choose the best cover letter opening for an unsolicited job

Writing an Effective Unsolicited Cover Letter

An unsolicited cover letter is one the hiring manager didn’t explicitly ask for through a verbal or written request. While many people send cover letters in response to job postings or referrals, unsolicited cover letters can help you show initiative and land jobs that aren’t advertised. Learning to write one of these letters in a way that positions you as an attractive candidate is the key to success.

What are the benefits and drawbacks of an unsolicited cover letter?

If you’re the kind of candidate who has only ever responded to job postings, the idea of writing an unsolicited cover letter may be intimidating. Learning about the pros and cons of unsolicited cover letters can help you determine whether this bold approach is right for you.

Standing out from other applicants

Many people are hesitant to send unsolicited cover letters because they worry about coming across as overly eager or self-confident. What most cover letter articles won’t tell you, though, is that an unsolicited cover letter can help you stand out in a good way.

This move may get you noticed more easily because you won’t be competing with hundreds of other applicants. Your cover letter will arrive unexpectedly, giving the hiring manager time to focus on reviewing your qualifications.

It demonstrates initiative and motivation

Sending an unsolicited application cover letter shows that you’re a proactive candidate who knows how to take the initiative. Hiring managers will likely see you as a self-starter, a trait often associated with high-performing employees. 

Sending an unsolicited cover letter also showcases your excitement and motivation regarding the position and company. If the prospect of working at a particular business prompted you to send an unsolicited cover letter, it’s safe to assume you have an authentic desire to work there.

Sending an unsolicited application cover letter shows that you’re a proactive candidate who knows how to take the initiative. Hiring managers will likely see you as a self-starter.

Uncovering hidden jobs

It may surprise you to learn that many companies don’t advertise all of their vacant roles. Sometimes, it's because they want a narrower pool of candidates with specific experience or skills. Other times, the HR manager or business owner just doesn’t have the time to sift through hundreds of applications.

In these cases, an unsolicited cover letter can help open doors for you. If the company has an unadvertised open position, you may be first in line for consideration.

When competition for top talent is fierce, hiring personnel may not be accustomed to having great candidates come to them. The hiring manager may appreciate you making their talent acquisition journey easier. 

However, it takes a lot of effort and time

It’s important to note that sending a cold application never guarantees that you’ll land the job or even receive an interview. There may be times when the company doesn’t have any open positions, prefers to hire from within, or already has candidates in mind for the job. Consequently, unsolicited cover letters can be hit and miss.

Moreover, these letters take considerable time and effort to write. While you may be rewarded with a great position, be prepared to do a lot of work on the front end to get it.

How to write an effective unsolicited solicited cover letter

While unsolicited cover letters have some elements in common with general cover letters, there are some additional steps you’ll need to take. Here are a few key pointers and best practices to keep in mind.

Research the company and role when possible

It’s important to do your research when writing any cover letter, but it’s even more critical when your application is unsolicited.

The hiring manager will likely wonder what prompted you to send an application without seeing a vacant position. You need to preemptively explain to them what it is about the company or job that interested you.

Customize your letter

Just because you’re sending an unsolicited application doesn’t mean it should be generic. Hiring managers will appreciate a customized letter, as it makes your intentions for sending it clear.

A specially tailored cover letter is also more compelling, as it allows you to align your experience and skill set with the company’s needs and showcases the effort you’ve put in, which is key for a cold application.

Highlight relevant skills and experience

Anytime you send an unsolicited cover letter, you must make it a point to highlight how you could be of value as an employee of the company.

This is where your research will come in handy. Use what you know about the organization’s culture, values, mission, and goals, as well as the position you want, to introduce relevant skills and anecdotes that relate to these aspects.

Use appropriate language and tone

Because you won’t have any familiarity with the company or hiring manager, it’s even more important to maintain a professional tone throughout your letter.

Resist the urge to inject humor, as you never know how it might come across to the hiring manager. As many cover letter and resume articles advise, you should also avoid using slang or other types of informal language.

Use a cover letter template

Using cover letter templates can give you a better idea of what sections to include and help ensure that your letter is formatted correctly. Unsolicited cover letter examples will also help you nail the right tone, as you’ll get a chance to see how you can incorporate formal and professional language into your letter.

Expert Tip:

Keep your unsolicited cover letter to one page or less in length. Remember, you’re sending your letter without anyone having requested one. Writing a concise letter shows that you respect the hiring manager’s time and don’t want to waste it.

Key points when sending 

It’s especially important to adhere to best practices when sending an unsolicited cover letter. Keep the following key points in mind as you compose your letter.

Attach your resume

Make sure the hiring manager has everything they need to evaluate you as a candidate. Don’t forget to include your resume , as it’s a crucial document that summarizes your experience.

If you need help crafting a good resume, consider using resume templates . These helpful frameworks will show you exactly what to include and how to format it.

Address the hiring manager properly

Avoid using generic greetings like “To whom it may concern” or “Dear sir/madam” as your salutation. Instead, show the hiring manager you’ve researched the company and put effort into your application by addressing them by name.

If you don’t know their name, try looking them up on LinkedIn, or just call the company and ask directly. Once you have a name, stick to proper titles like “Mr.” or “Ms.” to maintain a sense of formality.

Acknowledge it’s an unsolicited letter and application

There’s no need to feel awkward about sending a blind cover letter, especially if you truly feel you can provide value to the company.

That said, you should acknowledge that your letter is unsolicited and explain why you’re sending it to avoid any misunderstanding. Doing so sets a tone of honesty and transparency and establishes trust between you and the hiring manager.

Thank the contact person or hiring manager

Make sure to express sincere gratitude to the person reading your application.

Since your letter is unsolicited, you can’t be sure it will arrive at a good time for the hiring manager. Thanking them for reading your materials acknowledges that they’re going out of their way to consider you as a candidate and will make them feel appreciated.

An unsolicited cover letter can be a bold move toward your dream job

Sending an unsolicited cover letter is a bold move that will make you stand out as an applicant. However, many hiring managers will appreciate you taking the initiative to contact them and articulate how your skills can be of value to their company.

When writing your letter, research the company thoroughly, address the hiring manager by name, and maintain the appropriate tone throughout. Acknowledging that your letter is unsolicited can also help you establish transparency and trust. 

If you want to craft the perfect application, use cover letter and resume examples to guide your content and formatting. These tools can go a long way toward helping you craft an application package that will get you noticed so you can land the perfect position.

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• Cover Letter Examples

Cold Call / Unsolicited Cover Letter Sample

Our customers have been hired by:

A cold call cover letter (also known as an unsolicited cover letter) is a document you send with your resume for a position that isn’t officially open. Just like a cover letter for a resume, a cold cover letter highlights your skill set and job experience to convince the recruiter that you’re the person for the job.

We’ll show you exactly how an unsolicited cover letter works and how to write one that will get anyone to warm up to you in no time. 

Want to write your cover letter fast?  Use our cover letter builder. Choose from  20+ professional cover letter templates  that match your resume. See actionable examples and get expert tips along the way.

Create your cover letter now

Sample cover letter for a resume— See more cover letter examples and create your cover letter here .

Check out these other guides we have about specific types cover letters:

• What is a Cover Letter for a Resume?
• Cover Letter vs Resume: Difference
• Cover Letter vs CV: Difference
• Cover Letter for Internship
• Email Cover Letter
• How to Write a Pain Letter
• What is a Motivation Letter
• What is a Letter of Intent
• Letter of Intent vs Cover Letter: Differences
• Cover Letter Examples for Any Job

Cold Cover Letter Sample

Martha Vineyard

Office Assistant

23 Cactus Rd

Glendale, AZ 85381

608 754 4829

[email protected]

linkedin.com/in/marthazvineyard

Molly Butters

1356 Sweetwater Ave.

Tucson, AZ 85345

May 17, 2019

Dear Ms. Butters,

As a longtime admirer of Inky’s company culture and products, I’ve dreamed of working there as an office assistant for years. With my lengthy experience as an office assistant with Paperclips Inc., I know I can use my skill set and knowledge to become a valuable member of the Inky team.

In my current position with Paperclips Inc., I’ve had many responsibilities and achievements that would serve me well in a role at Inky. Paperclips Inc has a similar business structure and product lineup to those at Inky, so I believe I would make a smooth and quick transition. On top of that, my invoice management and directory maintenance were leading performance boosters for the company, and I’m sure that I could achieve similar results at Inky, such as:

• I saved $2500 a year in office supplies after negotiating a new deal with the current supplier.
• I increased sales by 9% after implementing an automatic follow-up approach using a CRM program.

Obtaining an office assistant position at Inky would be my dream come true. I’ve long been a personal user of several of your products. In fact, Inky’s unique company culture is what prompted me to seek more challenging work. Though I love being in charge of a company’s multifaceted office support, there is no other office that would make me as happy to work for. 

I would eagerly welcome the opportunity to discuss your current administrative objectives and show you how my success at Paperclips Inc. can translate into growth for Inky Ltd.

Why You Should Send a Cold Cover Letter

Cold cover letters (also known as an unsolicited cover letter or blind cover letter) do get a bit of a bad rap for being spam. That’s not necessarily true though. In reality, around 80% of hires are from jobs that are never formally posted! 

If you think about how the 20% of posted jobs have an average of 20 candidates per position, you can see that cold cover letters can be a great opportunity to outsmart the competition. But you need to know how to do it right—otherwise you are just spamming people. And spamming isn’t cool.

So let’s take a closer look at what you need to do to make sure your cold cover letter is a winner.

When making a resume in our builder, drag & drop bullet points, skills, and auto-fill the boring stuff. Spell check? Check . Choose a resume template here .

When you’re done, Zety’s resume builder will score your resume and our resume checker will tell you exactly how to make it better.

How to Write a Cold Cover Letter

Your goal, as with any cover letter, is to reinforce your resume and demonstrate to hiring managers that you’re the employee that they’re looking for.

This might be a little more difficult since you don’t have skills and responsibilities mentioned in the job ad to lean on, but that does let you zero in on your own skills and accomplishments in a more focused way.

Let’s go over all the parts of a cover letter you need to include and how to make each section fantastic.

Begin with a professional header

The header in a blind cover letter will be a little more vague than usual, since there’s no open position being offered. That said, do all you can to find specific information on who to address your letter to .

Start your cold contact cover letter with your personal details, followed by the employer’s details and the date. Next, include a professional salutation . If you don’t know the name of the hiring manager, do some searching on the company website or simply call. It shows that you took the time and effort to learn more about the company you’re applying to.

Be careful if you’re thinking about just sending a “To Whom It May Concern” letter . They may sometimes do more harm than good, especially when there’s no job on offer.

Read more: How to Write a Proper Cover Letter Heading

Write an engaging hook

Introduce yourself and explain why you’re writing to the company. Mention what roles you feel you’d thrive in or how your skills and abilities could be useful in certain company sectors or areas. The first paragraph is obviously what the hiring manager reads first so remember to start with an energetic and purposeful introduction to entice the reader to go on.

Don’t just throw in generic and vague statements like “I’d love to work in your company, any position is fine!” just because this is a cold cover letter. Not only does it show that you don’t know the company, it also comes across as desperate. Be specific.

Read more: How to Start a Cover Letter

Highlight your experience and skills

Use this paragraph to deep dive into your professional job experience and skills to show the employer that you’re exactly what they need. Detail one or two responsibilities or achievements that underline your expertise.

Do some research into job positions you’re interested in that the company had posted before to get a feel for what kind of experience and skills they might be looking for. If that’s not enough, do the same kind of research around the company’s competitors. Companies in the same sector usually have some overlap in terms of skills and know-how they’re looking for. 

The fact that no specific job opening is available doesn’t mean that you can have at it and write a memoir . Keep it concise, use quantifiable achievements, and make it relevant to the skills and experience the company will find valuable.

Have a connection in the company? Definitely mention it.

Read more: What Should Be in a Cover Letter?

Conclude with a tangible call to action

Highlight what you and the company have in common. Do some Googling on the company’s culture and values and demonstrate how they mirror your own, making you a great fit for the organization.

End your unsolicited covering letter by asking for a call or meeting to follow up on your cold cover letter and resume. Also include a line thanking the recruiter for their time.

Read more: How to Sign Off a Cover Letter

Finish with a closing

The closing of your cold call cover letter is just as important as the salutation, so make sure it’s something professional. Feel free to add an electronic signature if you have one for a more personalized feel.

You might want to include a cover letter enclosure , if you’re attaching any additional documents to your cold job application. Also, make sure the title of your cover letter is professional and matches that of your resume.

Here are a few bonus tips that will have your cold cover letter warming recruiter hearts in no time:

• Don’t just rehash your resume. Recruiters hate that and will toss your cold cover letter the moment they realize you’re just repeating yourself. Instead, use this space to add some extra goodies that the hiring manager didn’t learn from your resume.
• Research the company. Generic cover letters rarely do well, especially when you’re cold calling so find some nice tidbits of information that will show the recruiter that you’re not just doing a mass upload of your cold cover letters and resumes all over the place.
• Use bullet points and numbers where you can. They relay a lot more information better than long, boring sentences. Remember, your cold cover letter doesn’t need to look like a page out of Webster’s dictionary.
• Proofread . It’s such a simple thing to do that could save you a lot of embarrassment. Don’t rely only on spellchecker though since it doesn't thoroughly check grammar or semantics. Reading out loud is a good strategy to catch mistakes.

As you can see, writing the different parts of a cold cover letter are very similar to writing parts of a cover letter .

How to Format a Cold Cover Letter

Given their similarities, the format of a cold cover letter is just the same as the format of a traditional cover letter. Here are some tips on formatting a cold cover letter:

• Use a nice, modern cover letter font in 12 pt size.
• Keep a 1” margin on all sides of the page.
• Use single or 1.15 line spacing.

Remember, the goal isn’t to turn the page into an ocean and have it overflowing with words. You want to have the hiring manager read to the end with interest and then want to call you for an interview. White space, concise paragraphs, and bullet points will help you do just that.

Read more: Cover Letter Spacing and Margins

There you go!

Don’t be too frustrated if you don’t hear back to a lot of your cold cover letters—it’s always a shot in the dark. That said, if you do hear back, it might turn out that you just hit a bullseye.

Thanks for reading! Do you use cold cover letters? Do you have a cold calling cover letter success story you’d like to share? Let us know in the comments!

About Zety’s Editorial Process

This article has been reviewed by our editorial team to make sure it follows Zety's editorial guidelines . We’re committed to sharing our expertise and giving you trustworthy career advice tailored to your needs. High-quality content is what brings over 40 million readers to our site every year. But we don't stop there. Our team conducts original research to understand the job market better, and we pride ourselves on being quoted by top universities and prime media outlets from around the world.

• https://www.apa.org/gradpsych/2015/11/cover-letter
• https://doi.org/10.2190%2FBK23-74U3-333Q-0T86

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How to Write a Cover Letter for Unsolicited Job Application: A Comprehensive Guide

Writing a cover letter for an unsolicited job application can be a daunting task. without a specific job posting to refer to, you may struggle to know what information to include and how to craft your letter to catch the employer’s attention. but fear not, as we have put together a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this process and create a compelling cover letter..

1. Research the company

Before you start writing your cover letter, it’s essential to research the company you’re applying to. Familiarize yourself with their values, mission, and industry. This will allow you to tailor your letter to their specific needs and demonstrate your genuine interest in working with them.

2. Start with a strong opening

Your opening paragraph needs to grab the employer’s attention and make them want to keep reading. Mention how you came across the company and express your genuine excitement about the possibility of working with them. Remember to include any mutual connections or previous positive experiences with the company, if applicable.

3. Highlight your skills and experience

Use the body of your cover letter to emphasize your skills, experience, and qualifications. Tailor this section to match the company’s needs, focusing on how your unique abilities can contribute to their success. Be specific and provide examples that demonstrate your accomplishments and how you can bring value to their team.

4. Address potential concerns

If you’re submitting an unsolicited application, the employer may have concerns about why you chose to reach out to them directly. Use this section of your cover letter to address any potential concerns head-on. Explain why you believe your skills align with their needs and how your proactive approach can benefit their organization.

5. Show enthusiasm and confidence

Throughout your cover letter, maintain a positive and enthusiastic tone. Express your genuine interest in the company and convey your confidence in your abilities to excel in the role. Employers are more likely to consider candidates who demonstrate passion and a strong belief in their own potential.

6. Close with a strong conclusion

In your closing paragraph, reiterate your excitement about the opportunity, thank the employer for considering your application, and express your willingness to discuss further. Include your contact information and indicate your availability for an interview. Finish with a professional sign-off and your full name.

7. Edit and proofread

Before submitting your cover letter, thoroughly edit and proofread it to ensure it’s free from any grammatical or spelling errors. Read it aloud or ask someone else to review it for you. A well-written and error-free cover letter shows attention to detail and professionalism.

8. Follow up

After submitting your unsolicited application, consider following up with the employer to express your continued interest in the position. This demonstrates your proactive nature and dedication. However, be mindful of their response or lack thereof, as it may indicate whether the company is open to considering unsolicited applications or not.

Writing a cover letter for an unsolicited job application requires careful research, tailoring, and a compelling tone. By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll increase your chances of grabbing the employer’s attention and standing out in a sea of applicants. Good luck!

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• Find a company

Crafting a compelling cover letter for hidden job opportunities

Jan 07, 2020

Writer, editor and digital content specialist

The company is perfect. The team members are experienced and dynamic. You agree with the company mission and can see yourself sitting behind a desk in the office, putting your expertise to terrific use and helping the business to succeed. But there’s no job for you there. At least, not yet.

Unfortunately, this is often the reality of job hunting. But if you feel strongly drawn towards a particular company, and you believe that you could be a great employee there, don’t give up and move on. You can, and should get in touch to express your passion, your experience, and how you believe you can contribute. Submit a spontaneous application. While it’s unlikely to result in a job straight away, a spontaneous application is a strong way to make yourself known, either for positions that may be available but not advertised, or for any future openings.

When you’re sending a spontaneous application, how you present yourself is more important than ever. And that means customizing your cover letter and resume for the occasion. But before we get to that…

Why bother with a spontaneous application?

The odds that a perfect role for you is just an email away are slim but a spontaneous application can be well worth your while.

The number of job vacancies never publicly advertised makes up such a large percentage of openings that there is even a name for this sector: the hidden job market . Certain companies, and even entire industries, are more likely to lean on private networks or referrals to fill available roles quickly, rather than going through a public job posting process. So there’s a high likelihood that the perfect role for you is out there, but not advertised.

More significantly, a spontaneous application is useful for making a positive introduction to a hiring manager for potential roles in the future. It gets your foot in the door, so to speak. It may also be an opportunity for you to sell yourself, your experience, and your knowledge of the company and its vision by suggesting to an employer that they need a role they simply haven’t yet thought of.

When should you send one?

If you’re applying for a position that is unlikely to exist yet, consider sending a spontaneous application in the discovery phase of a job search . This is when you’re interested in a new position but not actively in need of one. This way, you’re not placing too much faith in the application, and have plenty of time to create a long-lead introduction to the company .

It can also be helpful to pay attention to tech and business news , noting startup companies that have recently completed fundraising rounds. This is likely to mean that they will be hiring very soon.

How to write an accompanying cover letter

When you’re writing a cover letter for a spontaneous application, you won’t have a specific job description to guide you. This can be frustrating because it’s more difficult to clearly explain how your experience and skills fit a particular set of requirements without a framework. However, it can also be liberating, allowing you to be broader in your personal pitch.

The main idea, as with any cover letter, is to sell your expertise, your knowledge of the company and your belief that you have what it takes to help their business succeed. While the body of your email should be crisp and digestible, your cover letter is where you can make the most compelling case for your candidacy.

Even though there is no bullet list of job duties that you can reference, you can infer from the company’s products and services what your work there might involve. After, you can elaborate on how you would excel by using specific examples from your past experience as a reference.

Here are a few tips specific to spontaneous cover letters:

Be as concise as possible while still clearly detailing your experience and ambitions. Because your application is spontaneous, a manager’s attention span when reviewing it will probably be even shorter than normal.

Be specific in describing how you could help the company, and what kind of position you would like. The narrower your goal, the more convincing it will be that you are a focused applicant, and not someone fishing for any available job.

Include examples of your past work , if relevant to your industry. Do this either in the form of a link to a professional portfolio website or as a separate attachment that you can reference in your email.

Email a specific person by searching through Welcome to the Jungle, or other recruitment websites and tools such as LinkedIn. This will make sure that your message reaches the right person and is (hopefully) read.

Ask for a recommendation , if you happen to have anyone in your social or professional networks who works, has worked, or knows anyone at the company to which you’re applying. Having a personal introduction can make all the difference, especially if said person is able to vouch for your abilities and your work ethic.

The waiting game

Next comes the hard part: being patient . It’s best not to expect any news, and certainly not straight away. You may not hear back after sending a spontaneous application at all. The company might simply not respond to unsolicited applications. Even if you made a good impression, it may be months before a role is open that fits your experience. In such cases, you can follow up with a friendly email.

Give it at least two weeks before following up on your first email, and then leave any subsequent unsolicited contact to once every few months . Any more than that, and you risk seeming less like an interested and passionate candidate, and more like a nuisance.

Despite the uncertainty, a spontaneous application is still an exercise well worth doing. Jobs, as with life, are uncertain—a unique combination of the right place, the right time, and more than a little bit of luck. Your application may not lead anywhere productive. But whereas the downside is nonexistent, the upside holds huge untold potential. Who knows? It might just end up with you landing your dream job.

Photo: Welcome to the Jungle

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How to Write an Unsolicited Cover Letter

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Also called a letter of inquiry, an unsolicited cover letter with attached resume may prove effective in your job search because the majority of jobs are never advertised in newspapers nor on Internet job boards or professional networking and social media Web sites. The more unsolicited cover letters and resumes you send, the better your chances are for possibly landing your ideal job that you would have never known existed.

Brief Introduction

Explain the purpose of your letter in the first paragraph. Tell the reader why you're writing and include a brief statement about your skills, background and interest in the company. Because this is an unsolicited cover letter, you needn't reference where you saw a job advertisement. However, it's wise to include a sentence or two about why you chose to write to that particular company.

I am writing to inquire about positions with your company aftering reading "Fortune" magazine's 100 Best Companies for Veterans. I was very impressed with your company's profile as a large defense contractor. As a retiring U.S. Air Force veteran with 20 years of service, I have extensive training in leadership and missile operations. I understand you routinely seek candidates with my skill set. I would like to be considered for employment in any of your U.S. locations, specifically in your business unit that handles missile testing.

Identify Skills

Write a second paragraph that provides more details about your credentials and skills, but doesn't pigeonhole you into a certain field, position or rank. Give the reader an opportunity to judge where your qualifications best fit. Use one to two sentences to highlight your professional expertise, giving a broad picture of your capabilities.

For the past five years, I've been in charge of missile testing and am accountable for 15 employees in my unit. My responsibilities include managing workforce issues, such as performance evaluations, providing employee guidance and day-to-day staff assignments.

Summarize Accomplishments

Construct your third paragraph as a synopsis of your achievements. Stick to accomplishments above and beyond your typical job duties. For instance, if your missile testing unit had 100 percent pass rate with zero failures post-release, state that in your third paragraph. Toot your horn in the third paragraph as you close the sale on your work skills and convince the reader that you're suitable for a job that's not even posted. End your third paragraph with a sentence restating your reason for writing.

My skills and qualifications would make me an asset to your company. I would very much like to join your team now or in the near future.

Encourage Contact

Close your letter with your contact information. If you're available at any time for an interview or if you're traveling to the city where the company is located, indicate that in your final paragraph. If you have the contact information for the person to whom you're writing, note your plans to call soon.

I will be following on my interest with a telephone call within the next three days.

Use a respectful closing such as "Respectfully yours," or "Kind regards."

Other Considerations

You will acheive better results if you address your letter to the person who has the authority to hire you. If you don't know the name and title of that person, call the HR department and explain the information you are seeking.

Hello, my name is John Smith. I'm very interested in working for ABC Company and would like to send a personal letter to your hiring manager in the business unit that produces missiles. Would you please give the name and title of the person responsible for hiring staff in that department?

Don't be reluctant to call HR for that information; some job seekers lose out just because they fear HR won't release information.

• NPR: A Successful Job Search -- It's All About Networking
• Adelphi University: Résumés and Cover Letters
• CNN Money: 100 Best Companies to Work For

Ruth Mayhew has been writing since the mid-1980s, and she has been an HR subject matter expert since 1995. Her work appears in "The Multi-Generational Workforce in the Health Care Industry," and she has been cited in numerous publications, including journals and textbooks that focus on human resources management practices. She holds a Master of Arts in sociology from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Ruth resides in the nation's capital, Washington, D.C.

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Best Ways to Write a Cover Letter Opening With Examples

Cover Letter Opening | Examples | Resume.com

Crafting a stand-out cover letter takes a bit of time and effort but can make all of the difference between getting an interview and being passed up. The most important part of your cover letter is the opening. Learn how to write a compelling opening statement with examples for guidance.

What is a cover letter opening?

A cover letter opening is the first sentence and paragraph a hiring manager reads in your cover letter.

Why is a cover letter opening important?

Cover letter openings are important because a it is the best way to tell a potential employer about yourself, your skills, and why you want to work for them. Hiring managers view hundreds of cover letters for job openings, so the first paragraph needs to make an impression.

Examples of cover letter opening sentences

Here are some opening sentence techniques to consider.

Show passion for what you do

Passion drives success, and employers want potential candidates who will advocate for their company. An opening sentence that demonstrates the your passions and motivations for the job will help grab a hiring manager’s attention.

Example: After three years working in different roles at early-stage startups, I’ve realized my greatest talent is writing incredible content and sharing it with the world.

Express your love for the company

Companies want to hire someone who already knows and loves what they offer. Convey enthusiasm with a story about your experience with their service or product. Such excitement demonstrates the motivation and dedication you will have as an employee.

Example: I enjoyed your last speaking event in San Francisco so much I didn’t want to leave, so I didn’t. Instead, I searched for job openings with your company.

Start with an impressive accomplishment

Stand out by highlighting an accomplishment or  skill that makes you unique among other similarly qualified candidates.

Example: In the first six months of my entry-level sales job, I was named Top Salesperson and have held the title for eight months.

Be creative or humorous

An unconventional opening can intrigue a hiring manager, but be careful. Examine the job post and website tone and use your judgment to determine if charisma and humor are appropriate.

Example: I could submit my credit card statements to prove how much I love online shopping, but I decided writing a cover letter would be a better approach.

Note a mutual connection

If a former or current employee at the company referred you, mention this in the opening statement of your cover letter. Employee referrals are important to hiring managers because they result in the best success rates.

Example: I was excited to learn about this job through my former coworker, Eliza Woods. She works with Core Group, Inc. as a data analyst.

Mention recent good news about the company

Mentioning a recent current event about the company shows you’ve done your research. Tie this to your interest in working there or why you would be a great fit for the  role.

Example: I was impressed that your company was recently highlighted in the Fortune Tribute for your partnership with the Children’s Health & Wellness Foundation.

Begin with a powerful belief statement

A belief statement is an idea or value you care about that aligns with the company’s mission and values.

Example: As a teacher, I believe that every student deserves to learn with their own unique style and grow with hands-on experience.

Cover letter opening paragraphs examples

Here are examples of full opening paragraphs with opening sentences to help guide your writing.

Show your passion

Example: After three years working in different roles at early-stage startups, I’ve realized my greatest talent is writing incredible content and sharing it with the world. While I gained transferable skills at these jobs, I wanted to make sure my first big career move would provide me with opportunities for professional development, mentorship, and the ability to showcase my writing talent. Enter, you: Mosaic Creative, LLC.

Love for the company

Example: I enjoyed your last speaking event in San Francisco so much I didn’t want to leave, so I didn’t. Instead,  searched for job openings with your company. I was thrilled to see you are hiring a marketing manager skilled at increasing brand awareness and sales through social media marketing. With my 4+ years of experience building and monitoring successful Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn campaigns, I’m confident I’m a great fit for this role.

Impressive accomplishment

Example: In the first six months of my entry-level sales job, I was named Top Salesperson and have held the title for eight months. I’ve consistently earned a positive customer rating above 95% and exceed quarterly sales goals by more than 10%. I’m ready for my next big challenge in sales, and I believe the sales manager role at Lincoln Sales Company is it.

Creativity and humor

Example: I could submit my credit card statements to prove how much I love online shopping, but I decided writing a cover letter would be a better approach. So here I am, describing to you all the reasons I can take Seaside Boutique to the next level. As a current in-house stylist of three years and a successful fashion blogger with over 20,000 website views a month, I’m confident I can expand your subscription-based styling business into a household name.

Network connection

Example: I was excited to learn about this job through my former coworker, Eliza Woods. She works with Core Group, Inc. as a data analyst. We worked closely for two years, most recently on a complex market research project at Meridian Associates. She thought I would be a great match for the market research analyst position on your team.

Newsworthy mention

Example: Your company was recently highlighted in the Fortune Tribute for your partnership with Children’s Health & Wellness Foundation. After reading the article, I quickly felt inspired to seek an employment opportunity with you because of my personal belief in the Children’s Health & Wellness Foundation mission. I was pleased to see your opening for an event coordinator. With five years of experience managing corporate events, I believe I would be the perfect candidate for this job.

Belief statement

Example: As a teacher, I believe that every student deserves to learn with their own unique style and grow with hands-on experience. It’s clear that Bayside Elementary School values a variety of learning techniques and activities that drive curiosity, and I would love to be a part of such a progressive-minded institution as your art teacher.

If you need help writing a resume, use our data-backed resume builder .

• Career Guide

Unsolicited application letter – example for fresh graduates

How to write a great cover letter for an unsolicited job application.

Are you among the newly graduated job seekers looking for possible job openings in various companies? Perhaps you have a few potential employers in mind, but none of them currently have a specific job opening or job opportunities in your field?

A job search and finding one’s dream job can be a strenuous task. Even though there are plenty of job postings out there, only a few companies might offer jobs that are of interest to you as a job seeker or an applicant. Now, there is the possibility to apply to a company on your own accord even if the business offers no particular position at the moment.

You may simply create an unsolicited application and send it to the prospective employer! Finding out about relevant contact information of the HR department will be a good starting point. However, let’s not get too much into the entire application process straight away and start with a few basics on unsolicited applications!

What is the difference between a solicited and an unsolicited application?

In general, you have two options to get your dream job: You can look for suitable job postings and then apply via e-mail or using the company’s application tool on their website. Another approach: Self-selection. You can make it clear to an organization or several companies of your choice that they need you. The application documents you have to prepare are very similar in both cases – with one important exception: The cover letter.

ℹ️ The main difference between a solicited application and an unsolicited application is whether the company has advertised a job opening or not. In case it has a vacancy, the application is considered a solicited application. If the company is not offering open positions to new applicants at this time, the letter is regarded as an unsolicited application.

The goal of an unsolicited application is to request and obtain a job interview. After submitting an unsolicited application, applicants hope that the company can create a job for them – based on their skills and the added value they can bring to the company.

Solicited and unsolicited: A quick comparison of cover letters

Cover letters for both job opportunities must be convincing from A to Z. They should give recruiters at the targeted company as comprehensive a picture as possible of your expertise and personality and provide the business with valid arguments for hiring you. Both comprise a maximum of one page and are structured in the same way, but have different focal points:

• In the cover letter for the solicited application, the applicant states exactly what they are applying for and where they found the relevant job posting.
• In the unsolicited application, you make it clear that you are looking for a position outside of the regular selection procedure and not as part of the normal application process.
• In both the conventional cover letter and the unsolicited application, you briefly explain in the first paragraph who you are, what you are looking for, and why you think you would be a good fit for the company.
• The main body is where the two types of application differ the most: In the solicited application cover letter, you list your professional qualities with reference to the job posting and back them up with concrete examples – supplemented by two or three sentences about your motivation.
• In the unsolicited application letter, your motivation plays the main role and takes up most of the space. Why do you want to work for the company and what contribution can you make? What skills do you have to offer, and how will your potential employer benefit from them?
• To score points, you should do a thorough analysis of your personal strengths and the conditions at the target company beforehand (e.g. do some research on the industry and company culture).
• The last paragraph of the conventional cover letter may end with a note that you are looking forward to an invitation for an interview.
• In the unsolicited application, you can ask them to look into employment opportunities for you.

What is considered to be an unsolicited letter of application?

Since there is no specific job opening in which exact requirements for applicants are specified in writing, the applicant must design the cover letter in such a way that their core competencies are expressed briefly and succinctly. At the same time, there should also be a reference to the industry in question.

ℹ️ An unsolicited application therefore does not automatically mean a list of all the knowledge and skills that the particular person has ever acquired in their life, but should rather address and describe the know-how that is useful for this company in this industry.

Tip: Unsolicited applications naming a specific contact person are always welcome, so do your research on the business!

Step-by-step guide to unsolicited job applications

Before you write your unsolicited application, please do your research! Being the initiator does not mean that you write spontaneously and without thinking. First, you should gather important information about possible positions and job specifications. Only this background research will enable you to argue convincingly in the cover letter or later in an in-person-interview for a position:

1. Preparation for an unsolicited application: The ultimate checklist for applicants

Find out about the companies you would like to apply to in person:

• In which business areas does the company operate?
• What is their corporate philosophy or mission statement?
• Are there any reports or reviews about the employer?
• What do former employees say about the company?
• How many positions are currently posted internally or on job boards?
• Is there currently a downsizing happening?
• What markets is the company expanding into?
• Are there any references to new products in the business press?
• Could specialized professionals be sought for these?
• What qualifications in the resume are generally being looked for?

Use a variety of sources for your research: In addition to the company’s homepage and social media profiles on LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter, you should also visit trade and career fairs. They sometimes offer the best opportunities to get in touch with the employer in person and make contacts on your own initiative.

The next step is to match the information you’ve researched with your qualifications and work history. The goal is to find a career gap in the company of your choice that you can fill. The greater the overlap, the more successful the unsolicited application will be.

2. Writing an unsolicited application: The structure applicants should submit

Write your application in an active style. Use active verbs and unusual phrasing. After all, you want to stand out! Write about your enthusiasm, show emotion and personality. Be bold! The cover letter of an unsolicited application is all about a flaming plea and your passion (for the job). You can put any other facts in your resume. Here we have a great example that lists the applicant’s most important and relevant skills for the organization:

✅ Example letter for unsolicited job applications

Dear Sir or Madam, 

My name is …, I am a young professional from … with experience in customer service operations and online marketing activities. I have been able to gain these competencies during my time at … in … and as a freelance artist. My Bachelor’s Degree in … has provided me with an extensive knowledge in business functions and cross-cultural communication. 

I see myself as a great fit for your organization because I am highly motivated, have a strong “can do” attitude and a structured, results-oriented way of working. During my studies, I was able to develop an understanding of the international marketing environment and learn about international product-, brand-, and communication management. Working as an artist has enabled me to connect theory with practice. I have already organized events in … and … . Promoting my projects on social media and in public has been challenging but fun and it has shown me that it is very important to be proactive and goal-oriented.

Apart from a keen interest in all …, I also have a strong customer focus. At …, I worked in the department managing the training of … . This enabled me to gain experience in international project management as well as the creation of content. Even though this project required the use of a new software, I was quickly able to get acquainted to it and present results. Moreover, I was involved in the planning and implementation of … events. Here, precise communication and team-oriented work played a major role. 

My positive attitude toward change and new environments as well as a distinct cultural sensitivity have enabled me to relate to people of various personalities and backgrounds. My stays in … and … have made me tolerant, curious and appreciative of different social structures and work patterns. I am aiming for an international career and I am ready for new challenges. 

I am confident that I would be a good choice for the position. Your company serves clients throughout the world. Therefore, it is mandatory to have employees with … expertise and excellent … skills. Moreover, I can contribute my conceptual, organizational and language abilities. This will make it possible to enhance the company performance and also benefit my personal development.

I would be delighted to receive an invitation for a personal interview.

3. Writing an unsolicited application: The content applicants should create

In addition to the format of the cover letter, you should also pay attention to these points in the content of the unsolicited application:

✍️ Unsolicited application letter introduction

With a convincing introduction, you arouse interest and make people curious. The introductory sentence should therefore be original and unique. Sentences such as “I hereby send you an unsolicited application for a suitable position as…” are not suitable. A better choice is, for example:

“After gaining experience in project management with my current employer for five years, I am now drawn to the task of helping to expand market leadership for flux compensators. I know that I will meet an excellent team at your company – that motivates me even more.”

✍️ Main body of the unsolicited application

The main part is about your qualifications, strengths, soft skills and your motivation to work for the target company. Make it clear what added value you can create or why you are a perfect fit for the team. If you have already had contact with the company, mention that. Example: “As previously discussed with Ms. … .” Examples of past projects that prove you have the experience and can do the job are also convincing. For example:

“Sustainable customer relationships are very important to me. At my current employer, I independently initiated a project to optimize existing customer management. Customer satisfaction increased by 15 % after that.”

✍️ Unsolicited application closing paragraph

At the end of the unsolicited job application, you should once again offer a highlight. Reaffirm your interest in the company and that look forward to an interview. Why not already include the earliest possible start date? Sample wording:

“I would be happy to convince you personally of my motivation and suitability. I look forward to a proposed date for an interview.”

4. Completing an unsolicited application: The resume applicants should prepare

The CV of the unsolicited application does not differ from a conventional resume. Above all, it must be complete, comprehensive and clear. This means that it contains all the relevant qualifications for the fictitious position for which you are applying to – divided into “professional experience,” “special knowledge,” “further training,” and “interests.” All of this adds up to a convincing profile.

For an unsolicited job application, the CV should be no longer than one page. Shorten and condense passages that you consider less relevant, while others can be more detailed. A very important thing is that recruiters and decision makers can find all crucial information at a glance.

Many companies (also smaller companies and medium-sized companies) are familiar with the concept of an unsolicited application and happy to receive a job application on the job seeker’s own accord. Companies often even welcome this concept of “self-selection.” Why? It shows them that they are popular with applicants even if they do not advertise any jobs to the outside world.

Also, for many applicants that apply on an initiative basis rather than to direct job openings, money is not the main factor as to why they submit their application to specific employers. These kind of applicants prepare an application and get in contact because they are really interested in what the company does and want to support their mission.

By the way, as a job seeker who sent out a couple of unsolicited applications, do not hesitate to follow up on your request for an interview and get in touch with employers either via e-mail or phone. If you ask about the status of your application in person, it might give employers an extra incentive to check out your unsolicited job application (again)!

Frequently asked Questions about Unsolicited Application

If you’d like to work for a particular company and there are no current job openings or the target company you have in mind doesn’t offer any positions at the moment, you can prepare an unsolicited application letter.

– Arouse the reader’s interest in the introduction. – Explain why you would like to work at this company. – Present your profile and strengths as concretely and clearly as possible. – Go into detail about your soft skills. – Make it clear what other qualifications you have. – Find a meaningful closing sentence that makes you memorable.

Unsolicited applications are used to find out about potential job vacancies and to attract the attention of recruiters.

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Cover Letter for Unsolicited Job

The cover letter is one of the most important pieces of correspondence you will ever send out. It is your opportunity to introduce yourself to the employer and let them know why you are a good fit for the position. Make sure that your cover letter is professional, concise, and on point.

A cover letter is an important part of any job application, and it’s especially important for unsolicited applications. A well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out from the other candidates and increase your chances of being offered the job.

When writing a cover letter, be sure to focus on why you are the best candidate for the job. Include information about your experience, skills, and qualities that make you perfect for the position.

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing to apply for the position of Unsolicited Job. I am confident that my qualifications and experience would make me a valuable asset to your organization.

I have spent the last several years working in a variety of roles in the corporate world, and I have learned how to handle both complex and routine tasks. I am confident that my skills and abilities would be a valuable addition to your team.

If you could consider my application, I would appreciate it. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

[Your Name]

If you have never written a cover letter before, there are some key things to keep in mind when creating one for an unsolicited job. First and foremost, make sure to personalize your letter by including information about your skills and what makes you unique.

Second, be sure to state why you think the company should hire you, and be specific about what you can do for them. Third, stay professional and avoid sounding arrogant or cocky.

When writing a cover letter for an unsolicited job, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, be sure to research the company thoroughly and tailor your letter to them. Mention specific things that you like about the company and why you would be a good fit.

Secondly, sell yourself! This is your chance to really sell your skills and experience. Be enthusiastic and confident, but not arrogant. Finally, follow up after sending your letter. A phone call or email a week or so later can show that you’re really interested in the position.

In conclusion, we hope this article has helped you create the perfect cover letter for the job you want. Remember to keep your cover letter tailored to the specific company and position you are applying to, and make sure to follow the instructions given in this article. Finally, always remember to be respectful, professional, and persistent when applying for jobs.

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