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How To Start a Cover Letter With Examples and Tips

creative cover letter opening sentence examples

  • How to Start a Cover Letter
  • Cover Letter Opening Sentence Examples

Personalize Your Cover Letter

  • What to Write in the Rest of Your Letter

Cover Letter Sample

More cover letter examples and templates.

Theresa Chiechi / The Balance

What's the best way to start a cover letter for a job? The first couple of sentences of your  cover letter  are the most important ones. Recruiters and hiring managers often spend mere seconds scanning your application.

If your cover letter doesn't grab their attention right away, they may never even get as far as the second paragraph. What should these all-important first sentences say? Keep in mind that you're hoping to differentiate yourself from the competition. Your goal is to explain to the reader who you are, why you're writing, and how you can contribute to the employer's success.

This might mean  highlighting a contact , providing a quick window into your relevant background and experience, or emphasizing a significant accomplishment that would make you an asset to the organization.

Think about why the hiring manager should select you, above all other candidates, for an interview, and you'll be on the right track.

How to Start a Cover Letter 

Be direct.  In these opening sentences, you want to explicitly let the reader know which position you're applying for. Hiring managers are often looking at candidates for several open jobs at any given time. Make sure it's easy for them to discover your intent. For example:

I am interested in the coordinator position at ABC company.

Mention a contact.  If someone  referred you to the position , include that information early on as well. Referrals are one of the key aspects to securing an interview, so be sure to mention yours right away. For example:

Jane Doe suggested I contact you about the job, as she feels my skills would be a good fit for the position.

State an accomplishment.  Try to state an accomplishment from your previous job. If you can, show how you added value to the last company you worked for. You might even add the job title you had if it's similar to the one you are applying for. For example:

As coordinator at XYZ Enterprises, I have increased my group's output by 37% over the past 15 months.

Express excitement.  Convey your passion for your work, and your excitement about the job and company. Your cover letter is an opportunity to sell yourself to the hiring manager, and to share why you're well qualified for the job. For example:

I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to meet with you to discuss what I have to bring to the position at ABC company.

Use keywords.  If you can include any  keywords  from the job listing, do so. You can mention a skill you have that was included in the post. For example: 

My track history of successfully managing teams and delivering projects on time and on budget makes me a good fit for this role.

Examples of Cover Letter Opening Sentences 

  • As an information technology professional with high-level management experience in the IT industry, I learned that the best way to achieve success was to utilize the resources I had by employing well-defined objectives and an attitude of empowerment.
  • I am very interested in the entry-level position that is available at ABC Investment Partners. I recently graduated from XYZ college, and my courses in investments, finance, and business have equipped me with a solid base upon which I plan to build my career.
  • I am writing to express my strong interest in the international marketing position open at WellCam, Inc. My colleague Janna Doling recommended that I contact you directly about this position, owing to the years I have spent developing successful campaigns for XYZ company.
  • I'm writing to express my interest in the editorial assistant position listed on Monster.com. Given my five years of editorial experience and excellent capabilities, I would appreciate your consideration for this position.
  • I have a very strong interest in pursuing a teaching career. With experience working at both elementary and high school levels, as well as in activities outside of the traditional classroom, I have a diverse background with much to offer.
  • I have the pleasure of being acquainted with one of the counselors on your staff, Eleanor Seville. She let me know about the open position and recommended that I contact you.
  • I was excited to read about the administrative assistant job opening at XYZ company. I have several years of administrative experience in a variety of fields, including insurance and finance.
  • I understand that you have been deluged with resumes since  Computer World  released their list of the best companies to work for. Mine is one more, but I do have experience that is hard to come by.
  • My proven track record of successfully performing complex analyses on various corporations makes me an ideal candidate for the analyst opportunity that you have advertised.

When you're not sure how to get started, it can be really helpful to review  examples of cover letters . You can use these as a guide, but be sure to tailor your introduction to your personal circumstances and the job you're applying for.

The more closely you  construct your cover letter  to show that you're a  match for the job requirements , the better your chances of getting selected for an interview.

What to Write in the Rest of Your Cover Letter

Of course,  the rest of your letter  is important too. You'll need to use an  appropriate salutation , and make your  cover letter closing  polite and inviting. In the  body of your letter , you have the opportunity to pitch your qualifications for the job in more detail than you have room for in your resume.

If there are specific events or accomplishments you feel are likely to make you stand out, you can briefly mention them and explain in more detail should you secure an interview.

Make sure your  contact information  is complete as well, and format your  signature  to match the letter style you are using.

Download the cover letter template  (compatible with Google Docs or Word Online) or read the example below.

Sample Cover Letter (Text Version)

John Smith 37 Oak Street Middle Village, New York 10502 555-555-555 john.smith@email.com

March 22, 2021

Dr. Jane Doe All Smiles Dentistry 5 Main Street, Suite A Middle Village, New York 10502

Dear Dr. Doe,

My former coworker, Maria Rodriguez, suggested that I contact you to express my interest in the position of dental assistant in your office in Middle Village.

I’m a licensed dental assistant with over 10 years of experience helping dentists and hygienists make their patients smile. In my current role with ABC Dental, I have gained proficiency in the four-handed dentistry technique, as well as mastering Henry Schein Dentix software.

I also have the following skills and qualifications, as outlined in the job description on your website:

  • Experience taking and developing dental X-rays
  • Infection control expertise, including preparing and sterilizing instruments and equipment
  • Knowledge of several different types of scheduling software
  • Language skills (bilingual: English/Spanish)
  • Excellent customer service skills and attention to detail

Most importantly, I love people. I consider it a great privilege to help dentists improve their patients’ lives by providing the very best support and customer care.

I’ve enclosed my resume, and I hope you’ll contact me at your convenience to arrange an interview.

Signature (hard copy letter)

Review cover letter examples for many different types of jobs, and get downloadable templates you can use to write your own cover letters.

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How to Start a Cover Letter: 7 Great Cover Letter Openings (+Examples)

Kaja Jurčišinová — Staff Writer

Beginnings are always hard. The same goes for writing a cover letter. You know exactly what you want to say, but you’re not sure how to start a cover letter.

Generally speaking,  the cover letter intro is a place where you should:

  • introduce yourself in detail
  • explain why the job is exciting for you
  • show you’re a great fit for the position

Of course, there’s no single right way to do it. That means that you’ve got multiple options and can get a little creative.

Whether you’re looking for a traditional cover letter introduction, or something more unconventional, you’ll find it in this article — together with a quick guide and cover letter openings examples.

Alternatively, you can also just watch this quick video guide on how to write a cover letter below.

Successful cover letter introductions (examples)

We’ve gathered some really good opening lines from successful cover letters that got people hired in well-known companies such as HubSpot, Siemens, or Lush:

HubSpot Director of Business Development Cover Letter Sample

cover letter opening sample

Account Executive Cover Letter Intro Sample

cover letter opening sample

Sales Associate at LUSH Cover Letter Intro Example

Cover letter opening sample

Siemens SCADA Engineer Cover Letter Intro Template

Cover letter opening sample

Warner Bros. Public Relations Intern Cover Letter Example

Cover letter opening sample WB

Do you want to know how to craft such a strong cover letter opening yourself? Follow a quick guide below.

And if you prefer to see more examples from hired professionals or find a job-specific cover letter example for your industry, visit our  cover letter library .

Intro paragraph: a quick guide on how to start a cover letter

When it comes to cover letter openings, rule number one is that you should always start your cover letter in a way that grabs a recruiter’s attention from the get go.

On the other hand, be careful and stay professional. Don’t overdo it.

So the question is — when should you pick a standard opening paragraph and when to go with something more creative?

Well, it all depends on a particular job and the company culture .

Take time to research each company where you’re applying for a job and identify its tone of voice.

Are they formal or casual? Look at the job description, their website, and social media accounts and you’ll be able to get the right idea.

Then in your cover letter opening, follow at least one of these 7 main principles :

what to include in your cover letter opening

1. Be direct

Employers are busy people who usually don’t have time to read long texts or overused  cover letter phrases . What they want to know is simply whether you’re a good fit. Why not make it easier for them and be specific from the very beginning?

Let them know what position you’re applying for and use your cover letter opening to highlight years of experience in your field and any relevant  hard or soft skills   you bring to the table.

It’s a universal, yet effective answer to how to start a cover letter.

Cover Letter Intro Example #1

I am very interested in the Sales Specialist opportunity at [Company XYZ] that was advertised on LinkedIn. I am a hard-working and dedicated individual with over two years of extensive industry experience, a Business & Management degree from McGill University, and a strong determination to meet and exceed all business goals and objectives.

2. Respond to the company’s needs

Employers want to know how you can contribute to their company. The first paragraph of the cover letter is a great place to demonstrate that.

Have a look at the job offer, go over the company’s needs, and pick those that you can easily relate to.

Then take a look at your achievements and impressive skills, and use them to illustrate how you can bring value to the new job. Ideally by mentioning any quantifiable results from your previous jobs.

Cover Letter Intro Example #2

Over the course of last year, I more than doubled [Company XYZ]’s Twitter followers and ran two successful Instagram ad campaigns that generated $35K+ in revenue. I’d love to bring my expertise in organically expanding the social reach and delivering ROI to the social media manager position at [Company XYZ].

3. Include company facts and news

Companies want to see that you’re interested in them and their industry. If you show that you already know about them and have done your research, you can make a great first impression.

Browse their website and scour the internet for related news articles. They can provide you with interesting facts that pertain to your role.

It can be anything — a specific event, fact, notable statistic, or an award that the company has recently received.

Cover Letter Intro Example #3

When I saw that [Company XYZ] was featured in Fortune Magazine last month for its commitment to renewable energy and reducing waste in the workplace, I was truly inspired. With my track record of reducing costs by over 30% and promoting sustainable technologies, I’m excited about the opportunity to take on the account executive role to expand your company’s growth and work towards a greener future.

4. Highlight a mutual connection

Referrals can work like magic when it comes to getting invited to a  job interview . So if someone has recommended you for a position or you know anyone at the company who can vouch for you, mention their name right away.

After reading your cover letter, recruiters will most likely want to learn why your referrer thought you’d be a good fit. If nothing else, it will make recruiters pay attention to the rest of your cover letter.

Cover Letter Intro Example #4

I was excited to learn of this job opportunity from my former colleague, Lucy May. We’ve worked closely together for several years, most recently on a complex data analysis project at [Company XYZ]. She advised me to apply as she thought I’d be a good match for this position on your team.

5. Show passion for what you do

Employers love job candidates who are enthusiastic about what they do. These candidates tend to perform better and are more dedicated to their roles.

So if you’re all hyped up about your job, don’t hesitate to infuse your cover letter with a couple of sentences demonstrating your excitement about what you’re doing.

Cover Letter Intro Example #5

I knew I had a knack for writing ever since I was the main editor of our high school magazine. Thanks to my 15+ years of experience, I’ve transformed my passion into a fashion blog with 30K+ monthly readers, featured articles on Time and Cosmopolitan that have garnered over 50K views, and a writer’s workshop I founded for young up-and-coming writers.

6. Open with a relevant accomplishment

Hiring managers like achievers. If you’ve accomplished something noteworthy while with your previous employer, there’s a good chance you can bring the same value to your next job too.

What’s more, it shows that you’re an expert in your field.

If you have any special skills or accomplishments that will make you stand out from other job candidates, mention them right away in your cover letter opening.

However, try to make no general claims without providing evidence. Support your arguments with real numbers and statistics.

Cover Letter Intro Example #6

Over the past year as digital marketing manager at [Company XYZ], I’ve generated $50k+ in revenue, increased organic traffic to our blog by 18%, and almost tripled our social media ROI.

7. Use humor and creativity

Recruiters are human beings, too (shocking). In a pile of boring resumes and repetitive  cover letters and motivation letters , they may find a good joke, juicy pun, or funny opening line a nice refreshing break.

It can even be a reason to call you up for an interview.

So if the company seems to have an easygoing vibe, use humor to bring attention to your skills or relevant personal traits that are needed for the position you’re targeting.

Cover Letter Intro Example #7

Before I flood you with all the reasons why I’m going to be your next writer, I would like to tell you a little about myself. I didn’t learn to hold a pencil until I was about six years old, which made everyone think I’d never pen a single letter. And now here I am, bidding to become your next Shakespeare.

Cover letter beginning: What other things to include?

Now that you saw some great examples of cover letter openings, you may wonder what else can you do to perfect your cover letter introduction.

Well, there are a few other key elements that a good cover letter beginning should include :

  • contact information both for you and the company
  • headline (optional)
  • personalized greeting

To know where to put this information, just scroll down.

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This is the place for your and your company’s contact information.

Make sure that right at the top of the page you list your contact details such as:

  • phone number

Optionally, you can also include:

  • your professional title
  • date of birth
  • current date
  • personal website/LinkedIn

Additionally, never forget to add company-related information . You should always include the manager’s recruiter’s name (if it was made available to you), job title department, the name of the company, and their address.

Left align all of this information. Or make it easy for yourself and choose a pre-designed  cover letter template   and only fill in the details.

Headline (optional)

You don’t have to include it, but it can help you grab the hiring manager’s attention.

In your cover letter headline, you can use numbers, questions, or interesting adjectives .

It can be something like “5 Ways I Can Help You Improve Your Company’s Marketing.”

Alternatively, you can just state the name of the position you’re applying for.

how to address a cover letter

Salutation (or how to address a cover letter)

Try to avoid using “To Whom it May Concern” or “Dear Sir/Madam” . This form of address, while correct, has become so overused it won’t help you stand out at all.

Instead, try to research the hiring manager’s name online . Look at the job posting, and check the company’s website or  LinkedIn . (Did you know that you can turn your LinkedIn profile into a great resume  with just one click?)

Alternatively, you can address it to the whole team or HR.

Generally, stick to these rules:

  • How to address a cover letter to a recruiter or hiring manager:  The best practice is to use a personalized greeting in the following form: “Dear [first name]” or “Dear Mr./Mrs. [last name]” for formal companies.
  • How to address a cover letter to multiple recipients: If you’re addressing your cover letter to the entire team or human resources, you can use “Dear [name of the company/department] Team” or “Dear Human Resources” .
  • How to address a cover letter to an unknown person: If you fail to find the hiring manager’s name and don’t want to address your cover letter to an entire team or HR, use “Dear Hiring Manager” , or “Dear Recruitment Officer” .

After the salutations, you can continue with an attention-grabbing intro paragraph.

HR expert tip: Christy’s word of advice

“In general, a traditional formal cover letter is the safest bet. But there are times when you can totally throw that advice out the window and have a bit of fun putting your personality on paper! Take a look at how the company brands its ‘voice’ on its website and in the job description. Do they sound relaxed and personality-driven? Is formality anathema to them? If yes, don’t be afraid to reciprocate (while still keeping it professional). After all, you’re not just applying for a job: you’re applying to be part of the company’s culture”. —  Christy Morgan, Resident HR Expert

Key takeaways: How to begin a cover letter

To sum up — the beginning of your cover letter will determine whether the hiring managers will read the rest of it or not.

If you want them to pay attention to what you have to say, make sure your cover letter opening:

  • Uses a personalized greeting
  • Says who you are
  • Shows you’re passionate about the job or the company
  • Highlights your top (and relevant) accomplishments and skills
  • Mentions a mutual contact
  • Reflects the company’s tone of voice
  • Is tailored to a specific position and company’s needs
  • Uses keywords from the job description
  • Is short, nice, and direct

Of course, the rest of your cover letter is important too.

If you’d like to know what to write in the rest of your letter, check out our complete  cover letter guide , get inspired by  cover letter examples , or learn how to  end a cover letter .

This article was recently updated. The original article was written by Nikoleta Žišková in 2021.

Kaja Jurčišinová — Staff Writer

Kaja Jurčišinová

Kaja Jurcisinova is a fresh graduate and a junior copywriter at Kickresume. Kaja completed her undergraduate degree in Art History at the University of St Andrews in 2018 and graduated with a Master’s in Arts and Culture from the University of Groningen in 2021. She was an intern at multiple cultural institutions across Europe, including the Dutch Museum Association in Amsterdam, the Matter of Art Biennale in Prague, and the European Cultural Centre in Venice. At the moment, she resides in Visby on the Swedish island of Gotland.

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Creative Cover Letters (With Examples)

  • Cover Letter Examples
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Find a Job You Really Want In

Cover letters are your employer’s first introduction to you as an individual. Your cover letter touches on your interest in the job, the company, and what skills you possess that make you ideal for the position. Your letter will tell the hiring manager a bit about yourself, as well, such as what passions outside of work drive you.

In that regard, it makes sense to be a bit creative with your cover letter to make it feel like you and to catch the hiring manager’s attention. If you’re considering writing a creative cover letter, or wondering if creative cover letters catch an employer’s attention, then keep reading.

Key Takeaways:

Hiring managers can read through dozens of cover letters in a day, so making sure yours stands out is key to getting an invitation to interview .

A creative cover letter helps grab the reader ’s attention by doing something different, whether that’s done visually or through the written content.

Before submitting a creative cover letter, research the company to look for any guidelines and make sure your letter matches the company culture.

Remember that creative cover letters won’t be well received by everyone.

Creative Cover Letters (With Examples)

What is a creative cover letter?

How to write a creative cover letter, tips for making cover letters creative, 10 creative cover letter examples, creative cover letter faq.

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Creative cover letters are exactly what they sound like — a cover letter that’s outside the norm. There aren’t any particular guidelines as to what makes a creative cover letter — it is creative, after all — meaning that there are many ways for you to make your letter stand out.

Cover letters can be creative in a number of ways, such as:

Format. If you’re being creative with your cover letter, you don’t have to follow the standard format. Putting things in a different order, adding color or pictures, or formatting the letter differently are things that’ll make it stand out from the crowd. This can be anything from bullet points to a different size margin.

Just be aware that throwing the rules out entirely can be confusing, so be careful how you go about it.

Personalization. All cover letters talk a bit about your passions or interests. But a creative cover letter can add anecdotes, asides, or references to your favorite books or movies.

Informality. Having a conversational tone is atypical for cover letters, but it’s the sort of thing that will really appeal to certain company cultures.

Humor. Adding humor can be a huge boon to cover letters. The trick is making sure that the jokes land, which isn’t easy in writing. But so long as you don’t go do anything controversial or embarrassing, the attempt will likely be appreciated.

Graphics. You can add pictures, graphics, drawings, or charts to your cover letter. There are only certain instances where this is applicable, but if you’re applying for a graphic arts or drawing position, including something you designed in your cover letter shows them your skills right away.

Audio. It’s also possible to add audio to your cover letter if it’s electronic (which most are).

Creative cover letters tend to work best with creative industries, such as:

Architecture

Graphic design

Entertainment

A creative cover letter isn’t going to follow the same rules as a standard cover letter, meaning that it’ll take more thought and effort to write. As you’re doing something nonstandard, your letter is more likely to be scrutinized, which means that you have to be sure that you write the absolute best cover letter you can.

Research the company. If you’re thinking about changing the design to be more creative than the standard header and content format, make sure that your creative cover letter will be well-received. Some professions are stricter and want to see your skills, experience, and qualifications instead of your creativity.

In these cases, it’s best to stick with a classic cover letter with just a professional header and you can get more creative in the body of your letter .

Choose your format. In industries where creativity is encouraged and a good way to attract attention, you can play with the layout, design, and color scheme. The sky’s the limit and you can get super creative.

You just have to make sure that your cover letter is legible and communicates all of your skills and experience. If you’re getting creative, try matching your cover letter to your resume , website, or portfolio . Use the same color scheme or design across all of your application materials so your submissions are easily identifiable and cohesive.

If you’d rather leave your cover letter looking traditional and just spice up the content, there are plenty of ways to make your writing engaging. Improving your writing and adding a little extra flair can liven up your cover letter, making it exciting for the reader.

Take advantage of your first paragraph. The first sentence is most important, and you can leave it at just a creative first sentence if you don’t want to be too outside the norm. However, your first paragraph is where you can be enthusiastic and creative, all while tying it into the skills required for the job.

You can’t just write anything. It’s important that whatever anecdote, joke, or observation you start with is relevant to the job that you’re applying for.

Tell them why you are interested in the company. One way to get creative is to research the company and find interesting facts or stories that you connect with, then mention them in your cover letter.

Include things about where your interests intersect or why you love that company in particular. Some examples include charities that you’re both passionate about or how the organization has made an impact on your life.

Highlight your accomplishments. You might have an achievement that you’re especially proud of or is particularly relevant to the position you’re applying for.

If that’s the case, leading with that might be a good way to capture your reader’s attention right from the beginning.

Proofread and edit. As this letter is going to be non-standard, it’s especially important you don’t have any errors. You don’t want the recipient thinking that you’re just unaware of cover letter standards, or feel that the rules don’t apply to you.

Reread the letter to make sure the point you want to get across lands. It’s best to have someone that you trust read the letter for you as well, just to make sure it works.

While writing a creative cover letter is in many ways similar to writing a standard one, there are some tips to make it more engaging. The trick to a creative cover letter is to make it stand out, and unique cover letters get noticed. It’s important to try to put your personality into the letter, as that’s what you’re really selling: yourself.

Show off your passions. If you love your career path or you’re super excited for the position you’re applying to, let it be known!

Sharing your genuine excitement and passion for a field, industry, or job is a good way to show your dedication, expertise, and engagement.

Create a story. Your cover letter doesn’t just have to be a dry walkthrough of your professional life and achievements.

Include a belief statement. Like a goal or objective on a resume , a belief statement on your cover letter can give hiring teams a one sentence overview of who you are and what you want to achieve.

It’s a great place to write about yourself and align with a company’s values or goals to show that you’ve done your research and you’d be a good culture fit.

Mention a network connection. If you have a friend who already works at the company or got a referral from someone in your network, you should add that to your cover letter . That shows that you already know people at the company and they could vouch for you.

Connections at companies can be extremely useful, so try networking and seeing where you can find connections.

Proofread. Before submitting your cover letter, make sure you are rereading to look for any spelling or grammar errors. You can even have someone else look over it to catch anything you might have missed. It can look unprofessional to send in a letter with errors in it.

Tailor your cover letter. Make sure you are tailoring your letter to each job. Hiring managers can tell when you send in the same cover letter. Make sure to include the company name and the recruiter’s name if you found it. It can also be a good idea to include any keywords from the job listing or company website.

As the definition of a creative cover letter is so broad, it can be difficult to picture what is meant by that. Remember that while this is a creative exercise these are still business letters, so you can’t completely throw all the rules out the window. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t write up a fun cover letter and get a job with it.

Some people may say that I’m crazy for quitting my real estate job and going to culinary school, but those people have never tasted my signature pasta alla vodka. My unique career journey positions me perfectly to manage ABC Restaurant as they franchise and expand, while keeping the quality of service consistent.
As the recipient of the American Financial Technology “Most Cutting-Edge IT Initiative” award, I’m always ready to bring my best, most creative ideas to whatever IT project I’m tackling. I’m committed to staying up-to-date with industry trends and bringing that knowledge and expertise to share with all of my colleagues when we tackle projects.
When I noticed that ABC Company donates 10% of its profits to the ASPCA, I knew that I had to apply for this position. I care deeply about animal welfare causes and even spend my free time volunteering with the ASPCA. Being able to work at an organization that gives back to a group I support while allowing me to grow professionally is an opportunity that I cannot pass up.
As an accountant , I believe that everyone should know how to manage their finances responsibly. I do not just analyze and watch over my clients’ finances, but teach them how to be financially responsible so they can make informed decisions about their money.
When I was a kid, I lived at the movie theater. I would always see new movies as soon as they came out and kept going back to see everything again. Since then, I’ve worked to fit my love of movies and skill as a writer to find a career in media journalism. This position writing for the culture section of XYZ Magazine is the perfect opportunity for me to contribute to an iconic publication while bringing my personal passions into my professional life.
You’re looking for a social media savvy content marketer ? Look no further, I’m right here. I have grown Instagram accounts by 5000+ followers, created dedicated TikTok audiences, and ran Facebook ads with 200% ROI in the last year alone and I’m excited to beat those stats with ABC Company.
Thanks to my former colleague, Jane Doe, I heard of an opening for a PR Director at your company and was immediately intrigued. Jane has nothing but great things to say about your company and once I saw the job description, I knew it would be a perfect fit.
I have been constantly refreshing XYZ Company’s careers page since I found out about their mission to support local nonprofits with innovative tech. When I finally saw a job posting that happened to be in my industry, I applied immediately. I admire XYZ’s mission and I believe my enthusiasm for web development and your mission will make me the perfect fit for the Full Stack Developer position.
If you’ve seen my resume , you know that I’m not exactly qualified for the business analyst position. But what you can’t see from my resume is my dedication to teaching myself the ins and outs of the industry in my spare time or the endless networking I’ve done to understand the role of a business analyst . Here’s why I’m uniquely positioned to wow you as your newest business analyst.
I believe that every business has a valuable service to provide, it’s just about finding the perfect audience for it. As a marketer , I love tackling the “hard to sell” businesses and flipping around their branding and messaging until they’re profitable.

What should a creative cover letter include?

A creative cover letter should include a standard heading but a unique body paragraph. A standard header is important for professionalism, but the body of the letter should be an interesting way of introducing your skills and accomplishments.

How do I make my cover letter unique?

You can make your cover letter unique by adding relevant personal touches. For example, telling a brief story about how and why you left your real-estate job to pursue culinary school can speak to your passion and willingness to learn.

Plus, such an opening is unexpected and clever. What restaurant would expect you to talk about real estate? But, that makes you a more unique and memorable candidate.

How do you end a creative cover letter?

The best way to end your creative cover letter is through charming confidence. Briefly summarize why you’re the best candidate for the job, and thank the employer for their time.

Are creative cover letters effective?

Yes, creative cover letters are effective. For example, up to 83% of hiring managers say that a great cover letter could convince them to schedule an interview with an applicant.

And a creative cover letter makes you even more memorable, which will make it far easier to land an interview.

Should you have a creative cover letter for a creative industry?

It isn’t required that your cover letter be creative if you’re applying for a creative job, but that’s where a creative cover letter is most likely to be effective. It’s important to consider the company culture before deciding what kind of cover letter to write. There are many businesses that have creative jobs — like graphic design — that aren’t inherently creative industries.

Harvard Business Review — How to Write a Cover Letter That Sounds Like You (and Gets Noticed)

Inc. Magazine — 11 Secrets to Writing the Perfect Cover Letter

Harvard University — Resumes and Cover Letters

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Amanda is a writer with experience in various industries, including travel, real estate, and career advice. After taking on internships and entry-level jobs, she is familiar with the job search process and landing that crucial first job. Included in her experience is work at an employer/intern matching startup where she marketed an intern database to employers and supported college interns looking for work experience.

Matt Warzel a President of a resume writing firm (MJW Careers, LLC) with 15+ years of recruitment, outplacement, career coaching and resume writing experience. Matt is also a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and Certified Internet Recruiter (CIR) with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Marketing Focus) from John Carroll University.

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5 Opening Lines That Will Make Your Cover Letter Stand Out

It's all about that first impression—especially when it comes to your cover letter. Use these opening lines on your next cover letter to get the attention of any hiring manager.

creative cover letter opening sentence examples

1. Show Excitement

2. it’s not what you know, it’s who you know, 3. get straight to the point.

creative cover letter opening sentence examples

4. Read Beyond The Job Description

5. keywords are hella important too.

creative cover letter opening sentence examples

  • career transition
  • cover letter
  • written communication

creative cover letter opening sentence examples

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09 Sep 5 Creative Cover Letter Openings (& examples)

What you'll learn

Compelling cover letter openings with cover letter opening sentence examples

If you’ve read a few of my posts, then you know I am a firm believer that writing a cover letter is a requirement and not an optional component in your job-hunting arsenal.

But not just any ol’ cover letter will do.

If the opening of your cover letter doesn’t grab attention and captivate the reader, they won’t bother getting to the rest of your cover letter, or resume, to ever find out why you are a perfect fit for the role.

Submit a thrown-together, few sentence, or uninspired cover letter, and it won’t serve its purpose to:

  • Validate to the hiring manager or recruiter exactly why you are THE PERFECT candidate for the position and how you will add value to the company
  • Answer any questions the hiring manager or recruiter would have about your candidacy, so they put you in the “interview” pile rather than the “pass” or “circular” file
  • Demonstrate your professionalism, as well as your interest and enthusiasm for the position and the company

To learn more, see my post on “ Why You Need a Cover Letter ”

Yes, a cover letter can be a powerful tool to get you an interview and on your way to landing the job of your dreams…but only if it’s compelling and holds the reader’s attention.

A boring or cookie-cutter cover letter can have the opposite effect and turn the hiring manager off from continuing to read about your incredible work experience.

Need more assistance getting noticed in your job search? Receive my free resume checklist, “ Resume Dos and Don’t That Get You Noticed .”

How to write a compelling opening for your cover letter (with examples)

Everyone knows you only have one shot at a first impression, and your cover letter is no different. So, your cover letter opening sentences need to be strong, compelling, creative and informative.

Whew, that’s a lot to pack into the opening sentences of a cover letter. But do not fear, it can be done!

Here are my strategies for writing a creative and compelling cover letter opening that will grab the attention of the hiring manager and get you noticed. I’ve even included example sentences you can personalize and add to your own cover letter:

1. What You Are Known For

Include in your opening sentences what you are known for (generating sales, saving money, motivating teams, improving results). Then connect the dots on how those skills will not only pertain to the position you are applying for, but also will benefit the company.

Example: My specialty is driving public relations programs that grow health and wellness companies through media coverage. I have driven PR and Communication strategies for both startup and large companies where I created measurable results within the first six months. I am excited about the prospect of creating significant awareness for [Company Name] as the [Position Title].

2. Relevant Experience

Open your cover letter by providing the work experience (not necessarily job title) you have that aligns with the position you are applying for and why this experience will drive results at a new company. This is a strong strategy if you have not held the exact title of the position for which you are applying , but have the required experience per the job description.

Example: I have successfully been leading sales teams to unprecedented results for the past 8 years. By implementing ongoing training programs, initiating sales rep check-ins, and creating new motivation and incentive tools, I have increased our close rate by 25% and revenue by 15% in the past eighteen months. I am excited about the prospect of delivering similar results for [Company Name] as the [Position Title].

3. Results and Accomplishments

By including impressive results and accomplishments from your previous positions in the opening of your cover letter (or, actually, anywhere in your cover letter), it validates you will achieve results wherever you go. Be sure to include quantifiable results and the numbers or percentages of how they were measured so the reader will understand the value you added at your previous companies and how it will be applicable to the new role.

Example: In one-year at [Current Company], I increased search-engine marketing (SEM) leads 150% while decreasing cost per lead (CPL) by 26%. I am excited by the prospect of bringing my experience and expertise in digital media to [Company Name] and drive similar results as your next [Position title].

4. Key Requirements

Use a few key requirements of the position (i.e. keywords from the job description) in your opening to immediately showcase how you have the relevant experience and skills. This strategy is particularly effective when applying at larger companies likely to be using an applicant tracking system scanning for keywords.

Example: Budget planning and financial analysis are two of my strongest areas of expertise. I not only oversee, review, and adhere to the budgets for each business department of [Current Company], I also ensure that all of the company’s financial practices are in line with regulations and legislation. Through my years of experience in finance, I have perfected my skills in financial analysis, budget development, and strategic planning, and I look forward to exploring the opportunity to bring this unique skillset to elevate the department at [Company Name] as your next [Position Title].

5. Network Referral

If a person from your professional network refers you to the hiring manager or recruiter, or recommends you apply to the position or company, include that information upfront of your cover letter. Having a personal introduction is one of the best ways to get (and keep) the attention of the hiring manager, so don’t be shy about using that in your opening.

Example: Joan Smith, my former supervisor, thought I would be a great fit for [Position Title] and recommended I reach out to you. I worked with Joan for three years. During this time, Joan witnessed firsthand how my unique ability to recognize real talent in a stack of resumes and get candidates excited about working for [Company Name] through phone interviews improved and streamlined our recruiting and hiring processes. I am enthusiastic to use these special skills, and many more, to help [Company Name] improve its employee team and corporate culture as the [Position Title].

Cover Letter Opening Sentences Not to Use

Sadly, I’ve seen too many articles and blog posts that provide what I believe to be poor advice on how to write the opening of a cover letter. Some of the tips and examples they share are not what I would consider a “compelling, attention-grabbing” opening.

Instead, some of these recommendations and examples look like the tired, overused, and outdated openings that I’ve read far too often in cover letters I read as a hiring manager.

I recommend you DO NOT open your cover letter by:

  • Simply stating the position for which you are applying
  • Providing general work experience without specifics or results
  • Relying solely on your enthusiasm for the position or company
  • Focusing on what’s in it for you, rather than what you can deliver the company

Examples of cover letter opening sentences I DO NOT recommend you use:

  • I am very interested in the junior finance position that is open at Acme Company. I recently graduated from State University with a degree in economics and took courses in accounting, investments, and analysis, which have given me a solid base upon which I plan to build my career.
  • I’m writing to express my interest in the Social Media Marketing position listed on your website. Given my two years of social media experience and excellent capabilities, I would appreciate your consideration for this position.
  • I am writing to express my strong interest in the Human Resources Coordinator position open at Acme Company. My colleague Bobby Jones recommended that I contact you directly about this position, due to my years successfully performing similar responsibilities for ABC Company.
  • I have a very strong interest in pursuing a sales career. With experience working in both traditional retail and outbound phone sales, I have a diverse background with much to offer.
  • I was excited to read about the Public Relations Assistant position at Acme Company. I have several years of PR experience in a variety of fields including software and insurance.

Final Advice

The opening sentences are just that, the opening of your cover letter. Be sure to continue developing your cover letter with engaging language, strategically placed keywords, results and achievements, and a proactive close ( click here for more information on each of these points).

Once you have written your cover letter, read, proof, edit, read and proof it again so there are no mistakes. Your cover letter and resume reflect your work abilities, so don’t let them be a poor representation of your abilities by having errors in them.

Be sure your cover letter (and resume) includes how to contact you (email, LinkedIn, phone). You don’t want all that hard work to go to waste because they don’t know how to find you!

Finally, customize your cover letter for every position you apply. You can begin with your own version of a template that includes your significant positions and corresponding results. Then, take the time to customize each cover letter to include the keywords, principal requirements, and desired experience outlined in the job description for which you are applying. You will find you have much better results if your cover letter (and resume) are clear, direct and specific to the position you are applying for and the requirements of the role.

Crafting a compelling opening to your cover letter can really make a difference in getting noticed by the hiring manager or recruiter.

I hope these creative cover letter openings work for you. If you use one of these ideas, please let me know, and share how it worked. If you have creative and compelling cover letter openings of your own, please share those too! I would love to see them!

For more on writing a cover letter, check out 5 Components of a Cover Letter (with a Cover Letter Example)

When you are ready to send your cover letter, read how to send a cover letter to learn the best way to do so..

Grab a copy of Your Complete Guide to Cover Letters for free and get a cover letter template, creative opening templates, and more to help you craft a compelling and effective cover letter!

The 46 Best Cover Letter Examples: What They Got Right

Amanda Zantal-Wiener

Published: May 22, 2024

I’ve sent plenty of cover letters throughout my career, so I know it isn’t usually fun to write one. Fortunately, the cover letter examples I painstakingly gathered below show that it’s possible to have a little fun with your job search — and maybe even make yourself a better candidate in the process.

 person types of a cover letter

I was shocked upon learning 45% of job seekers don’t include a cover letter when applying for a job. I definitely don’t recommend following the crowd on this matter because your cover letter is a chance to tell the stories your resume only outlines.

It’s an opportunity for you to highlight your creativity at the earliest stage of the recruitment process.

Are you ready to showcase your unique skills and experience? Or are you looking for more tips and cover letter inspiration?

Keep reading for 40+ cover letter examples, then check out tips for cover letter formatting and what makes a cover letter great.

→ Click here to access 5 free cover letter templates [Free Download]

Table of Contents

Customizable Cover Letter Examples

Best cover letter examples, short cover letter examples, creative cover letter examples, job cover letter examples, career cover letter examples, what’s on a cover letter, what makes a great cover letter.

In a hurry for a cover letter example you can download and customize? Check out the ones below from HubSpot’s cover letter template kit .

1. Standard Cover Letter Example

creative cover letter opening sentence examples

5 Free Cover Letter Templates

Five fill-in-the-blank cover letter templates to help you impress recruiters.

  • Standard Cover Letter Template
  • Entry-Level Cover Letter Template
  • Data-Driven Cover Letter Template

You're all set!

Click this link to access this resource at any time.

What does a good cover letter look like in practice, and how can you make yours stand out? I found six examples from job seekers who decided to do things a bit differently.

Note: Some of these cover letters include real company names and NSFW language that I've covered up.

4. The Cover Letter That Explains ‘Why,’ Not Just ‘How’

You may already know how to talk about how you’ll best execute a certain role in your cover letter. But there’s another question you might want to answer: Why the heck do you want to work here?

The Muse , a career guidance site, says that it’s often best to lead with the why — especially if it makes a good story.

I advise against blathering on and on, but a brief tale that illuminates your desire to work for that particular employer can really make you stand out.

creative cover letter opening sentence examples

creative cover letter opening sentence examples

28. Human Resources (HR) Cover Letter Example

creative cover letter opening sentence examples

In an increasingly digitized world, where customer-centric strategies are vital for business success, I am thrilled to apply for the [Job Title] position at HubSpot."

Unhelpful Cover Letter Introduction:

"To Whom it May Concern,

I am applying for the [Job Title] position at HubSpot. I have some experience in marketing and can help your clients grow their businesses."

Relevant Professional Experience

It can be tempting to use the same cover letter for every job. After all, it‘s about your experience, isn’t it? But it's not enough to rephrase the work history in your resume.

Recruiters and hiring managers are looking to fill a specific role, so you need to show how your experience translates to their unique needs.

So, the body of a great cover letter should showcase the specific professional experiences that are relevant to the job you're applying for. Emphasize your accomplishments and skills that directly relate to what the job needs.

To speed up this part of the cover letter writing process, start by creating a list of your transferable skills . Drafting this list can help you quickly focus on the skills to highlight in your cover letter.

Then, use AI tools to summarize job descriptions and narrow in on where your experience and the needs of the role you're applying for overlap. This post is full of useful AI assistant tools if you're new to AI.

Helpful Cover Letter Experience:

“At [Company Name], I had the opportunity to assist a global ecommerce retailer in enhancing their online customer experience. By conducting in-depth market research and customer journey mapping, I identified pain points and areas of improvement in their website navigation and user interface.”

Unhelpful Cover Letter Experience:

“I also worked with an ecommerce retailer to improve the customer experience. We did some surveys and training, and they were happy with the results.”

Useful Examples

To make your cover letter stand out, add specific examples that show how you've solved problems or gotten results in past roles.

Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible, using data to give the reader a clear understanding of your impact.

Helpful Cover Letter Example:

“I lead a team of five content writers while increasing website traffic by 18% year-over-year.”

Unhelpful Cover Letter Example:

“I have a great track record of leadership and achieving fantastic results.”

Research and Company Knowledge

Hiring teams aren‘t hiring anyone with the skills to do the job. They’re hiring a person they'll work alongside at their specific company.

So, to show that you‘re not just looking for any job anywhere, share your knowledge of the company’s industry, values, and culture in your cover letter.

Spend some time on the company website and take notes on what makes this business interesting to you and why you would want to work there.

Then, explain how your skills align with the company's mission and goals and explain how you could add to their chances of success. This will showcase your interest in the company and help them see if you are a good cultural fit.

Helpful Cover Letter Research:

“I was particularly drawn to HubSpot not only for its industry-leading solutions but also for its exceptional company culture. HubSpot's commitment to employee development and fostering a collaborative environment is evident in its recognition as a top workplace consistently. I strongly believe that my passion for continuous learning, self-motivation, and dedication to contributing to a team will make me a valuable asset to HubSpot.”

Unhelpful Cover Letter Research:

“I have been inspired by HubSpot's commitment to inbound marketing and its comprehensive suite of solutions. HubSpot's dedication to providing valuable content and fostering meaningful relationships aligns with my own values and aspirations.”

Clear Writing

Your cover letter needs to pack in a lot of important information. But it's also important that your cover letter is clear and concise.

To accomplish this, use professional but easy-to-understand language. Be sure to remove any grammar or spelling errors and avoid lengthy paragraphs and avoid jargon or overly technical language.

You may also want to use bullet points to make your letter easier to skim. Then, proofread your cover letter for clarity or ask a friend to proofread it for you.

  • Guide to Becoming a Better Writer
  • Tips for Simplifying Your Writing

Helpful Cover Letter Writing:

"In addition to my academic accomplishments, I gained valuable practical experience through internships at respected law firms.

Working alongside experienced attorneys, I assisted in providing legal support to clients. This hands-on experience helped me develop a deep understanding of client needs and enhanced my ability to effectively communicate complex legal concepts in a straightforward manner."

Unhelpful Cover Letter Writing:

"Furthermore, as a complement to my academic accomplishments, I have garnered invaluable practical experience through internships at esteemed law firms.

Throughout these placements, I actively collaborated with seasoned attorneys to conduct due diligence and furnish clients with comprehensive legal support. Notably, these experiences fostered a profound comprehension of client necessities, whilst honing my legal acumen to articulately convey intricate legal principles within a lucid and concise framework, adhering to applicable precedents and statutes of limitations."

Genuine Interest and Enthusiasm

Find ways to convey your passion for the role and how excited you are to contribute to the company you're applying to. At the same time, make sure your interest feels authentic and outline how it aligns with your career goals.

Your ultimate goal is an enthusiastic letter that feels honest and leaves a lasting positive impression.

Showing excitement in writing doesn't come naturally for everyone. A few tips that can help you boost the genuine enthusiasm in your letter:

  • Record audio of yourself speaking about the role, then use voice-to-text technology to transcribe and add these sections to your letter.
  • Choose your words carefully .
  • Write in active voice.

Helpful Cover Letter Tone:

“I am genuinely enthusiastic about the prospect of joining [Company/Organization Name] as an accountant. My combination of technical proficiency, eagerness to learn, and strong attention to detail make me an ideal candidate for this role. I am confident that my dedication, reliability, and passion for accounting will contribute to the continued success of your organization.”

Unhelpful Cover Letter Tone:

“Honestly, I can hardly contain my excitement when it comes to reconciliations, financial statement analysis, and tax regulations! Engaging in spirited discussions with professors and classmates has allowed me to foster an unbreakable bond with the fascinating world of accounting, and I'm positively bursting with enthusiasm at the prospect of applying my skills in a professional setting.”

Memorable Conclusion

End your cover letter on a strong note. Summarize your top qualifications, restate your interest in the position, and express your interest in future communication.

Then, thank your reader for their time and consideration and include your contact information for easy follow-up.

To make your conclusion memorable, think about what parts of your letter you‘d most like the hiring manager to keep top of mind. Then, consider your word choice and phrasing. If you’re feeling stuck, this list of ways to close an email can help.

Helpful Cover Letter Conclusion:

"Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to further discuss how my qualifications align with the needs of Greenpeace. Please feel free to contact me at your convenience to arrange an interview.

Together, let's make a lasting impact on our planet.

[Your Name]"

Unhelpful Cover Letter Conclusion:

"Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my qualifications further and how I can contribute to Greenpeace's mission. Please feel free to contact me at your convenience to arrange an interview.

I’d like to add another stage to the job search: experimentation.

In today’s competitive landscape, it’s so easy to feel defeated, less-than-good-enough, or like giving up your job search.

But don’t let the process become so monotonous. Have fun discovering the qualitative data I’ve discussed here — then, have even more by getting creative with your cover letter composition.

I certainly can’t guarantee that every prospective employer will respond positively — or at all — to even the most unique, compelling cover letter. But the one that’s right for you will.

So, get inspired by these examples and templates. Write an incredible cover letter that shows the hiring team at your dream job exactly who you are.

Editor's note: This post was originally published in October 2020 and has been updated for comprehensiveness. This article was written by a human, but our team uses AI in our editorial process. Check out our full disclosure to learn more about how we use AI.

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30 Opening Sentences to start your Cover Letter

30 Opening Sententeces to start your Cover Letter

Writing a cover letter is not something most people look forward to. It is one of those tasks that come with every job application but not something that is easily done. Eventhough the cover letter has become less crucial for a job application over recent years (first selections based on just a short look at the CV’s or LinkedIn profiles has almost become the standard procedure). But nevertheless you are still expected to send a cover letter to accompany your job application. Particularly the start or the first sentence of the cover letter can cause difficulty. Some believe that the first sentence is crucial for your job application and that it should blow away the reader of your cover letter. Fortunately this is almost never the case (maybe when you are applying for a position as a creative writer…). Using a traditional (or conservative) first sentence is not something a recruiter will see as a dealbreaker, especially when the content of your CV stands out from other candidates. But when the competition in your area is fierce and the content of your CV is not (yet) sufficient to differentiate yourself from other candidates, your cover letter, and especially the first sentence, can help you to grab the recruiter’s attention.

There are several starting points possible for your cover letter. You can use a tradional or conservative first sentence. A traditional first sentence is very acceptable when you are applying for a formal position or at a very formal company. A very appreciated way to start your cover letter is to express your excitement or enthusiasm for the job opening. If you want to create more personal connection between the company / the recruiter and yourself you can start your cover letter on a more personal note by sharing your passion or inspiration. Another smart way to demonstrate a connection between the company or the recruiter and yourself is to use name-dropping. Do you want to get straight to the point and you immediately want to differentiate yourself from the competition? You can start your cover letter by pointing out your strengths and experience in the first sentence. When you are writing a speculative job application requires a different approach. For each category we have composed several example first sentences.

TRADITIONAL / CONSERVATIVE OPENING SENTENCES

  I’m writing to express my interest in the position as [position title] at [company name]

I’m writing to apply for the position of [position title] at [company name].

I would like to propose my candidature for the position of [position title] with [company name].

I was very interested to read the job post for [position title] at [company name], I herewith send you my CV to consider.

Please find enclosed my CV as application for the position as [position title] at [company name].

SHOWING ENTHUSIASM / EXCITEMENT AT THE START OF YOUR COVER LETTER

With great enthusiasm, I am writing in reponse to your advertisement for [position title] at [company name].

I was excited to come across the job post for [position title] at [company name].

I’m excited to be applying for [position title] at [company name].

I’m excited to present my CV to you for the position as [job title] at [company name].

Throughout my career I have always been eager to accept exciting challenges. The opportunity to work for [company name] as a [position title] and to work on the challenges described in the job description sparked my enthusiasm.

USING NAME DROP AT THE START OF YOUR COVER LETTER

I was excited to receive a message from John Adams about a job opening in the [department name] department of [company name].

Last week I met John Adams from your sales department at the London fashion week event. He kindly informed me about the job opening for [job title] at your company.

A mutal friend of ours, John Adams, recently suggested I should apply for [position title] at your company.

When I visited your store in [location] last week I was excited to come across the job post for [position title] at the message board.

FOCUS ON EXPERIENCE OR STRENGTHS IN YOUR COVER LETTER

As an experienced account manager, I strongly believe in data analysis as a source of new opportunities.

As a marketing manager I have experienced the rise of digital marketing in a highly competitive business environment.

My extensive experience in sales, marketing and leadership, as well as my excitement for new challenges, has motivated me to apply for the position of [position title] at [company name].

After spending five years of leading a marketing team in an international business environment, I am looking for an exciting new challenge.

As a sales expert with a passion for the travel industry, I read your advertisement for the position of [job title] with great interest.

USING A PERSONAL APPROACH

Ever since I was in nursery school I wanted to become a teacher.

As a passionate traveller, I enjoy meeting new people, learning about new cultures and adapting to changing circumstances. I was excited to see all these elements in the job post for [position title] at [company name].

As a inspired volunteer in my own local community, I have watched [company name] efforts to support local communities all over the UK with great admiration.

I’ve wanted to work in the hotel industry ever since I visited a hotel with my parents for the first time when I was five years old.

[company name]’s goal to reduce the co2 emission in the transportation industry inspired me to visit your website. There I was excited to see there is the current job opening as [position title].

As a social worker, I believe that every child should have the opportunity to explore life in a safe environment.

OPENING SENTENCES FOR A SPECULATIVE COVER LETTER

I’m writing to enquire whether there is an opportunity available to join [company name] as a [position title].

I’m interested in working for [company name] for some time, therefore I am writing to explore if you have any current [position title] vacancies.

I’m writing to inquire into your need of a [position title] at [company title].

I’m very interested in the business activities of [company name], I’m writing to enquire whether there are any current [position title] vacancies.

Do you need someone that can motivate your sales team to reach challeging targets and to explore new opportunities? If so, look no further!

There are probably many more categories of first sentences you can think of. In some industries it is popular to write a bold or creative first sentence to draw the attention to your job application.  think that there is one category of first sentences missing from this overview; the bold and creative first sentences. It is not that we don’t believe a bold or creative first sentence can help you to stand out from other candidates. Making a bold or creative statement at the start of your job application is something that has to come from your own creativity and it has to suit your personality. If you write “look no further, I am the perfect candidates” you should be able to back this attitude up during a job interview.  Bold or very creative statements are a bit of a acquired taste, there is a chance that you strike exactly the right chord, but there is also a good chance that you strike out and reduce you chances.

We have gathered the sentences above to give you inspiration to start your cover letter. We know from our own experience that the first sentence of your cover letter can sometimes feel like the most crucial element of your job application. But in reality it hardly ever is, even with a very traditional or conservative first sentence you can be successful. Don’t let the first sentence of your cover letter hold you back from applying for your dream job!

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  • Cover Letter
  • 12+ Top Creative Cover Letter Examples & Templates

12+ Top Creative Cover Letter Examples & Templates

Maciej Tomaszewicz, CPRW

Our customers have been hired by:

You might be a da Vinci of Fine Arts, a Banksy of Graphic Design, or a Shakespeare of Copywriting. But “creativity” in the skills section might not be enough to prove that.

What you need is a creative cover letter. One that makes the hiring manager go: “Wow. I wanna meet that person ASAP.” And we’re here to show you how you can write a creative cover letter yourself!

This guide will show you:

  • Two creative cover letter examples better than 9 out of 10 others.
  • The step-by-step work plan for how to write a creative cover letter.
  • Creative cover letter templates that let you plug in your core strengths.

Want to write your cover letter fast? Use our cover letter builder. Choose from  20+ professional cover letter templates  that match your resume. See actionable examples and get expert tips along the way.

Create your cover letter now

Creative Cover Letter Sample

Sample cover letter for a resume— See more cover letter examples and create your cover letter here .

Feeling creative, might apply later? See some examples of cover letters for creative thinkers:

  • Artist Cover Letter Example
  • Art Teacher Cover Letter Example
  • Acting Cover Letter Example
  • Photographer Cover Letter Example
  • Graphic Design Cover Letter Example
  • Web Designer Cover Letter Example
  • Copywriter Cover Letter Example
  • Journalism Cover Letter Example
  • Public Relations (PR) Cover Letter Example
  • UX Designer Cover Letter Example

Looking for something slightly different? See Zety’s complete selection of cover letter samples: Cover Letter Examples for All Jobs

And now, let’s check out the first example of a creative cover letter:

Creative Cover Letter Examples

Gary Butler

Narrative Designer

Chicago, IL 60007

501-145-2198

[email protected]

www.squarespace.com/customers/garybutler

December 1, 2023

Terry Flynn

Hiring Manager

Once Studios

West 103rd Place

Chicago, IL 60131

Dear Mr. Flynn,

In a development studio, called Once Studios, everything was perfect. Excellent graphic designers and a precious mockup production team accompanied a fantastic group of developers. However, it wasn't until then that they realized something was missing. They needed one more writer with an RPG background and storytelling skills of the highest quality. And so, they’ve sent a letter across the land, called LinkedIn, to find them. Many applied. But amongst those many, there was the one… 

I’m a writer with over 10 years of professional and 25 years of amateur writing experience. Not only have I been writing short stories and RPG sessions since I was ten years old but also, in my professional career as a narrative writer, I:

  • Created over 2000 pages of dialogue, 400 quests, and 2000 pages of scripts.
  • Designed the narrative for various productions, “Tinker 2”, “Knights of Lefros,” and “Space Cops: Armada.”
  • Won the 2021 Game Narrative Review competition during Game Developers Conference in San Francisco. 

Writing is not only what I call my job but also my passion. It’s impacting the way others view the world and themselves for me. I consider Once Studios the perfect place to continue on my journey, given its mission to unleash creative energy that builds games with lasting influence on people’s lives.

During the last year’s Gamicon, one of Once Studios’ writers discussed why “Oracles” had to end that way and why the hero’s son couldn’t change after chapter 6. I would love to present you with a possible yet shocking alternative. Maybe next Thursday, noon, in the Once Studios headquarters?

Best regards,

It’s easy to write a cover letter for a creative director, a narrative, or a graphic designer. But what about a job that isn’t as creative? Such letters are also excellent for the hiring manager to remember you! 

Let’s see an example of a cover letter for a position that isn’t necessarily so creative:

James McGregor

Data Analyst

Tallahassee, FL 32301

543-467-2324

[email protected]

32 Lanier St

Tallahassee, FL 32305

Dear Mr. Pool,

Data analysts are like detectives trying to solve a mystery collecting evidence, looking for patterns, and drawing conclusions from the data. As a junior data analyst, I worked on over 20+ small- and large-scale projects in Bankello, which allowed me to expand my knowledge and investigative skills. Now I am ready for new challenges with the greatest player on the market, Data Lab. 

My three-year experience gives me an excellent understanding of business practices, database management, systems analysis, new technologies, and IT project management. I created and presented data models facilitating 15% higher returns than our previous performance. Plus, I successfully built 100+ statistical analysis models and improved data collection by 120% during my first work year.

Data Lab is not only the leader in the industry. Your approach, goals, and how you achieve them make you a go-to organization for every ambitious data analyst, such as myself.

My passion for data analysis can be even more visible during a face-to-face meeting. Perhaps next Friday, 1 pm in Data Lab headquarters would suit you?

P.S. I’d love to tell you more about how I also created a proprietary machine learning tool that integrated with our CRM software with almost 100% uptime during the transition within the first six months of implementation.

That’s pretty creative, isn’t it? But there’s one more thing that’s important here. It’s very well-structured. So let’s dig into that.

How to Write a Creative Cover Letter

See how to compose a creative cover letter step by step:

1. Choose the Best Creative Cover Letter Structure

Creative people can be considered a bit chaotic, which creates an unwelcome stereotype of structure-hating, keeping-heads-in-the-clouds individuals. So let’s prove them wrong and show that structure is an ally of creative folk, shall we?

Let’s do that by creating a simple cover letter structure. Use the below checklist for starters:

Creative Cover Letter—Checklist

  • Your contact info in the cover letter header . Put it at the top of the page so it’s hard to miss.
  • Date of writing. Make enough space for it below the header.
  • The addressee and company’s info. That’s the first step of personalization and just good etiquette.
  • Dear Ms./Mr. + (recruiter’s or hiring manager’s name). There are many ways to address your cover letter properly , and using Dear Ms./Mr. + addressee’s name is one of the best cover letter salutations you can use.
  • Paragraph #1: an opening line + a great job-fitting achievement.
  • Paragraph #2: your key skills + why you’re the perfect fit for the job.
  • Paragraph #3: your passion + why you want the job you’re applying for.
  • Paragraph #4: a call to action that will put the ball in their court.
  • Best regards + your name + your job title.
  • Postscript. Drop one more spectacular achievement that will help you end your creative cover letter with a bang!

Want to learn more about how you should format a cover letter for a creative job? Visit our guide: The Best Cover Letter Format

2. Begin Your Creative Cover Letter Impressively

According to a study , an average recruiter or hiring manager spends 6 to 8 seconds looking at an application. That leaves you little time to impress them with your creativity. That’s why the opening lines of your cover letter should be like ads during the Super Bowl. Spectacular!

Here are some tips on how to start a cover letter and make a sensational first impression:

  • Mention the company’s name. 
  • Catch their eye by throwing in some job-fitting achievements and things you’ve done in the past so they know you’re a good fit for the company.
  • Talk about your creative thinking skills that prove you are a creative person. It includes problem-solving skills , writing skills , visual art, communication skills , and open-mindedness.
  • If you lack much professional experience, use your achievements that are not necessarily job-related. Awards, relevant courses , and publications will come in handy!
  • Talk about your passion for the job and the company you’re applying to. And do it creatively, using action words and synonyms that will make you seem even more creative! Visit their page's “About us” section and use it to your advantage.

Don’t dwell on your successes too much here, as you will talk more about them in the further parts of your cover letter . 

Okay, that’s how you can start a creative cover letter. Let’s move to the middle paragraphs, shall we?

Pro Tip: Avoid “ To whom it may concern ” as an opening salutation. It’s generic and detached. Find out who you’re addressing and make it personal right away!

3. Write a Perfect Middle of Your Creative Cover Letter

Some time ago, in a land not that far, far away— 

Different CEOs were asked a question : “What is the skill you most value in your people?”. Their answer was creativity . And the reason for that is simple. Creative people tend to be innovative and independent. They have a problem-solving attitude that can be useful in finding solutions and opportunities for different departments. These workers bring value to the company others might overlook.

However, you should first prove your value as a potential employee. The best way to do it is to use your past successes in the middle of your cover letter.

Read how to write a perfect middle for your creative cover letter:

  • Prove you understand the duties and responsibilities listed in the job posting. By referring specifically to what’s in the job advertisement, you’ll prove that you tick all the boxes.
  • Show how you’ve excelled by talking more about your achievements at previous jobs. And, talk achievements, not responsibilities. That’s how you prove you’ve impacted the company’s performance.
  • Speak more about why you want this job and not just any other job. 

Okay, so we’ve got our creativity running. Time to end with a bang!

Want to keep it shorter? See our guide: How To Write a Short Cover Letter 

4. Finish Your Creative Cover Letter Spectacularly

Every creative person is like an artist. And every artist knows well that the most important part is the ending. It’s what you leave your audience with, whether they’re your readers, viewers, or listeners. 

So how should you end a cover letter ?

  • Write about how your relevant experience , skills, and passion might help the company achieve its objectives. And talk about the company, not about yourself. 
  • Highlight your excitement at the prospect of working for them.
  • Suggest a face-to-face meeting where you’ll talk more about how you see your bright future together! Reinstate your motivation and indicate that both parties can gain something from the meeting.
  • Add a postscript where you finish off with a spectacular achievement of yours—the Grand Finale of your creative cover letter!

Pro tip: Attach your portfolio, if relevant. After a well-crafted creative cover letter, your hiring manager might have the impression you talk the talk. But delivering a great portfolio will prove that you also walk the walk!

When making a resume in our builder, drag & drop bullet points, skills, and auto-fill the boring stuff. Spell check? Check . Start building a professional resume template here for free .

Create the perfect resume

When you’re done, Zety’s resume builder will score your resume and tell you exactly how to make it better.

So now you know exactly what to say in a cover letter for creative jobs. So all you have to do now is give a proper name to your cover letter , and it’s ready to go! 

Well, almost. 

There’s one more thing you should consider before applying. It’s the creative cover letter design. Let’s talk about it for a while.

Creative Cover Letter Templates

There are plenty of creative templates out there, but they aren’t always what recruiters and hiring managers expect from a job application. So we’ve curated a list of our top choices that are readable and eye-catching, simply just perfect:!

1. Initials by Zety

Looking for something creative yet minimalistic? Initials is your go-to template!

Initials by Zety

A perfect option for a cover letter for a creative job. It has a modern approach to creativity. Not too flashy but very classy. A mighty circle containing your quasi-handwritten initials catches the eye straight away. On the left, there’s a professional header with your personal information that can’t be missed. And a lot of space for your message. Elegant, with minimalistic icons, perfect for entry or mid-level candidates and for anyone trying to write a cover letter for an internship .

Pro tip: Keep your cover letter short. 3 to 4 paragraphs should do the trick.

2. Primo by Zety

Writing a cover letter for a creative director? Looking for a template that’s great for an artist, such as a graphic designer? Or perhaps trying to come up with a creative marketing cover letter? Consider Primo as your primary choice!

primo by Zety

Similarly to Initials, this creative cover letter template uses your initials as a logo for your document. Your personal information and relevant links can easily be found on the right side of your cover letter. While Initials is suggested for candidates with less experience, its twin, Primo, can be a good pick for experienced ones. It’s a bit toned-down, with a classic structure and a slight creative twist. Fewer icons, more professionalism.

Looking for a good font that fits your experience? See our guide: Best Cover Letter Fonts

3. Character Cover Letter Template

One side for your message to the hiring manager, the other with your name, contact details, and cool, colorful, and attention-grabbing icons. All on the gray background makes it impossible to miss on the hiring officer's desk!

Character Cover Letter Template

Find it here at Vengage .

4. Iconic by Zety

A cover letter for a creative position doesn’t have to be flamboyant. But it can be Iconic.

iconic by Zety

The Iconic template is a perfect creative idea for your cover letter. It feels very professional yet creative. And it’ll be hard to forget you, as your name is the largest element at the very top of the document. Your contact details are listed below with an elegant set of icons. And there’s plenty of space for your message. An excellent choice for anyone who wants to keep it minimal, smart, and stand out at the same time. Perfect for writing both senior and entry-level cover letters . 

5. Concept by Zety

Hard to miss. Easy to read. What’s a better Concept for a cover letter?

concept by Zety

The sleek dark column gives this classy and effective cover letter template a professional feel. The neat alignment of every piece of this puzzle makes a great choice for someone who wants to come across as reliable, professional, and with great organizational skills . Very experienced candidates might need help to fit all the information they want to share with hiring managers, so we recommend it to junior candidates, who want to make an impression, despite their lack of experience.

Read more: How to Write a Motivation Letter

6. Photography Cover Letter

There is a way to express your creativity with a photo background. Perfect for photographers (duh!), graphic designers, and everyone who wants to highlight their passion on a cover letter through photography. Also, there’s plenty of space for your writing, so it’s good for more experienced candidates!

Photography Cover Letter

7. Cubic by Zety

Our users can’t be mistaken. Here’s one of our most popular cover letter templates.

cubic by Zety

Cubic gives you modern simplicity. If your cover letter is super creative on the content level, you should keep the design minimalistic. Your contact information is located in a gray bar on the right side. The bar at the top is what makes you stand out amongst your competitors. Hard not to notice, right? Cubic is perfect for all, especially for candidates interested in writing any type of business cover letter .

Pro tip: Keep the correct cover letter line spacing and margins . Line spacing should be 1.15, and margins should be 1 inch on each page edge.

8. Resume & Cover Letter Template for Figma

This cover letter might not be printer-friendly, but it surely catches the eye. Very stylish. Unfortunately, the huge Hello leaves little place for the contact information, but you can perhaps put that in the heading once you download it and start playing with it. It comes in black, too, so it’s also goth-friendly! And just look at this deep blackness!

Cover Letter Template for Figma

The template can be found here at Dribbble .

9. Diamond by Zety

Think about Cubic, but bigger. That’s our Diamond.

diamond by Zety

That template is impossible to be missed. It’s all thanks to an outstanding header right at the top of the document. It contains your name and contact details, so one quick glance at it and your hiring manager knows well who the author of the creative message is. The entire cover letter fits in a one-column layout, making it easy to navigate. Perfect choice for someone who wants to be noticed. Ideal for someone who’s a professional. 

Wondering if you mentioned everything that might impress a hiring manager? Read our guide: What to Put in a Cover Letter

10. Professional Cover Letter

Another perfect example that you don’t need to add colors to have a creative cover letter template that will wow your recruiters. The lines of this one make a great, simple, minimalistic, and creative design that will not go unnoticed!

Professional Cover Letter

Find it here at Behance .

11. Minimo by Zety

Our focus in creating this template is in its name. Very minimalistic.

minimo by Zety

That minimalism makes Minimo perfect for experienced candidates and those applying for top management positions. It’s the ultimate choice, with no bars, icons, or colors. Just the neatly formatted text. Perhaps it’s not the best option for creative positions related to any sort of graphic design. But it’s a good one when you apply for an opening in a non-creative industry, and yet you want to wow the hiring manager with the creative content of your cover letter.

Looking for some extra cover letter advice? Read more: Cover Letter Tips

12. Resume / CV Design Template

This creative cover letter template comes with a space for your personal information, which is quite an interesting approach. And it still leaves a lot of room for your message! With some orange touches and a big name in a black rectangle at the top, it makes your application unmissable for any recruiter!

CV Design Template

13. Cascade by Zety 

Smart-looking, popular and modern. Cascade has it all.

cascade by Zety

The left-hand side of the page contains every information your hiring manager needs. There’s your name, your job title , and your contact details. It all fits into a dark bar, impossible to miss. The rest of the page is yours to fill with the message to the recruiter. Plenty of space makes it perfect for any candidate to write a creative cover letter. It’s also suitable for almost every industry, making it an ideal choice.

Pro tip: Some job-seekers wonder whether cover letters are necessary . Some recruiters might not read them, but it's a 50–50 chance, and it’s better not to try your luck, wouldn’t you agree?

Those were only a few creative templates that can work magic during your job application process. We’ve decided to select only those that don’t include a profile picture since you shouldn’t put a picture on your resume . They’re also applicant tracking system (ATS) friendly , meaning no keywords get ignored during scanning.

Plus, a great cover letter that matches your resume will give you an advantage over other candidates. You can write it in our cover letter builder here.  Here's what it may look like:

matching set of resume and cover letter

See more cover letter templates and start writing.

Key Takeaway

It seems like you know everything there is to know about writing a creative cover letter. All you need to do now is to feel inspired, call on your Muses, choose a template, and write! Good luck!

But first, just a quick recap on how to do it:

  • Select the right cover letter template. Use one from our builder, as it’s ready to go in no time.
  • Stick to the correct format for your creative cover letter. It’ll be easier to read.
  • Get noticed. Try catching your readers’ attention with the first sentences. If you succeed, they’ll keep on reading.
  • List your accomplishments. Your cover letter isn’t a place to be unnecessarily modest. Use relevant achievements, support them with numbers, and help yourself land that job.
  • Show that you’re the perfect candidate. Write about your experience and skills and reinforce your passion.
  • Mention the company you’re applying to. Making it personal from the top is equal to making them feel special.
  • Conclude with a call to action. Propose a specific date and place for a job interview, and promise to leave them with added value.

Now you have all the information you need to create a creative cover letter. Good luck!

Want to know more about writing a fantastic cover letter that will surely be noticed and remembered? Visit our comment section below, and let’s talk about it!

About Zety’s Editorial Process

This article has been reviewed by our editorial team to make sure it follows Zety's editorial guidelines . We’re committed to sharing our expertise and giving you trustworthy career advice tailored to your needs. High-quality content is what brings over 40 million readers to our site every year. But we don't stop there. Our team conducts original research to understand the job market better, and we pride ourselves on being quoted by top universities and prime media outlets from around the world.

Maciej Tomaszewicz, CPRW

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COMMENTS

  1. 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 ...

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    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.

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    Creative. As an online native who's obsessed (yes, obsessed) with the GoGourmet app, I was thrilled to see your listing for the Social Media Manager position at GoGourmet Studios. ... Here are 5 cover letter opening sentence examples to give you some ideas: How to write a cover letter opening line as a recent graduate. Dear Ms. Casey,

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    Contact Information Checklist for a Cover Letter; Cover Letter Opening Lines. I took some time to study the best cover letter examples, and one thing stood out to me: They all have compelling opening sentences. To help you overcome writer's block, I've put together some crisp cover letter opening lines so you can get your creative juices ...

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    Personalize Your Cover Letter. What to Write in the Rest of Your Letter. Cover Letter Sample. More Cover Letter Examples and Templates. Photo: Theresa Chiechi / The Balance. Examples of opening sentences to use when writing a cover letter, with tips for how to start and what to include in each part of a cover letter for a job.

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    A compelling cover letter is essential for making a strong first impression on potential employers. One of the most critical components of an effective cover letter is the opening line, which sets the tone for the entire document and grabs the attention of hiring managers. To help you craft the perfect introduction for your cover letter, we've compiled a list of 25 powerful opening lines ...

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    Here are five ways to write the opening lines of your next cover letter: 1. Job Title & Accomplishments. This is a very common and effective way to start out 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.

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    7. Use humor and creativity. Recruiters are human beings, too (shocking). In a pile of boring resumes and repetitive cover letters and motivation letters , they may find a good joke, juicy pun, or funny opening line a nice refreshing break. It can even be a reason to call you up for an interview.

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    Telling a funny story about yourself is a great opening for a creative cover letter. Use Humor: If it fits your personality, using humor to introduce yourself can help capture the attention of a hiring manager and make you stand out in a memorable way. Just remember to use humor that is appropriate for the workplace.

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    Find Jobs. Cover letters are your employer's first introduction to you as an individual. Your cover letter touches on your interest in the job, the company, and what skills you possess that make you ideal for the position. Your letter will tell the hiring manager a bit about yourself, as well, such as what passions outside of work drive you.

  12. 5 Opening Lines That Will Make Your Cover Letter Stand Out

    Here are five ideas to get a hiring manager's attention from the first line of your cover letter . 1. Show Excitement. When I interview candidates, the people that stand out the most are the people that smile genuinely, have an engaging attitude, and seem excited to interview. This holds the same truth for cover letters.

  13. 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.

  14. How To Write a Creative Cover Letter (With Template)

    Consider following these steps to write your cover letter: 1. Research the company. While writing a creative letter can distinguish you from other candidates, making sure your letter fits the corporate culture of the business you're applying to ensures that you remain a valid candidate. Some companies welcome cover letters with graphics, humor ...

  15. 5 Creative Cover Letter Openings (& examples) • Christy Noel

    How to write a compelling opening for your cover letter (with examples) Everyone knows you only have one shot at a first impression, and your cover letter is no different. So, your cover letter opening sentences need to be strong, compelling, creative and informative. Whew, that's a lot to pack into the opening sentences of a cover letter.

  16. The 46 Best Cover Letter Examples: What They Got Right

    Creative Cover Letter Examples 13. The Brutally Honest Cover Letter. Then, there are the occasions when your future boss might appreciate honesty — in its purest form. ... Then, add a compelling opening sentence that emphasizes your interest in the specific role. Helpful Cover Letter Introduction: "Dear [Hiring Manager's Name], ...

  17. 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.

  18. Cover Letter Opening Sentence

    Creative Cover Letter Opening Sentence Examples. 1. "I'm not your typical [Job Title]; with my passion for [specific role or skill], I believe I can bring a unique perspective to [Company Name].". 2. "If your team needs a [Job Title] with an eye for innovation, my track record proves I fit the bill.". 3.

  19. 30 Opening Sentences to start your Cover Letter

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  20. The 11 Best Cover Letter Examples of 2024

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  21. 12+ Top Creative Cover Letter Examples & Templates

    There are many ways to address your cover letter properly, and using Dear Ms./Mr. + addressee's name is one of the best cover letter salutations you can use. Paragraph #1: an opening line + a great job-fitting achievement. Paragraph #2: your key skills + why you're the perfect fit for the job.

  22. 5 opening lines for your cover letter that will set you apart

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