The introductory sentence of the cover letter in particular causes problems for many applicants. We’ll give you a few tips and tricks on how to create the perfect introduction to your application.

At this point in the cover letter, most HR managers have already fallen asleep or – if the applicant is lucky – would rather look at the CV first . In the best case scenario, the introduction to your application letter should not only attract the attention of the recruiter, but above all increase their interest in your application.

Because while a CV only contains facts, you can use examples to prove your strengths in the letter of application and also convince on an emotional level – but you have to read it first. We reveal how you can do this.

The introduction to the application: That’s why it’s important

The cover letter is always the first document in your application. Although many recruiters start with the CV, the cover letter is usually the first thing your potential employer sees of your application. And as everyone knows, first impressions matter.

For this reason, the introduction should not only be error-free , but also:

• encourage further reading,
• arouse the interest of the staff,
• convince the recruiter of your qualifications
• and explain your motivation.

It is understandably not that easy to fit all of this into just two or three sentences. For this reason, we will give you a few examples below of how to write a successful introductory sentence for your application .

You should avoid this in the introductory sentence of your application

Before we start giving you examples of how to write a compelling introduction to your cover letter, let’s first clarify what things you should avoid – and why.

Please no empty phrases

As the beginning of this article already suggests, you should never fall back on common phrases. Most HR managers have read phrases such as ” I hereby apply… ” and ” I read your job advertisement with great interest ” so often that they would like to go straight to the next application. Adopting ready-made texts or copying sentences from templates is not only inauthentic, but will immediately attract negative attention from most readers.

No repetitions

You should also avoid empty phrases in the introductory sentence of your cover letter because they don’t tell the reader anything new . It is self-evident that you want to apply for a job with your application. Likewise, that you are obviously interested in the job advertisement – otherwise you would not have responded to it. Much more important is: What is your motivation for this application and what qualifies you for this job?

Avoid the subjunctive

Had, would, could – the subjunctive has no place in a cover letter and this also applies to the introduction. It gives the impression that you are not sure yourself whether you are really suitable for the position.

While the first sentence seems polite, the second variant exudes much more self-confidence . You want to convince the HR manager in the introduction to your application letter – you should also express this verbally.

No exaggerations

While confidence is important in the introduction to your application, be careful not to brag. With an exaggerated self-confidence one attracts attention, but in the rarest of cases positively.

Tips for a good introduction to your cover letter

Now that you know what to avoid, we have some tips for you on how to start your cover letter in a convincing manner. However, a cover letter is always individual and should not only be tailored to you, but also to the company you are applying to.

For this reason, you should carefully consider in advance which appearance suits the desired position. In some sectors, such as banking, a serious appearance is essential. In other areas, such as an advertising agency, creativity is welcome. You should adapt your language and thus the introduction of your application accordingly.

The right speech

On the other hand, taking the time to find out the name of your contact will make a better impression. You can often find the name in the job advertisement or on the company website. Of course, you also have the option of inquiring about a contact person by phone – this way you can also briefly introduce yourself in person. If, despite all your efforts, you cannot find out a name, it is of course perfectly fine to use the general form of address in your application.

Connect to personal conversations

If you have already contacted your potential employer before writing your application, it is a good idea to mention this in the introduction to your application letter. This applies, for example, if you presented yourself at a job fair or perhaps had a telephone interview to inquire about the position.

If you mention the meeting or the phone call, the recruiter will probably remember you, which automatically gives your cover letter more personality . It also confirms your interest if you introduce yourself in writing after the interview.

Start with your qualification

If you want to tailor your cover letter to the position in question, you should first analyze the job advertisement. Which competences, soft skills and experiences are desired or required? In your cover letter, you should provide examples showing why you meet these requirements.

If you want to stand out from the crowd, you start the introductory sentence of your application with a meaningful argument .

Technical expertise

If you are an expert in your subject, you can also demonstrate this directly in the introduction to your application letter. Another possibility is to address current political or social events that are directly related to the industry. However, this variant is only recommended if you are really familiar with the field. If you make an uninformed statement, this is probably a direct exclusion criterion in case of doubt.

Illustrate your motivation

You also have the option of beginning the introductory sentence of your application with your motivation for the position. Why are you applying for this particular job? Is there an aspect that is particularly important to you? A general line like ” I read your job ad with great interest ” says nothing about what really interests you about the job.

You could start the introduction to your cover letter with your beliefs .

You could also use a little anecdote to describe a moment that shaped your career choice. This type of introduction gives your application a very personal touch and, at best, arouses the emotions and interest of the recruiter.

Start with a question

You can also start your cover letter with a question. A simple tactic that can already attract attention, because now the reader also wants to know the answer.

This example shows how you can make the introduction to your application interesting and informative with just a few words. It proves that you have studied the job advertisement and know what skills are required. At the same time, it reveals where you are in your life.

You can apply all of these tips, whether you are applying for a full-time job, an apprenticeship or an internship. However, unsolicited applications are a special case.

General wording tips

In addition to the content of the introduction, the language design is also important. Here are some things to keep in mind when drafting.

• Avoid snake sentences: Short, concise sentences are easier to understand and increase the chance that the introduction to your application will be read.
• Active formulation: Make sure that you formulate your sentences actively, as this will appear more self-confident.
• Use positive adjectives: You can easily evoke positive emotions in your reader with certain words. Impressive, ideal, appealing, enthusiastic – words like these evoke positive associations.

As you can see, there are several ways to start initiating your application. Above all, you should make sure to remain authentic . So you shouldn’t pretend years of interest in a company just to make an impression. Or boast about skills that you don’t even have – because lies are usually discovered.

Don’t just refer to your positive qualities, but also highlight what stood out to you about your potential employer – this way you show that you have engaged with the company. It’s important to be aware of who the recipient of your application is – in a serious industry, a humorous introduction to your cover letter may not be the best solution.

When formulating the introduction to your application, however, you should not forget one thing: the most creative start is useless if there are mistakes. Therefore, ask a friend or family member to proofread your cover letter.

Finding a Job, Communication and Networking, CV and Cover Letter, JOB HUNTING, Job Interview Tips

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