with Bloom Sales.

After completing a degree in business administration, I decided to put my outgoing personality and strong communication skills to work as a sales specialist at The Solar Company. I’ve sharpened my presentation and critical thinking skills in client meetings and sourced more than $20,000 in new partnerships. This experience has given me an invaluable foundation, and now I’m confident it's the time to move business administration to sales coordination.

I’m comfortable seeking out new business opportunities, making cold calls, and selling potential clients on the advantages of Bloom Sales products. I attend an average of 10 in-person meetings a week, and interacting with a lot of different personalities is what excites me the most. As a detail-oriented, tech-savvy professional, I have advanced knowledge of Excel and data analysis.

I would love to learn more about your sales strategy for the second semester and discuss how my experience in business administration and client-facing sales exposure would help Bloom Sales achieve its goals. Thank you for your consideration.

Extra cover letter examples

• Pain point cover letter example
• Recent graduate cover letter example
• Stay-at-home parent returning to work cover letter example
• Sales cover letter example
• Email marketing manager cover letter example
• No job description or position cover letter example (a.k.a., a letter of intent or interest)
• Buzzfeed-style cover letter example
• Creative cover letter example (from the point-of-view of a dog)

Bonus cover letter tips to give you an edge over the competition

As you write your cover letter, here are a few more tips to consider to help you stand out from the stack of applicants:

• Keep it short and sweet: There are always exceptions to the rule, but in general, for resumes and cover letters alike, don’t go over a page. (Check out these tips for cutting down your cover letter .)
• Never apologize for your missing experience: When you don’t meet all of the job requirements, it’s tempting to use lines like, “Despite my limited experience as a manager…” or “While I may not have direct experience in marketing…” But why apologize ? Instead of drawing attention to your weaknesses, emphasize the strengths and transferable skills you do have.
• Strike the right tone: You want to find a balance between being excessively formal in your writing—which can make you come off as stiff or insincere—and being too conversational. Let your personality shine through, for sure, but also keep in mind that a cover letter shouldn’t sound like a text to an old friend.
• Consider writing in the company’s “voice:” Cover letters are a great way to show that you understand the environment and culture of the company and industry. Spending some time reading over the company website or stalking their social media before you get started can be a great way to get in the right mindset—you’ll get a sense for the company’s tone, language, and culture, which are all things you’ll want to mirror—especially if writing skills are a core part of the job.
• Go easy on the enthusiasm: We can’t tell you how many cover letters we’ve seen from people who are “absolutely thrilled for the opportunity” or “very excitedly applying!” Yes, you want to show personality, creativity, and excitement. But downplay the adverbs a bit, and keep the level of enthusiasm for the opportunity genuine and believable.

The bottom line with cover letters is this: They matter, much more than the naysayers will have you believe. If you nail yours, you could easily go from the “maybe” pile straight to “Oh, hell yes.”

Cover letter FAQs (a.k.a., everything else you need to know about cover letters)

• Are cover letters still necessary?
• Do I have to write a cover letter if it’s optional?
• Can I skip the cover letter for a tech job?
• What does it mean to write a cover letter for a resume?
• How can I write a simple cover letter in 30 minutes?
• How can I show personality in my cover letter?
• What should I name my cover letter file?
• Is a letter of intent different from a cover letter?
• Is a letter of interest different from a cover letter?

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

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 write a great cover letter in 2024: tips and structure

A cover letter is a personalized letter that introduces you to a potential employer, highlights your qualifications, and explains why you're a strong fit for a specific job.

Hate or love them, these brief documents allow job seekers to make an impression and stand out from the pile of other applications. Penning a thoughtful cover letter shows the hiring team you care about earning the position.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to write a cover letter — and a great one, at that.

What is a cover letter and why does it matter?

A professional cover letter is a one-page document you submit alongside your CV or resume as part of a job application. Typically, they’re about half a page or around 150–300 words.

An effective cover letter doesn’t just rehash your CV; it’s your chance to highlight your proudest moments, explain why you want the job, and state plainly what you bring to the table.

Show the reviewer you’re likable, talented, and will add to the company’s culture . You can refer to previous jobs and other information from your CV, but only if it helps tell a story about you and your career choices .

What 3 things should you include in a cover letter?

A well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out to potential employers. To make your cover letter shine, here are three key elements to include:

1. Personalization

Address the hiring manager or recruiter by name whenever possible. If the job posting doesn't include a name, research to find out who will be reviewing applications. Personalizing your cover letter shows that you've taken the time to tailor your application to the specific company and role.

2. Highlight relevant achievements and skills

Emphasize your most relevant skills , experiences, and accomplishments that directly relate to the job you're applying for. Provide specific examples of how your skills have benefited previous employers and how they can contribute to the prospective employer's success. Use quantifiable achievements , such as improved efficiency, cost savings, or project success, to demonstrate your impact.

3. Show enthusiasm and fit

Express your enthusiasm for the company and the position you're applying for. Explain why you are interested in this role and believe you are a good fit for the organization. Mention how your values, goals, and skills align with the company's mission and culture. Demonstrating that you've done your research can make a significant impression.

What do hiring managers look for in a cover letter?

Employers look for several key elements in a cover letter. These include:

Employers want to see that your cover letter is specifically tailored to the position you are applying for. It should demonstrate how your skills, experiences, and qualifications align with the job requirements.

Clear and concise writing

A well-written cover letter is concise, easy to read, and error-free. Employers appreciate clear and effective communication skills , so make sure your cover letter showcases your ability to express yourself effectively.

Demonstrated knowledge of the company

Employers want to see that you are genuinely interested in their organization. Mention specific details about the company, such as recent achievements or projects, to show that you are enthusiastic about joining their team.

Achievements and accomplishments

Highlight your relevant achievements and accomplishments that demonstrate your qualifications for the position. Use specific examples to showcase your skills and show how they can benefit the employer.

Enthusiasm and motivation

Employers want to hire candidates who are excited about the opportunity and motivated to contribute to the company's success. Express your enthusiasm and passion for the role and explain why you are interested in working for the company.

Professionalism

A cover letter should be professional in tone and presentation. Use formal language, address the hiring manager appropriately, and follow standard business letter formatting.

How do you structure a cover letter?

A well-structured cover letter follows a specific format that makes it easy for the reader to understand your qualifications and enthusiasm for the position. Here's a typical structure for a cover letter:

Contact information

Include your name, address, phone number, and email address at the top of the letter. Place your contact information at the beginning so that it's easy for the employer to reach you.

Employer's contact information

Opening paragraph, middle paragraph(s), closing paragraph, complimentary close, additional contact information.

Repeat your contact information (name, phone number, and email) at the end of the letter, just in case the employer needs it for quick reference.

Remember to keep your cover letter concise and focused. It should typically be no more than one page in length. Proofread your letter carefully to ensure it is free from spelling and grammatical errors. Tailor each cover letter to the specific job application to make it as relevant and impactful as possible.

How to write a good cover letter (with examples)

The best letters are unique, tailored to the job description, and written in your voice — but that doesn’t mean you can’t use a job cover letter template.

Great cover letters contain the same basic elements and flow a certain way. Take a look at this cover letter structure for ref erence while you construct your own.

1. Add a header and contact information

While reading your cover letter, the recruiter shouldn’t have to look far to find who wrote it. Your document should include a basic heading with the following information:

• Pronouns (optional)
• Location (optional)
• Email address
• Phone number (optional)
• Relevant links, such as your LinkedIn profile , portfolio, or personal website (optional)

You can pull this information directly from your CV. Put it together, and it will look something like this:

Christopher Pike

San Francisco, California

[email protected]

Alternatively, if the posting asks you to submit your cover letter in the body of an email, you can include this information in your signature. For example:

Warm regards,

Catherine Janeway

Bloomington, Indiana

[email protected]

(555) 999 - 2222

2. Include a personal greeting

Always begin your cover letter by addressing the hiring manager — preferably by name. You can use the person’s first and last name. Make sure to include a relevant title, like Dr., Mr., or Ms. For example, “Dear Mr. John Doe.”

Avoid generic openings like “To whom it may concern,” “Dear sir or madam,” or “Dear hiring manager.” These introductions sound impersonal — like you’re copy-pasting cover letters — and can work against you in the hiring process.

Be careful, though. When using someone’s name, you don’t want to use the wrong title or accidentally misgender someone. If in doubt, using only their name is enough. You could also opt for a gender-neutral title, like Mx.

Make sure you’re addressing the right person in your letter — ideally, the person who’s making the final hiring decision. This isn’t always specified in the job posting, so you may have to do some research to learn the name of the hiring manager.

3. Draw them in with an opening story

The opening paragraph of your cover letter should hook the reader. You want it to be memorable, conversational, and extremely relevant to the job you’re pursuing. 

There’s no need for a personal introduction — you’ve already included your name in the heading. But you should make reference to the job you’re applying for. A simple “Thank you for considering my application for the role of [job title] at [company],” will suffice.

Then you can get into the “Why” of your job application. Drive home what makes this specific job and this company so appealing to you. Perhaps you’re a fan of their products, you’re passionate about their mission, or you love their brand voice. Whatever the case, this section is where you share your enthusiasm for the role.

Here’s an example opening paragraph. In this scenario, you’re applying for a digital marketing role at a bicycle company:

“Dear Mr. John Doe,

Thank you for considering my application for the role of Marketing Coordinator at Bits n’ Bikes.

My parents bought my first bike at one of your stores. I’ll never forget the freedom I felt when I learned to ride it. My father removed my training wheels, and my mom sent me barrelling down the street. You provide joy to families across the country — and I want to be part of that.”

4. Emphasize why you’re best for the job

Your next paragraphs should be focused on the role you’re applying to. Highlight your skill set and why you’re a good fit for the needs and expectations associated with the position. Hiring managers want to know what you’ll bring to the job, not just any role.

Start by studying the job description for hints. What problem are they trying to solve with this hire? What skills and qualifications do they mention first or more than once? These are indicators of what’s important to the hiring manager.

Search for details that match your experience and interests. For example, if you’re excited about a fast-paced job in public relations, you might look for these elements in a posting:

• They want someone who can write social media posts and blog content on tight deadlines
• They value collaboration and input from every team member
• They need a planner who can come up with strong PR strategies

Highlight how you fulfill these requirements:

“I’ve always been a strong writer. From blog posts to social media, my content pulls in readers and drives traffic to product pages. For example, when I worked at Bits n’ Bikes, I developed a strategic blog series about bike maintenance that increased our sales of spare parts and tools by 50% — we could see it in our web metrics.

Thanks to the input of all of our team members, including our bike mechanics, my content delivered results.”

5. End with a strong closing paragraph and sign off gracefully

Your closing paragraph is your final chance to hammer home your enthusiasm about the role and your unique ability to fill it. Reiterate the main points you explained in the body paragraphs and remind the reader of what you bring to the table.

You can also use the end of your letter to relay other important details, like whether you’re willing to relocate for the job.

When choosing a sign-off, opt for a phrase that sounds professional and genuine. Reliable options include “Sincerely” and “Kind regards.”

Here’s a strong closing statement for you to consider:

“I believe my enthusiasm, skills, and work experience as a PR professional will serve Bits n’ Bikes very well. I would love to meet to further discuss my value-add as your next Director of Public Relations. Thank you for your consideration. I hope we speak soon.

Tips to write a great cover letter that compliments your resume

When writing your own letter, try not to copy the example excerpts word-for-word. Instead, use this cover letter structure as a baseline to organize your ideas. Then, as you’re writing, use these extra cover letter tips to add your personal touch:

• Keep your cover letter different from your resume : Your cover letter should not duplicate the information on your resume. Instead, it should provide context and explanations for key points in your resume, emphasizing how your qualifications match the specific job you're applying for.
• Customize your cover letter . Tailor your cover letter for each job application. Address the specific needs of the company and the job posting, demonstrating that you've done your homework and understand their requirements.
• Show enthusiasm and fit . Express your enthusiasm for the company and position in the cover letter. Explain why you are interested in working for this company and how your values, goals, and skills align with their mission and culture.
• Use keywords . Incorporate keywords from the job description and industry terms in your cover letter. This can help your application pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and demonstrate that you're well-versed in the field.
• Keep it concise . Your cover letter should be succinct and to the point, typically no more than one page. Focus on the most compelling qualifications and experiences that directly support your application.
• Be professional . Maintain a professional tone and structure in your cover letter. Proofread it carefully to ensure there are no errors.
• Address any gaps or concerns . If there are gaps or concerns in your resume, such as employment gaps or a change in career direction, briefly address them in your cover letter. Explain any relevant circumstances and how they have shaped your qualifications and determination.
• Provide a call to action . Conclude your cover letter with a call to action, inviting the employer to contact you for further discussion. Mention that you've attached your resume for their reference.
• Follow the correct format . Use a standard cover letter format like the one above, including your contact information, a formal salutation, introductory and closing paragraphs, and your signature. Ensure that it complements your resume without redundancy.
• Pick the right voice and tone . Try to write like yourself, but adapt to the tone and voice of the company. Look at the job listing, company website, and social media posts. Do they sound fun and quirky, stoic and professional, or somewhere in-between? This guides your writing style.
• Tell your story . You’re an individual with unique expertise, motivators, and years of experience. Tie the pieces together with a great story. Introduce how you arrived at this point in your career, where you hope to go , and how this prospective company fits in your journey. You can also explain any career changes in your resume.
• Show, don’t tell . Anyone can say they’re a problem solver. Why should a recruiter take their word for it if they don’t back it up with examples? Instead of naming your skills, show them in action. Describe situations where you rose to the task, and quantify your success when you can.
• Be honest . Avoid highlighting skills you don’t have. This will backfire if they ask you about them in an interview. Instead, shift focus to the ways in which you stand out.
• Avoid clichés and bullet points . These are signs of lazy writing. Do your best to be original from the first paragraph to the final one. This highlights your individuality and demonstrates the care you put into the letter.
• Proofread . Always spellcheck your cover letter. Look for typos, grammatical errors, and proper flow. We suggest reading it out loud. If it sounds natural rolling off the tongue, it will read naturally as well.

Common cover letter writing FAQs

How long should a cover letter be.

A cover letter should generally be concise and to the point. It is recommended to keep it to one page or less, focusing on the most relevant information that highlights your qualifications and fits the job requirements.

Should I include personal information in a cover letter?

While it's important to introduce yourself and provide your contact information, avoid including personal details such as your age, marital status, or unrelated hobbies. Instead, focus on presenting your professional qualifications and aligning them with the job requirements.

Can I use the same cover letter for multiple job applications?

While it may be tempting to reuse a cover letter, it is best to tailor each cover letter to the specific job you are applying for. This allows you to highlight why you are a good fit for that particular role and show genuine interest in the company.

Do I need to address my cover letter to a specific person?

Whenever possible, it is advisable to address your cover letter to a specific person, such as the hiring manager or recruiter. If the job posting does not provide this information, try to research and find the appropriate contact. If all else fails, you can use a generic salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager."

Should I include references in my cover letter?

It is generally not necessary to include references in your cover letter. Save this information for when the employer explicitly requests it. Instead, focus on showcasing your qualifications and achievements that make you a strong candidate for the position.

It’s time to start writing your stand-out cover letter

The hardest part of writing is getting started. 

Hopefully, our tips gave you some jumping-off points and confidence . But if you’re really stuck, looking at cover letter examples and resume templates will help you decide where to get started. 

There are numerous sample cover letters available online. Just remember that you’re a unique, well-rounded person, and your cover letter should reflect that. Using our structure, you can tell your story while highlighting your passion for the role. 

Doing your research, including strong examples of your skills, and being courteous is how to write a strong cover letter. Take a breath , flex your fingers, and get typing. Before you know it, your job search will lead to a job interview.

If you want more personalized guidance, a specialized career coach can help review, edit, and guide you through creating a great cover letter that sticks.

Ace your job search

Explore effective job search techniques, interview strategies, and ways to overcome job-related challenges. Our coaches specialize in helping you land your dream job.

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

3 cover letter examples to help you catch a hiring manager’s attention

Chatgpt cover letters: how to use this tool the right way, write thank you letters after interviews to stand out as job applicant, use professional reference templates to make hiring smoother, send a thank you email after an internship to boost your career, character references: 4 tips for a successful recommendation letter, how to ask for a letter of recommendation (with examples), how to write an impactful cover letter for a career change, cv versus resume demystify the differences once and for all, how to write a follow-up email 2 weeks after an interview, how and when to write a functional resume (with examples), how to create a resume with chatgpt, what are professional references and how to ask for one (examples), how to politely decline a job offer (with examples), resume best practices: how far back should a resume go, 4 tips to respond to a job rejection email plus examples, how to put babysitting on a resume: 6 skills to highlight, how to decline a job interview: what to do when you’re in demand, stay connected with betterup, get our newsletter, event invites, plus product insights and research..

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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

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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 write a stand-out cover letter when applying to a startup

I'm regularly asked by candidates whether they should write a cover letter, and what to include. I'm noting down a few recommendations that I believe will help you stand out.

Sam Franklin

Read more posts by this author.

I'm regularly asked by candidates whether they should write a cover letter, and what to include. I'm noting down a few recommendations that I believe will help you stand out.

When to write a cover letter?

If you are excited about the role, I believe there's only one situation where you shouldn't write a cover letter.

When applying for a job, sometimes companies ask for additional answers alongside a CV (e.g. "What excites you about our company?"). In this case I don't believe you need to write a cover letter. They've been helpful to give you a clear opportunity to stand out.

Otherwise, I recommend writing a cover letter. I say this because I advocate for making fewer, better applications. I know it's hard to spend more time on an individual application, especially when job searching feels like a numbers game. But I feel writing quality applications is a better strategy for securing a great role. If others are sending their CV and nothing else, and you're writing a well-crafted cover letter, you are more likely to stand out!

What to write in a cover letter

To structure the cover letter, imagine you're being asked these two questions and use one paragraph to answer each. Your cover letter should be brief (1 page).

1 - What excites you about company X?

The best way to stand out is to demonstrate you have put time and thought into understanding the company.

There are simple things you can do that will instantly elevate you above candidates who haven't put additional effort in:

• Refer to an article/blog which talks about the company
• Talk about how you've tried the product and what you like
• Write why you like the mission, or show an understanding of the problem being solved

I've also written an article on 6 areas to research before interviewing at a startup - these are all useful areas to include in a cover letter to show you're excited.

Once you've written this paragraph, ask yourself "If I replaced company X with another company, for example a competitor, would it still make sense?". If the answer is yes, you probably need to add more insight and detail. The aim is to avoid seeming generic.

I often see receive cover letters with sentences like "I want to join Otta as you are changing recruiting" and this isn't enough insight to help you stand out. In fact, sometimes it can work against you, as you've made the effort to write a cover letter but haven't taken the time to write in-depth!

2 - Why do you want this role?

Your CV tells the hiring manager about your previous experience, but it doesn't say anything about your motivations. I believe a cover letter is a great opportunity to tell more of your story.

Here are some example questions that you may want to answer in this paragraph:

• What is it about this role that you really like? (Look carefully at the job description and the areas that excite you)
• If you're applying for a more senior role, why is now the right time?
• If you're moving from a corporate to a startup, why are you confident that a fast-growth environment is right for you? (I've written an article about the qualities startups look for when hiring )
• If you're making a career shift (e.g. strategy to marketing), what is your reasoning? What have you done to make yourself confident this is the right move for you?
• What do you want to achieve in your next role?
• Where do you want to be in 3-5 years and how will this role help you?
• What's important in your next role?

You don't need to tell your whole story (e.g. why you decided to start your career as a software engineer). Ideally you'll find a few interesting areas where the hiring manager will think "yes, that's exactly what we need!" and this will elevate you above other candidates.

Don't make your cover letter an extension of your CV

When reading cover letters, I make this comment about 50% of the time. A lot of candidates use a cover letter to write their CV in more detail. Either by writing more achievements, including deeper detail about projects, or repeating selling-points from the CV.

In my experience, a hiring manager will use the CV to judge your experience and suitability. They're looking to the cover letter to find something else to excite them. I believe my advice (explaining your excitement about the company and why you want the role) will help you stand out more.

If you find yourself using a cover letter to write more detail, I recommend going back to your CV and make edits to include those details in a concise way.

Ready to start your job search?

Find your next role at a fast-growing company

This Cover Letter Gets Startups to Call You

There is a nasty rumor going around that recruiters and hiring managers do not read cover letters. The truth is, many large companies use software to scan resumes for keywords and then forward those candidates deemed qualified to the HR team. In this case, your stunning cover letter would not help you get to the first round.

I get it, this is frustrating because job seekers spend a lot of time applying without much signal or feedback throughout the process. Which leads to LinkedIn posts like this that encourage job seekers to stop writing cover letters all together:

Find Top Jobs in Los Angeles See Tech Companies Hiring Now

But for us little guys—the companies who hire dozens instead of hundreds; the start ups looking to change the world with team members who are equal parts talented and passionate; the tribes where each new person immediately sends ripples through the culture—we read every cover letter, and make our interview decisions based on them.

Cover letters are a chance to fill in the "why" behind the resume, especially if the industry, type of company, or role you are applying for isn't consistent with previous experience . It answers the question: Why the choice to move from the Entertainment to Tech industry? Why go from a massive company to a start up? Why apply for a Marketing position when your previous role was in Sales? Answers to these questions reveal that one is being very deliberate about their career path.  The cover letter should show that you match what the company is looking for, and the company matches what you want in an employer.

The other important "why" in the cover letter is "why this company"? It is a huge bonus in the cover letter if there is any mention of geeking out on our technology, cultural tenets, or our mission. These candidates are the ones who understand, at least on a basic level, what we are building and why it is important, and are enthusiastic about it. This gives them an edge because our small start up runs on passion and thirst for knowledge—if you don't get excited about complex bleeding edge technology then you won't have nearly as much fun as everyone else.

So below are two cover letters to illustrate how a cover letter can be a total waste of everyone's time or instantly earn a call from a hiring manager. These are real cover letters submitted for the same role that I have edited to reveal no personal information.

1. The worst (and most common) cover letter

Dear Sir/Madam,

Please find my resume for the position of Executive Assistant. I am experienced in office administration, have excellent problem solving and time management skills. Additionally, I am highly organized and have been successful working in both individual and group settings.

I strongly believe that my educational experience, strong work ethic, customer service experience, communication skills and eagerness to learn will enable me to make a positive contribution to Gem.

I sincerely thank you for taking the time to review my application. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

[Candidate]

What's wrong with it?

• It could be for most any job, any company, any industry.
• It shows no personality, gives no context to experience, and does not distinguish this person as an individual.
• It is awfully long for saying nothing of substance.

How would I fix this cover letter?

When in doubt, always do short and specific instead of long and vague.

My revised version:

Hi Gem Team,

I'm an administrative professional for a VP at a large technology company looking to make a big impact in an emerging tech start up. As you can see from my resume, I have held a wide variety roles, and I see this position at Gem as an opportunity for me to embrace my passion for being an assistant while flexing many other muscles by event planning, office management, culture building, and more!

Looking forward to chatting further,

Why was this version better?

• The "why" they are applying is in the first sentence ( looking to make a bigger impact )
• It turns a potential negative ( this person's resume is all over the place with different types of roles...rejected! ) into a positive ( this person has a ton of skills and interests, perfect for a start up environment...get them on the phone! ).
• It references that the company they are applying for is a tech start up. This shows they are being deliberate about (or at least paying attention to) the companies they are applying to. This is a very low bar of expectation but many do not meet it! So many job seekers blast their resume out to dozens of companies without paying attention to where they are actually applying. Break out from the pack! Apply to fewer places and be more specific.
• It shows a touch of eagerness and entrepreneurial spirit that start ups thrive off of.
• It scrapped the formal, "Dear Sir/Madam" and "Sincerely" for a warmer, "Hi Gem Team" and "Looking forward to chatting further."
• It's shorter.

2. The best (and rarest) cover letter

Hi Madeline,

This is the second time I have applied to Gem because I am determined to become a part of your team. While my resume might come across as left-of-center, I have whittled away at it to reveal the pointed yet diverse experiences that make me uniquely qualified to be your Executive Assistant at Gem.

Currently, I assist my Executive Director (ED) as the liaison for a roster of several hundred executive-level contacts, one-fifth of whom work for healthcare institutions you may be familiar with via GemOS, such as [Company Name], [Company Name], and [Company Name]. With my partnership management acumen, I have the balance of left- and right-brain sensibilities to make a professional, personable gatekeeper and liaison for your leadership on a day-to-day basis.

Given my entrepreneurial and curious nature, I am constantly researching start-up technologies and their success stories (and failures) to improve workplace efficiency. Recently I implemented a project management software to assist the production of a statewide symposium. Ultimately, my research and organization system leveraged additional time to help my ED sell out tickets and close $115K in funding for the event ahead of schedule.

Since the last time I applied, I am even more enthusiastic to find that not only is Gem bringing an elegant technology to the fore, you have translated its immense potential into the field of healthcare data management. I am inspired by the opportunity to support Gem in this arena, as well as supply chain management, and bridge my enterprising and administrative capacities with a personal passion for wellness.

What stood out about this letter?

• They start out by showing great eagerness by announcing they have applied before. Without a cover letter, this candidate could appear that they are just constantly applying to EA roles, not taking note of which companies they are applying to. Instead, they show that they are deliberate and persistent—excellent!
• They show interest and expertise for the healthcare industry—an industry we work closely with. This suggests they have specialized knowledge and will likely find our work compelling.
• They reference improving workplace efficiency. This shows that they both take initiative to improve their workplace (right in line with our "Make it Happen" company value) and they seek out ways to learn and level up (in line with our "Seek Knowledge" value). Adding this paragraph shows that they understand the kind of person we are looking for.
• The closing paragraph reiterates specific interest in the company and the role (instead of stating something dry and generic).

The above cover letter is long, which is not essential to making a good impression, but long is good if the relevance of the information is high. Each sentence added something new to the identity of the candidate, whereas in the first example nearly every sentence was a throw away.

There is no universal truth when it comes to cover letters—it's a messy, nuanced, subjective topic. But if I could give you a heuristic to operate by it's:

• Write a cover letter if it is for a smaller company with a lower volume of hires. BUT...
• Do not write a cover letter unless you have something specific to say about yourself and/or the company.

Recent Articles

How To Write a Sample Email to Send a Resume to a Recruiter

3 key takeaways

• The best way to write an effective job application email to a recruiter is to get straight to the point.
• Lead with the outcomes you’ve achieved and how you align with the role in an application email.
• Teal’s Job Application Tracker includes email templates for every stage of your job search.

HR professionals and recruiters don’t actually like sorting through resumes. They can see hundreds in a single day, even if they’re using an ATS.

To get through them, they’ve created procedures to prioritize the best-fit candidates. 

That’s why, if you’re going to email your resume directly to a recruiter, that email has to catch their eye. It has to be appealing enough to get them to willingly review yet another resume.

In this article, you’ll learn how to craft the perfect sample resume to send to a recruiter. You can also speed up the process and keep track of the jobs you’ve already applied for using Teal’s Job Tracker and Email Templates .

Struggling to land interviews with your resume? Get started with Teal’s AI Resume Builder for free.

How to write an email with your resume to a recruiter

In most cases, if you’re sending your resume to a recruiter it’s because:

• They’ve reached out to you, either on LinkedIn or through email, to express interest in your background and your fit for the role. 
• They list their email in the job posting, asking for resumes in their inbox rather than in an application.
• You’ve discussed work with someone on social media, in-person, or another medium and they’ve asked you to send your resume.

In the first case, recruiters are sending out dozens of canned messages to all candidates within their database, or within a LinkedIn search. They often have a list of criteria they’re using to run this search, and you just happen to fit within that data set.

They know the more emails they send out, the more likely they are to get a response and, hopefully, find the right candidate within those responses. 

In both the first and second scenarios, recruiters are seeing a lot of emails from a lot of people. That is why you shouldn’t send your resume to a recruiter until you are sure it’s a decent match for your skills, work history, and interests for your next role.

Learn as much about the role as you can first. When you feel secure enough to send your resume, you can send it with confidence.

Once you’re ready, here’s how to email a resume to a recruiter:

Step 1: The subject line for a resume email

Your subject line is your first impression, and if it’s too generic, it’ll be completely ignored. An anonymous recruiter on a hiring forum made this clear, stating: 

“As someone who has seen a ton of these, I 100 percent do not suggest something generic. It's quite obvious from some people that they sent the same email to several people. These emails get ignored 90 percent of the time unless the hiring manager is desperate. As for the title, I suggest [you] to be very clear in what you are looking for, even if it's a little long. Example: "Expression of interest for XX-0X Position - [group name, ex: Policy Division] - Seeking Deployment Opportunity."

That’s why your email subject line needs to be a clear indicator of these few things:

• Who you are (name)
• The role you’re applying for
• Your qualifications, if applicable (MBA, CP, Ph.D…)

Email subject lines are rather short, even on a desktop (60 characters at most), but they’re even shorter in mobile inboxes. 

You need to be clear not only about why you’re reaching out, but also put the most important words at the beginning to ensure they’re seen. 

Sample subject line in an email to send to a recruiter

If you’re referred to by someone, that’s what you should include first. The subject line, in that case, might look something like this:

If you weren’t referred, here are a few other examples of email subject lines to a recruiter:

• Notice of Interest - [Job title you seek]
• Applying for [Position] – [Name] Resume
• “[Job title][Your name],[Your qualification or job title]

Step 2: Greeting

Keep your greeting simple and professional with a “Hello” or “Dear” followed by their first name. 

Just be sure to spell it correctly. They won’t take kindly to being called something other than their name, especially when you can generally just look at their email to ensure correct spelling. Check their LinkedIn profile if you are unsure.

Step 3: Introduction

The introduction of your email is the first line after your greeting, and it’s really more of a courtesy than anything else.

You don’t need to draw it out. One or two sentences explaining why you’re reaching out and how you found out about the opportunity is adequate, especially if you were referred to the role. If you were, be sure to name drop.

If you really want to stand out from the standard email though, get straight to your message and express your enthusiasm for the position with something that stands out. 

Sample intro in an email to send to a recruiter

Step 4: Qualifications and value proposition in your email body

Don’t just list your qualifications in your email as if it’s a resume. Instead, share the biggest highlights of your career in a conversational tone.

The best way to do this is to think through the outcomes you’ve produced in your position. If the role you’re applying for, or the roles you’ve had in the past, are not outcome based, consider how your work contributed to business goals. 

Maybe you’ve led a team that completed a detrimental project for the company. Maybe you’ve saved the company money somehow or increased the efficiency of an internal process. 

If former or current employers have benefited from your work in any way, share that. Then, of course, also share any certifications or earned titles, such as Ph.D.

Sample qualifications in an email to send to a recruiter

This works because it’s straightforward. Instead of oversharing, it dives right into the  results of past work. It wastes no time delivering the essential details that’ll help the recruiter make a decision.

Pro tip: Teal’s Job Tracker includes job application email templates tailored to your resume and cover letter.

Step 5: Call to Action

Point the reader in the direction you want them to take with confidence. Don’t leave it open-ended. 

For example, “please let me know if I’m a good fit” is too passive.

Instead, you want to be more assertive to earn the hiring manager's attention, urging them into action without coming across as entitled or pushy.

Sample call to action in an email to send to a recruiter

“Please see my resume attached to the link in my portfolio [URL] to check my samples and testimonials. My resume is also attached to this email. If I look like a fit, I'd love the opportunity to speak with you further on how I can apply my skills to [outcome] for [Company]. I'm available all Tuesday and Wednesday next week. Would you be up for a chat?”

Step 6: Best resume email closings and sign-offs

After asking for a meeting or closing with another call to action, thank the recruiter for their time and consideration. 

Sign off your email with a professional closing, such as "Best regards," "Sincerely," or "Thank you."

Include your full name, contact information, and any relevant links (such as your LinkedIn profile) in your email signature.

There are a few websites that make it easy to create a professional email signature . 

Sample signature in an email to send to a recruiter

You simply have to go into your email settings, to your signature, and paste your professional email signature there. From then on, every email you create will automatically include your signature. 

Step 7: Attaching your resume to a recruiter email

A lot of job applicants question whether or not they should email their resume as a word doc or a PDF file . 

A PDF has long been thought of as the clean and professional standard. They also have the advantage of maintaining your formatting, so recruiters will always see your resume as intended. 

But recently Word docs have been making a come back due to fears that ATS software isn’t able to read PDFs. 

However, as long as the text in the PDF isn't rasterized or cluttered with images and icons, an ATS should be able to read it. 

Annette Marie, a job seeker, shared this word of caution about using PDF resumes for job applications:

“The entire top portion of my PDF resume did not appear in the finished ATS scan, but everything appeared when I scanned my Word document (.docx). However, it’s worth mentioning that the top portion of my resume is within a text box, which may explain the issue. Just be cautious with shapes and objects, as they don’t seem to be compatible when using a PDF format. Nonetheless, the PDF still presents well for in-person interviews.”

Recruiters may sometimes favor Word doc resumes due to their ability to make changes, either to the formatting, or to remove certain items that might lead to unconscious bias (such as a picture).

Some recruiters might also need to remove contact information in order to protect your details and keep their clients from contacting you directly. 

But you’d have to be willing to have a recruiter alter your resume, potentially without consulting you. 

Unless they’re a career coach, a trusted friend, or a resume writing service, no one should be editing your resume. 

Step 8: Follow up on your recruiter email

There are several ways to follow up on a job application email, because, no, you don’t necessarily have to follow up via email.

• Email: It’s rare for recruiters to get through all of their emails in one sitting, so it might take a few days to get to yours. But, if you haven’t heard back in a couple of days, it’s safe to send an email reasserting your interest in the position.

Aside from re-expressing your interest, you might also want to ask when you’ll be able to connect with a hiring manager. You can also reattach your resume and cover letter. 

Sample follow up job application email template

Subject line: [Your Name] - Job Application Follow-up for [Position] at [Company] Hello [Hiring Manager's Name], A few weeks ago, I applied for the [Position Title with Hyperlink to the Application] role at [Company Name]. I'm very excited about this opportunity, so I wanted to reach out, introduce myself, and see if you have any details from the hiring manger about the decision timeline. I'm a [Your Current Job Title] at [Your Current Company Name] who's [insert relevant qualifications and/or accomplishments] over the last [X] years. In particular, I'm interested in [Company Name] because [mention specific reasons why you're interested and why you’re a good fit]. Please let me know if you have any questions about my application or require further information from me. I look forward to hearing from you soon and learning more about the timeline. I can't wait to share some of my ideas on [insert challenge or goal related to your desired new job title]. [Best/Kind regards/Thank you], [Your Name] [Your Phone Number] [Your LinkedIn]

• Phone: Resort to a phone call only after you haven’t heard back on your follow-up email. 
• LinkedIn: Try to avoid reaching out to a recruiter on LinkedIn unless that was their initial method of contacting you. The reason? It’s far more informal and some recruiters only use their LinkedIn for personal use, or may not check it regularly. 

Here’s a simple follow-up LinkedIn message template : 

Dear [Contact Name], I recently submitted my application for the [Position] at [Company], and I wanted to follow up to express my continued interest in the opportunity and inquire about the status of my application. I am excited about the possibility of joining the team at [Company], and I believe my skills and experience make me a strong fit for the [Position]. I am confident that my [mention of relevant skills, qualifications or experiences] would contribute to the success of the team and the company. If there are any additional materials or information I can provide to support my application, please let me know. I am eager to further discuss my qualifications and how I can contribute to the success of [Company]. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Best regards, [Your Name] [Your Phone Number]

Note: Within Teal’s Job Application Tracker, you’ll find job application email templates to get your started in crafting a personalized email to a recruiter.

Common mistakes to avoid when sending your resume via email

Most emails sent to a recruiter are canned—a template or exact copy of an email sent again and again with little to no alterations. And recruiters are sick of it. 

Jules Lalo, a recruiter , echoes this when with this statement:

“One of my pet peeves is a CV with no context [in the email] intro [so] I have to decipher what group level they are substantively. This has a huge impact on filtering later on.”

In other words, recruiters aren’t just asking for more details and personalization from you because they don’t like it. They simply need more details to help place you in a role or ensure you’re a right fit (and they want to be able to find your email later).

But a lack of context isn’t the only mistake many job seekers make when sending a job application email. Here are a few common mistakes recruiters see: 

Using an unprofessional email address

Elby James , a former HR associate and resume consultant, finds it shocking how often people send emails from unprofessional email addresses. 

“The email address should be a professional email address. I don't mind Gmail or AOL but really, how much does it cost to buy a domain name today? Especially when it is for something as important as your career.

I remember seeing email addresses such as [email protected] . [email protected] . [email protected] . ”

Spelling errors on your resume or in the email 

Spelling mistakes won’t be a make or break for all recruiters, but it can be a put off for many, especially in a short email. With tools like Grammarly available today, most recruiters don’t take kindly to spelling mistakes. 

Elby shares his thoughts on this as well:

“I abhor typos. Maybe this is the graduate English major inside of me acting out but really, there is no need for typos; there are two reasons I say this: The first reason is spell check… it’s free! The second reason is [that] a resume is an important document, you should check it as many times as possible.”

Try to avoid buzzwords

You might be keyword stuffing your resume to get into the candidate pool, but you shouldn’t apply that same logic to a recruiter email. And really, you should try to avoid overstuffing your resume as well. 

Recruiters will often use keyword stuffing as a mental filter. They’ll automatically toss any resume or email that overly-uses buzzwords.

They need to be able to tell what you do in the simplest of terms and with a quick glance. But if you’re using phrases like—“transformed big-thinking into actionable steps, aligning with business goals and channel objectives”—no one will understand you. 

Pro tip: Teal’s free Chrome Extension shares the top five keywords in a job posting for free, and Matching Mode helps you optimize your resume accordingly (meaning you only need to use the most important words).

Lack of personalization

It doesn’t take a lot to personalize an email to a recruiter. 

You’ll keep most of the details the same, like your qualifications and your call to action. But you’ll alter the company’s name, the recruiter’s name, and details about how you found out about the role. 

You’ll also want to alter anything pertinent to the role itself, such as how your experience applies. This isn’t the same for every role, and it’s very easy to tell if you aren’t paying attention to those differences. 

Recruiters want to know exactly how you fit that role, without digging. 

Start with a sample email to send a resume to a recruiter

As you may have caught on, recruiters see hundreds of resumes. They’re unsurprised by most stylings or attempts to be unique. But they’re far more numb to the generic resume emails they see all day.

So while it’s important to add personalization, get straight to your point, and include only the most compelling details in your email, you still need an email template to get started.

While recruiters may see a lot of emails, there’s truth to the job search being a numbers game. The longer you spend on one email, the longer you might be searching for a role. You might even miss out on some opportunities because you’re spending too much time on emailing a recruiter that will spend only seconds determining whether or not to put you in a candidate pool.

Using a sample resume email for recruiters as a template, you can speed up the process while adding some personalization. 

To find simple, but effective job application email templates, try Teal’s Resume Builder. Teal’s Job Application Tracker includes email templates to send your email to recruiters and hiring managers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should you write in an email when sending a resume to a recruiter.

When sending a resume to a recruiter, keep your email concise and professional. Start with a clear subject line, greet the recruiter by name, briefly introduce yourself, highlight key achievements, include a call to action, and close with a professional sign-off.

What should you write when sending a CV via email?

When sending a CV via email, include a personalized greeting, a short introduction stating why you’re reaching out, and a summary of your qualifications and accomplishments. Add a clear call to action, thank the recruiter for their time, and attach your CV in a preferred format.

What should you write in an email subject line when sending a resume?

Your email subject line should clearly indicate who you are, the role you’re applying for, and any relevant qualifications. Examples include "Notice of Interest - [Job Title]", "Applying for [Position] – [Your Name]", or "[Job Title] - [Your Name], [Qualification]".

Sarah Colley

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