Application letter: The first sentence decides

The first words are crucial – on a date, a lecture or a cover letter. The latter is not just about a good structure, i.e. a good formal appearance, but also about getting started. Because many HR managers either don’t read any further if they don’t find the first sentence exciting – or they read the remaining lines with an annoyed and bored mood.

Have you ever noticed that application letters are often extremely similar – even though completely different people apply for different positions in countless companies? Most of the time, existing application letter templates are simply rewritten and all the phrases are adopted without thinking. If you want to increase your chances of getting the job, you should find your own style – and stand out from the crowd with the first few words.

Avoid using empty phrases in your application cover letter

“I hereby apply for…” – just don’t! Anyone who starts with this phrase immediately provides written proof of their own creativity. The following wording should also be avoided: “I have read your advertisement dated September 12th and hereby apply for the position of so-and-so.” This sentence offers no added value because it contains no information other than the fact that the applicant can read. You do not need to tell the recipients of an application that you are applying.

As always with writing, no sentence should serve as an end in itself. Your words must mean something! So save yourself the phrases and get straight to the point. Your first words should encourage further reading and arouse interest in you as a person. And there are a few ways to do that.

Connect to the company

If there has already been contact with the company beforehand, it makes sense to follow up on that: “Dear Ms. Müller, our phone call yesterday left a very positive impression on me and showed me once again: I would be happy to become part of your company!”

You can also create a personal connection to the company or its products: “I used your products as a child and have been an enthusiastic customer ever since. Now I would like to give something back. You have advertised a position that is a perfect fit for me…”. Creativity is king – but you also have to find yourself in your words. Be authentic and feel within yourself whether you want to appear moderate or bold. How about a confident version? “Your company strives for big goals – just like me!”.

It can also be about you

The starting point of the first sentence can also be your own person – your career, motivation or added value for the company. Below are a few examples:

1. “After successfully completing my automotive business studies and completing a six-month internship at BMW, I now want to get off to a full start in my professional life.”

2. “I have loved cars since I was a child and it was always my big dream to work as a designer in the automotive industry.”

3. “With more than twenty years of experience as an automotive designer, I can add a creative mind to your first-class team.”

Be creative in your cover letter

There are no limits to your imagination. (Almost) anything is better than the next standard cover letter – as long as the text suits you, the company and the industry. Of course, creative professions place even greater value on originality; while less creative exuberance is expected when applying to become an undertaker.

If you have leeway, use it! For example, with a quote: “Confucius already knew it 2,500 years ago: ‘Choose a job that you love and you will never have to work a day in your life’.” There is also a question that immediately draws readers into the text: “Are you looking for a highly motivated tax specialist with strong analytical skills and a good eye for detail?” Many roads lead to Rome, but only when you take new paths will you leave a mark – or impression.

Read also

• 5 tips that will lead to your dream job

• Here’s how to apply today

• Are you prepared for this in the interview?