Content of a Cover Letter- First Paragraph

A cover letter usually includes a minimum of three paragraphs. Each paragraph has a different goal.

Cover letters, as with all formal correspondence, should be headed with contact information. Begin with your mailing address (do not include your name). Next place the date of your correspondence. Follow this with the name, title, company and address of the contact to which you are sending the letter. End with the salutation. It is important to address your cover letter to the specific individual with hiring authority for the position sought. A little research may be necessary to obtain this name but is worth the trouble. If necessary, call the company to get this information. Should you be unable to obtain a contact name, we recommend that you use the salutation "Greetings" as opposed to "To Whom it may Concern."