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Startup Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

To earn a position as a startup professional, you will need a cover letter that perfectly encapsulates your talents and dedication. In our ultimate guide, we'll provide you with handy tips, real-life examples, and compelling templates to help you craft that compelling startup cover letter effectively and with ease.

Keep reading to learn all about how to:

• Craft a well-formatted startup cover letter header & headline
• Create a personalized greeting on your startup cover letter
• Write an eye-catching startup cover letter introduction
• Showcase your value as a startup professional
• End your cover letter with a powerful closing statement
• Access the best job search resources for startup professionals

Still looking for a job? These 100+ resources will tell you everything you need to get hired fast.

1. Craft a well-formatted startup cover letter header & headline

To begin writing your startup cover letter, the first key steps are to create a properly formatted header and headline.

Cover letter headers are often found in the top left corner of the document and detail all the necessary information about the company and applicant.

Comparatively, a cover letter headline is similar to a title, placed directly after the header but before the greeting of the cover letter.

To better demonstrate how to craft each of these elements, here are more-in depth explanations and examples of each:

Formatting the header

In the header of your startup cover letter, there should be between 3 to 4 lines of text that include:

• The name of the company & department you are applying to
• Your name and professional title
• Your professional contact information (phone number, email address, etc.)

Here is an example of what an effective header may look like on a startup cover letter

To: The Bronze Group, Business Development Department From: Joe King , Startup Specialist (123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | linkedin.com/in/joe-king

Writing the Headline

When writing the headline to your startup cover letter, you should always use a keyword related to the position, an eye-catching number or trigger word , a powerful adjective or verb , and a promise .

Here is an example of a well-written headline on a startup cover letter

My 3 Startup Successes that Make Me the Ideal Addition to Your Business Team

Trigger Word/Number : 3 Successes Keyword: Startup Adjective: Ideal Promise: Your Business Team – the inclusion of this detail at the end of your headline shows the employer you will not only explain your skills and achievements but that you will also relate this specifically to their company’s needs.

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2. create a personalized greeting on your startup cover letter.

Whenever you write a startup cover letter, it is crucial to use a personalized greeting rather than a generalized one.

Generalized greetings – such as “To Whom It May Concern” – fail to show employers any attention to detail or help to hook their attention. On the other hand, a personalized greeting will address a specific person or department by name, revealing to employers that you have completed thorough research on their company before applying.

If you are unable to pinpoint the exact person or department who will review your application, try out one of these alternatives:

To the [Company Name] Team

To the [Company Name] Hiring Manager

3. Craft an eye-catching startup cover letter introduction

The headline and greeting of your startup cover letter help to initially hook the employer’s attention – but to keep them intrigued, you will need an eye-catching introductory paragraph .

A strong cover letter introduction will include:

• A brief overview of your professional history and goals
• A statement on why you are enthusiastic about applying to this company
• A mutual acquaintance (when possible)

Here is an example to help demonstrate how to write a startup cover letter introduction

To the [Company Name] Hiring Manager,

I am a Startup Advisor & Specialist with 3+ years of experience working with technology company founders and experts. After meeting your Head of FinTech Communications at a recent conference and learning about your company’s ongoing objectives and mission, I found that I share your professional outlook on the FinTech industry and decided to apply for this position.

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4. Showcase your value as a startup professional

Following the introduction to your startup cover letter are the body paragraphs. Most cover letters will contain between 2 to 4 body paragraphs that offer in-depth answers to these 4 key questions:

• What excites you about working at this company?
• What do you hope to learn from working at this company?
• What accomplishments or qualifications make you stand out as an applicant?
• What key skills do you possess that are relevant to the position?

Describing your accomplishments as a startup professional is particularly important, as this helps to show employers the actionable and real-life value you can provide.

Here is an example of how to describe an accomplishment in a startup cover letter

As the Startup Advisor for [Former Employer], I negotiated with major investors to help fund the company’s launch and initial product development. These negotiations led to the acquisition of 3 key investors who offered a market value of more than $3M to help support the company’s launch.

5. End your cover letter with a powerful closing statement

To end your startup cover letter, you need a powerful closing statement that includes:

• An enthusiastic sentence saying you are looking forward to hearing from them
• An additional sentence stating you will follow up, including how you will contact them or how they can contact you
• A formal sign-off

Here is an example of an effective closing statement on a startup cover letter

With my years of experience and successes as a Startup Specialist, I am confident I can provide your company with the support it needs during its development and launch. I am eager to meet with you directly to discuss further what I can bring to the table, and am available for calls or in-person meetings Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The best way to reach me is at (123) 456-7890, or via email at [email protected].

Warm Regards,

[Applicant Name]

  Follow this cover letter outline for maximum success.

6. Best job search resources for startup professionals

Navigating the job market as a startup professional presents its unique challenges and opportunities. The key lies in knowing where to look and which resources can provide the most relevant guidance, connections, and openings. Here are some of the best tools and platforms that can aid in your search:

• Networking platforms:  In the startup ecosystem, it's often about who you know. Platforms like LinkedIn and Meetup allow you to connect with other startup enthusiasts and professionals, join relevant groups, and attend events that can help you expand your network.
• Specialized job boards:  There are several job boards specifically targeting startups. Websites like AngelList  or  CrunchBoard  are excellent platforms to discover opportunities in startups.
• Startup events and meetups:  Tech conferences, startup weekends, and meetups are invaluable for making connections and getting your foot in the door. Websites like Eventbrite or Meetup can help you find relevant events.
• Startup news sites:  Staying informed about the latest in the startup world is crucial. Websites like TechCrunch , VentureBeat , and Startup Grind not only provide news but also list job openings on occasion.
• Online learning platforms:  Websites like Coursera , Udemy , and LinkedIn Learning offer a range of courses that can help you upskill and stay ahead in the competitive startup landscape.
• Social media:  Don't underestimate the power of social media. Following startup influencers and joining relevant discussion groups on platforms like X  and Facebook can also lead to potential job opportunities.
• Resume builders:  A well-tailored resume can make you stand out. Online tools like Kickresume can help you create a resume best fit for a startup job application.

Remember, finding the right position in a startup takes persistence, creativity, and a hefty dose of networking. Using these resources can streamline your job search process and help you find the right match sooner than you think.

Startup Cover Letter FAQ

A great startup cover letter should contain your contact information, the date, a professional greeting, a compelling opening paragraph highlighting your interest in the role, a brief summary of your relevant skills and experiences, a closing paragraph expressing enthusiasm for the job opportunity, and a professional closing. 

Keep your startup cover letter concise and to the point. Ideally, it should be no longer than one page. 

Absolutely! Each startup is unique, and your cover letter should reflect that you have taken the time to understand their specific needs, values, and culture. Customizing your cover letter for each startup shows your genuine interest in the role and the company. 

While it's important to maintain professionalism, startups generally appreciate a more conversational, yet respectful tone. Show enthusiasm and let your personality shine through. 

Definitely. If you have been part of other startups or similar environments in the past, mentioning these experiences can be very beneficial. It demonstrates that you are familiar with the flexible, multi-tasking, and fast-paced nature of startup work.

Milan Šaržík, CPRW

Milan’s work-life has been centered around job search for the past three years. He is a Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW™) as well as an active member of the Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Careers Coaches (PARWCC™). Milan holds a record for creating the most career document samples for our help center – until today, he has written more than 500 resumes and cover letters for positions across various industries. On top of that, Milan has completed studies at multiple well-known institutions, including Harvard University, University of Glasgow, and Frankfurt School of Finance and Management.

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How to write a stand-out cover letter when applying to a startup

I'm regularly asked by candidates whether they should write a cover letter, and what to include. I'm noting down a few recommendations that I believe will help you stand out.

Sam Franklin

Read more posts by this author.

I'm regularly asked by candidates whether they should write a cover letter, and what to include. I'm noting down a few recommendations that I believe will help you stand out.

When to write a cover letter?

If you are excited about the role, I believe there's only one situation where you shouldn't write a cover letter.

When applying for a job, sometimes companies ask for additional answers alongside a CV (e.g. "What excites you about our company?"). In this case I don't believe you need to write a cover letter. They've been helpful to give you a clear opportunity to stand out.

Otherwise, I recommend writing a cover letter. I say this because I advocate for making fewer, better applications. I know it's hard to spend more time on an individual application, especially when job searching feels like a numbers game. But I feel writing quality applications is a better strategy for securing a great role. If others are sending their CV and nothing else, and you're writing a well-crafted cover letter, you are more likely to stand out!

What to write in a cover letter

To structure the cover letter, imagine you're being asked these two questions and use one paragraph to answer each. Your cover letter should be brief (1 page).

1 - What excites you about company X?

The best way to stand out is to demonstrate you have put time and thought into understanding the company.

There are simple things you can do that will instantly elevate you above candidates who haven't put additional effort in:

• Refer to an article/blog which talks about the company
• Talk about how you've tried the product and what you like
• Write why you like the mission, or show an understanding of the problem being solved

I've also written an article on 6 areas to research before interviewing at a startup - these are all useful areas to include in a cover letter to show you're excited.

Once you've written this paragraph, ask yourself "If I replaced company X with another company, for example a competitor, would it still make sense?". If the answer is yes, you probably need to add more insight and detail. The aim is to avoid seeming generic.

I often see receive cover letters with sentences like "I want to join Otta as you are changing recruiting" and this isn't enough insight to help you stand out. In fact, sometimes it can work against you, as you've made the effort to write a cover letter but haven't taken the time to write in-depth!

2 - Why do you want this role?

Your CV tells the hiring manager about your previous experience, but it doesn't say anything about your motivations. I believe a cover letter is a great opportunity to tell more of your story.

Here are some example questions that you may want to answer in this paragraph:

• What is it about this role that you really like? (Look carefully at the job description and the areas that excite you)
• If you're applying for a more senior role, why is now the right time?
• If you're moving from a corporate to a startup, why are you confident that a fast-growth environment is right for you? (I've written an article about the qualities startups look for when hiring )
• If you're making a career shift (e.g. strategy to marketing), what is your reasoning? What have you done to make yourself confident this is the right move for you?
• What do you want to achieve in your next role?
• Where do you want to be in 3-5 years and how will this role help you?
• What's important in your next role?

You don't need to tell your whole story (e.g. why you decided to start your career as a software engineer). Ideally you'll find a few interesting areas where the hiring manager will think "yes, that's exactly what we need!" and this will elevate you above other candidates.

Don't make your cover letter an extension of your CV

When reading cover letters, I make this comment about 50% of the time. A lot of candidates use a cover letter to write their CV in more detail. Either by writing more achievements, including deeper detail about projects, or repeating selling-points from the CV.

In my experience, a hiring manager will use the CV to judge your experience and suitability. They're looking to the cover letter to find something else to excite them. I believe my advice (explaining your excitement about the company and why you want the role) will help you stand out more.

If you find yourself using a cover letter to write more detail, I recommend going back to your CV and make edits to include those details in a concise way.

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Here's How To Write a Cover Letter for a Startup Job in 2022

When you find the right fit, startups can be great places to work in, but this often doesn't eliminate the need for hiring tools like resumes and the dreaded cover letter—even in 2022.

If you're fascinated by the world of technology and want to join a startup that is at the forefront of innovation and growing fast, making a great first impression is key.

» FREE TRIAL: Sign up to LoopCV and automatically personalize your cover letters to reach more opportunities faster

For that, you'll need a cover letter.

A really, really good cover letter.

So, how do you write one that captures the attention of the hiring manager or founder? And what are the steps to jump through the technological hoops of HR software in 2022?

Let's go through each step.

Why Your Cover Letter Matters if You Want To Join a Startup

You may think that cover letters are outdated and, to some degree, they are. But they're also still used by most corporations, and startups are no different.

So what makes for a good startup cover letter?

And how does it differ from a classic one?

Searching for the right position is both a quantitative and qualitative job. You have to strike the right balance between nailing your message and sending out enough applications.

Your cover letter plays the qualitative part of the equation, especially if you're looking to apply for a job at a startup where they want to hire forward-looking individuals.

What Startups are Looking for in a Candidate

Tech startups that are serious about their growth opportunities will want to onboard forward-looking individuals who understand the "chaos" of working in a new environment.

This doesn't mean that a startup is unorganized, it just means that a lot of the processes necessary to handle the type of growth they're going through aren't ready yet.

So the primary thing a hiring manager or founder themselves will want to see from a candidate is the willingness to adapt and make decisions on your own as to what's next.

The primary thing a hiring manager or founder themselves will want to see from a candidate is the willingness to adapt and make decisions on your own as to what's next.

Unlike established firms, startups need to produce results to keep afloat and, therefore, are looking for people with a good amount of confidence in taking ownership of tasks.

(i.e. don't just follow instructions, create them!)

You can absolutely have this type of mentality come through your cover letter and, in fact, it's one of the better places to do so. A cover letter may just be an email for example.

However, don't forget that cover letters are about the value you can deliver to the startup company. They talk directly to somebody in relation to what you can do for them .

Your name, age, and past experiences won't cut it.

You need to go deep into the value you're going to provide instead…

AIDA: The 4 Elements Your Startup Cover Letter Can't Do Without

Borrowed from the world of copywriting (marketing), the AIDA model is perfect for writing a cover letter as well. It stands for Attention, Interest, Desire, and Action.

These 4 elements can help you shape the way you drive the readers' focus down to having them reach out. After all, looking for a job is a form of marketing yourself to a company.

So, let's look into each of them:

1) Attention

This is the most important aspect of your cover letter—the opening. You can't possibly get a startup owner to hire you if you don't grab their attention first, right?

To write a cover letter that grabs attention, you need to get to the heart of the problem as quickly as possible, and become hyper-relevant in doing so.

Here's an example of a standard opening:

"Dear Mr. [Manager's name],

My name is John and I'm interested in applying to [enter company]'s position as [enter role]. I have extensive experience of [enter subject matter] and believe that my skills would fit well with the type of position you're looking to fill.

I've collected multiple certifications in the field of [enter field] over the years and demonstrated impact in previous roles by working on [enter projects], where I've learned to apply my skills in stressful environments such as a startup.

Your company is interesting to me because..."

And here's an example using the AIDA model:

Looking at [enter company]'s open role for [enter position], I can contribute to the growth of your startup company in the following ways:

• Enhance the efficiency of [enter process] by applying my skills in [enter field] and communicating changes with existing employees.
• Drive [enter business goal] forward by implementing [enter tactic] and ensuring the effective rollout of each feature necessary.
• Communicate on a daily basis regarding progress made towards reaching [enter business goal] and steps taken towards improving [enter process].

Prior experience of 5+ years allows me to state with confidence that [enter company]'s goal can be achieved in [enter timeframe], advancing your business infrastructure and cementing your position as a leader in [enter industry].

My contribution to your position will..."

The AIDA model helps the reader understand the value they're getting from the very first paragraph, unlike a standard approach where the applicant talks about themselves only.

This will increase your chances of getting noticed in a sea of same-ish cover letters that are bound to end up either in the trash or that will never receive a response.

2) Interest

Grabbing attention is only one part of the equation though; now you need to attract the interest of the reader by showcasing your skills, or the how of benefitting the startup.

This is where you have free reign to talk about your skills, technicalities that may be related to the job, and things that pertain to you in regards to helping the company.

Don't go overboard, a few paragraphs will suffice. Make sure that what you write is pertinent to the benefits you've highlighted at the beginning of your cover letter.

As the hiring manager or founder goes through your cover letter, they're building up a desire for what you can bring to the table. You've literally given them all the answers!

Now you just need to reinforce the message that what you offer is what they're looking for, and you can do so with a simple message such as:

"My goal is to help [enter company] achieve the goals you've set out to hit in a timely manner, and do so while driving innovation from within the company.

This way, the value you'll gain will be shared among internal collaborators, making my contribution a team effort rather than an individual force."

Mentioning the fact that you're willing to share your knowledge inclusively (i.e. without leaving out other collaborators) increases your desirability in a startup.

Why? Because they're just getting started…

The more value they can build internally, the better.

Having somebody state that they will do what's good for the company as a whole going forward is exactly the type of message you have to send through at the Desire stage.

Finally, you want the reader to take positive action towards making your dream startup job a reality. The way you do this is by providing an entryway into your world.

You've grabbed their attention, funneled their interest, and made yourself desirable; now it's a lot easier for you to pitch your contact details rather than just saying "call me."

The key to this step is conciseness.

You don't want to confuse the reader…

Give the hiring manager one place where they can reach you in regards to your application, one only. Don't beg for a reply, simply give your contact details.

After going through all of what you've written that's specifically catered to helping the organization thrive, the hiring manager will likely shortlist you as a potential candidate.

Your chances of receiving a reply this way are 100x higher than sending a generic "I can do this and that" type of cover letter. Use AIDA to drive action!

This may sound like a lot of work and to some degree it is, but you can streamline the process significantly through the use of job search personalization software like LoopCV.

Here's an example of making your cover letter stand out for multiple startup companies without having to write a new one every single time you want to apply:

» Create a forever free account

» Choose a job title, location, and more

» Personalize your email and cover letter for each position

» Active your "loop" to send out personalized cover letters to each startup

And that's it!

You've just created an automatic way to apply to 100s of highly-qualified jobs at interesting startup companies without having to re-do your cover letter each time.

Personalize Your Startup Cover Letter & Get Replies

Your job isn't a joke, and neither is the process of searching for a job. This is why a cover letter is so important even in startup culture… It builds trust in what you can bring to the table.

In a sea of poorly-written cover letters, your chances of getting noticed are slim. But with the AIDA model (and a bit of creative energy!), you can make it to the other end successfully.

With a bit of preparation and a touch of personalization using software like LoopCV, this numbers' game will quickly turn in your favour and lend you the job of your dreams.

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How to Write A Great Cover Letter To Join a Startup in 2023 (With 3 Examples)

• Research the company and its values. Before you start writing your cover letter, take some time to research the company and its values. This will help you tailor your letter to the specific needs of the startup and show that you're a good fit for their team.
• Address the hiring manager by name: Start your cover letter by addressing the hiring manager by name. This personalizes your cover letter and shows that you've taken the time to research the company and the role.
• Show how you can contribute to the company: In your cover letter, explain how your skills and experiences can contribute to the company's success. Focus on the value you can bring to the startup and how you can help the company achieve its goals.
• Show enthusiasm for the company and its mission. Startups are often looking for people who are passionate about their mission and values. In your cover letter, be sure to show your enthusiasm for the company and what it's trying to accomplish. This will demonstrate that you're a good fit for their team and will help you stand out from other applicants.
• Keep it brief: A cover letter for a startup should be brief and to the point. Hiring managers at startups are often busy and don't have time to read long, rambling cover letters. Keep your cover letter to a single page and use bullet points to highlight your skills and experiences.
• Use a professional tone. While startups are often known for their casual and laid-back culture, it's important to use a professional tone in your cover letter. Avoid using slang or overly casual language, and instead focus on making a strong case for why you're the right person for the job.

Example Two

Example three.

Dear [Hiring Manager],

I am writing to apply for the [Position] at [Startup]. I am excited about the opportunity to join your team and contribute to the success of your innovative company.

As a [Previous Job/Experience], I have developed strong [Skill/Experience Relevant to Position]. In my current role, I have [Specific Example/Achievement Using Relevant Skill/Experience]. I am confident that my skills and experience make me a strong fit for this position.

In addition to my experience, I am a [Personal Quality Relevant to Position] individual who is eager to learn and grow with a startup like [Startup]. I am excited about the company's mission and vision, and I believe that my passion and determination will enable me to make a meaningful contribution to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to the success of [Startup].

Sincerely, [Your Name]

How to Start a Cover Letter (Examples Included)

Mike Simpson 0 Comments

By Mike Simpson

When you’re writing a cover letter, nailing the opening is a must. Your cover letter introduction has to draw the hiring manager in, giving them a clear reason to keep reading. That’s why learning how to start a cover letter is so vital; it’s your doorway to success.

After all, more than eight-in-10 recruiters feel that an awesome cover letter is enough to land a candidate an interview even if their resume is only a partial fit for the job. Cool, right?

So, are you ready to make sure that your cover letter opening is everything it can be? Great! Here’s what you need to know.

What Is a Cover Letter?

Alright, let’s begin with the basics. Before you can learn how to start a letter to the hiring manager, it’s helpful to know what a cover letter is in the first place.

We’ve actually taken several deep dives into the world of cover letters, including how to address a cover letter , the best cover letter format , how to end a cover letter , and a full overview of how to write a cover letter .

But the basic gist is that a cover letter is a written elevator pitch. It acts as an introduction to what you have to offer, with a bit more flavor than you can put in a resume.

In many cases, your cover letter is the absolute first impression you’ll make on a hiring manager. As they read, they get a feel for who you are, as well as what you bring to the table.

Do cover letters really matter that much? Yes, they do. Overall, 49 percent of hiring managers think that receiving a cover letter is important to the hiring process, which is a pretty good indication that they value them.

So, what are the parts of a cover letter? In most cases, a cover letter has:

• Contact Information
• Opening Paragraph
• Body Paragraphs
• Closing Paragraph
• Closing Sentiment

While that seems like a lot, it really isn’t. In most cases, you end up with about a page or so of content. After all, a cover letter isn’t an autobiography of your life; it’s a concise, tailored introduction to who you are as a professional.

Generally, when you’re trying to figure out how to start a cover letter, what you need to focus on are the salutation and the opening paragraph. Those are what make the first impression and usually play a big role in whether the hiring manager reads the whole thing or not.

You may want to dig a little deeper, making sure your opening line really packs a punch. But, really, that’s all part of creating a great opening paragraph, isn’t it? Just keep in mind that your leading sentence needs to be an attention-grabber, and you’re in good shape.

Now, is your cover letter opening more important than the rest of the letter? Well, yes and no. If your start to your letter isn’t strong, there’s a chance the hiring manager won’t finish reading it. That means a fantastic cover letter introduction is essential.

But the rest matters, too. In the end, you want your first impression to be a doozy. It’s just that, if you don’t nail the opening to your cover letter, the rest may never get a glance.

Common Mistakes When Starting a Cover Letter

Before we dive into how to start a cover letter, let’s talk about some cover letter introduction mistakes you want to avoid. After all, a misstep at this early stage can cost you the job, so you really need to make sure you get it right.

First, one of the biggest mistakes you can make is not tailoring the content to the position. When you write a cover letter, you are speaking to one particular hiring manager, not everyone who may ever want to hire you. If you don’t focus the content on that specific job, you might not connect with that hiring manager, causing them to move onto a different candidate.

Second, being too generic can come back to bite you. You want to stand out from the crowd, so you need to make sure your cover letter introduction feels a bit unique.

Third, choosing the wrong salutation – or not including one at all – can potentially lead to some trouble. If you go the wrong way, you may not connect with the hiring manager as well or could even offend them a bit. That’s no good.

Finally, spelling and grammar mistakes are a huge deal. They make it look like you lack attention to detail, and that isn’t going to win you any fans.

How to Start a Cover Letter

In many cases, figuring out how to start a letter for your job application is much easier if you take it one step at a time. It lets you tackle everything in succession and gives you a chance to focus on each critical part, increasing the odds that you’ll genuinely nail it.

Here’s a quick step-by-step guide on how to start a letter when you’re trying o land a job:

1. Choose the Right Salutation

The salutation in your cover letter opening serves as a greeting. It’s a chance to acknowledge the reader directly, even if just for a brief second.

Ideally, you want to address the hiring manager by name, using an approach like:

Dear [Mr./Mrs./Ms./Dr.] [First Name] [Last Name]

Now, you can potentially add one more option to the list: Mx. This is a relatively new gender-neutral addition that’s favored by people who consider themselves nonbinary.

Generally speaking, you should only use “Mx.” if you are completely, 100 percent certain that it’s the hiring manager’s preferred title. You don’t want to go with it simply because you don’t know the hiring manager’s gender. Why? Well, since it’s a newer option, not everyone is familiar with it, so some hiring managers might think it’s a typo.

Additionally, people may have a variety of opinions about “Mx.,” and not all of them are positive. Since it’s a bit controversial in certain circles, you could offend a hiring manager by using it if that isn’t what they prefer.

So, what do you do if you know the hiring manager’s name but not their gender or preferred title? Worst case, go with “Dear [First Name] [Last Name]” instead. It’s a bit less formal, but it may be better than getting the title wrong.

If you genuinely don’t know the hiring manager’s name – and can’t figure it out with some research – you can try:

• Dear [Job Title/Role] – Dear Hiring Manager, Dear Operations Manager, Dear VP of Sales, etc.
• Dear [Department] – Dear IT Department, Dear Marketing Department, etc.

Those aren’t as personal, but they can do the trick. They at least speak to a particular individual, making it clear that you had a certain recipient in mind. As a result, they are much better than more generic alternatives.

What about “To Whom It May Concern?” Well, we’ve taken a deep dive into how to use to whom it may concern . But, in most cases, that isn’t your best. It feels outdated, for one. Plus, it doesn’t have a particular reader in mind, which isn’t ideal.

The same goes for “Dear Sir or Madam.” Along with being generic and incredibly old-school, it’s also a bit awkward. Plus, it makes it seem like you didn’t even try to come up with something better, and that’s never good.

2. Nail the Opening Sentence

Your opening sentence in your cover letter is what really needs to draw the hiring manager in. As a result, you want to make sure that it packs a wallop.

Usually, you have a few options that can pull this off. First, if you know someone at the company who referred you to the position, you can try name-dropping. Many hiring managers favor direct referrals, so it’s alright to make that connection clear from the beginning.

Second, you can lead off with a relevant accomplishment. This one can get a little tricky to do well. You really have to relate it to something in the role, and that isn’t always easy to manage without using a sentence or so to build in some context.

Finally, you can focus on your excitement. Hiring managers like people who seem passionate about the opportunity, so this route could let you start your cover letter on a great note.

With all of these, you want to make sure the opening sentence taps on the position you’re trying to land. It’s smart to mention the job title, department, and company, as that ensures the hiring manager knows why you’re writing. If it doesn’t fit in the first sentence, then it needs to come in on the second.

3. Round Out the First Paragraph

Generally, your cover letter opening paragraph is going to be two or four sentences long. If you didn’t get it into your opening sentence, use your second one to mention the job opening. That way, the hiring manager understands exactly why you reached out.

After that, it’s time to tap on some relevant skills. Use the job ad to identify high-priority capabilities. Next, treat them like keywords, using the exact same words and phrases to increase your odds of looking like a great match (and getting past an automated screener).

4. Quantify the Details

Numbers stand out visually in a cover letter. They actually draw the eye, as they aren’t as widely used as letters and most forms of punctuation.

By quantifying a detail or two, you create visual interest. Plus, you’re giving the hiring manager some helpful context about what you’ve achieved, something that can make you look like a stronger candidate.

3 Cover Letter Starting Samples

Sometimes, nothing helps bring some tips to life like a handy example or three. If you want to make sure you understand how to start a cover letter or are looking for some samples that you can use as a template, here are three cover letter introduction examples, each representing a different approach.

1. When You Were Referred

Dear Mr. John Doe:

During my 6 years as a sales professional, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with a number of amazing professionals, including Jane Smith, a member of your team who recommended I apply for the Account Manager opening at ABC Inc. In my last position, I managed a portfolio of 25 enterprise-level clients while also boosting sales by 15 percent year-over-year during my tenure. I believe that my penchant for strategic thinking, as well as my strong negotiation and communication skills, make me an exceptional fit for your position.

2. Leading with an Achievement

Dear IT Department:

Over the past 4 years, I’ve focused my career on the world of project management, recently earning by Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. Additionally, I personally oversaw five $50k+ development projects concurrently, each of which was finished on time and within budget. I feel that my experience as a leader, as well as my expertise in risk assessment and cost management, makes me an ideal fit for the Project Manager position at XYZ Corp.

3. Going the Excitement Route

Dear Hiring Manager:

When I saw the administrative assistant opening at ABC Company, I immediately knew I wanted to apply. As an office assistant with 6 years of experience, I have honed many key skills you’re hoping to find, including scheduling, report writing, and customer service. Last year, among 50 nominated colleagues, I was even recognized as the Employee of the Year, largely because of my passion and dedication to my work, something that I would love to bring to ABC Company.

Putting It All Together

Ultimately, you should now understand how to start a cover letter off in the best way possible. Use all of the tips above, and turn to the cover letter opening samples to serve as guides. That way, you can create an introduction that captures the hiring manager’s attention and keeps them reading, giving you a chance to showcase even more about why you’re such an awesome candidate.

And as always, Good luck!

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com.

His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others.

Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

About The Author

Mike simpson.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com. His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

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Recruiting for the future

Be part of the european hr community, create your own talent pool, find your perfect job, improve on your career with our career coach, how to nail your cover letter to join a startup company.

• October 14, 2021

Working at a startup company has never been cooler. The vibe, the people and the open positions sound exciting. But how can you get in? In this article, we will give you a 101 on how to perfect writing your cover letter for a startup company.

We have all been there. Ready to apply for this one job that sounds amazing and we really want to get, but somehow the enthusiasm about and excitement for the job cannot translate into our cover letters. Wether you are writing cover letters for a fintech company or HR, these points can be applied to all fields. Writing a cover letter for a startup company often is a time-consuming task, if one does not know how to start and what to consider. So let’s get started with the basics.

What is a cover letter? 

The cover letter is part of your application. Whereas the CV (Curriculum vitae) gives the hiring party a written overview of your skills and experience, the cover letter specifically addresses the job you are applying for and highlights why you would be a great fit. 

In the case of wanting to join a startup, writing a cover letter for a startup does not differ much from a common cover letter. It is likely that when applying at startups, applicants are encouraged to create more creative and “out of the ordinary” cover letters. We will provide a sample cover letter for a startup company at the end of this article. (link to heading “sample cover letter”)

Why do you need a cover letter? 

Keep in mind, the hiring company (in most cases) does not know you yet. The first impression of your CV and cover letter will decide if you get a chance to introduce yourself in person. In the case of writing a cover letter for a startup, the cover letter gives you the opportunity to stand out from the crowd and demonstrate that you are a cultural match. The employer will be able to have a glance at your personality, your motivation and your ability to use grammar and language to present yourself. 

How to write a cover letter for a startup job

Google search results for a sample cover letter for a startup company are often plentiful but useless. Save yourself some time and come up with your own words instead of trying to find the perfect copy and paste template.The HR person will notice your effort and commitment. The upcoming bullet points guide you through this process:

• Stay true to yourself. The main thing is to really contemplate why you could succeed in this position. If you cannot come up with a good reason, maybe you should check if you are the right fit for a startup. 
• Keep it short, authentic and (maybe) spicy. Startups often have modern company structures and little time to waste. There is no general rule when it comes to writing a cover letter to join a startup. What we recommend is researching the company’s philosophy on the web, reading the job opening carefully and deciding on an individual way to address the employer. Make sure your cover letter and your CV go hand in hand.
• The job market is already at its capacity meaning we all are like fish in the sea. But that should not discourage you from trying to get your dream job . Dare to be different. Remember that your skills and how you are able to present them while writing a cover letter for a startup are potentially benefiting the employer. You can be an asset to them by pointing out the relation between the job description and your skills. 

Need a little extra inspiration to get those fingers typing?  Find guidance for a cover letter to join a startup with these 10 tips for writing the perfect cover letter.

Sample cover letter for startup company

Here we will provide a cover letter for startup companies as some examples. Bear in mind that the cover letter should include a few essentials such as personal details (name, address, phone number), hiring manager’s name (if available), source of vacancy, suitability for the position, your “value add” to the company and a closing statement.  

———————————–

[name, surname] [street name] [town name]

[company’s name] [company’s street name] [company’s town name] [location, date] Application [Job Description]

Dear [HR contact person], It has been a couple of years in the making and finally, I am at the right place, at the right time. I have been following [company’s name] for the past years thoroughly and my interest and knowledge in cryptocurrencies has been predominantly influenced by your classes, content and service. For this reason, I was beyond happy to live in a city, where [company’s name] announced this vacant position for [job description]. My background is in finance technologies and over the years I was able to work and learn much more about the fintech market in New York, London and Seattle. Financial analysis has been the focus of my work for the last decade, which has prepared me to execute all mentioned tasks of [job description]. I would be more than pleased to get on a call with you and convince you that it is the perfect timing for a collaboration. Looking forward to hearing back from you. Best regards, [Candidate]

Disclaimer : Please take this example as a benchmark. This is a very shortened and rather informal cover letter. Find your own voice. This a rticle will get you started on a sample cover letter for a startup company. 

Writing a cover letter for a startup is not rocket science 

– it takes practice. By following the mentioned points for writing a cover letter to join a startup you are on the right path. And don’t forget – a rejection letter is not the end of the world, you just have to figure out why you got rejected . Keep the spirits high and continue applying. You will find many more open positions for startups on our platform .

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If you’re a Business in need of hiring look at our offers .

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This Cover Letter Gets Startups to Call You

There is a nasty rumor going around that recruiters and hiring managers do not read cover letters. The truth is, many large companies use software to scan resumes for keywords and then forward those candidates deemed qualified to the HR team. In this case, your stunning cover letter would not help you get to the first round.

I get it, this is frustrating because job seekers spend a lot of time applying without much signal or feedback throughout the process. Which leads to LinkedIn posts like this that encourage job seekers to stop writing cover letters all together:

Find Top Jobs in Los Angeles See Tech Companies Hiring Now

But for us little guys—the companies who hire dozens instead of hundreds; the start ups looking to change the world with team members who are equal parts talented and passionate; the tribes where each new person immediately sends ripples through the culture—we read every cover letter, and make our interview decisions based on them.

Cover letters are a chance to fill in the "why" behind the resume, especially if the industry, type of company, or role you are applying for isn't consistent with previous experience . It answers the question: Why the choice to move from the Entertainment to Tech industry? Why go from a massive company to a start up? Why apply for a Marketing position when your previous role was in Sales? Answers to these questions reveal that one is being very deliberate about their career path.  The cover letter should show that you match what the company is looking for, and the company matches what you want in an employer.

The other important "why" in the cover letter is "why this company"? It is a huge bonus in the cover letter if there is any mention of geeking out on our technology, cultural tenets, or our mission. These candidates are the ones who understand, at least on a basic level, what we are building and why it is important, and are enthusiastic about it. This gives them an edge because our small start up runs on passion and thirst for knowledge—if you don't get excited about complex bleeding edge technology then you won't have nearly as much fun as everyone else.

So below are two cover letters to illustrate how a cover letter can be a total waste of everyone's time or instantly earn a call from a hiring manager. These are real cover letters submitted for the same role that I have edited to reveal no personal information.

1. The worst (and most common) cover letter

Dear Sir/Madam,

Please find my resume for the position of Executive Assistant. I am experienced in office administration, have excellent problem solving and time management skills. Additionally, I am highly organized and have been successful working in both individual and group settings.

I strongly believe that my educational experience, strong work ethic, customer service experience, communication skills and eagerness to learn will enable me to make a positive contribution to Gem.

I sincerely thank you for taking the time to review my application. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

[Candidate]

What's wrong with it?

• It could be for most any job, any company, any industry.
• It shows no personality, gives no context to experience, and does not distinguish this person as an individual.
• It is awfully long for saying nothing of substance.

How would I fix this cover letter?

When in doubt, always do short and specific instead of long and vague.

My revised version:

Hi Gem Team,

I'm an administrative professional for a VP at a large technology company looking to make a big impact in an emerging tech start up. As you can see from my resume, I have held a wide variety roles, and I see this position at Gem as an opportunity for me to embrace my passion for being an assistant while flexing many other muscles by event planning, office management, culture building, and more!

Looking forward to chatting further,

Why was this version better?

• The "why" they are applying is in the first sentence ( looking to make a bigger impact )
• It turns a potential negative ( this person's resume is all over the place with different types of roles...rejected! ) into a positive ( this person has a ton of skills and interests, perfect for a start up environment...get them on the phone! ).
• It references that the company they are applying for is a tech start up. This shows they are being deliberate about (or at least paying attention to) the companies they are applying to. This is a very low bar of expectation but many do not meet it! So many job seekers blast their resume out to dozens of companies without paying attention to where they are actually applying. Break out from the pack! Apply to fewer places and be more specific.
• It shows a touch of eagerness and entrepreneurial spirit that start ups thrive off of.
• It scrapped the formal, "Dear Sir/Madam" and "Sincerely" for a warmer, "Hi Gem Team" and "Looking forward to chatting further."
• It's shorter.

2. The best (and rarest) cover letter

Hi Madeline,

This is the second time I have applied to Gem because I am determined to become a part of your team. While my resume might come across as left-of-center, I have whittled away at it to reveal the pointed yet diverse experiences that make me uniquely qualified to be your Executive Assistant at Gem.

Currently, I assist my Executive Director (ED) as the liaison for a roster of several hundred executive-level contacts, one-fifth of whom work for healthcare institutions you may be familiar with via GemOS, such as [Company Name], [Company Name], and [Company Name]. With my partnership management acumen, I have the balance of left- and right-brain sensibilities to make a professional, personable gatekeeper and liaison for your leadership on a day-to-day basis.

Given my entrepreneurial and curious nature, I am constantly researching start-up technologies and their success stories (and failures) to improve workplace efficiency. Recently I implemented a project management software to assist the production of a statewide symposium. Ultimately, my research and organization system leveraged additional time to help my ED sell out tickets and close $115K in funding for the event ahead of schedule.

Since the last time I applied, I am even more enthusiastic to find that not only is Gem bringing an elegant technology to the fore, you have translated its immense potential into the field of healthcare data management. I am inspired by the opportunity to support Gem in this arena, as well as supply chain management, and bridge my enterprising and administrative capacities with a personal passion for wellness.

What stood out about this letter?

• They start out by showing great eagerness by announcing they have applied before. Without a cover letter, this candidate could appear that they are just constantly applying to EA roles, not taking note of which companies they are applying to. Instead, they show that they are deliberate and persistent—excellent!
• They show interest and expertise for the healthcare industry—an industry we work closely with. This suggests they have specialized knowledge and will likely find our work compelling.
• They reference improving workplace efficiency. This shows that they both take initiative to improve their workplace (right in line with our "Make it Happen" company value) and they seek out ways to learn and level up (in line with our "Seek Knowledge" value). Adding this paragraph shows that they understand the kind of person we are looking for.
• The closing paragraph reiterates specific interest in the company and the role (instead of stating something dry and generic).

The above cover letter is long, which is not essential to making a good impression, but long is good if the relevance of the information is high. Each sentence added something new to the identity of the candidate, whereas in the first example nearly every sentence was a throw away.

There is no universal truth when it comes to cover letters—it's a messy, nuanced, subjective topic. But if I could give you a heuristic to operate by it's:

• Write a cover letter if it is for a smaller company with a lower volume of hires. BUT...
• Do not write a cover letter unless you have something specific to say about yourself and/or the company.

Jobs at Gem

Los angeles startup guides.

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Start-up

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Start-Up

What most job seekers do not know is that writing a cover letter for a start-up company is a completely different ball game. Unlike established corporations, start-ups require a unique and creative approach. This blog post will walk you through the steps of writing a start-up cover letter that stands out.

Understanding Start-Ups

Start-ups are companies that are in the initial phase of business. A well-crafted cover letter targeting a start-up needs to reflect that you understand the challenges and potential growth of the industry.

What Makes Start-up Cover Letters Unique?

The mindset in a start-up company is vastly different from an established business. Therefore, a successful start-up cover letter should convey outside-the-box thinking, passion for the industry and a willingness to wear multiple hats at work.

Start with Research

As with any cover letter, research is crucial. However, in the case of a start-up, you need to dig deeper. Who are the founders? What is their mission? What challenges are they facing? What are their successes?

Write a Creative Opening

A creative introduction in your cover letter can set you aside from the pack, especially in a start-up environment.

Highlight Relevant Skills

Demonstrate what you bring to the table. With start-ups, it's not just about qualifications but a blend of skills, passion, and the right mindset.

Show Enthusiasm for the Company

Demonstrated passion for the startup's mission statement can give you a competitive edge.

Closing the Cover Letter

Your closing should include a call to action. Show eagerness to participate in the growth journey of the start-up company.

In conclusion, writing a start-up cover letter requires a unique approach. By understanding the start-up culture, showing passion, highlighting relevant skills, and demonstrating a willingness to contribute to the company’s growth, you can write a compelling letter. Remember that unlike traditional corporations, start-ups are looking for innovative, dedicated and versatile individuals who can contribute to their rapid growth.

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How to Start a Cover Letter to Impress Employers [+ 14 Examples]

Published: August 11, 2021

According to Career Builder, 40% of recruiters look for a cover letter when they're considering job applicants.

But if you had to flip through a hundred cover letters a day, and each one began, "To whom it may concern, I am applying for the digital marketing position at your company ...", how important would you rank them?

Your cover letter is an opportunity to showcase your personality, display your interest in the job, and include relevant information that otherwise wouldn't be surfaced in your application. An ideal cover letter leaves the hiring manager with a positive and memorable impression of you, something a resume alone won't always do.

To help you overcome writer's block and hook your reader right away, take a look at some sharp opening sentences you can use for inspiration.

5 Free Cover Letter Templates

Fill out this form to access your cover letters., creative cover letter opening sentence examples.

• This position has me written all over it.
• I've wanted to work in [your industry] since [this moment of inspiration].
• Although [current employee] suggested I apply for this position, I don't just want to work with my former colleague again -- I want to join all of you in transforming the industry.
• I like to think of myself as a round peg thriving in a square hole kind of world.
• Aside from the requisite industry bona-fides in my CV, I bring the following to the table:
• Last year, I generated [this much money] in revenue for my company, generated [this many leads], and almost tripled our social media ROI.
• You might not know me, but your client services team certainly does, and now I want to join the vendor that made me such a successful [type of professional].
• When I discovered [name of company] was hiring, I knew I had to apply.
• I considered submitting my latest credit card statement as proof of just how much I love online shopping, but I thought a safer approach might be writing this cover letter, describing all the reasons why I'm the person who can take [name of ecommerce company] to the next level.
• You might compete with my current employer, but why can't we be friends?
• As a [current job position] with high-level management experience in the [industry], I learned that the best way to achieve success was to [biggest lesson you've learned].
• I understand that you have been deluged with resumes since you've been listed as one of the best companies to work for. Mine is one more, but I do have experience that is hard to come by.

Read on to find out 14 ways to grab an employer's attention with an exceptional cover letter introduction.

Featured Resource: 5 Free Cover Letter Templates

Start off your cover letter (and finish it) with a bang with 5 Free Cover Letter Templates. The templates are professional and completely customizable to help you get your dream job. 

How to Start a Cover Letter

1. start with humor..

Employers are humans too, and they'll often appreciate a good joke, pun, or funny opening line as much as the next person. If done tastefully and respectfully, starting your cover letter off with a joke can be an excellent way to stand out.

Plus, a joke can still include a powerful explanation for why you're the right person for the job, without coming off as boastful. For instance, think about something you love to do or something you're really good at, and then imagine how friends or family might make a joke about it -- if you're really good at analyzing data, for example, a joke or pun related to that might be a good way to exemplify both your skills and personality.

Here's a good example of using humor to bring attention to your skills, from The Muse  (you'll notice this is one of our picks for most creative opening lines, earlier in this article):

"I considered submitting my latest credit card statement as proof of just how much I love online shopping, but I thought a safer approach might be writing this cover letter, describing all the reasons why I'm the girl who can take Stylight's business to the next level."

Why This Works

Right away, the personality displayed here grabs the reader's attention. Even better, this applicant uses humor to convey an important message to the employer -- she loves shopping, and she's well-versed in ecommerce as a consumer -- which might've otherwise not come up on her resume or phone screening.

2. Start with passion.

For an employer to know you'll stay dedicated to the role and company, they'll want to ensure you're passionate about what the job entails. Passion is more incentivizing than a paycheck.

For an employer, demonstrating how your passion matches the required skillset is a promising sign that you'd enjoy your job -- if you enjoy your job, you're more likely to stick around longer, help drive company growth, and become a dedicated member of the team.

Consider starting your cover letter templates with a few lines that showcase your passion: "I've been passionate about writing since I was ten years old. My love for writing has led me to write two personal travel blogs, get published in a local newspaper, and pursue two summer internships at publishing firms. Now, I'd love the opportunity to combine my writing skills with my interest in storytelling as a content marketer at Company A."

If you don't have extensive work experience in the industry you're trying to break into, but you've been unofficially preparing for years, let the employer know. In the above example, the candidate's resume would probably look weak, with only internships indicating professional experience. Her cover letter introduction, however, shows the employer she's been writing for audiences and advancing her natural ability for years.

3. Start with an accomplishment.

Employers like seeing numbers. It isn't enough to mention you're a "digital marketer with proven success in SEO strategies." Proven success? Okay, can we see?

It's more powerful to provide statistics. You want to show the employer you're capable of solving for long-term results. How have you contributed to your company's bottom line? For instance, did your Facebook marketing campaign grow your social media following, or has your blog content increased organic traffic?

Consider starting your cover letter with something like this: "Over the past year as digital marketing manager at Company A, I've generated $30k+ in revenue, increased organic traffic to our blog by 14%, and almost tripled our social media ROI."

Even if you don't have the work experience to report impressive numbers, you can still offer proof when opening with an accomplishment. Think about the qualitative feedback you've received from employers. For instance, how would your boss compliment you or tell you you're doing a good job? An accomplishment can be as simple as your boss sending you an appreciative email regarding your diligent meeting notes.

In this example from The Muse , the applicant provides an example of a skill for which he's been previously acknowledged: "My last boss once told me that my phone manner could probably diffuse an international hostage situation. I've always had a knack for communicating with people -- the easygoing and the difficult alike -- and I'd love to bring that skill to the office manager position at Shutterstock."

Even though the applicant doesn't offer numbers as proof of success, they do manage to highlight some proof of their past performance in the form of a former boss's praise. The candidate's candid and funny explanation -- that his last boss liked his phone manners -- is another good way to brag about accomplishments without, well, bragging.

4. Start with excitement for the company.

Employers want to know why you like their company, and they'll appreciate an explanation on why you're interested. But it's imperative your reasoning is thoughtful and considerate, and specific to the company. For instance, if you're applying for a financial position, don't write about your interest in finance; write about how your interest in finance relates to the company's goals.

You don't want to just say, "I'm excited to work at Company A because I'm passionate about finance, and I think my skills and experiences will be a good match." Sure, you've explained why you want to work in the financial industry, but you've done nothing to explain why Company A specifically suits your interests.

Instead, you'll want to mention something about the company and culture in correlation to your interest in finance. Take a look at this example from Glassdoor : "When I discovered Accounting Solutions was hiring, I knew I had to apply. I've been waiting to find a company where I feel like I can make a difference while working as an accountant. Not only are your clients awesome, but the overall mission of your company is something I believe in, too."

This candidate shows they've done their research and care about Accounting Solutions in particular. Remember, employers want to hire people who have a demonstrated interest in working at their company. They want someone who will enjoy the nature of the work, but just as importantly, they want a candidate who enjoys the work culture and the company mission as well.

5. Start with news about the company.

Mentioning company news in your introduction indicates you've done research on the company. Plus, including company news might give you the chance to incorporate your own values, as well. If the company just won an award for its innovative solutions in the computer industry, for instance, you might add how you value forward-thinking methods in technology, as well.

Here's an example of an introduction that uses a newsworthy event, from Indeed : "When I saw that Company ABC was featured in Fortune Magazine last month for its commitment to renewable energy and reducing waste in the workplace -- all while experiencing triple-digit revenue growth -- I was inspired. With my track record of reducing costs by 30%+ and promoting greener workplaces, I'm excited about the possibility of taking on the account executive role to expand your company's growth and work towards a more sustainable future."

The candidate does a good job demonstrating how Company ABC's news aligns well with the candidate's personal achievements. She shows she's done her research on the company, and also indicates she values similar environmental efforts in the workplace.

6. Start with what they don't know.

According to one seasoned hiring manager , a cover letter that begins, "I am writing to apply for [open position] at [name of company]" is grounds for nearly instant rejection. Of course you're applying for this job -- why waste your lede with something so boring and obvious?

Your cover letter should never directly state what they already know -- or restate what's already listed on your resume. Instead, start your cover letter by offering something new, expanding on what the employer already knows about you, and presenting new details about what you can bring to the company. Impress employers by telling them something about your skills or experiences they don't already know.

To offer new information not displayed on his resume, one of my colleagues at HubSpot wrote this cover letter introduction: "My resume will tell you I'm Content Marketing Certified. Your records will tell you I've interviewed for a few different HubSpot positions in the past. What neither one will tell you is that I've been working with your customer success team to build a new campaign strategy for my company -- one of your latest (and largest) clients."

The candidate wrote an introduction that captured the reader's attention and demonstrated he wasn't interested in wasting anyone's time. This is a memorable and impressive tactic. Consider writing a similar introduction, where you provide information absent from your resume, or even writing a letter of introduction instead of your typical cover letter.

7. Start with what you can bring to the table.

A hiring manager here at HubSpot told me she always looks for cover letters to tell her how the company and applicant can benefit each other.

Any employer is going to want to know why you think you can grow from the position you're applying to. An employer is more inclined to hire you if she thinks you have a genuine, intrinsic motivation to work hard in the role.

A hiring manager is also going to want to know how you'll contribute to the company's larger vision and goals. It's important for the manager to know what you want to get out of the role, but it's equally important to know how you'll help the company grow. How will the company benefit from you, over someone else?

Here's an example: "I am seeking opportunities to improve my writing ability in a forward-thinking environment while growing organic traffic and optimizing content to beat out competitors in search engines. At Company A, I believe I will find that match."

See how it works? In the example above, the candidate explained how she'd benefit from the role. She also explained what Company A could get out of the transaction -- increased organic traffic, and optimized content -- so the hiring manager is informed of the equality of the potential relationship.

8. Start with a statement that surprises them.

When applying for a role at HubSpot, one of my colleagues began her cover letter like this: "I like to think of myself as a round peg thriving in a square hole kind of world."

Doesn't that make you want to keep reading? It certainly kept me interested. Of course, you'll only want to include a bold statement if you can follow it up with some concrete supporting information. My colleague, for example, continued by writing this: "What does this mean? It means that my diverse background makes me a well-rounded candidate who is able to comprehend, develop and execute various functions in business."

While the rest of her cover letter veered on the side of professional, her opening line was casual, quirky, and surprising. Plus, you feel her personality in the line, and when an employer feels like a real person is behind the cover letter, she's going to want to keep reading.

9. Start with a lesson you've learned in your career.

A great way to start a cover letter is with a lesson you've learned in your industry from your experience.

For example, you might say something like, " As a [current job position] with high-level management experience in the [industry], I learned that the best way to achieve success was to [biggest lesson you've learned]."

This opening sentence lets a recruiter know your experience level. Not only that, but it starts off with how you can benefit the company, not how the company will benefit you.

10. Start off with intrigue.

When you're applying to larger corporate companies, you know that recruiters are getting hundreds of applicants for one entry-level position.

It's important to intrigue the hiring manager and recognize that they're looking at several applicants.

For example, you could say, " I understand that you have been deluged with resumes since you've been listed as one of the best companies to work for. Mine is one more, but I do have experience that is hard to come by."

After this, it'd be great to list examples, stats, and experience that set you apart from other candidates and will benefit the company.

Recruiters see countless resumes and cover letters every day. It's important to start your cover letter in a unique way so you can stand out amongst the crowd.

11. Start with a mutual connection. 

If an internal employee suggested you apply for a role at their company, don't be shy about highlighting that fact. Hiring Managers will want to see that you've been vetted — even informally — by someone else at the company. Recognizing the name of someone they know internally will likely persuade them to give you another look. 

To do this tactfully, start with something like this: "At the suggestion of my old colleague Jane Smith, I am submitting my resume for your consideration for the senior copywriter position. Jane's knowledge and enthusiasm for Company X further convinced me that this is a company where my communication skills, passion for travel, and desire to be challenged can be met."

Why This Works 

When the hiring manager sees a fellow employee can attest to your work ethic, it helps assuage any risk she might feel she's taking by hiring someone she doesn't know personally. Plus, it shows you've done your research and you're truly interested in the company itself — rather than sending off a slew of generic cover letters, you took the time to identify an internal connection.

12. Begin with your personal mission statement. 

Don't have a personal mission statement? You might want to take some time to create one . A good mission statement can help hiring managers understand why you're passionate about what you do — which goes a long way towards ensuring you'll work hard in your next role. 

A few examples on how you might start a cover letter with a personal mission statement look like this: "As a content creator, I believe inspiring readers through creative, persuasive copywriting is vital for helping them excel professionally."

Or: "As a leader, I believe encouraging innovation and creativity is critical for ensuring my employees can do their best work and improve the lives of our customers."

A manager can help you level up on certain key skills, but she can't teach you to love your job. By demonstrating an intrinsic motivation, you're essentially telling the hiring manager, "I know the importance of this role — so I won't slack off on it."

Editor's note: This post was originally published in May 2018 and has been updated for comprehensiveness.

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How to Start a Cover Letter - 4 Tips for the Perfect Opening

Here you are, looking at a blank document that’s supposed to be your cover letter.

You have a general idea of what your cover letter is supposed to be about, but you’re having trouble writing those first few sentences.

We get you! Whether you’re writing your resume, an article, research paper, or a cover letter, getting started is sometimes the hardest part.

Lucky for you, though, there is a very straightforward way to get started with your cover letter, and in this article, we’re going to teach you how to do that!

Read on to learn how to effectively get started with your cover letter! 

• What should your cover letter opening contain
• What to include in your contact information
• How to start a cover letter greeting
• How to write an attention-grabbing opening paragraph
• 6 Examples of how to start your cover letter

What Should Your Cover Letter Opening Contain

To successfully get started with writing your cover letter, you should include these 3 main elements:

• The header with contact information. Includes your & the recipient’s contact information.
• The greeting to the manager. This is where you address the cover letter by greeting the hiring manager, department, or company.
• An attention-grabbing opening paragraph. The opening paragraph of your cover letter is your chance to grab the recruiters’ attention and get them to read the rest of your cover letter.

Below, we’ll teach you how to do each of them in the right way.

If you’re applying for an entry-level job and wondering what’s the best way to write your cover letter, head over to our article on entry-level cover letters . 

What to Include in Your Contact Information 

As we mentioned, the first thing to add to your cover letter opening is your contact information. 

The header’s essential information include the following: 

• Full name and professional title (if applicable)
• Phone number
• Email (a professional email, that is)

In some cases, you can also add the following: 

• Social media profiles. By this, we mean profiles that are relevant to the position. This includes websites like LinkedIn , GitHub (for developers), or Medium (for writers).
• Personal website. If you have a personal website you’ve created for your industry (i.e. you’re a writer with a blog), then make sure to include the link to your website on your cover letter.

After you’ve added your information, you should add the date and continue with the recipient’s name and address. So:

• Manager’s name
• Manager’s job title
• Company’s name
• Company’s street address

Once you’ve done this, here’s what your cover letter will look like:

And just like the essential DOs, there are also some things you should NOT include in your cover letter header: 

• Unprofessional email. It’s going to be difficult for a hiring manager to take you seriously if your email address is something you coined when you were still a teenager (i.e. [email protected] ). 

How to Start a Cover Letter Greeting

After you’ve properly listed your contact information, it’s time to start writing your cover letter. 

The first thing this includes is addressing the cover letter to the hiring manager. 

Yeap, that’s right! And by greeting the hiring manager, department, or company, we don’t mean using the old-fashioned “Dear Sir/Madam,” or “To whom it may concern.”

Instead, you want to show your future employer that you’ve done your fair share of research about the job/company and that you’re not just using one cover letter template to apply for ten jobs. After all, one of the most common mistakes job seekers do (84% of them!) is not finding the hiring manager’s name and personalizing the application.

So, make sure to address the hiring manager that’s going to review your manager directly. 

Now, there are a few ways you can do that. 

The simplest - and most obvious - option is to look up the head of the department you’re applying to on LinkedIn. 

Let’s assume that you’re applying as a Communications Specialist at Novoresume. The hiring manager is probably the Head of Communications or the Chief Communications Officer. 

After a quick LinkedIn lookup, you can probably find out who that person is (that’s me!). 

And just like that, you have your hiring manager! Piece of cake!

Not a fan of LinkedIn? You can also check the company’s website and look for the “Team” or " About Us " page.

If none of these work, consider using one of the following greetings when you’re addressing the hiring manager: 

• Dear [Department] Hiring Manager,
• Dear Hiring Manager, 
• Dear [Department] Team,
• Dear Director of [Department],
• Dear [Company Name] Hiring Team

How you conclude your cover letter is just as important as how you start it. To learn how to ace yours, head over to our guide on how to end a cover letter . 

How to Write an Attention-Grabbing Opening Paragraph

The last, but the most important, part of your cover letter opening is your opening paragraph. 

You want your opening paragraph to be engaging and attention-grabbing to ensure that the hiring manager will continue reading the cover letter.

After all, recruiters receive hundreds of applications daily. Obviously, they can’t spend all their working hours reading cover letters, so, instead, they simply skim your cover letter in a handful of seconds, and if it catches their attention, they re-read it more thoroughly.

And the part of the cover letter that helps catch their attention is usually the opening paragraph! 

Compare these 2 cover letter openers and judge for yourself which one you’d rather read:

Dear Mr. Brown,

My name is Anna and I’d like to help your company exceed its sales target as a Sales Manager. My 5-year experience as a Sales Representative at XYZ Inc. has given me substantial skills in sales. During my last year working there, we beat KPIs by around 50%. I believe that my strong track record in sales makes me the perfect candidate for the position. 

Hello, my name is Mary and I am interested in working as a Sales Manager for your company. I have 6 years of experience working as a Sales Manager for Company X, so I think I’m a good fit for the position. 

While there’s nothing inherently wrong with the first example, it’s not all that imaginative. Chances are, every other applicant is going to use a similar opening statement.

The second example, on the other hand, is more customized and personal, helping the recruiter understand why Anna is a good candidate for the role.

In this section we’ll give you all the tips & tricks you need to ace your cover letter introduction:

Tip #1. Show Passion and Commitment

Showing the hiring manager that you’re passionate about the job will instantly boost your chances of getting hired. It’s not a secret that committed employees are more engaged and, therefore, more productive.

After all, research shows that engaged employees are 17% more productive than their peers.  

So, it’s only logical that the hiring manager will greatly appreciate a candidate who shows commitment and enthusiasm. 

As such, these are both qualities that you want to showcase right from the start of your cover letter. Here’s an example of how you can do that:

I have been immersed with human rights since I specialized in Conflict Resolution and started working with Amnesty International. During my 5 years of experience in the field, however, I haven’t seen any organization do the work that you’ve accomplished with human rights. Your dedication makes me want to work for your organization and put my skills to use for the work you do. 

Tip #2. Mention a Mutual Contact (if Applicable)

If someone referred you to the position, the opening paragraph of your cover letter is a great place to mention that. 

Referrals are key to securing an interview, but at the same time they’re not something you can mention on your resume, so take the opportunity to let the recruiter know at the start of your cover letter. 

The idea is that if someone the hiring manager knows recommended you for the position, your skills and qualifications immediately become more credible.

I was excited to learn about this job opportunity from John Doe, who has worked at your firm for five years. John and I worked on an architectural project together for over one year and he thought I’d be a good fit for the role at Company X. 

Tip #3. Prove You Have Researched The Company 

A generic cover letter will not give you many points in the eyes of your potential employers. 

The recruiter reading your cover letter wants to know that you’re excited to be applying for that particular company , and you’re not just applying to dozens of jobs randomly, hoping that one will stick. 

As such, it’s very important to do some research about the company you’re applying for, and in the cover letter, mention why you’re a good culture fit. 

I have always admired the work that your organization does with vulnerable communities. I have always been passionate about social justice and I think the mechanisms you have in place to empower those in need are really making an impact. I believe my previous experience as a social worker could bring value to your mission.

Tip #4. Lead With An Achievement

There’s no better way to grab attention than to lead with an achievement. It immediately gives you credibility and makes the hiring manager curious to read more about you. 

To make sure your achievements stand out, though, do this:

• Whenever possible, make your achievements as quantifiable as possible. “Improved sales by 20% in 2 months” is more impressive than “improve sales.”
• Show how your past achievement is relevant or can add value to your current position. 

As a Public Relations representative for Company XYZ, I worked with the press to improve its reputation and public image. This translated into a 40% increase in customer satisfaction and better public reception of the company’s values and identity. I am eager to yield the same results as the Head of Communications in your organization. 

Tip #5. Start With a Powerful Belief

A short and impactful belief statement that represents your work ethic and professional values is another great way to attract the recruiter’s attention. Obviously, you get bonus points if said belief statement aligns with the company’s goals and objectives. 

However, don’t just copy-paste the company’s mission statement to make a good impression. Rather, use your own words and beliefs to sound more genuine and original.

As a teacher, I believe every child should have access to quality education early on. This is the only way to ensure future generations’ equity and the best chance we have at improving our society. I admire your institution’s commitment to enabling quality education in the most remote areas of our country and I’d be honored to contribute to those efforts by becoming a teacher here. 

Tip #6. Be Direct  

Oftentimes, beating around the bush gets you nowhere. So, a great strategy to follow when you start writing your cover letter is to just be direct about the position you’re applying for and the reasons you believe make you the perfect fit for the job. 

There’s another upside to this. Recruiters receive hundreds of applications daily - sometimes, even for different positions within the same department - so it helps them to know what position you’re applying for early on, as well as what exact qualifications make you the perfect fit for the job. 

I’d like to officially apply for the marketing manager position at Company X. Over the past 7 years, I’ve worked with 6 clients, helping them drive more than $2,000,000 worth of sales. I am confident that my marketing skills and proven sales results make me a perfect match for the position. 

Match your cover letter with your resume to make a better impression on the recruiter and reinforce your personal brand !

Key Takeaways 

And that’s a wrap! 

Hopefully, you’re now more confident about how you can start your cover letter!

Now, let’s do a small recap of the most important points we covered in the article:

• Your cover letter opening should contain a header with contact information, a greeting to the hiring manager, and an attention-grabbing opening paragraph.
• Your header should include your contact information, such as your name, phone number, and professional email, the date, as well as the contact information of the recipient.
• You should try to find the hiring manager’s full name in order to greet them. If you can’t find their name or title anywhere, then you should greet them using Dear Hiring Manager , Dear [Department] Team , or something similar.
• The opening paragraph of your cover letter should grab the hiring manager’s attention and make them want to read your cover letter. Some tips to write an attention-grabbing opening paragraph include being direct, starting with a strong belief statement, or leading with a relevant achievement.

Related Readings 

• How to Write a Cover Letter in 2024
• Cover Letter Tips 
• Cover Letter Mistakes
• Do I Need a Cover Letter?

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Blog The Education Hub

https://educationhub.blog.gov.uk/2024/03/15/how-to-claim-15-hours-free-childcare-code/

How to claim 15 hours free childcare including how to get your code

We’re making the  biggest investment  by a UK government into childcare in history, doubling the amount we expect to spend over the next few years from around £4 billion to around £8 billion each year.  

• Currently, eligible working parents of 3 and 4-year-olds can access 30 hours of childcare support.  
• From  April 2024 , eligible working parents of 2-year-olds will be able to access 15 hours childcare support.  
• From  September 2024 , 15 hours childcare support will be extended to eligible working parents with a child from 9-months-old.  
• From  September 2025 , support will reach 30 hours for eligible working parents with a child from 9-months-old up to school age.  

When can I apply?  

Applications are open until 31 March for eligible working parents of 2-year-olds to receive 15 hours free childcare starting from April 2024.  

From 1 April, eligible working parents whose children will be 2 or older by the 31 August, can apply to receive 15 hours childcare starting from September 2024.   

And from 12 May, eligible working parents whose children will be aged between 9- and 23-months old on 31st August, can apply to receive 15 hours childcare starting from September 2024.  

It’s important to remember that codes need to be renewed every three months, so parents applying close to 12 May will need to renew their code prior to the offer starting in September.  

How do I apply?   

You apply online here on   Gov.uk once you have checked our  eligibility criteria .  

You’ll need to make sure you have the following information to hand before starting the application:  

• your national insurance number (or unique taxpayer reference if you are self-employed)  
• the date you started or are due to start work  
• details of any government support or benefits you receive  
• the UK birth certificate reference number (if you have one) for your child.  

You may find out if you’re eligible straight away, but it can take up to 7 days.  

Once your application has been approved, you’ll get a code to give to your childcare provider.  

Eligible parents are also able to access Tax-Free Childcare through the same application system. You can apply for Tax-Free Childcare at any time. However, you don't need to apply for Tax-Free Childcare to be eligible to apply for the 15 hours childcare scheme.   

What happens once I receive my code?  

Once you receive your code, you’ll need to take it to your childcare provider, along with your National Insurance number and your child’s date of birth.  

Your childcare provider will process the code to provide your place.  

Places will be available for September in every area of the country, but a significant minority of settings hold waiting lists of over six months. If you have a preferred nursery for September, you should reach out now to secure a place for your child ahead of receiving your code.  

Your local authority can provide support for finding a government-funded place in your area.  

What if I’m already registered for Tax Free Childcare?  

Parents must reconfirm that they are still eligible for Tax-Free Childcare every 3 months.  

Parents who are already claiming Tax-Free Childcare and need to reconfirm their eligibility between 1 April and 12 May will be automatically issued a code in the post from HMRC soon after the 12 May.   

This is to ensure every parent can give their code to their provider in good time. This code will be valid to apply for 15 hours of government-funded childcare from September.   

If I receive a code in a letter from HMRC, does this make my code on my Childcare Account invalid?  

No. Both codes will be valid.   

Do I need to wait for my reconfirmation window to add another child to my account?  

A parent who is already using the childcare service for another child can add a new child to their account at any time.  

Your reconfirmation cycle for your current Tax-Free Childcare will not affect this.  

How are you making sure there will be enough childcare places for eligible parents?  

Parents that have a preferred place for September should reach out now to their local provider to secure a physical place for their child ahead of time.  

To make sure there are enough places available, we’re investing over £400 million in 2024-25 to increase the hourly rates paid to local authorities.  

The Institute for Fiscal Studies has independently reported that the average funding rates for two-year-olds and under 2s paid by government from April 2024 are projected to be substantially higher than the market rate paid by parents last year, and we have committed to further increases to provider rates for the next two years.  

We have also committed to increasing hourly funding rates over the next two years by an estimated £500 million, to make sure providers can increase places at each phase of the rollout.    

You may also be interested in:

• Budget 2023: Everything you need to know about childcare support
• Before and after school childcare: Everything you need to know about wraparound care
• Free childcare: How we are tackling the cost of childcare

Tags: 15 hours free childcare , Applying for 15 hours free childcare , Childcare , Free childcare 2024 , Free childcare eligibility , tax-free childcare , When to apply for 15 hour free childcare

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What the National Association of Realtors' settlement means for consumers and real estate brokers

A groundbreaking $418 million settlement announced Friday by the powerful National Association of Realtors is set to usher in the most sweeping reforms the American real estate market has seen in a century. It could dramatically drive down homebuyers’ costs — and push some real estate brokers out of business.

Here’s a look at how we got here and what to expect in the months ahead.

NAR already lost a big case

For decades, the NAR has required home sale listing brokers to provide an offer of compensation to a buyer’s agent up front. That usually comes out to about 6%, split between a seller’s broker and a buyer’s agent.

But that model has come under intensifying scrutiny from critics who have likened it to a cartel . Late last year, a jury in a Kansas City federal court found the longstanding practice to be a form of collusion that artificially inflated real estate fees, awarding a massive $1. 7 8 billion judgment against NAR .

What changes now for homebuyers and sellers

If the settlement announced Friday is approved by a federal court, the standard 6% commission goes away. Sellers would no longer have to make a compensation proposal to prospective buyers and their agents. Critics have said the encouraged brokers to push their clients toward more expensive properties.

Another new rule would see homebuyers having to sign an explicit deal with a broker before they start working with one — something experts say would lead many homebuyers to forgo using brokers entirely.

The new rules would kick in within months of approval, currently expected around mid-July.

What about the next few months?

Everyone involved in the market should expect “a certain amount of uncertainty for the coming months,” said Marty Green, principal at mortgage law firm Polunsky Beitel Green.

“The industry will be in transition as everyone digests the settlements and market forces begin working,” he predicted. “We will begin to see some creative buyer’s agent arrangements that may have been harder to get traction on before.”

Home buyers and their agents will need to decide on a commission and put it in writing. Sellers, likewise, will need to work carefully with their listing agents as the new rules come into effect.

U.S. consumers might save in the long run ...

The changes could mean buyers will save on commissions, eventually bringing U.S. fees more in line with the much lower transaction costs seen in other residential property markets around the world.

Some commissions could even be cut in half, Jaret Seiberg, housing policy analyst for TD Cowen Washington Research Group, told clients in a note Friday.

The new rules “should lead to commissions falling 25% to 50%, which we view as benefiting online real estate brokers,” Seiberg wrote, but he warned it’s too early to declare “the end of local real estate agents given their local expertise and reputation in neighborhoods. It is why we do not see this following the travel agency model in which online eclipsed local offices.”

... but buyers could face more confusion

Holden Lewis, a home and mortgage expert at NerdWallet, warned of a “potential negative trade-off”: “Buyer-seller negotiations will become more complex, and buyers with plenty of cash might navigate the process more easily than buyers who don’t have a lot of savings,” he said. Seiberg flagged a similar concern in his note, saying it could particularly affect first-time buyers with limited means to pay for an agent.

Brokers and agents have come out against the settlement, saying it will make the home-buying process more byzantine for consumers and discounts the important role agents play in helping them navigate it.

“I’m a full-service real estate agent, so when I go to list my client’s house, I align their goals with my goal, and that goal is selling for the highest amount possible,” said Roy Remick, a realtor based in Northern Virginia, who said he often pays thousands of dollars of his own for services like staging homes to aid the sale process.

“This is ultimately someone saying, ‘You guys make too much money,’ which I don’t think is right for someone to dictate,” he said.

Buyers’ agents will be left “flying blind” since they won’t know how much they’ll end up making from a given home, Remick warned. “We’ll have to make a bunch of phone calls, because now we don’t know what [the commission] is because we can’t see it in the MLS. But we’ve already got an agreement with buyer how much they’ll be able to compensate us.”

Christine Romans is the senior business correspondent at NBC News.

Rob Wile is a breaking business news reporter for NBC News Digital.

This CT scan of a Stanley tumbler shows exactly where the lead is

• You don't have to worry about getting lead poisoning from Stanley cups, a startup says.
• Lumafield ran a CT scan of the internet-favorite cups  and says there's no danger.
• The Quencher tumblers have a lead pellet at the bottom, but it's sealed off from drinkers.

Stanley cup owners , rejoice: The odds of getting lead poisoning from your water bottle are vanishingly small.

That's according to images from a recent industrial CT scan of the viral internet sensation, the Stanley Quencher tumblers .

The images from Lumafield, a startup that makes X-ray CT scanners for engineers, back up what Stanley was saying all along: Yes, the cups contain lead, but users should still be protected from it.

Related stories

The images show a lead solder pellet, in red, at the bottom of the tumbler, but users shouldn't come into contact with it thanks to a stainless steel protective cover.

"The lead is entirely shielded, and its user won't be exposed to lead at all," said Jon Bruner, Lumafield's head of marketing, in a post on X.

Earlier this year, Stanley addressed the question of lead in its products, pointing out that the pellets are part of an industry-standard manufacturing process.

"Rest assured that no lead is present on the surface of any Stanley product that comes into contact with the consumer nor the contents of the product," the brand said in a post on its support page.

The only risk of contact, Stanley says, is when the cover is damaged or altered in such a way that the lead pellet becomes exposed. In those cases, Stanley says consumers should stop using the product and return it to the company under their lifetime warranty.

Lumafield has scanned all sorts of consumer goods, from AirPods to soccer cleats.

Stanley's competitors Hydroflask and Owala have pounced on the kerfuffle surrounding Stanley's statement, saying that their products don't contain any lead at all.

Future Stanley cups could be lead-free, too; a spokesperson told NBC in January that "our engineering and supply chain teams are making progress on innovative, alternative materials for use in the sealing process."

Once that happens, you can bet that Lumafield will reveal what's inside.

Watch: How bricks made from milk cartons can help typhoon victims

• Main content

Australian TV Veterans Launch Lantern Pictures to Implant Creative Showrunner System Down Under

By Patrick Frater

Patrick Frater

Asia Bureau Chief

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A trio of seasoned Australian television industry figures are launching a new production company, Lantern Pictures . They aim to produce a slate of independent TV content and to help implant the U.S. system of creative showrunners into the Australian scene.

The announcement was made on Wednesday by prominent writer and showrunner Sarah Lambert , director Jane Manning and former Foxtel media executive Andrew Lambert. They unveiled the new company at a seminar held during the ongoing Screen Forever convention in Queensland’s Gold Coast.

Sarah Lambert says that her recent experience producing the Sigourney Weaver-starring miniseries “The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart” for Amazon and Fifth Season, and her previous work in Europe and the U.S., motivated her to take a new approach.

“Looking at the scale of projects that were being offered, in terms of writing and show-running… incredible pieces that you could do as genre pieces, bigger sorts of television, really exciting things … I wanted to bring those productions back here [to Australia]. Why weren’t we doing these productions?” she tells Variety .

“It felt like this was the time to create a company which really put writer-creators and director-creators in the heart of production. It is not only about developing those projects here with our production partners, but also creating a system here where we take the writer-creator all the way through to the end of production, really honoring that authorial voice, and being really bold about the vision that we were doing.”

Manning says that the startup company can make a difference. “Sarah has been both an amazing screenwriter and also an amazing showrunner. ‘Flowers’ and ‘Lambs of God,” they involve being across casting and design, tone and the whole range of skillsets that not many people have. Sarah is the person that can really help embed and develop this model in Australia,” Manning told Variety .

“Retention of rights and buyouts by streamers are issues we’re going to have to address, like everybody else. It is a commercial negotiation. We understand the pitfalls of that scenario and we’re confident we can find a way,” he adds.

In addition to “Flowers,” Sarah Lambert previously achieved acclaim with “The Messenger” for the Australian Broadcasting Corporation and “Lambs of God” for Foxtel. She was also the creator, writer and producer of the hit series “Love Child,” which ran for four seasons on the Nine Network. Before returning to work in Australia in 2006, she worked for 12 years in New York as a partner of production company Babelfish, producing, directing and writing documentaries, children’s television and drama, running its post-production business and attending markets and financing series that were shot all over the world.

Manning is best known for the “Back to Nature” documentary series. She also won top prizes at the Berlin, Locarno and Palm Springs festivals for narrative short film “Delivery Day.”

Andrew Lambert was a career lawyer based in Sydney and New York before moving to the commercial side of the TV business. In that guise, he headed commercial operations at ABC. As head of business affairs at Foxtel, he negotiated the pay-TV group’s major content deals and the business side of its local content production.

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Dana Carvey Apologizes to Sharon Stone for ‘Offensive’ Skit on ‘SNL’

By Emily Zemler

Emily Zemler

Sharon Stone appeared on the  Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade  podcast this week, where she reflected on her 1992 appearance on Saturday Night Live . The actress hosted the late-night sketch show to promote Basic Instinct and some of the skits were themed around the actress taking her clothes off.

On the podcast, Carvey acknowledged that Stone “was such a good sport,” adding that “the comedy we did in 1992 with Sharon Stone, we would be literally arrested now.”

One sketch in particular was the “Airport Security Sketch,” in which male airport security officers made the actress removed her clothing one item at time to check if she was carrying anything dangerous. Carvey played an Indian security guard, who eventually started filming her after she took off her shirt.

“I know the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony, and I think that we were all committing misdemeanors [back then] because we didn’t think there was something wrong then,” Stone replied. “We didn’t have this sense. That was funny to me, I didn’t care. I was fine being the butt of the joke.”

She added, “Now we’re in such a weird and precious time. People have spent too much time alone. People don’t know how to be funny and intimate and any of these things with each other. Everyone is so afraid and are putting up such barriers around everything that people can’t be normal with each other anymore. It’s lost all sense of reason.”

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“I came out to do the monologue live, which is always super scary, and a bunch of people started storming the stage saying they were going to kill me during the opening monologue,” Stone remembered. “The security that’s always in there froze because they’d never seen anything like that happen. Lorne started screaming at [security], ‘What are you doing? Watching the fucking show?’ And Lorne started beating them up and pulling them back from the stage. The stage manager looked at me and said, ‘Hold for five.’ So all these people were getting beat up and handcuffed in front of me as we went live.”

“If you think the monologue is scary to begin with, try doing it as people are getting handcuffed in front of you,” Stone said, adding, “I honestly blacked out for half of the show.”

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