How to Write a Cover Letter Introduction (Examples)

By Rachel Jay, Content Specialist

Leading off a cover letter can be difficult. Fortunately, you can craft a fantastic cover letter introduction that will help you get noticed. Check out the six tips below to help you write an introduction that lands an interview!

6 Ways to Craft a Cover Letter Introduction

1. Talk About a Passion

If you have a passion that’s related to the company or its mission, your cover letter introduction can be a great place to show this off. An anecdote can be the perfect way to convey your passion, or perhaps there’s a conversation or event you can leverage to create a quick story.

Example: Many years ago, I found myself at a crossroads financially. I sought help from a variety of sources, but the most meaningful was the assistance I received from my financial planner. The direction and guidance they provided has changed the course of my life, and ever since then, I’ve had a passion for helping people take control of their personal finances.

2. Explain Your Enthusiasm for the Company

If you’re already a satisfied customer of the company you’re applying to, mentioning this in your cover letter introduction can help you stand out from the crowd. Companies are often more likely to hire someone who has in-depth knowledge of its products, services, or internal workings. If you’re already a huge fan, share this enthusiasm.

Example: I first used Company ABC’s software when I was a project manager working on streamlining my company’s new account projects. Since then, it’s been my go-to software for each and every project I’ve managed over the years. I’ve admired your product and your company throughout my career, and I was very excited to see a position open up in my field.

3. Describe Your Accomplishments

Particularly if you’re applying for a high-level job, mentioning your career accomplishments in your cover letter introduction can immediately signify to the hiring manager that you’re qualified for the role. Look over the job description and make a list of any keywords that are applicable to your skills. Then, use these keywords in your cover letter!

Example: With an MBA in marketing, having increased my company’s website visitors by over 120% in the last year, and running a successful PPC account, I believe I’m an ideal candidate for your marketing manager position.

4. Mention Your Company Contact

As the saying goes, “It’s not what you know. It’s who you know.” If you have a company contact, whether it’s a current employee, a former employee, or a company client, mention it. Hiring managers are much more likely to consider you for a position if you come recommended by someone they know. So drop a name if you have one. However, make sure that’s okay with your contact first. And better yet, see if they have a direct contact you can send your customized resume and cover letter to.

Example: Matt Smith and I worked together years ago at Company B, where we collaborated on many projects. We’ve stayed in touch over the years and he has always spoken highly of the company. When he told me about your open editor position, I knew I had to apply!

5. Insert Some Humor

Not all companies appreciate humor, so before trying this out, do your research on the company, check out its social media profiles, and really assess the company culture. This can give you a good idea of the company’s vibe and whether or not you can use this approach in your cover letter introduction. If you do decide to use humor, just make sure to keep it clean and professional, otherwise your application could end up moving to the “no” pile if it’s not well received!

Example: As the reigning Monopoly king of my third-grade classroom, I learned a few things about being successful: it takes hard work, determination, and buying Boardwalk. Well, maybe not the last one! But determination and hard work have gotten me far in my career.

6. Be Direct

On the whole, most recruiters only spend a few seconds reading your resume, and cover letters likely don’t get much more viewing time than that. Of course, it depends on the company, but if you’re applying to a large organization that gets tons of applicants, your best bet may be to be direct in your cover letter introduction. In these instances, skip the extras and get straight to the point explaining how you are qualified for the job.

Example: I’m writing to submit my application for the client services manager position with XYZ Company. Given my 12 years of client services and five years of management experience, I am confident that I have the skills and qualifications to be an asset to your team.

Start Strong

Your cover letter introduction sets the tone for the entire application, so it pays to make sure it starts out in a way that appeals to the hiring manager. Research the company you’re applying to to get a feel for their company culture, and then tailor your cover letter (introduction and all!) to their unique vibe.

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