How many recruiting directors do you think actually read your cover letter?  If your cover letter is written like most job seekers’, then no one is reading it!

Most cover letters are long and boring; they are basically a prose version of your resume.  If a recruiting director is only spending fifteen seconds looking at your resume, do you think she is going to get excited about reading your cover letter novelette? No way. 

The key to creating a captivating cover letter is to make it short, sweet, and catchy.  Cover letters should be targeted to the company and addressed to the recruiting director by name.  You should tell your unique story and highlight a qualification that sets you apart from the other candidates.  First, you need to grab the recruiting director’s attention with a compelling first sentence. 

Here are a few categories that can inspire the story behind your cover letter with examples of captivating first sentences:  

1. Tell about a great opportunity you had.

It’s not every day that an account assistant gets to appear on the Ellen DeGeneres Show.

2. Share how you became interested in the field.

Lego building blocks actually sparked my interest in architecture.

3. Emphasize why you like the particular job or company.

I began admiring your company at age five. Even before I could comprehend your articles, I would “read” Better Homes & Gardens magazine with my mom on our front porch swing.

4. Highlight special skills or experience you have related to the field.

Serving on the board of the Chicago 2016 Olympic Committee was golden.

5. Explain a possible “red flag” on your resume.

Working at Allstate gave me the “insurance” I needed while I was developing my writing portfolio.

6. State your personal connection or referral name.

I had the pleasure of meeting with Muriel Landry who reinforced my desire to work at your state-of-the-art company.

After catching the recruiting director’s eye with your first line, keep her hooked with compelling sentences.  Think of your cover letter as a teaser advertisement for your resume.  If your cover letter is impressive, then you will receive greater consideration of your resume and your candidacy.  It’s not easy to stand out in the job search, but if your cover letter showcases your solid communication skills and unique qualifications, then you will move to the front of the crowd.

Here’s an example of a cover letter that stands out:

Dear Mr. Pelham,

It’s not every day that an intern orchestrates a $25,000 reception in Singapore.

While interning at the Mobile Airport Authority, I set my alarm for 1:00 in the morning to conduct business calls and team meetings with people across the world.  I learned a new business culture, and I had to teach this etiquette to the Alabama team of sixteen which included the Mobile mayor and several prominent executive directors.

Through this amazing experience, I gained a strong business and marketing acumen while honing my interpersonal, leadership, and communication skills.  I would love to parlay this experience at Samantha Gail Marketing. 

From the moment I stepped into your office, I was energized by the passionate, positive atmosphere.  I know that my marketing experience, enthusiasm, and initiative would be a great complement to your team.

I look forward to the opportunity to speak with you about the Marketing Associate position.

Sincerely,

Carolyn Little
carolyn@jobseeker.com
555.666.7777

This cover letter is compelling and interesting, and it’s only eight sentences!  Tell your unique story, highlight your distinct qualifications, and let a little personality shine through, and your cover letter will captivate.

If you want more information on writing cover letters, you may also find this article helpful.