Glassdoor UK 
Grab attention and impress, right from the start
When you apply for any job, one of the very first tools you'll use to grab the attention of employers is your cover letter. Yes, there are of course companies that are so big that they don't have time for cover letters - but plenty of HR Managers at small and mid-sized companies do read them. A cover letter highlights the reasons you're the best person for the job and how you will benefit the company. It also demonstrates your ability to effectively communicate your unique value proposition. That's why the opening lines of your cover letter are so important ‒ you need to hook the employer so that they want to continue reading and learn more about you.
There's no one right way on how to start your cover letter, but there are a few techniques that you can try to make your letter stand out. Here are five ways to write the opening lines of your next cover letter:
1. Job title and accomplishments
This is a very common and effective way to start a cover letter. The idea is to get straight to the point and impress the employer with your background. Use your most impressive and most relevant accomplishment stories to explain your worth.
Example: As a Social Media Coordinator for Company X, I manage many digital media outlets. By implementing new social media marketing tactics, in the past year, I have doubled our audience on Facebook and tripled our followers on Twitter.
2. Excitement means dedication
Another approach is to begin your letter by expressing your excitement for the job opportunity. If there's a job or a company you're particularly enthusiastic about, it's great to say so. When a potential employer sees you're excited, this translates into how motivated and dedicated an employee you would be. This makes them want to find out if you're as qualified as you are eager.
Example: I was excited to find an opening in human resources with Company Y, because your work with XYZ [be specific] has been important to me for a long time. I am the perfect candidate for this position because it combines my experience in human resources and XYZ.
3. Keywords, keywords, keywords
When applying for a larger company where you know an applicant tracking system will be used, a smart idea is to make your opening lines keyword-heavy. The right keywords will make sure that your cover letter gets read and will immediately highlight many of your most relevant skills.
Example: Written and verbal communications are two of my strongest areas of expertise. Through my years of experience in public relations, I have perfected my skills in social media, media relations, community engagement, and leading a team. It is the combination of these skills that make me the best candidate for your Public Relations Manager position.
4. Network ties
If someone in your professional network refers you to a position, company, or specific HR Manager, the best approach is to use this right away in your cover letter. Name-dropping your mutual contact will provide the employer with a point of reference to go from. They'll be interested to see why your character reference thought you'd be a good fit for the job.
Example: My name is Jane Doe and recently I spoke to your Communications Coordinator John Smith, who informed me about the opening in your IT team. He recommended I contact you about the job because of my strong interest in the field.
5. What's in the news?
Another unique option to impress employers is to demonstrate your knowledge of current events in your opening lines. Look for recent news about the company you're applying for and tie it into the job opening. Explain why the news item makes you think you'd be best for the job.
Example: Recently, your company has been highlighted in The Huffington Post and Forbes because of your partnership with Charity Z. After reading those articles, I became inspired to seek employment opportunities with your company and was happy to see an opening for an Administrative Assistant. As someone with vast experience in that area, I would be the perfect candidate for the job.
With all of these options, it's important to tailor your entire cover letter to your specific experience and each individual job description. A personalised cover letter is essential to prove your qualifications and will be more likely to result in an interview, so start making changes to your cover letter today!
You'll need a carefully crafted CV to go with your cover letter. Find out how yours stacks up by getting a free CV review.
Editor's Note: This article originally ran on Glassdoor UK. It is reprinted with permission.