In this article I am going to cover three creative ways to start your cover letter. After all, you don’t want to start your cover letter in the same generic way that every other job seeker is beginning theirs. Let’s face it, writing a cover letter is a giant pain in the butt. Especially if you do it the right way. If it takes you ten minutes to write your letter, I would advise you to rethink your strategy.
Part of writing a kick-ass cover letter is having an introduction that immediately grabs your reader’s attention. First, I’m going to start with some not-so-exciting ways of starting your letter:
Boring Cover Letter Introduction #1:
“I am writing this letter to apply for XYZ position which I learned about on ABC jobsite.” The problem with this sentence is that it states two obvious facts: number one, that you are applying for a job and number two, where you learned about said job. The recruiter or hiring manager already knows why you are writing the letter.
Boring introduction #2:
“I am excited to apply for the XYZ position which I learned about on ABC jobsite.” You’ve added the word “excited” to the sentence, but it is still obvious and generic. Nice try.
Now let’s take a look at some less generic ways to start your cover letter:
Creative Cover Letter introduction #1:
Clients are the heart and soul of our business. We strive to foster partnerships based on mutual respect and honesty. “Your client-centered mission statement really spoke to me. My biggest career strength is the ability to quickly establish trust and rapport with clients which is reflected in my 10+ years of experience working in customer service.”
This is a great way to start your cover letter because it demonstrates right off the bat that you’ve researched the company. In addition, you are telling the employer why you’re an excellent match for the job.
Creative introduction #2:
“Recently I met Jane Smith, head of marketing at XYZ organization, at the Global Marketing Conference and she encouraged me to submit my resume for the XYZ position.”
I’m sure you have heard the phrase “it’s all about who you know.” When it comes to job searching, having a connection or referral is like gold. A recent study showed that roughly 85% of jobs are found through networking. If you’re not attending networking events and tapping into the hidden job market, you’re putting yourself at a huge disadvantage.
Creative introduction #3:
“I noticed in the job posting for the XYZ position that you are looking for a results-driven professional who can go the extra mile to exceed company goals. By streamlining a workflow process for my prior company’s IT department, I was able to increase profits by roughly 40% within one year. I would love to help your organization achieve similar results.”
Here’s another great cover letter tip. If you want to start your cover letter with a bang, make a connection between the skills in the job posting and a recent work or educational success. This shows a recruiter or hiring manager how you can add value to their organization.
In conclusion
If you want avoid putting the recruiter to sleep while reading your cover letter, do not be generic! By thinking outside the box and using the cover letter strategies listed in this article, you can immediately show your value and creativity so an employer will feel compelled to call you!
