How To Start A Cover Letter (With 30 Examples)

You’ve crafted your resume, completed your job application, and now it’s time to tackle that cover letter.

“This should be straightforward,” you tell yourself. You start by inputting the recipient’s name and address, along with your own. You enter the date, write the salutation, and then… you find yourself staring at the blinking cursor for what feels like an eternity before succumbing to the urge to scroll through social media, hoping for a spark of inspiration.

Instead of getting stuck on a blank page, follow the guidelines in this article to create a compelling cover letter that you’ll be proud to submit.

Key Takeaways:

• Effective ways to start your resume include:

  • Express enthusiasm for the organization.

  • Share your passions.

  • Highlight your achievements.

  • Craft an engaging story.

  • Reference mutual connections.

  • Discuss relevant industry topics.

• Being straightforward can also be an effective approach.

• The way you start a cover letter can significantly impact your chances of success, so ensure your opening captures the reader’s attention.

7 Tips On How To Start a Cover Letter

Your resume showcases your qualifications, but your cover letter allows your personality and enthusiasm to shine through.

With many applications vying for attention, it’s essential to make your cover letter engaging and memorable.

To accomplish this, incorporate the following elements in the introductory paragraph (or two) of your cover letter:

1. Show your enthusiasm for the organization. Employers want to know that you genuinely want to work for them and are passionate about their mission. If you have a history with the company, share that. If not, express what you admire based on your research about the company and position.

   Discuss any recent accomplishments or developments within the organization that excite you, indicating your investment in their progress.

2. Express your passion for your field. Hiring managers value candidates who are excited about their work. Share what motivates you and why you chose this career path. Articulate a personal belief that aligns with the company’s values and mission, ensuring sincerity in your expression.

3. Highlight a notable achievement. While your resume lists your qualifications, mentioning a specific achievement in your cover letter reinforces your capabilities. Use quantifiable examples to illustrate your success, such as the financial impact of a project you led.

   Conclude by connecting how your skills can contribute to the prospective position.

4. Tell a compelling story. A narrative can create a memorable connection, making your letter engaging. Keep your story relevant and concise, ensuring it aligns with the company culture.

5. Mention a connection to the company. If you were referred to the position by someone within the organization, mention that early on. Keep it brief and relevant without overemphasizing your relationship.

6. Demonstrate informed research. Impress a recruiter or hiring manager by showcasing your knowledge of the company. Refer to recent projects or newsworthy events that illustrate your interest and commitment to the company.

   Even if you struggle to find newsworthy topics, the company’s website can provide insights on their mission, values, and recent press releases to help frame your introduction.

7. Be direct. Some hiring managers appreciate a straightforward approach. In a direct opening, convey the position you’re applying for and why you believe you’re an excellent fit. This can be effective if it suits your personality or aligns with the company’s culture.

30 Examples of Cover Letter Openings

To inspire your creativity for opening your cover letter, here are some examples of engaging ways to begin. Tailor them to reflect your unique situation and voice, ensuring your tone aligns with the company’s culture.

1. Since I was eight years old, I’ve been giving my older siblings advice on how to style their hair. Now, as a certified cosmetologist, I’m excited about the opportunity to help people look their best professionally.

2. Growing up, I was a die-hard fan of the Denver Rockies, with my room plastered with their memorabilia. Now, as a professional in sports marketing, I am thrilled to apply for the marketing manager position with my favorite team.

3. As a child, I dreamed of being a waitress. I achieved that goal in high school and have since developed a passion for providing excellent customer service. This passion drives me to apply for a position at Marriott Hotels and Resorts.

4. Over my college years, I took several career assessments that pointed me towards various fields. Ultimately, they all highlighted my passion for recognizing and promoting beauty, leading me to pursue a career in music production.

5. I’ve always been the person my team turns to for guidance on task assignments. My organizational and delegation skills will serve me well as a project coordinator at ATT.

6. Though I’ve never held the title of “manager,” I have been leading teams as the most senior HR representative for four years.

7. After wrestling with a package of trail mix labeled “Easy-open packaging,” my passion for good design blossomed. From my degree in industrial design to my last role at Cuisinart, I’m ready to embrace my next challenge at Apple.

8. I learned the importance of preparedness when I ran out of diapers with a six-month-old. Since then, I’ve subscribed to Grove Collaborative for monthly essentials and would now love to provide that same peace of mind to customers as a customer service representative.

9. Shopping for jeans can be a frustrating experience. I want to make that process enjoyable as a personal shopper at StitchFix.

10. Over the last five years, I’ve focused my PR strategies on one principle: People connect with relatable brands. I want to leverage my experience in PR consulting to help companies become more approachable.

11. You may wonder why a sales associate from a paper company is applying for a sports marketing role. My background in customer engagement and lifelong passion for sports uniquely positions me to add value to your marketing team.

12. Three years ago, I started supporting our sales team, transitioning from my role as an administrative assistant. Now, I am eager to pursue a full-time sales career with Macy’s.

13. If you’re seeking someone who resists change, I may not be your ideal candidate. However, if you need someone who constantly evaluates processes for efficiency, I could be the right fit.

14. Initially, I dreaded my accounting class in college, but it turned out to be my favorite. Now, with a degree in hand, I’m excited to apply my skills at PayPal, a company I’ve long admired.

15. I first learned of Sales Corp. during a class tour, and after connecting with employees, I became eager to find job openings that align with my skills.

16. Visiting the Denver Aquarium ignited my love for the ocean. With a degree in marine biology and ten years at an animal sanctuary in Florida, I now wish to share my knowledge through this management role at the aquarium.

17. Many envision advertising agencies as trendy and collaborative. While I appreciate that, what truly excites me is your commitment to excellence and prioritizing customer needs.

18. At eight, I built my first treehouse. Since then, I’ve honed my woodworking skills and graduated top of my class from the City Technology Center. I’m eager to begin my career as an apprentice at City Construction Company.

19. I first encountered Great Designs at the 3D Design Conference last year. After chatting with a representative and learning that he was the CEO, I decided I wanted to be part of a company that values collaboration and design.

20. In my car, you’ll find a sponge on my steering wheel and a practice suture kit in my glove box. I’m meticulous about details, and I look forward to bringing that passion to St. Francis Hospital’s general surgery team.

21. As a travel writer, I’ve explored various modes of transport, but nothing compares to the hospitality I experienced with Princess Cruise Lines. I would be honored to contribute to that experience as a travel blog writer.

22. Last January, I became the top-rated trainer at my gym. I’m eager to leverage my fitness training and customer service skills in the head manager role at Gold’s Gym.

23. Upon visiting Cooper Accounting last month, I felt an instant connection with the team. I was thrilled to discover others who share my enthusiasm for numbers.

24. My academic advisor emphasized the importance of gaining experience through internships. However, I’m motivated when I work for a cause I believe in, which is why I’m drawn to the Red Cross.

25. I recently graduated from the University of Indiana and learned that I have much to discover. I believe working in Governor Hanson’s office will provide invaluable mentorship as I strive to contribute to our city’s improvement.

26. My roommate initially mentioned the data scientist position at Northrop Grumman. The more I researched, the more I became excited about the prospect of joining such an innovative company.

27. At 11, I aspired to be a scientist. I later realized I wanted to work with people, leading me to pursue a career as a Registered Nurse. I admire St. John’s Hospital’s focus on innovation and patient care, and I am eager to contribute to both.

28. Having managed projects with over 100 team members for 11 years, I’m ready to share my experience by training future project managers.

29. While I enjoy my current role as a graphic designer at PetCo, my heart raced when I saw the opening at Burton Snowboards. As an avid snowboarder, I’ve always admired your attention to detail and commitment to excellence.

Cover Letter FAQ

1. What are some tips for a great cover letter?

   Craft a personal cover letter that highlights your journey. Use the recipient’s name or job title instead of a generic greeting. If you’re unsure, do some research to find out.

   Structure your introduction to cover your past, present, and future, informing the reader about your education, current status, and aspirations within the company.

2. What should be included in a cover letter?

   A cover letter should convey your relevant skills and background. The first paragraph should introduce who you are and your interest in the role. The second paragraph should summarize your background, including skills, qualifications, and education.

3. What should you avoid in your cover letter?

   Avoid including personal information, salary expectations, and spelling errors. Only share relevant details like your name and educational background. Personal details such as marital status or religion are unnecessary.

   Discuss salary expectations only after receiving an offer. Including it in the cover letter can create a negative impression. Always proofread for spelling errors before submitting.

References

1. Harvard Extension School – Resume and Cover Letters

2. Columbia University Center for Career Education – How and Why to Write a Great Cover Letter

Author

Maddie Lloyd

Maddie Lloyd was a writer for the Zippia Advice blog focused on researching tips for interview, resume, and cover letter preparation. She's currently a graduate student at North Carolina State University's department of English concentrating in Film and Media Studies.

Expert

Matt Warzel, CPRW, CIR

Matt Warzel a President of a resume writing firm (MJW Careers, LLC) with 15+ years of recruitment, outplacement, career coaching and resume writing experience. Matt is also a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and Certified Internet Recruiter (CIR) with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Marketing Focus) from John Carroll University.