Cover letter openings make a critical first impression on potential employers. Strong opening lines grab attention, show enthusiasm, and highlight why you’re an ideal fit for the position.
The beginning of your cover letter should convey genuine interest in both the role and the company. Your opening statement needs to immediately engage the hiring manager.
You could start by mentioning what excites you about the company:
- “When I discovered the [Position] opening at [Company], I knew my background in [relevant skill] would be an ideal match.”
- “My passion for [industry/field] has led me to [Company], where I hope to contribute to your mission of [company goal].”
- “As someone who has admired [Company]’s commitment to […], I’m thrilled to apply for the [Position] role.”
- “The innovative approach [Company] takes toward [specific industry challenge] aligns perfectly with my professional values.”
- “Your recent announcement about [company initiative] caught my attention and inspired me to apply for this position.
Highlighting Relevant Experience
Starting with your most impressive and relevant qualification can immediately demonstrate your value to the hiring manager.
Try these approaches:
- “With [X] years of experience increasing [relevant metric] by [specific percentage], I’m excited to bring my expertise to the [Position] role.”
- “My background developing [specific skill/project] at [Previous Company] has prepared me to excel in this position.”
- “Having successfully led teams that [specific accomplishment], I’m eager to bring similar results to [Company].”
- “My track record of [relevant achievement] aligns perfectly with the qualifications outlined in your job posting.”
- “The [specific project] I completed at [Previous Company] demonstrates the exact skills you’re seeking in this role.”
Referencing Common Connections or Recommendations
Mentioning a mutual connection or recommendation can quickly establish credibility and create a personal connection with the reader.
Some effective approaches include:
- “After speaking with [Name], a [position] at your company, I was encouraged to apply for this opportunity.”
- “[Name], who leads your [department] team, suggested I reach out regarding the [Position] role.”
- “As a fellow [university] graduate, [Name] recommended I explore opportunities at [Company].”
- “Your presentation at [event] inspired me to reach out about joining your team.”
- “Having collaborated with [Company] as a [previous role], I’ve experienced firsthand the exceptional work culture you maintain.”
Effective Introductions for Job Applications
Instead of generic statements, try to connect with the company’s needs:
- “My five years of experience in digital marketing aligns with your search for a results-driven campaign manager.”
- “As someone who increased sales by 32% in my current role, I was excited to see your opening for a Sales Director.”
- “The innovative work Jupiter Tech is doing in renewable energy matches my research background and passion.”
- “After using your products for three years, I’m eager to contribute to your customer experience team.”
- “My background developing mobile applications for the healthcare industry gives me unique insight into the challenges your company addresses.”
Template for a job application opening
“As a [your experience level] [your profession] with [specific relevant skill], I was excited to discover your opening for [exact job title] on [where you found the job].”
Example: “As a senior graphic designer with expertise in brand identity, I was excited to discover your opening for Creative Director on your company website.”