Crafting a Killer Cover Letter: The Power of the First Sentence
When it comes to writing a cover letter, the cover letter first sentence can make or break the reader’s interest. It’s the first impression you make on the hiring manager, and it sets the tone for the rest of the letter. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of the cover letter first sentence and provide tips on how to craft a killer one.
The Importance of the Cover Letter First Sentence
The cover letter first sentence is crucial because it’s the first thing the hiring manager reads. It should grab their attention, make them want to read more, and set the tone for the rest of the letter. A well-crafted cover letter first sentence can make you stand out from the competition, while a poorly written one can lead to your letter being rejected.
According to a study, the cover letter first sentence is read by 83% of hiring managers, and it influences their decision to read the rest of the letter. This highlights the importance of getting it right.
Tips for Writing a Killer Cover Letter First Sentence
So, how do you write a killer cover letter first sentence? Here are some tips:
- Start with a strong opening: Use a powerful opening that grabs the reader’s attention. This could be a surprising statistic, a thought-provoking question, or a bold statement.
- Use keywords: Incorporate relevant keywords from the job posting into your cover letter first sentence. This will help your letter pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) and catch the eye of the hiring manager.
- Be concise: Keep your cover letter first sentence short and to the point. Aim for 15-20 words or less.
- Use action verbs: Use action verbs like “I’m excited to apply,” “I’m confident that,” or “I’m eager to contribute” to start your cover letter first sentence.
Examples of Effective Cover Letter First Sentences
Here are some examples of effective cover letter first sentences:
| Example | Why it works |
|---|---|
| “I’m excited to apply for the Marketing Manager position at XYZ Corporation, where I can leverage my 5+ years of experience to drive business growth.” | This example starts with a strong opening, uses keywords, and is concise. |
| “As a highly motivated and results-driven professional, I’m confident that I can make a significant impact as a Sales Representative at ABC Inc.” | This example uses action verbs, is concise, and sets the tone for the rest of the letter. |
The Role of Cover Letter First Sentence in SEO
When it comes to search engine optimization (SEO), the cover letter first sentence plays a crucial role. By incorporating relevant keywords, you can improve the visibility of your letter in search engine results pages (SERPs).
According to Sample Letter R, a well-crafted cover letter first sentence can increase the chances of your letter being read by the hiring manager.
For more information on SEO and cover letters, check out Moz, a leading authority on search engine optimization.
Best Practices for Writing a Cover Letter First Sentence
Here are some best practices to keep in mind when writing a cover letter first sentence:
- Tailor it to the job: Customize your cover letter first sentence to the job posting and company.
- Use a professional tone: Keep your cover letter first sentence professional and avoid using slang or jargon.
- Proofread: Carefully proofread your cover letter first sentence to ensure it’s error-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ideal length of a cover letter first sentence?
The ideal length of a cover letter first sentence is 15-20 words or less.
How do I incorporate keywords into my cover letter first sentence?
To incorporate keywords, read the job posting carefully and identify relevant terms. Then, incorporate them naturally into your cover letter first sentence.
Can I use a cover letter first sentence template?
While templates can be helpful, it’s best to customize your cover letter first sentence to the job posting and company.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cover letter first sentence is a crucial element of a successful cover letter. By crafting a strong, concise, and keyword-rich cover letter first sentence, you can grab the attention of the hiring manager and increase your chances of getting an interview.
Remember to tailor your cover letter first sentence to the job posting and company, use a professional tone, and proofread carefully.
By following these tips and best practices, you can create a killer cover letter first sentence that sets you apart from the competition.
