Plan: what is a cover letter How to write a cover letter

Opening salutation examples

• 
  Dear Jane Smith
  
• 
  Dear Ms. Smith
  
• 
  Dear Accounting Department
  
• 
  Dear [Company Name] Recruiter
  

3. Put together a clear, targeted opening paragraph

Start your cover letter with an informative, direct introduction by including the following details in the first one or two sentences:

1. 
   Job position: The title of the advertised position
   
2. 
   Company name: The name of the company looking to hire
   
3. 
   How you discovered the opening: Whether you saw the job on LinkedIn, a job board, or were recommended to apply by a friend
   
4. 
   Intention to apply: An enthusiastic announcement that you’re applying for the open role
   

Including these four pieces of information makes it clear you’re a serious applicant — one who isn’t simply sending out a generic cover letter and hoping for a response.

Here’s an example of a cover letter opening paragraph that effectively introduces the applicant:

You can also make your introduction even more attention-grabbing by adding a bit of personality, passion, or including a major career highlight. Don’t be afraid to let some of your unique personality shine through in your cover letter.

Just be sure to strike the right tone for your industry or field. For instance, if you’re applying for a job in law, keep your writing formal.

Here are some examples of unique cover letter openings you can try: