How should I start a cover letter?

Start by naming the job you want and giving one strong reason you fit it, all within the first two sentences. The reader should know immediately what you are applying for and why they should keep reading.

A strong opening paragraph usually includes:

• The exact job title, and the reference number if there is one.
• A specific qualification, achievement or link to the employer.
• Optionally, how you heard about the role, especially through a referral.

Example: "I am applying for the Operations Coordinator role at Falcon Freight. In my current role at a regional courier company, I schedule over 60 daily pickups and recently reduced missed collections by redesigning our booking form."

Example for a graduate: "I would like to apply for your Graduate Trainee Programme in Finance. As a recent BCom graduate who completed an internship in accounts receivable, I am keen to build my career in a company with a strong training culture like yours."

Avoid starting with long background about yourself or general statements about your personality. Get to the point, then let your middle paragraphs give the detail.