how to begin a cover letter with a name

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 Write a Cover Letter [Full Guide & Examples for 2024]

After weeks of heavy job searching, you’re almost there!

You’ve perfected your resume.

You’ve short-listed the coolest jobs you want to apply for.

You’ve even had a friend train you for every single interview question out there.

But then, before you can send in your application and call it a day, you remember that you need to write a cover letter too.

So now, you’re stuck staring at a blank page, wondering where to start...

Don’t panic! We’ve got you covered. Writing a cover letter is a lot simpler than you might think.

In this guide, we’re going to teach you how to write a cover letter that gets you the job you deserve.

We're going to cover:

What Is a Cover Letter?

How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter, Step by Step
15+ Job-Winning Cover Letter Examples

Let’s get started.

A cover letter is a document that you submit as part of your job application, alongside your resume or CV.

The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce you and briefly summarize your professional background. On average, it should be around 250 to 400 words long .

A good cover letter is supposed to impress the hiring manager and convince them you’re worth interviewing as a candidate.

So, how can your cover letter achieve this?

First of all, it should complement your resume, not copy it. Your cover letter is your chance to elaborate on important achievements, skills, or anything else that your resume doesn’t give you the space to cover.

For example, if you have an employment gap on your resume, the cover letter is a great place to explain why it happened and how it helped you grow as a person.

If this is your first time writing a cover letter, writing about yourself might seem complicated. But don’t worry—you don’t need to be super creative or even a good writer .

All you have to do is follow this tried and tested cover letter structure:

Header. Add all the necessary contact information at the top of your cover letter.
Formal greeting. Choose an appropriate way to greet your target audience.
Introduction. Introduce yourself in the opening paragraph and explain your interest in the role.
Body. Elaborate on why you’re the best candidate for the job and a good match for the company. Focus on “selling” your skills, achievements, and relevant professional experiences.
Conclusion. Summarize your key points and wrap it up professionally.

Now, let’s take a look at an example of a cover letter that follows our structure perfectly:

New to cover letter writing? Give our cover letter video a watch before diving into the article!

When Should You Write a Cover Letter?

You should always include a cover letter in your job application, even if the hiring manager never reads it. Submitting a cover letter is as important as submitting a resume if you want to look like a serious candidate.

If the employer requests a cover letter as part of the screening process, not sending one is a huge red flag and will probably get your application tossed into the “no” pile immediately.

On the other hand, if the job advertisement doesn’t require a cover letter from the candidates, adding one shows you went the extra mile.

Putting in the effort to write a cover letter can set you apart from other candidates with similar professional experience and skills, and it could even sway the hiring manager to call you for an interview if you do it right.

Need to write a letter to help get you into a good school or volunteer program? Check out our guide to learn how to write a motivation letter !

How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter

Now that you know what a cover letter is, it’s time to learn how to write one!

We’ll go through the process in detail, step by step.

#1. Choose the Right Cover Letter Template

A good cover letter is all about leaving the right first impression.

So, what’s a better way to leave a good impression than a well-formatted, stylish template?

Just choose one of our hand-picked cover letter templates , and you’ll be all set in no time!

As a bonus, our intuitive AI will even give you suggestions on how to improve your cover letter as you write it. You’ll have the perfect cover letter done in minutes!

#2. Put Contact Information in the Header

As with a resume, it’s important to

start your cover letter

with your contact details at the top. These should be in your cover letter’s header, separated neatly from the bulk of your text.

Here, you want to include all the essential contact information , including:

Full Name. Your first and last name should stand out at the top.
Job Title. Match the professional title underneath your name to the exact job title of the position you’re applying for. Hiring managers often hire for several roles at once, so giving them this cue about what role you’re after helps things go smoother.
Email Address. Always use a professional and easy-to-spell email address. Ideally, it should combine your first and last names.
Phone Number. Add a number where the hiring manager can easily reach you.
Location. Add your city and state/country, no need for more details.
Relevant Links (optional). You can add links to websites or social media profiles that are relevant to your field. Examples include a LinkedIn profile , Github, or an online portfolio.

Then it’s time to add the recipient’s contact details, such as:

Hiring Manager's Name. If you can find the name of the hiring manager, add it.
Hiring Manager's Title. While there’s no harm in writing “hiring manager,” if they’re the head of the department, we recommend you use that title accordingly.
Company Name. Make sure to write the name of the company you're applying to.
Location. The city and state/country are usually enough information here, too.
Date of Writing (Optional). You can include the date you wrote your cover letter for an extra professional touch.

#3. Address the Hiring Manager

Once you’ve properly listed all the contact information, it’s time to start writing the content of the cover letter.

The first thing you need to do here is to address your cover letter directly to the hiring manager.

In fact, you want to address the hiring manager personally .

Forget the old “Dear Sir or Madam” or the impersonal “To Whom It May Concern.” You want to give your future boss a good impression and show them that you did your research before sending in your application.

No one wants to hire a job seeker who just spams 20+ companies and hopes something sticks with their generic approach

So, how do you find out who’s the hiring manager?

First, check the job ad. The hiring manager’s name might be listed somewhere in it.

If that doesn’t work, check the company’s LinkedIn page. You just need to look up the head of the relevant department you’re applying to, and you’re all set.

For example, if you’re applying for the position of Communication Specialist at Novorésumé. The hiring manager is probably the Head of Communications or the Chief Communications Officer.

Here’s what you should look for on LinkedIn:

And there you go! You have your hiring manager.

But let’s say you’re applying for a position as a server . In that case, you’d be looking for the “restaurant manager” or “food and beverage manager.”

If the results don’t come up with anything, try checking out the “Team” page on the company website; there’s a good chance you’ll at least find the right person there.

Make sure to address them as Mr. or Ms., followed by their last name. If you’re not sure about their gender or marital status, you can just stick to their full name, like so:

Dear Mr. Kurtuy,
Dear Andrei Kurtuy,

But what if you still can’t find the hiring manager’s name, no matter where you look?

No worries. You can direct your cover letter to the company, department, or team as a whole, or just skip the hiring manager’s name.

Dear [Department] Hiring Manager
Dear Hiring Manager
Dear [Department] Team
Dear [Company Name]

Are you applying for a research position? Learn how to write an academic personal statement .

#4. Write an Eye-Catching Introduction

First impressions matter, especially when it comes to your job search.

Hiring managers get hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of applications. Chances are, they’re not going to be reading every single cover letter end-to-end.

So, it’s essential to catch their attention from the very first paragraph.

The biggest problem with most opening paragraphs is that they’re usually extremely generic. Here’s an example:

My name is Jonathan, and I’d like to work as a Sales Manager at XYZ Inc. I’ve worked as a Sales Manager at MadeUpCompany Inc. for 5+ years, so I believe that I’d be a good fit for the position.

See the issue here? This opening paragraph doesn’t say anything except the fact that you’ve worked the job before.

And do you know who else has similar work experience? All the other applicants you’re competing with.

Instead, you want to start with some of your top achievements to grab the reader’s attention. And to get the point across, the achievements should be as relevant as possible to the position.

Your opening paragraph should also show the hiring manager a bit about why you want this specific job. For example, mention how the job relates to your plans for the future or how it can help you grow professionally. This will show the hiring manager that you’re not just applying left and right—you’re actually enthusiastic about getting this particular role.

Now, let’s make our previous example shine:

Dear Mr. Smith,

My name’s Michael, and I’d like to help XYZ Inc. hit and exceed its sales goals as a Sales Manager. I’ve worked as a Sales Representative with Company X, another fin-tech company , for 3+ years, where I generated an average of $30,000+ in sales per month and beat the KPIs by around 40%. I believe that my previous industry experience, passion for finance , and excellence in sales make me the right candidate for the job.

The second candidate starts with what they can do for the company in the future and immediately lists an impressive and relevant achievement. Since they’re experienced in the same industry and interested in finance, the hiring manager can see they’re not just a random applicant.

From this introduction, it’s safe to say that the hiring manager would read the rest of this candidate’s cover letter.

#5. Use the Cover Letter Body for Details

The next part of your cover letter is where you can go into detail about what sets you apart as a qualified candidate for the job.

The main thing you need to remember here is that you shouldn’t make it all about yourself . Your cover letter is supposed to show the hiring manager how you relate to the job and the company you’re applying to.

No matter how cool you make yourself sound in your cover letter, if you don’t tailor it to match what the hiring manager is looking for, you’re not getting an interview.

To get this right, use the job ad as a reference when writing your cover letter. Make sure to highlight skills and achievements that match the job requirements, and you’re good to go.

Since this part of your cover letter is by far the longest, you should split it into at least two paragraphs.

Here’s what each paragraph should cover:

Explain Why You’re the Perfect Candidate for the Role

Before you can show the hiring manager that you’re exactly what they’ve been looking for, you need to know what it is they’re looking for.

Start by doing a bit of research. Learn what the most important skills and responsibilities of the role are according to the job ad, and focus on any relevant experience you have that matches them.

For example, if you’re applying for the position of a Facebook Advertiser. The top requirements on the job ad are:

Experience managing a Facebook ad budget of $10,000+ / month
Some skills in advertising on other platforms (Google Search + Twitter)
Excellent copywriting skills

So, in the body of your cover letter, you need to show how you meet these requirements. Here’s an example of what that can look like:

In my previous role as a Facebook Marketing Expert at XYZ Inc. I handled customer acquisition through ads, managing a monthly Facebook ad budget of $40,000+ . As the sole digital marketer at the company, I managed the ad creation and management process end-to-end. I created the ad copy and images, picked the targeting, ran optimization trials, and so on.

Other than Facebook advertising, I’ve also delved into other online PPC channels, including:

Google Search

Our example addresses all the necessary requirements and shows off the candidate’s relevant skills.

Are you a student applying for your first internship? Learn how to write an internship cover letter with our dedicated guide.

Explain Why You’re a Good Fit for the Company

As skilled and experienced as you may be, that’s not all the hiring manager is looking for.

They also want someone who’s a good fit for their company and who actually wants to work there.

Employees who don’t fit in with the company culture are likely to quit sooner or later. This ends up costing the company a ton of money, up to 50% of the employee’s annual salary , so hiring managers vet candidates very carefully to avoid this scenario.

So, you have to convince the hiring manager that you’re passionate about working with them.

Start by doing some research about the company. You want to know things like:

What’s the company’s business model?
What’s the company’s product or service? Have you used it?
What’s the company’s culture like?

Chances are, you’ll find all the information you need either on the company website or on job-search websites like Jobscan or Glassdoor.

Then, pick your favorite thing about the company and talk about it in your cover letter.

But don’t just describe the company in its own words just to flatter them. Be super specific—the hiring manager can see through any fluff.

For example, if you’re passionate about their product and you like the company’s culture of innovation and independent work model, you can write something like:

I’ve personally used the XYZ Smartphone, and I believe that it’s the most innovative tech I’ve used in years. The features, such as Made-Up-Feature #1 and Made-Up-Feature #2, were real game changers for the device.

I really admire how Company XYZ strives for excellence in all its product lines, creating market-leading tech. As someone who thrives in a self-driven environment, I truly believe that I’ll be a great match for your Product Design team.

So, make sure to do your fair share of research and come up with good reasons why you're applying to that specific company.

Is the company you want to work for not hiring at the moment? Check out our guide to writing a letter of interest .

#6. Wrap It Up and Sign It

Finally, it’s time to conclude your cover letter.

In the final paragraph, you want to:

Wrap up any points you couldn't make in the previous paragraphs. Do you have anything left to say? If there’s any other information that could help the hiring manager make their decision, mention it here. If not, just recap your key selling points so far, such as key skills and expertise.
Express gratitude. Politely thanking the hiring manager for their time is always a good idea.
Finish the cover letter with a call to action. The very last sentence in your cover letter should be a call to action. This means you should ask the hiring manager to do something, like call you and discuss your application or arrange an interview.
Remember to sign your cover letter. Just add a formal closing line and sign your name at the bottom.

Here’s an example of how to end your cover letter :

I hope to help Company X make the most of their Facebook marketing initiatives. I'd love to further discuss how my previous success at XYZ Inc. can help you achieve your Facebook marketing goals. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at the provided email address or phone number so that we may arrange an interview.

Thank you for your consideration,

Alice Richards

Feel free to use one of these other popular closing lines for your cover letter:

Best Regards,
Kind Regards,

Cover Letter Writing Checklist

Once you’re done with your cover letter, it’s time to check if it meets all industry requirements.

Give our handy cover letter writing checklist a look to make sure:

Does your cover letter heading include all essential information?

Professional Email
Phone Number
Relevant Links

Do you address the right person?

The hiring manager in the company
Your future direct supervisor
The company/department in general

Does your introductory paragraph grab the reader's attention?

Did you mention some of your top achievements?
Did you use numbers and facts to back up your experience?
Did you convey enthusiasm for the specific role?

Do you show that you’re the right candidate for the job?

Did you identify the core requirements for the role?
Did you show how your experiences helped you fit the requirements perfectly?

Do you convince the hiring manager that you’re passionate about the company you’re applying to?

Did you identify the top 3 things that you like about the company?
Did you avoid generic reasons for explaining your interest in the company?

Did you conclude your cover letter properly?

Did you recap your key selling points in the conclusion?
Did you end your cover letter with a call to action?
Did you use the right formal closing line and sign your name?

15 Cover Letter Tips

Now you’re all set to write your cover letter!

Before you start typing, here are some cover letter tips to help take your cover letter to the next level:

Customize Your Cover Letter for Each Job. Make sure your cover letter is tailored to the job you're applying for. This shows you're not just sending generic applications left and right, and it tells the hiring manager you’re the right person for the job.
Showcase Your Skills. Talk about how your skills meet the company’s needs. And while your hard skills should be front and center, you shouldn’t underestimate your soft skills in your cover letter either.
Avoid Fluff. Don’t make any generic statements you can’t back up. The hiring manager can tell when you’re just throwing words around, and it doesn’t make your cover letter look good.
Use Specific Examples. Instead of saying you're great at something, give an actual example to back up your claim. Any data you can provide makes you sound more credible, so quantify your achievements. For example, give numbers such as percentages related to your performance and the timeframe it took to accomplish certain achievements.
Research the Company. Always take time to learn about the company you're applying to. Make sure to mention something about them in your cover letter to show the hiring manager that you're interested.
Follow the Application Instructions. If the job posting asks for something specific in your cover letter or requires a certain format, make sure you include it. Not following instructions can come off as unattentive or signal to the hiring manager that you’re not taking the job seriously.
Use the Right Template and Format. Choose the right cover letter format and adapt your cover letter’s look to the industry you’re applying for. For example, if you’re aiming for a job in Law or Finance, you should go for a cleaner, more professional look. But if you’re applying for a field that values innovation, like IT or Design, you have more room for creativity.
Express Your Enthusiasm. Let the hiring manager know why you're excited about the job. Your passion for the specific role or the field in general can be a big selling point, and show them that you’re genuinely interested, not just applying left and right.
Address Any Gaps. If there are any employment gaps in your resume , your cover letter is a great place to mention why. Your resume doesn’t give you enough space to elaborate on an employment gap, so addressing it here can set hiring managers at ease—life happens, and employers understand.
Avoid Quirky Emails. Your email address should be presentable. It’s hard for a hiring manager to take you seriously if your email address is “[email protected].” Just use a [email protected] format.
Check Your Contact Information. Typos in your email address or phone number can mean a missed opportunity. Double-check these before sending your application.
Mention if You Want to Relocate. If you’re looking for a job that lets you move somewhere else, specify this in your cover letter.
Keep It Brief. You want to keep your cover letter short and sweet. Hiring managers don’t have time to read a novel, so if you go over one page, they simply won’t read it at all.
Use a Professional Tone. Even though a conversational tone isn’t a bad thing, remember that it's still a formal document. Show professionalism in your cover letter by keeping slang, jargon, and emojis out of it.
Proofread Carefully. Typos and grammar mistakes are a huge deal-breaker. Use a tool like Grammarly or QuillBot to double-check your spelling and grammar, or even get a friend to check it for you.

15+ Cover Letter Examples

Need some inspiration? Check out some perfect cover letter examples for different experience levels and various professions.

5+ Cover Letter Examples by Experience

#1. college student cover letter example.

Check out our full guide to writing a college student cover letter here.

#2. Middle Management Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a project manager cover letter here.

#3. Team Leader Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a team leader cover letter here.

#4. Career Change Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to a career change resume and cover letter here.

#5. Management Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a management cover letter here.

#6. Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing an executive resume here.

9+ Cover Letter Examples by Profession

#1. it cover letter example.

Check out our full guide to writing an IT cover letter here.

#2. Consultant Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a consultant cover letter here.

#3. Human Resources Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a human resources cover letter here.

#4. Business Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a business cover letter here.

#5. Sales Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a sales cover letter here.

#6. Social Worker Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a social worker cover letter here.

#7. Lawyer Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing a lawyer cover letter here.

#8. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter

Check out our full guide to writing an administrative assistant cover letter here.

#9. Engineering Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing an engineer cover letter here.

#10. Receptionist Cover Letter Example

Check out our full guide to writing a receptionist cover letter here.

Need more inspiration? Check out these cover letter examples to learn what makes them stand out.

Plug & Play Cover Letter Template

Not sure how to start your cover letter? Don’t worry!

Just copy and paste our free cover letter template into the cover letter builder, and swap out the blanks for your details.

[Your Full Name]

[Your Profession]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Location]

[Your LinkedIn Profile URL (optional)]

[Your Personal Website URL (optional)]

[Recipient's Name, e.g., Jane Doe],

[Recipient's Position, e.g., Hiring Manager]

[Company Name, e.g., ABC Corporation]

[Company Address]

[City, State/Country]

Dear [Recipient's Name],

As a seasoned [Your Profession] with [Number of Years of Experience] years of industry experience, I am eager to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. With my experience in [Your Industry/Sector] and the successes I've achieved throughout my education and career, I believe I can bring unique value and creativity to your team.

In my current role as [Your Current Job Title], I've taken the lead on more than [Number of Projects/Assignments] projects, some valued up to $[Highest Project Value]. I pride myself on consistently exceeding client expectations and have successfully [Mention a Key Achievement] in just a [Amount of Time] through [Skill] and [Skill].

I've collaborated with various professionals, such as [List Roles], ensuring that all [projects/tasks] meet [relevant standards or objectives]. This hands-on experience, coupled with my dedication to understanding each [client's/customer's] vision, has equipped me to navigate and deliver on complex projects.

My key strengths include:

Improving [Achievement] by [%] over [Amount of Time] which resulted in [Quantified Result].
Optimizing [Work Process/Responsibility] which saved [Previous Employer] [Amount of Time/Budget/Other Metric] over [Weeks/Months/Years]
Spearheading team of [Number of People] to [Task] and achieving [Quantified Result].

Alongside this letter, I've attached my resume. My educational background, a [Your Degree] with a concentration in [Your Specialization], complements the practical skills that I'm particularly eager to share with [Company Name].

I'm excited about the possibility of contributing to [Something Notable About the Company or Its Mission]. I'd be grateful for the chance to delve deeper into how my expertise aligns with your needs.

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

The Heart of Your Job Search - Creating a Killer Resume

Your cover letter is only as good as your resume. If either one is weak, your entire application falls through.

After all, your cover letter is meant to complement your resume. Imagine going through all this effort to leave an amazing first impression in your cover letter, only for the hiring manager to never read it because your resume was mediocre.

But don’t worry; we’ve got you covered here, too.

Check out our dedicated guide on how to make a resume and learn everything you need to know to land your dream job!

Just pick one of our resume templates and start writing your own job-winning resume.

Key Takeaways

Now that we’ve walked you through all the steps of writing a cover letter, let’s summarize everything we’ve learned:

A cover letter is a 250 - 400 word document that’s meant to convince the hiring manager that you’re the best candidate for the job.
Your job application should always include a cover letter alongside your resume.
To grab the hiring manager’s attention, write a strong opening paragraph. Mention who you are, why you’re applying, and a standout achievement to pique their interest.
Your cover letter should focus on why you’re the perfect candidate for the job and why you’re passionate about working in this specific company.
Use the body of your cover letter to provide details on your skills, achievements, and qualifications, as well as make sure to convey your enthusiasm throughout your whole cover letter.
Recap your key selling points towards the end of your cover letter, and end it with a formal closing line and your full name signed underneath.

At Novorésumé, we’re committed to helping you get the job you deserve every step of the way!

Follow our career blog for more valuable advice, or check out some of our top guides, such as:

How to Make a Resume in 2024 | Beginner's Guide
How to Write a CV (Curriculum Vitae) in 2024 [31+ Examples]
35+ Job Interview Questions and Answers [Full List]

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How to Start a Cover Letter – The Ultimate Guide

Are you fond of using cliches like “My name is…”, “I’m writing to apply…” or “I’m the perfect fit?” That’s not how to start a cover letter. These overused expressions won’t help your cover letter stand out.

They lack the punch and individuality that hiring managers are looking for. So instead of saying you’re the perfect fit, why don’t you describe “why” you are the perfect fit?

If a person in the company recommended that you apply, you could mention that person’s name. It’s better than saying, “I’m writing to apply…”.

That’s the purpose of this guide; we’ll show you a step-by-step process to start a cover letter that will land you an interview.

How to Start a Cover Letter – The Ultimate Guide

Table of Contents

What is the Purpose of a Cover Letter?

The cover letter is your opportunity to sell yourself to a potential employer by:

detailing your professional achievements,
why you are the ideal fit for the position, and
what you can bring to the table beyond your technical expertise.

Make sure to get to the point quickly and clearly, outlining who you are and how you would significantly benefit the company.

Think of cover letters as effective marketing tools; you are the product being marketed.

In the following sections, we’ll show you how to start a cover letter by going through each section.

How to Start a Cover Letter: Formatting the Header

When done right, the header can prove to the hiring manager that you’ve done your research. This is particularly true especially when you tailor the letter to a specific person you’re applying to.

You can personalize your header by searching for the recruiting manager’s name and position in the company.

Most cover letter headers are centered in the top left corner. Also, you can create a unique cover letter header that fills the entire top of the page.

How to Write a Cover Letter Header Format

The header has three sections: your personal information, contact information, and the date of writing. Let’s go through each of them.

Add Your Personal Information

You must include the following details:

Your full name (add your professional title, if applicable)
Phone number
Professional email address

Sometimes, you can add your social media profiles like Medium, LinkedIn, and personal websites. However, make sure that it’s relevant to the job you’re applying for. If not, it’s best to leave it out.

Include the Contact information

Skip a line by pressing “Enter” on your keyboard and add the recruiting manager’s contact details. It can be challenging to get the recruiter’s information. But don’t worry, you can usually find it in a job listing. To find out more about a company without filling out a job application, you can check their website’s “About Us” section. You can also check their LinkedIn profile.

Related: Do I Need a LinkedIn Profile: Pros and Cons

You should include the following three things in the contact information section:

The recruiter’s name
Job position
Company name

If you can’t find the information, you can skip it and address it to the “hiring manager.” Here are some cover letter header examples:

Martha Stuart 315-444-9080 [email protected] November 18, 2020 Tom Brown Human Resource Director ResumeKit, Inc. 200 Purple Street, Suite 540 MentionTown, IL 94231

Cover Letter Greeting: How to Address the Hiring Manager

The cover letter greeting is crucial, so don’t overlook it and put a generic greeting there. It may cost you an interview. The salutation is a chance to show that you care about the job and the company.

It also shows that you’ve done some research by, for example, using the hiring manager’s full name. Sometimes, some job ads include the name of the person who will manage the application process.

But you may not be that lucky. So it’s always good to prepare. So let’s find out how to start a cover letter by writing a good cover letter greeting.

When You Know the Recruiter’s Name

Using the recruiter’s full name after “Hello” or “Dear” is the simple and effective way to go. This helps to avoid misgendering someone. However, if you use these salutations, always use their first name.

If the hiring manager has a title like “Professor” or “Dr.” you can also include that in your greeting.

Uses titles such as “Mr.” or “Ms.” followed by their last name if you know the person’s gender. Remember that there’s a difference between “Ms.” and “Mrs.” Use the “Mrs” if you’re sure that the person is married. If you don’t, stick with the “Ms.”

Remember to place the comma after the name, not before it.

Below are some cover letter greeting examples:

Dear Jonathan,
Dear Dr. Franklin
Hello Mrs. Stuart,
Hello Mr. Sanchez,
Dear Ms. Watson
Hello Tom Brown

When You Don’t Know the Recruiter’s Name

You can still write a good cover letter greeting if you can’t find the recruiter’s name . Here’s how to start a cover letter without a name. First, tailor your greeting to the job position by including relevant details like the job title and department.

For example:

Dear Sales Manager,
Dear Client Service Manager,

If you can’t find these details as well, use generic salutations like:

Dear Human Resource Manager,
Dear Hiring Manager,

Avoid using cover letter greetings like “To Whom It May Concern” and “Dear Sir or Madam.” It’s outdated and not well-received in the job market today. But there’s a specific time you can use it if you don’t know the recruiter’s name.

Check out this guide to learn more: To Whom It May Concern: When And How To Use

Do Your Research Before Using Generic Greetings

Before you start using general greetings, do your research to find the recruiting manager’s name. You can also use social media like Facebook, LinkedIn, or Twitter to find out who is hiring.

Incorporating the hiring manager’s name into your cover letter shows your initiative and desire to make a good impression.

How to Impress the Hiring Manager With Opening Sentences

Strategies and examples of how to start a cover letter vary depending on the industry. But there are universal tips that you can use in any cover letter. For example, addressing a cover letter opening could determine your success in landing an interview.

Below are some essential tips on how to start your opening sentence.

1. Show How Enthusiastic You Are About The Role

Prospective employers highly prize people who are passionate about their work. That’s why expressing your excitement for the position you’re applying for is a must in your cover letter. They are looking for evidence that your interests and the job’s responsibilities are a good fit. An employee that commits to their work is more likely to:

excel at it,
remain with the organization for longer, and
increase their dedication to the organization for a long time.

The first paragraph of your cover letter is the perfect place to convey your passion. Then, you should explain why this job appeals to you and how it will help you advance your career.

I value the opportunity to assist dentists in bettering the lives of their patients.

2. Impress the Hiring Managers with Your Achievements

Successful cover letters highlight the applicant’s relevant experience and skills. To show that you know what you’re talking about and have real-world experience, lead with a professional accomplishment at the beginning of your cover letter.

Link your past achievements and future goals by explaining how your experience will benefit your new employer.

When applying for a job, it’s essential to be as honest as possible about your experience and qualifications.

I have over ten years of experience as a qualified dental assistant working with dentists and hygienists. I have mastered the four-handed dental technique in my current position at X Dental.

3. Mention a Relevant Contact

Did someone refer you to the job position? The first paragraph is the best place to mention the person who introduced you to the job.

Given the importance of referrals in getting an interview, it’s wise to highlight them in your cover letter. And that’s because you won’t get to include them in your resume.

If a mutual connection between you and the recruiting manager vouches for you, your resume will be taken more seriously.

Rosemary Dale, my former coworker, suggested I contact you to show my interest in the dental assistant position at Company X.

4. Show the Organization What You Can Bring on Board

A potential employer will want proof that you can add value to their organization. Therefore, in the first few lines of your cover letter, emphasize a problem you know you can solve for the employer. You can also include your most marketable hard or soft skills and what they can do for the company.

In accordance with the job description on your website, I also possess the following abilities and credentials: – 8-year experience developing dental x-rays – knowledge of infection prevention, including how to clean and sterilize tools and equipment – attention to detail – understanding of a variety of scheduling applications – excellent customer service skills

5. Be as Direct as Possible

It’s bad practice to beat around the bush. It gets you nowhere. When beginning your cover letter, be direct regarding the position you’re applying for and the qualifications you bring on board.

It’s helpful for recruiters to know upfront the position you are applying for and why you are an excellent fit for that role.

That’s because they receive hundreds of applications daily, sometimes even for various positions within the same department. So delaying their time will only get your letter overlooked.

Above all, I care about people. I value the opportunity to assist dentists in bettering the lives of their patients. I believe that my skills will bring immense value to your company.

Related: How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?

How to Start a Cover Letter Examples: Concluding Your Letter

There’s an excellent way to end your cover letter. At the end of your cover letter, you should write a paragraph that briefly restates your interest in and qualifications for the position. Don’t drag out the conclusion of your cover letter.

Instead, keep it short and sweet and express your eagerness for the company to contact you about the following stages. Then, sign off at the final signature.

The end of your cover letter should:

Show confidence
Be passionate
Link your work experiences, achievements, and skills to the role.
Clarify your expectations and skills

And don’t forget to say “thank you.”

Check out this guide to learn more about ending cover letters: How to End a Cover Letter in 2022 + Examples .

5 thoughts on “ How to Start a Cover Letter – The Ultimate Guide ”

Great to hear that! May be you can also read our Cover Letter Guide and get more useful tips :)

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Thank you for the sensible critique. Me and my neighbor were just preparing to do a little research on this. We got a grab a book from our area library but I think I learned more from this post. I am very glad to see such fantastic info being shared freely out there.

That’s wonderful to hear that you found this post helpful and informative! Keep exploring and learning, and don’t hesitate to ask questions or share your newfound knowledge with others. :)

How to Start a Cover Letter Without a Recipient Name

Last Updated: July 7, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Amber Rosenberg, PCC and by wikiHow staff writer, Jennifer Mueller, JD . Amber Rosenberg is a Professional Life Coach, Career Coach, and Executive Coach based in the San Francisco Bay Area. As the owner of Pacific Life Coach, she has 20+ years of coaching experience and a background in corporations, tech companies, and nonprofits. Amber trained with the Coaches Training Institute and is a member of the International Coaching Federation (ICF). This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 30,156 times.

If you're writing a cover letter to submit with your résumé to apply for a job, ideally, it should be addressed to a specific recipient. Knowing the hiring manager's name sends the message that you've done your homework and are serious about the job. However, sometimes you simply can't find the name of the appropriate person despite your best efforts. In that situation, it's okay to address the recipient by their job title. You might also consider addressing your letter to the head of the department where you're applying to work. [1] X Research source

Finding the Right Name

Step 1 Check the job post for a specific name.

If the job listing instructs you to address your cover letter to a job title or other designation, follow those instructions exactly. The company may be using a filter to collect applications, particularly if you're submitting your cover letter and résumé by email.

Step 2 Look for the hiring manager on the company's website.

Some small, privately held companies or startups may not have a list of employees on their website. Extremely small "mom and pop" companies may not even have a website at all. In that case, do a general internet search for the name of the company and see what comes up.
You can also search the company on career networking sites, such as LinkedIn. You may be able to find the name of someone in charge of hiring new employees. [5] X Research source

Tip: If the job is posted on LinkedIn, use the name of the person who posted the listing. Even if they aren't the hiring manager, they are likely involved in the hiring process and can get your cover letter and résumé to the right person.

Step 3 Call the company and ask who's in charge of hiring new employees.

If you're applying to a larger corporation, you may want to provide the job title you're interested in or the department where you're applying to work. Larger corporations likely have more than one hiring manager, depending on the job.
For the largest companies, you'll have better luck asking to be connected to human resources. Someone in that department would be more likely to know the name you'll need than a receptionist or operator.

Using a Job Title

Step 1 Look for the name or job title of an executive or department head.

For example, if you're applying for an accounting position, you might address your cover letter to the "Chief Financial Officer."

Tip: Use an internet search to come up with a list of executives for the company. If all else fails, you could address your cover letter to the president or chief executive officer of the company.

Step 2 Tailor your greeting to the job you're applying for.

For example, if you're applying for a job as a senior analyst, you might address your cover letter to the "Senior Analyst Hiring Manager."

In a smaller company or startup, you don't have to worry as much about your cover letter and résumé getting to the right person. It's likely that everyone who works for the company knows that they're hiring, and knows who's in charge of reviewing applicants.

Formatting Your Letter

Sometimes "hello" is appropriate, particularly if you're sending your cover letter using email. However, unless you know the company is more casual, including the "dear" won't hurt – even in email correspondence.

For example, if the recipient has her name listed on the company's website as "Mrs. Shirley Jackson," it's okay to address her as "Mrs. Jackson" in your cover letter.
If you're not sure about the recipient's gender identity, use their first and last name instead of "Mr." or "Ms."

Tip: Make sure you don't confuse the recipient's first name and family name. If you're not familiar with the order, err on the side of caution and use both.

Step 3 Include an academic or professional title if appropriate.

For example, if Dr. Sam Greene is the head of the department where you're applying for a job, you don't need to know whether Sam is a man or a woman. You can simply address your letter to "Dr. Greene."
Check the company's website or do an internet search if you think the recipient is part of an ethnic group that lists the family name first. For example, if you were writing a letter to Dr. Yang Yuanqing, who is Chinese, you would address your letter to "Dr. Yang," since the family name is listed first in Mandarin.

Step 4 Follow the name or job title with a colon or comma.

If you've addressed your cover letter to a group of people, such as "Dear Web Content Hiring Team," a colon may look better than a comma. Again, this is typically simply a matter of personal preference.
If you choose to simply address the person by name, rather than including the word "dear," follow their name with a colon instead of a comma.

Expert Q&A

Never use generic, formal greetings such as "To Whom It May Concern" or "Dear Sir or Madam" on a cover letter. Not only are these greetings are antiquated and impersonal, but they can give off the impression that you didn't bother to research the company you supposedly want to work for. [14] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

Write a Subject Line when Sending Your CV by Email

↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/how-to-address-a-cover-letter-with-examples
↑ Amber Rosenberg, PCC. Pacific Life Coach. Expert Interview. 8 July 2022.
↑ https://www.livecareer.com/resources/cover-letters/how-to/write/how-to-address-a-cover-letter
↑ https://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/open-close-cover-letter-0421
↑ https://icc.ucdavis.edu/materials/cover-letters
↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/address-cover-letter-without-name

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How to Address a Cover Letter Without a Name? Use These 5 Salutations

Klara Cervenanska ,
Updated February 23, 2024 6 min read

Struggling with how to address a cover letter without a name ? It's a common challenge that can make even the most confident job seekers pause.

Ideally, you want to personalize your cover letter salutation to show you've done your homework.

But what do you do when that information isn't readily available?

If this sounds familiar, you’re in the right place. Whether the job ad skipped the contact details or your online searches came up empty, we've got your back.

This article will show you:

5 different ways how to address a cover letter without a name

How NOT to address a cover letter without a name

Strategies to find the hiring manager's name
Cover letter examples

Click on a section to skip

How to find the hiring manager's name?

How to address a cover letter without a name? Use these 5 salutations

Tips for addressing a cover letter with no name, where to place the cover letter address, key takeaways: how to address a cover letter without a name, how to find the hiring manager's name.

It's not a deal-breaker to address your cover letter without a specific name.

However, addressing it to a specific person and including a name can add a personal touch that sets your application apart.

If you've hit a wall in your search for a name, don't give up just yet.

Try these five strategies to uncover the name of the hiring manager:

Check the job posting again. Sometimes the answer is hidden in plain sight. The bottom of the job listing might include instructions like "Email your resume to [email protected]," which not only gives you the hiring manager's email but also their name.
Use LinkedIn. Search the company's page and browse through employee profiles. Look for individuals with titles that might indicate they're in charge of hiring, such as "Talent Acquisition Manager" or heads of the department you're applying to.
Search the company website. Most organizations have an 'About Us' or 'Team' page where they list their staff members and their roles. Here, you can often find clues about who might be the hiring manager or at least get the names of potential contacts in the right department.
Try networking. Reach out to your existing network to see if anyone has connections within the company. Sometimes, a mutual contact can provide you with the name you need.
Call the company. It might seem a bit old-fashioned, but it's a direct approach that can yield results. A polite phone call inquiring about who is managing the hiring for the position you're interested in can sometimes get you the information you need.

Starting your cover letter with the hiring manager's name is the best way to go. It shows you've looked into the company and are serious about the job.

But, if you've tried and still can't find a name, don't worry.

Here are some ways to address your cover letter when you don't know who will read it:

Dear Hiring Manager. This straightforward approach is professional and widely accepted. It shows respect for the person reviewing your application.
Dear [Department] Team. Mentioning the department, like "Dear Marketing Team," shows you know where you want to be and who you're talking to.
Dear Recruiter. Use this if you're applying through a recruiter or if the job ad was posted by HR. It shows you understand the process.
Dear Director of [Department]. If you know the department but not the name, this shows you've thought about where you fit in the company.
Dear Talent Acquisition Team. Perfect for when your application will be reviewed by several people. It shows you understand the process.

These ways help you start your cover letter professionally, even when you can’t find a specific name. They show respect and that you're thoughtful about your application.

When crafting your cover letter, it's just as important to know how NOT to address it.

Steering clear of certain greetings can help maintain the professional tone of your application.

Here are some salutations to avoid :

To Whom It May Concern. This is overly impersonal and outdated.
Dear Sir/Madam. This comes across as old-fashioned and can be seen as gender presumptive.
Hey There. Far too casual for a professional document.
Hello. While friendly, it lacks the formality a cover letter requires.
Hi [Company Name]. This is too informal and doesn't address any individual or specific role.

Crafting a cover letter without a specific recipient's name doesn't mean you can skimp on professionalism.

Here's how to ensure your cover letter makes a great impression, even when you're not sure who will read it:

Stick to formal greetings. Use "Dear Hiring Manager" to start off on the right foot. It’s respectful and works every time. Yes, even if the company culture is really laid back.
Avoid addressing recruiters. Directly addressing recruiters is generally not advised, unless you have been in contact with one specifically for this role. In such cases, using their name can add a personal touch.
Target the right department/person. Make every effort to verify you're targeting the right person or department within the company. Otherwise, it can redirect your application to the wrong hands.
Spell-check the name. Found a name? Double-check the spelling. Getting it wrong can look bad.
How to Write a Cover Letter with No Experience
7 Great Cover Letter Openings
8 Great Cover Letter Endings
The Only Cover Letter Guide You’ll Need in 2024

And what about a resume?

Create a beautiful resume in seconds with the help of AI and our customizable templates.

When setting up your cover letter, start with your name centered at the top. It looks neat and professional. Right below your name, put the company’s address on the left side and your address on the right. This way, both addresses are easy to spot.

Next, add the date below your address. It shows when you sent the letter.

Right under the date, write your greeting, like “Dear Hiring Manager.” This is where your actual letter begins.

We’ve got a sample below to show you how it should look. It’s made with Kickresume's cover letter builder . This tool is great because it gives you a template that’s easy to fill out. It makes sure your cover letter looks good without much effort.

Cover Letter Structure Example

This cover letter sample was provided by a real person who got hired with Kickresume’s help.

In wrapping up, let’s quickly recap the 5 best salutations to use for addressing your cover letter when the name is unknown:

Dear Hiring Manager
Dear [Department] Team
Dear Recruiter
Dear Director of [Department]
Dear Talent Acquisition Team

But remember, the strength of your cover letter lies in its content .

A well-crafted letter that speaks directly to the job description and showcases your skills can make a significant difference. Personalizing your cover letter as much as possible helps you stand out from the crowd.

For those struggling with writer's block, Kickresume's AI resume builder is an invaluable tool. It can help you write the first draft of your cover letter based on your job title and job description , making personalization easier and more effective.

Klara graduated from the University of St Andrews in Scotland. After having written resumes for many of her fellow students, she began writing full-time for Kickresume. Klara is our go-to person for all things related to student or 'no experience resumes'. At the same time, she has written some of the most popular resume advice articles on this blog. Her pieces were featured in multiple CNBC articles. When she's not writing, you'll probably find her chasing dogs or people-watching while sipping on a cup of coffee.

10+ real cover letters from jobseekers who got hired at ikea, ibm & more, motivation letter vs cover letter: what are the key differences (+examples), share this article, join our newsletter.

Every month, we’ll send you resume advice, job search tips, career hacks and more in pithy, bite-sized chunks. Sounds good?

Professional Division Manager Cover Letter Examples for 2024

Your division manager cover letter must emphasize leadership skills and the ability to drive results. Showcase your experience in managing resources and implementing strategic plans effectively. Demonstrate your competency in fostering team unity and encouraging professional growth within the division. Your cover letter should reflect your dedication to meeting organizational goals through proven management techniques.

Cover Letter Guide

Division Manager Cover Letter Sample

Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter Salutation

Cover Letter Introduction

Cover Letter Body

Cover Letter Closing

No Experience Division Manager Cover Letter

Key Takeaways

Crafting a division manager cover letter can be a daunting step in your job search journey. You've updated your resume and now, the cover letter looms, needing to pack a punch without echoing your resume. It's the place to weave a compelling narrative around your crowning professional achievement, steering clear of tired cliches, and all within the confines of one crisp page. Let's dissect this challenge and guide you through writing a cover letter that stands out.

Step your best foot forward in the division manager cover letter introduction;
Be inspired by other professionals' certified cover letters;
Structure your division manager cover letter to feature what matters most;
Close off your division manager cover letter to make a memorable impression on recruiters.

But where to start writing? Upload your resume into Enhancv's AI, which will prepare your division manager cover letter (all you need to do is personalize it, and you'll be good to go).

If the division manager isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:

Division Manager resume guide and example
Agile Business Analyst cover letter example
Servicenow Business Analyst cover letter example
Rpa Business Analyst cover letter example
Business Development Manager cover letter example
Market Analyst cover letter example
Service Delivery Manager cover letter example
Shift Manager cover letter example
Strategy Manager cover letter example
Investment Manager cover letter example
Fitness General Manager cover letter example

Division Manager cover letter example

OLIVER DAVIS

Charlotte, North Carolina

+1-(234)-555-1234

[email protected]

Highlighting past achievements that align with the company's values and goals demonstrates the candidate's understanding of the organization's culture and their potential fit within the company.
Detailing specific, quantifiable accomplishments (such as reducing a project’s anticipated budget overrun and increasing profit margins) showcases the candidate's expertise in fiscal management and negotiation, which are crucial skills for a Construction Division Manager.
Expressing enthusiasm for the company's mission and vision, as well as a desire to contribute to and grow with the company, establishes the candidate's long-term interest and commitment to the role they are applying for.

Structuring and formatting your division manager cover letter

Here's what the structure of your division manager cover letter should include:

Header (with your name, the position you're applying for, and the date);
Salutation (or greeting);
Introductory paragraph (or your opening statement);
Body paragraph (or further proof of your experience);
Closing paragraph (with a call to action);
Signature (that is optional).

Use the same font for your division manager resume and cover letter - modern fonts like Lato and Rubik would help you stand out.

Your division manager cover letter should be single-spaced and have a one-inch margins - this format is automatically set up in our cover letter templates and our cover letter builder .

When submitting your cover letter, always ensure it's in PDF, as this format keeps the information intact (and the quality of your document stays the same).

On one final note - the Applicant Tracker System (ATS or the software that is sometimes used to initially assess your application) won't read your division manager cover letter.

The top sections on a division manager cover letter

Header: Include your contact information, date, and the employer’s contact information to ensure the letter is directed appropriately and the recruiter can easily follow up with you.

Opening Greeting: Address the hiring manager by name if possible; this personal touch shows you've done your research and are serious about the position.

Executive Summary: Begin with a succinct overview of your qualifications, highlighting your relevant experience in management and leadership roles, underlining your ability to lead divisions successfully.

Leadership and Achievements Body: In this section, detail your specific managerial accomplishments, how you've driven growth or improved performance, and how your leadership style aligns with the company’s culture and objectives.

Closing and Call to Action: End with a strong closing statement that reiterates your enthusiasm for the role, and invite the recruiter to contact you for an interview to discuss how you can contribute to the company's success as a division manager.

Key qualities recruiters search for in a candidate’s cover letter

Proven leadership and team management experience: Demonstrates the ability to lead a diverse team, make strategic decisions, and manage personnel effectively.
Experience with budget management: Shows an understanding of financial stewardship and the ability to oversee budgetary responsibilities within the division.
Strategic planning and execution abilities: Highlights the capability of developing long-term strategies and leading their implementation to drive division success.
Track record of meeting or exceeding performance goals: Indicates a consistent history of achieving and surpassing objectives, which is crucial for divisional growth and profitability.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills: Essential for liaising between upper management, staff, and external stakeholders, and for fostering a collaborative work environment.
Industry-specific knowledge and experience: Reflects a deep understanding of the industry the division operates in, which is key for making informed decisions and staying competitive.

The division manager cover letter salutation: how to address hiring managers

After covering the format of your division manager cover letter, let's look at the salutation.

Back in the day, the cordial "To whom it may concern" or "Dear Sir/Madam", might have worked out fine.

But, nowadays, your cover letter should approach hiring managers on a more personal basis.

So, what to do about your cover letter salutation ?

If you've messaged the recruiters and are on a first name basis or a more formal one, use the hiring manager's name in the greeting (e.g. "Dear Sophie," "Dear Ms. Givens", or "Dear Mr. Everett,").

Always aim to make the effort to find out the name of the hiring manager, who'd be assessing your application. Search on LinkedIn, double-check the advert on the corporate website, or message the brand on social media to find out more about the role.

If you can't find the hiring manager's name (and still want to sound professional), use "Dear HR Team,", "Dear Hiring Manager,", or the likes.

List of salutations you can use

Dear Hiring Manager,
Dear [Company Name] Team,
Dear [Department Name] Selection Committee,
Dear Ms. [Last Name],
Dear Mr. [Last Name],
Dear Dr. [Last Name],

How to start your division manager cover letter introduction

The opening paragraph of your division manager cover letter can seem like a real enigma.

Where do you start writing ?

In your division manager cover letter introduction, focus on yourself by stating what:

gets you motivated and excited about the role;
you like best about the company, from culture to awards.

Write no more than two sentences, which are both authentic and show your enthusiasm for the opportunity.

What to write in the body of your division manager cover letter

Now that you've got your intro covered, here comes the heart and soul of your division manager cover letter.

It's time to write the middle or body paragraphs . This is the space where you talk about your relevant talent in terms of hard skills (or technologies) and soft (or people and communication) skills.

Keep in mind that the cover letter has a different purpose from your division manager resume.

Yes, you still have to be able to show recruiters what makes your experience unique (and applicable) to the role.

But, instead of just listing skills, aim to tell a story of your one, greatest accomplishment.

Select your achievement that:

covers job-crucial skills;
can be measured with tangible metrics;
shows you in the best light.

Use the next three to six paragraphs to detail what this success has taught you, and also to sell your profile.

Closing remarks to end your division manager cover letter

Of course, you'll have to show gratitude to the recruiters, who have assessed your profile at the end of your division manager cover letter .

A "Thank you for the consideration" would work wonders, instead of the standard "Sincerely yours".

Do you want to make an even better impression?

Close off your division manager cover letter by promising how you see yourself excelling in the role and the positive impact you'd bring about.

A sentence that encourages some further action on the recruiter's end could also be a good way to close off the communication (e.g. provide your availability for an interview).

No experience division manager cover letter: making the most out of your profile

Candidates who happen to have no professional experience use their division manager cover letter to stand out.

Instead of focusing on a professional achievement, aim to quantify all the relevant, transferrable skills from your life experience.

Once again, the best practice to do so would be to select an accomplishment - from your whole career history.

Another option would be to plan out your career goals and objectives: how do you see yourself growing, as a professional, in the next five years, thanks to this opportunity?

Be precise and concise about your dreams, and align them with the company vision.

Key takeaways

Summarizing the most important aspects in writing your division manager cover letter, remember to:

Create a personalized division manager cover letter for each role you apply for, that includes the recruiter's name in the salutation;
Format your division manager cover letter with single-spacing, one-inch margins, and a modern, yet ATS-friendly font;
Always start off your division manager cover letter with two sentences that reflect what is most important about your application;
Your division manager cover letter body should feature your biggest accomplishments and the job-relevant skills it has taught you;
Instead of opting for the "Sincerely yours" ending, close your division manager cover letter with a nod to the future with what you aim to achieve in this potential role.

Cover letter examples by industry

AI cover letter writer, powered by ChatGPT

Enhancv harnesses the capabilities of ChatGPT to provide a streamlined interface designed specifically focused on composing a compelling cover letter without the hassle of thinking about formatting and wording.

Content tailored to the job posting you're applying for
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Trump demands 5% cut from GOP candidates who use his 'name, image and likeness' in ads

W ASHINGTON - Donald Trump is trying to bring into politics a phenomenon that's taking off in college athletics : money for use of the former president's name, image and likeness in campaign ads.

In a letter this week, the Trump presidential campaign asked all down-ballot GOP campaigns for at least a 5% cut of the money raised from advertising that features the party's 2024 presumptive White House nominee.

"We ask that all candidates and committees who choose to use President Trump’s name, image, and likeness split a minimum of 5% of all fundraising solicitations to Trump National Committee JFC," said the April 15 letter signed by campaign co-campaign managers Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita.

Start the day smarter. Get all the news you need in your inbox each morning.

Campaign aides said the new rules are designed to protect donors who believe they are contributing to Trump's campaign but are instead giving money to another candidate who is using the former president's name or picture.

Another concern: Candidates who are also using Trump's images to suggest they have the former president's endorsement , even when they do not.

"It is important to protect small dollar donors from scammers that use the presidents name and likeness," said Trump campaign spokeswoman Danielle Alvarez.

Warning labels and 'messaging guidelines'

Thanks to a Supreme Court decision in 2021, college athletes are now able to profit from use of their names, images, and likenesses, through what are called NIL deals.

The Trump campaign letter said an even bigger percentage of fundraising would be welcome, and made clear that the Republican National Committee and Trump himself would be watching to see who complies and who doesn't.

"Any split that is higher than 5% will be seen favorably by the RNC and President Trump’s campaign and is routinely reported to the highest levels of leadership within both organizations," the letter said.

Trump campaign officials have expressed concern about fundraising, one of the reasons the presumptive presidential nominee installed new leadership at the RNC, including daughter-in-law Lara Trump .

The letter also recommended "messaging guidelines" on how to use Trump's name, image and likeness.

It asked candidates not to speak "on behalf" of Trump, and not to mention members of his family "without their consent or the consent of the campaign." The letter also warned against "impersonating President Trump or his campaign."

It also contained warnings.

"Any vendor whose clients ignore the guidelines mentioned above will be held responsible for their clients' actions," the letter said. "Repeated violations will result in the suspension of business relationships between the vendor and Trump National Committee JFC."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump demands 5% cut from GOP candidates who use his 'name, image and likeness' in ads

The Daily Money: New questions about Trump stock

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NPR defends its journalism after senior editor says it has lost the public's trust

David Folkenflik

NPR is defending its journalism and integrity after a senior editor wrote an essay accusing it of losing the public's trust. Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

NPR is defending its journalism and integrity after a senior editor wrote an essay accusing it of losing the public's trust.

NPR's top news executive defended its journalism and its commitment to reflecting a diverse array of views on Tuesday after a senior NPR editor wrote a broad critique of how the network has covered some of the most important stories of the age.

"An open-minded spirit no longer exists within NPR, and now, predictably, we don't have an audience that reflects America," writes Uri Berliner.

A strategic emphasis on diversity and inclusion on the basis of race, ethnicity and sexual orientation, promoted by NPR's former CEO, John Lansing, has fed "the absence of viewpoint diversity," Berliner writes.

NPR's chief news executive, Edith Chapin, wrote in a memo to staff Tuesday afternoon that she and the news leadership team strongly reject Berliner's assessment.

"We're proud to stand behind the exceptional work that our desks and shows do to cover a wide range of challenging stories," she wrote. "We believe that inclusion — among our staff, with our sourcing, and in our overall coverage — is critical to telling the nuanced stories of this country and our world."

NPR names tech executive Katherine Maher to lead in turbulent era

She added, "None of our work is above scrutiny or critique. We must have vigorous discussions in the newsroom about how we serve the public as a whole."

A spokesperson for NPR said Chapin, who also serves as the network's chief content officer, would have no further comment.

Praised by NPR's critics

Berliner is a senior editor on NPR's Business Desk. (Disclosure: I, too, am part of the Business Desk, and Berliner has edited many of my past stories. He did not see any version of this article or participate in its preparation before it was posted publicly.)

Berliner's essay , titled "I've Been at NPR for 25 years. Here's How We Lost America's Trust," was published by The Free Press, a website that has welcomed journalists who have concluded that mainstream news outlets have become reflexively liberal.

Berliner writes that as a Subaru-driving, Sarah Lawrence College graduate who "was raised by a lesbian peace activist mother ," he fits the mold of a loyal NPR fan.

Yet Berliner says NPR's news coverage has fallen short on some of the most controversial stories of recent years, from the question of whether former President Donald Trump colluded with Russia in the 2016 election, to the origins of the virus that causes COVID-19, to the significance and provenance of emails leaked from a laptop owned by Hunter Biden weeks before the 2020 election. In addition, he blasted NPR's coverage of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

On each of these stories, Berliner asserts, NPR has suffered from groupthink due to too little diversity of viewpoints in the newsroom.

The essay ricocheted Tuesday around conservative media , with some labeling Berliner a whistleblower . Others picked it up on social media, including Elon Musk, who has lambasted NPR for leaving his social media site, X. (Musk emailed another NPR reporter a link to Berliner's article with a gibe that the reporter was a "quisling" — a World War II reference to someone who collaborates with the enemy.)

When asked for further comment late Tuesday, Berliner declined, saying the essay spoke for itself.

The arguments he raises — and counters — have percolated across U.S. newsrooms in recent years. The #MeToo sexual harassment scandals of 2016 and 2017 forced newsrooms to listen to and heed more junior colleagues. The social justice movement prompted by the killing of George Floyd in 2020 inspired a reckoning in many places. Newsroom leaders often appeared to stand on shaky ground.

Leaders at many newsrooms, including top editors at The New York Times and the Los Angeles Times , lost their jobs. Legendary Washington Post Executive Editor Martin Baron wrote in his memoir that he feared his bonds with the staff were "frayed beyond repair," especially over the degree of self-expression his journalists expected to exert on social media, before he decided to step down in early 2021.

Since then, Baron and others — including leaders of some of these newsrooms — have suggested that the pendulum has swung too far.

Author Interviews

Legendary editor marty baron describes his 'collision of power' with trump and bezos.

New York Times publisher A.G. Sulzberger warned last year against journalists embracing a stance of what he calls "one-side-ism": "where journalists are demonstrating that they're on the side of the righteous."

"I really think that that can create blind spots and echo chambers," he said.

Internal arguments at The Times over the strength of its reporting on accusations that Hamas engaged in sexual assaults as part of a strategy for its Oct. 7 attack on Israel erupted publicly . The paper conducted an investigation to determine the source of a leak over a planned episode of the paper's podcast The Daily on the subject, which months later has not been released. The newsroom guild accused the paper of "targeted interrogation" of journalists of Middle Eastern descent.

Heated pushback in NPR's newsroom

Given Berliner's account of private conversations, several NPR journalists question whether they can now trust him with unguarded assessments about stories in real time. Others express frustration that he had not sought out comment in advance of publication. Berliner acknowledged to me that for this story, he did not seek NPR's approval to publish the piece, nor did he give the network advance notice.

Some of Berliner's NPR colleagues are responding heatedly. Fernando Alfonso, a senior supervising editor for digital news, wrote that he wholeheartedly rejected Berliner's critique of the coverage of the Israel-Hamas conflict, for which NPR's journalists, like their peers, periodically put themselves at risk.

Alfonso also took issue with Berliner's concern over the focus on diversity at NPR.

"As a person of color who has often worked in newsrooms with little to no people who look like me, the efforts NPR has made to diversify its workforce and its sources are unique and appropriate given the news industry's long-standing lack of diversity," Alfonso says. "These efforts should be celebrated and not denigrated as Uri has done."

After this story was first published, Berliner contested Alfonso's characterization, saying his criticism of NPR is about the lack of diversity of viewpoints, not its diversity itself.

"I never criticized NPR's priority of achieving a more diverse workforce in terms of race, ethnicity and sexual orientation. I have not 'denigrated' NPR's newsroom diversity goals," Berliner said. "That's wrong."

Questions of diversity

Under former CEO John Lansing, NPR made increasing diversity, both of its staff and its audience, its "North Star" mission. Berliner says in the essay that NPR failed to consider broader diversity of viewpoint, noting, "In D.C., where NPR is headquartered and many of us live, I found 87 registered Democrats working in editorial positions and zero Republicans."

Berliner cited audience estimates that suggested a concurrent falloff in listening by Republicans. (The number of people listening to NPR broadcasts and terrestrial radio broadly has declined since the start of the pandemic.)

Former NPR vice president for news and ombudsman Jeffrey Dvorkin tweeted , "I know Uri. He's not wrong."

Others questioned Berliner's logic. "This probably gets causality somewhat backward," tweeted Semafor Washington editor Jordan Weissmann . "I'd guess that a lot of NPR listeners who voted for [Mitt] Romney have changed how they identify politically."

Similarly, Nieman Lab founder Joshua Benton suggested the rise of Trump alienated many NPR-appreciating Republicans from the GOP.

In recent years, NPR has greatly enhanced the percentage of people of color in its workforce and its executive ranks. Four out of 10 staffers are people of color; nearly half of NPR's leadership team identifies as Black, Asian or Latino.

"The philosophy is: Do you want to serve all of America and make sure it sounds like all of America, or not?" Lansing, who stepped down last month, says in response to Berliner's piece. "I'd welcome the argument against that."

"On radio, we were really lagging in our representation of an audience that makes us look like what America looks like today," Lansing says. The U.S. looks and sounds a lot different than it did in 1971, when NPR's first show was broadcast, Lansing says.

A network spokesperson says new NPR CEO Katherine Maher supports Chapin and her response to Berliner's critique.

The spokesperson says that Maher "believes that it's a healthy thing for a public service newsroom to engage in rigorous consideration of the needs of our audiences, including where we serve our mission well and where we can serve it better."

Disclosure: This story was reported and written by NPR Media Correspondent David Folkenflik and edited by Deputy Business Editor Emily Kopp and Managing Editor Gerry Holmes. Under NPR's protocol for reporting on itself, no NPR corporate official or news executive reviewed this story before it was posted publicly.

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How to Write a Great Cover Letter
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How to Start a Cover Letter (Examples Included)
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.
7 Powerful Ways To Start a Cover Letter (With Examples)
4. Mention something newsworthy. Start your cover letter with evidence that you've done your research. If the company you're applying for was recently in the news, mention it in the opening line and explain why you admire the company. Mention a specific event, fact, notable statistic or award the company recently won.
12 Ways to Start a Cover Letter: Examples & Tips
12 winning ways to start your cover letter. Our sample cover letter introductions will help you learn how to open a cover letter in a way that stands out and boosts your chances of landing an interview. 1. Mention a contact within the company. If you were referred by a former coworker, classmate, or friend who's highly regarded in their ...
How to Address a Cover Letter (With Examples)
The headline on the image says, "Cover letter format" A woman sits at a table writing on a piece of paper. There's a simple cover letter represented by lines. On one side of the cover letter, there are labels for the sections of the cover letter. The labels are: 1. Date and contact information 2. Salutation/greeting 3. First, introduce yourself 4.
How to Start a Cover Letter [+ Introduction Examples]
Here's a simple-but-powerful cover letter introduction template to use as an example: Dear [First Name], I was excited to come across the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. As a [Current Job Title] with [# of Years] years of experience, I have become competent in [Relevant Skills & Job-Related Abilities].
30 Better Ways to Start a Cover Letter
Communicate that you'll bring something to the company: You'll get more into the details after your opening, of course. But your cover letter opener should still tell the reader, "This person can do something for us ," rather than, "This job would really help them .". Stick to the point: Your opener, while creative, should still be ...
How to Start a Cover Letter [20+ Opening Line Examples]
How to Start a Cover Letter with a Name. To start a cover letter with a name do some research. Check the job posting for a named email address. Do some research on LinkedIn. And if all else fails call the receptionist and ask who the hiring manager is. RIGHT. Dear Mr Fawlty.
How to Start a Cover Letter
Mention a Mutual Contact (if Applicable) Tip #3. Prove You Have Researched The Company Tip #4. Lead With An Achievement Tip #5. Start With a Powerful Belief Tip #6. Be Direct Key Takeaways Related Readings. Share this article. Here you are, looking at a blank document that's supposed to be your cover letter.
Learn How to Start a Cover Letter: Our Expert Guide with 5 Examples
Here are 5 great options with examples of how to start a cover letter for the best impact. 1. Show your enthusiasm. Showing enthusiasm in your cover letter is a great way to let a potential employer know you'll have a great work ethic when you're there. It also lets them know you're motivated to do the job. Start your cover letter by ...
How to Start a Cover Letter [With Example Introductions]
But starting your cover letter is easy once you learn how. Our guide will teach you the best ways to begin your cover letter, and show you cover letter introduction examples for each. The Best Ways to Start a Cover Letter. When starting a cover letter for a job, you must cater your introduction to that job. As such, there is no 100% "best way ...
How to Start a Cover Letter: 6 Best Introductions Examples
That's the way to start a cover letter. You prove you're the exact person they need in just two sentences. Here are some other examples of accomplishments that deserve landing in the first paragraph of a cover letter: Raised revenue by 30%. Slashed project costs by $10,000. Boosted customer retention by 15%.
How to Write a Cover Letter [Full Guide & Examples for 2024]
start your cover letter. with your contact details at the top. These should be in your cover letter's header, separated neatly from the bulk of your text. Here, you want to include all the essential contact information, including: Full Name. Your first and last name should stand out at the top. Job Title.
How to Start a Cover Letter
Uses titles such as "Mr." or "Ms." followed by their last name if you know the person's gender. Remember that there's a difference between "Ms." and "Mrs." Use the "Mrs" if you're sure that the person is married. If you don't, stick with the "Ms.". Remember to place the comma after the name, not before it.
How to Start a Cover Letter (+10 Opening Line Examples)
Dear Mr/Ms/Mx [Last Name], Dear [Department Name] Manager, 4. How do you start a cover letter without using 'I'. Here are some examples of how to start a cover letter without using 'I': My name is [Your Name] As a recent graduate with a [Degree Name] As a [Job Title] with [#] years' experience.
How to Start a Cover Letter Like an Expert [w/ Examples & Tips]
The cover letter opening should include three key elements: a header, a greeting to the hiring manager, and an introductory paragraph.. A header should list your and the recipient's contact information, location, and the date of the application.. A greeting should be as personalized as possible, so 'Dear Sir or Madam' is not a good choice.If you don't know how to address a cover letter ...
8 Powerful Ways to Start a Cover Letter (With Examples)
8 ways to start your cover letter. Here's how you can start a cover letter in eight different ways: Show your enthusiasm. Highlight a mutual connection. Lead with an impressive accomplishment. Explain what you like about the company. Express passion for what you do. Tell a creative story. Include a belief statement.
How to Start a Cover Letter (3-Step Formula + Examples)
There's a simple formula that blows employers away. Step 1: Pick your biggest achievement that fits the job. Step 2: Personalise with company needs, facts, events, or name-dropping. Step 3: Know how to address a letter of introduction, and to whom. That sounds hard, but there's a quick way to do it right.
How To Write a Cover Letter (With Examples and Tips)
Middle paragraph (s) Closing paragraph. Letter ending and signature. Your cover letter should be one page long and use a simple, professional font, such as Arial or Helvetica, 10 to 12 points in size. Your letter should be left-aligned with single spacing and one-inch margins. Show Transcript.
Cover Letter Title: How to Name Your File [Examples]
1. Use your name . Adding your name is the easiest way to make sure that your cover letter doesn't get confused with someone else's. It also means that the hiring manager doesn't need to actually open the cover letter file to see whose it is. The best option is to use your whole name.
7 Ways to Start a Cover Letter That Will Set You Apart
Take a look at these ideas for starting a cover letter and put an end to staring at a blank document. 1. Drop names. In a cover letter, the casual name-drop can be the golden ticket to an interview. If you personally know an executive at the company or recently made a great connection with Amy from accounts at a conference, use that name loud ...
How to write the perfect cover letter (With examples)
To start your cover letter, introduce yourself. This means including your full name, your specific interest in the position and the reasons you've chosen to apply. If you got a referral to the job from another party, ensure to mention this in the first paragraph. 2. Mention your skills and qualifications.
3 Simple Ways to Start a Cover Letter Without a Recipient Name
4. Follow the name or job title with a colon or comma. Typically, whether you use a comma or a colon is a matter of personal preference. Some European countries prefer the colon to the comma, so if you're writing your cover letter to a company in one of those countries you would want to use a colon. [13]
How to Write a Cover Letter
Review Your Cover Letter. That was just a first draft. You need to look over your cover letter again, especially if you really want this job. There are a lot of pitfalls that you want to make sure ...
How to Address a Cover Letter Without a Name? Top 5 Salutations
Right below your name, put the company's address on the left side and your address on the right. This way, both addresses are easy to spot. Next, add the date below your address. It shows when you sent the letter. Right under the date, write your greeting, like "Dear Hiring Manager.".
Professional Division Manager Cover Letter Examples for 2024
Professional Division Manager cover letter samples from real job applications. Including a writing template that you can use for your Division Manager cover letter. ... Here's what the structure of your division manager cover letter should include: Header (with your name, the position you're applying for, and the date); ... How to start your ...
How To Address a Cover Letter Without a Name in 5 Steps
Here are five steps on how to address a cover letter without a name: 1. Remain gender neutral. The first step to addressing a cover letter without a name is to use gender-neutral identifiers. Deepti Sharma spent several years in the corporate world before following her entrepreneurial spirit and starting her business as a human resources (HR ...
How to Name Resume and Cover Letter Files
Consider these three elements when naming your resume or cover letter file: 1. Start the file name with your full first and last name. Use your professional name—especially if you go by a nickname while away from the office or around coworkers who know you well—to make a positive first impression. 2. Follow your name with a summary of the ...
Trump demands 5% cut from GOP candidates who use his 'name, image and
In a letter this week, the Trump presidential campaign asked all down-ballot GOP campaigns for at least a 5% cut of the money raised from advertising that features the party's 2024 presumptive ...
NPR responds after editor says it has 'lost America's trust' : NPR
NPR's top news executive defended its journalism and its commitment to reflecting a diverse array of views on Tuesday after a senior NPR editor wrote a broad critique of how the network has ...
How To Write a Front of House Manager Cover Letter (With Examples)
Here is a cover letter template you can use to create your own cover letter: [Your Name] [City, State] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email] [Today's Date] [Recipient's Name] [Company's Name] Dear [Recipient's Name], I am writing to you in reference to the front of house manager position advertised on [where you found the job posting]. As a ...

How to Start a Cover Letter (Examples Included)

By Mike Simpson

What Is a Cover Letter?

Common Mistakes When Starting a Cover Letter

How to Start a Cover Letter

1. Choose the Right Salutation

2. Nail the Opening Sentence

3. Round Out the First Paragraph

4. Quantify the Details

3 Cover Letter Starting Samples

1. When You Were Referred

2. Leading with an Achievement

3. Going the Excitement Route

Putting It All Together

About The Author

How to Write a Cover Letter [Full Guide & Examples for 2024]

What Is a Cover Letter?

When Should You Write a Cover Letter?

How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter

#1. Choose the Right Cover Letter Template

#2. Put Contact Information in the Header

#3. Address the Hiring Manager

#4. Write an Eye-Catching Introduction

#5. Use the Cover Letter Body for Details

Explain Why You’re the Perfect Candidate for the Role

Explain Why You’re a Good Fit for the Company

#6. Wrap It Up and Sign It

Cover Letter Writing Checklist

15 Cover Letter Tips

15+ Cover Letter Examples

5+ Cover Letter Examples by Experience

#2. Middle Management Cover Letter Example

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#6. Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

9+ Cover Letter Examples by Profession

#2. Consultant Cover Letter Example

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#5. Sales Cover Letter Example

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#9. Engineering Cover Letter Example

#10. Receptionist Cover Letter Example

Plug & Play Cover Letter Template

The Heart of Your Job Search - Creating a Killer Resume

Key Takeaways

How to Start a Cover Letter – The Ultimate Guide

What is the Purpose of a Cover Letter?

How to Start a Cover Letter: Formatting the Header

How to Write a Cover Letter Header Format

Add Your Personal Information

Include the Contact information

Cover Letter Greeting: How to Address the Hiring Manager

When You Know the Recruiter’s Name

When You Don’t Know the Recruiter’s Name

Do Your Research Before Using Generic Greetings

How to Impress the Hiring Manager With Opening Sentences

1. Show How Enthusiastic You Are About The Role

2. Impress the Hiring Managers with Your Achievements

3. Mention a Relevant Contact

4. Show the Organization What You Can Bring on Board

5. Be as Direct as Possible

How to Start a Cover Letter Examples: Concluding Your Letter

5 thoughts on “ How to Start a Cover Letter – The Ultimate Guide ”

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How to Start a Cover Letter Without a Recipient Name

Finding the Right Name

Using a Job Title

Formatting Your Letter

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How to Address a Cover Letter Without a Name? Use These 5 Salutations