Sure, you've read a lot of articles on how to achieve the perfect cover letter. However, it's one thing to know what you should be doing, and it's another to actually execute it.
The introduction of a cover letter can actually be the toughest part, because it's your chance to grab the reader's attention and set the tone for the rest of the letter. I always believe that the best way to lead is by example, so I've crafted sample cover letter introductions for you below. Note: I'm applying as a senior in college with a concentration in journalism for an editorial assistant position at POPSUGAR. These examples are fictional.
"I am currently a senior at Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism seeking the position of an editorial assistant with POPSUGAR. I am looking for a creative work environment, one where I can indulge in my passion for celebrity news and utilize my new media background."
"Before I say anything, I'd like to thank POPSUGAR for creating such insanely addictive and comprehensive content that has become my go-to daily reading material — my bookmarks folder is ever grateful for the breathing space."
"I'll confess. I'm a celebrity news junkie. I live and breathe everything to do with the entertainment world. From staying up to watch Kate Middleton's wedding to tweeting up-to-the-minute updates of Miley Cyrus's latest adventures to the 15,000 followers of my pop culture Twitter account — my passion for the celebrity world makes me the right fit for the editorial assistant position."
"Two years of serving as the editor in chief of the biggest fashion magazine on campus has made me even more passionate about covering and being the first to spot the latest trends."
"There aren't any media companies like POPSUGAR — I truly admire the way POPSUGAR has its finger on the pulse of the latest and greatest happenings yet always manages to cover them in a tasteful way."
"As someone who obsesses about the celebrity world, loves the rush of being the first to break news, and uses the virality of social media, I will make a great addition to the POPSUGAR team in San Francisco."
"All my life, there has only been one great love for me. And no, it's not Channing Tatum (although he definitely comes close!). Nothing and no one can ever measure up to my love of writing, clearly evidenced in my overflowing pile of clips that includes everything from an interview with the founder of Bobbi Brown to local restaurant reviews in Time Out Chicago."
"In my previous internship at [insert media company], covering the celebrity world was one of the most exciting opportunities I'd ever had."
Now that you have the chance to look at actual examples, you can take elements from each one to create your own introduction. Remember to always craft a cover letter that's specific to the job position and company you're applying to, and try not to make these common mistakes.