How do I mention a referral in the opening of a cover letter?

Name the person and their role in the first sentence, then quickly connect the referral to your fit for the job. A referral catches attention, but your qualifications still need to follow straight away.

Steps:

• Ask the person's permission before naming them.
• Use their full name and job title or team.
• Say briefly why they suggested you, if relevant.
• Follow with your strongest qualification in the next sentence.

Examples:

• "Sara Al Kaabi, Senior Engineer in your Structures team, suggested I apply for the Graduate Civil Engineer role. We worked together on a university bridge design project, and she felt my site internship would suit your team."
• "On the recommendation of Michael Tan in your Finance department, I am applying for the Accounts Payable Officer position. I have processed supplier invoices in SAP for three years and recently helped clear a backlog before year-end."

Keep the referral to one sentence. Do not exaggerate your relationship or imply the person has endorsed you more strongly than they have. Also follow the company's referral process if it has one, as your contact may need to submit your details internally.