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The Global Insight

How do you write a catchy cover letter?

Author

Mia Phillips

Updated on March 28, 2026

To create an effective opening to your cover letter, follow these steps:

  1. Convey enthusiasm for the company.
  2. Highlight a mutual connection.
  3. Lead with an impressive accomplishment.
  4. Bring up something newsworthy.
  5. Express passion for what you do.
  6. Tell a creative story.
  7. Start with a belief statement.

How do you write a cover letter to an unknown person?

To address a cover letter without a name, use some variation of, “Dear Software Team Hiring Manager.” You can also use, “Dear Hiring Manager” if the addressee really is unknown. Remember that “To Whom It May Concern” is an old-fashioned salutation for cover letters.

How do you express availability in a cover letter?

Address the topic of availability If you have prior commitments (such as finishing up a previous job or attending school), state this in your cover letter: I can start this position as of January 1, at the end of my fourth semester. I can start within a few days’ notice, or more immediately should the need arise.

What do you write in a short cover letter?

Short Cover Letter Template Checklist

  1. Dear (hiring manager name)
  2. Paragraph 1: introduction and a big job-fitting achievement.
  3. Paragraph 2: key skills and why you fit the job.
  4. Paragraph 3: your passion + why you want in.
  5. Paragraph 4: your call to action.
  6. Formal closing.
  7. Write a P.S. to add value.

What should you not include in your cover letter?

What not to include in a cover letter

  • Spelling mistakes. Making silly mistakes such as typos on your cover letter gives a poor first impression.
  • Personal information. Employers are not interested in your personal life.
  • Salary expectations.
  • Too much information.
  • Negative comments.
  • Lies or exaggerations.
  • Empty claims.

How to write a good cover letter for a job?

(At least we hope that’s the case.) So, to help with your cover letter jitters, just imagine you’re writing an email to the hiring manager. Draft it up (you can even write it in your email client, if that helps), state your case as to why you’re the perfect person for the job, and then before you send it off, paste it into a Word document.

Why do I start my cover letter with to whom it may concern?

Beginning your correspondence “To Whom It May Concern,” on the other hand, may seem too impersonal and make the hiring manager believe you do not care enough to find out whom you should be addressing.

When to address someone in a cover letter?

When you don’t have a contact name. If you don’t know to whom you should address your cover letter, do some research to find the hiring manager’s name. Addressing a specific person tells the hiring manager that you’ve written the cover letter for this specific role. It also shows that you’ve taken the initiative to learn more about the company.

Do you get bored writing a cover letter?

Especially if you’re working off of a template, things can get dull fast. Remember, cover letters don’t have to follow a specific formula. In fact, it might help you stand out from the crowd if your letter has a little extra energy and personality. If you get bored writing them, a hiring manager’s bound to get bored reading them, right?