42.

Connect in Your Cover Letter

Your cover letter should consist of three main paragraphs. The first one is what I call “the connection.” This is where you need to get the reader's attention. Remember, they're busy. The first thing they want to know is why you're writing to them. What job are you interested in? Are you answering a posting? Where did you find the posting? Were you referred by a mutual contact? If so, mention that contact's name in the first sentence or, if it's an e-mailed cover letter, in the subject line. For example, go with something like, “Dan Jones suggested I contact you.”