Section 2: Introduction

Begin the letter with a greeting (e.g. Dear Mrs. Amerigon). Follow the greeting with a comma and then leave a line space and begin the letter. 
The first paragraph, or opening, should do the following:

• Spark the employer's interest.

• State the reason for writing (e.g. to apply for a specific position) and include the name of the position or the area that you are interested in.

• Indicate how you heard about the opening (e.g. posting on the CareerOwl bulletin board, newspaper ad, etc.).

• Mention who referred you (if applicable).

• Tell the employer why you are interested in working for him/her, and/or why you are interested in the position or in the industry or field.

• State your career objective.

         Here are some sample phrases you can use:

My professor, ...................., suggested I contact you concerning...

Mr. .............. informed me about the...

I am writing to inquire about ...

I am writing to apply for....

The ....(newspaper/magazine)... contained an article about...

Your company interests me because...

...regarding our conversation of last week..