How to Start a Cover Letter UK: Complete Guide with Examples [2025]

TL;DR: How to Start a Cover Letter UK

Starting a cover letter in the UK requires following British conventions that differ from American practices. Begin with your contact details at the top right, followed by the date and employer details on the left. Use formal salutations like Dear Mr/Mrs/Ms [Surname] or Dear Hiring Manager if the name is unknown. Your opening paragraph should immediately state the position you are applying for, where you saw the advertisement, and a compelling hook that demonstrates your value. UK employers expect formal yet personable language, proper British spelling (organisation, colour, favour), and adherence to traditional business letter formatting.

Why UK Cover Letters Require a Different Approach

If you are applying for jobs in the United Kingdom, understanding how to start a cover letter properly is essential for making the right first impression. British employers have specific expectations about cover letter format, tone, and structure that differ significantly from other countries.

Learning how to introduce yourself in a cover letter follows slightly different conventions in the UK job market. The British approach tends to be more formal in structure whilst remaining warm and personable in tone - a balance that can be challenging for international applicants to master.

Understanding what a cover letter is for an application in the UK context helps clarify why these documents remain so important. Despite the rise of online applications and LinkedIn, British employers consistently value well-crafted cover letters as evidence of communication skills and genuine interest.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about starting a cover letter for UK employers, from proper formatting and salutations to crafting opening paragraphs that capture attention and demonstrate your suitability for the role.

UK Cover Letter Conventions: What Makes Them Different

Before diving into how to start your cover letter, it is important to understand the key differences between UK cover letters and those used in other English-speaking countries.

Key Differences from American Cover Letters

These differences may seem minor, but UK recruiters notice when applicants use American conventions. Understanding how to layout a cover letter correctly for the UK market demonstrates attention to detail and cultural awareness - qualities employers value highly.

The Importance of Formality in UK Business Culture

British business culture maintains certain formal conventions that have evolved over centuries. While workplaces have become more casual in many respects, written communication - particularly in job applications - tends to retain traditional elements.

British employers appreciate cover letters that strike the right balance between professionalism and personality. Too informal and you risk appearing unprofessional; too stiff and you may come across as impersonal. - Margaret Williams, Senior Recruiter at a London-based firm

This formality extends to how you address recipients, structure your paragraphs, and sign off. Getting these elements right from the start sets the tone for a successful application.

How to Format the Header of a UK Cover Letter

The header of your UK cover letter establishes the professional tone for everything that follows. Understanding how to head a cover letter correctly is essential for making a strong first impression.

Your Contact Details

In UK cover letters, your contact information traditionally appears at the top right of the page. Include:

• Full name: Your first name and surname

• Address: Full postal address including postcode

• Phone number: Mobile number with UK format (+44 or 07xxx)

• Email address: Professional email address

• LinkedIn profile: Optional but increasingly expected

Some modern UK cover letters place contact details in a header similar to a CV, but the traditional right-aligned format remains widely accepted and preferred by more conservative employers.

The Date

Place the date below your contact details, aligned to the right. Use the British date format:

• Correct: 15 January 2025

• Also acceptable: 15th January 2025

• Avoid: January 15, 2025 (American format)

• Avoid: 15/01/2025 (too informal for cover letters)

Employer Details

Below the date, on the left side of the page, include the recipient's details:

• Recipient name and title: Mr John Smith, Recruitment Manager

• Company name: ABC Company Ltd

• Company address: Full address including postcode

If you do not know the recipient's name, research thoroughly before defaulting to a generic greeting. Learning how to address someone in a cover letter when information is limited can significantly impact your application's success.

UK Cover Letter Salutations: Getting the Greeting Right

The salutation sets the tone for your entire cover letter. UK conventions have specific rules about how to address recipients that differ from other countries.

When You Know the Recipient's Name

If you have identified the hiring manager or recruiter by name, use the appropriate title and surname:

• Dear Mr Smith (for men - note no full stop after Mr in UK English)

• Dear Mrs Smith (for married women who use Mrs)

• Dear Ms Smith (for women when marital status is unknown or they prefer Ms)

• Dear Miss Smith (less common today; use Ms unless specifically requested)

• Dear Dr Smith (for those with doctoral titles)

Understanding how to address a cover letter with a name properly shows respect and professionalism. Never use first names in the salutation unless you have an established relationship with the recipient.

When You Do Not Know the Recipient's Name

Despite your best research efforts, sometimes you cannot identify the appropriate person. In these cases:

• Dear Hiring Manager - widely accepted and professional

• Dear Recruitment Team - appropriate for larger organisations

• Dear Sir or Madam - traditional but increasingly considered outdated

• Dear [Department] Manager - e.g., Dear Marketing Manager

Explore strategies for writing a cover letter when you do not know the hiring manager to maximise your chances of making a connection even without a specific name.

I always recommend candidates spend time researching to find the right person to address. It shows initiative and genuine interest in the role. A well-addressed letter immediately stands out from generic applications. - David Chen, HR Director

The Yours Sincerely vs Yours Faithfully Rule

UK cover letters follow a strict convention regarding how you sign off, which depends on your salutation:

This convention is deeply ingrained in British business culture. Using Yours faithfully when you have addressed someone by name (or vice versa) immediately marks you as unfamiliar with UK conventions.

Crafting the Perfect Opening Paragraph for UK Employers

Your opening paragraph is crucial - it determines whether the reader continues or moves on to the next application. UK employers appreciate openings that are direct, relevant, and demonstrate genuine interest.

Essential Elements of a UK Opening Paragraph

A strong opening paragraph for UK employers should include:

1. The specific position: State exactly which role you are applying for

2. Where you found the vacancy: Reference the job board, newspaper, or source

3. A compelling hook: One sentence that captures why you are the right candidate

4. Enthusiasm: Genuine interest in the company or role

Learning what to write in a cover letter opening helps you craft paragraphs that immediately engage UK hiring managers whilst maintaining appropriate formality.

Opening Paragraph Examples for UK Applications

Example 1 - Graduate Position:

I am writing to apply for the Graduate Marketing Assistant position advertised on the Guardian Jobs website. As a recent First Class Honours graduate in Marketing from the University of Manchester, with internship experience at a leading FTSE 100 company, I am eager to contribute my analytical skills and creative thinking to your award-winning marketing team.

Example 2 - Experienced Professional:

I am delighted to apply for the Senior Project Manager role at [Company Name], as advertised on LinkedIn. With over eight years of experience delivering complex IT projects for NHS trusts and local authorities, and a track record of completing projects under budget and ahead of schedule, I am confident I can bring immediate value to your expanding team.

Example 3 - Career Change:

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Customer Success Manager position advertised on your company website. After a successful decade in secondary education, during which I consistently improved student outcomes and built lasting relationships with parents and stakeholders, I am excited to transfer my communication and problem-solving skills to the technology sector.

What UK Employers Want to See in Your Opening

Research from UK recruitment firms reveals what hiring managers prioritise in cover letter openings:

Common Mistakes When Starting UK Cover Letters

Understanding what to avoid is just as important as knowing what to include. These mistakes can immediately undermine your application.

Formatting Errors

• Using American spelling: Always use British English (organisation, not organization)

• Wrong date format: Use DD Month YYYY, not Month DD, YYYY

• Incorrect salutation punctuation: Dear Mr Smith, not Dear Mr. Smith

• Missing postcode: UK addresses should always include the postcode

• Wrong paper size: Use A4 (210 x 297mm), not US Letter size

Review formatting guidelines for developing a cover letter to ensure your document meets professional UK standards.

Content Mistakes

• Starting with I: Whilst acceptable, try varying your opening structure

• Generic openings: I am writing to apply for any suitable position shows lack of focus

• Excessive enthusiasm: British culture favours understatement over exuberance

• Mentioning salary first: Wait for the employer to raise compensation discussions

• Criticising current employer: Always remain professional and positive

• Using American terminology: Resume should be CV in UK applications

Tone Mistakes

British cover letters require a careful balance of confidence and humility. Avoid:

• Overconfidence: I am the perfect candidate sounds presumptuous

• Excessive modesty: Underselling your achievements is equally problematic

• Informal language: Avoid contractions in formal cover letters (use I am not I m)

• Cliches: I think outside the box and similar phrases lack impact

• Desperation: I really need this job undermines your professional image

Starting Cover Letters for Different UK Industries

Different sectors in the UK have varying expectations for cover letter openings. Tailoring your approach to your target industry demonstrates understanding of sector norms.

Finance and Professional Services

The City and professional services firms expect highly formal cover letters:

• Use traditional formatting: Conservative layout with classic fonts

• Reference specific qualifications: ACA, ACCA, CFA designations prominently

• Demonstrate commercial awareness: Reference relevant market knowledge

• Be precise with numbers: Quantify achievements where possible

Creative Industries

Media, advertising, and creative sectors allow more flexibility:

• Show personality: Your opening can be more creative and engaging

• Reference portfolio work: Mention specific projects or campaigns

• Demonstrate cultural awareness: Show you understand current trends

• Balance creativity with professionalism: Innovative but still appropriate

Public Sector and NHS

Government and healthcare applications require specific approaches:

• Reference the person specification: Explicitly address essential criteria

• Use competency language: Align with civil service competency frameworks

• Demonstrate values alignment: Show commitment to public service

• Follow application instructions precisely: Public sector applications often have strict requirements

For healthcare specifically, understanding how to write a cover letter for nursing and other clinical roles requires knowledge of NHS values and regulatory frameworks.

Technology and Startups

Tech companies often prefer less formal approaches:

• Focus on skills and impact: Technical abilities and project outcomes

• Show cultural fit: Demonstrate understanding of startup culture

• Be concise: Tech hiring managers appreciate brevity

• Include relevant links: GitHub profiles, portfolios, or project demonstrations

Researching UK Companies Before Writing Your Opening

Thorough research enables you to craft personalised openings that resonate with UK employers. Generic cover letters rarely succeed in the competitive British job market.

Where to Research UK Companies

• Companies House: Free access to company filings and accounts

• Company website: About page, news section, annual reports

• LinkedIn: Company page, employee profiles, recent updates

• Glassdoor UK: Employee reviews and interview insights

• Industry publications: Sector-specific news and analysis

• The Financial Times: Business news and company profiles

What to Look For

When researching, identify information you can reference in your opening:

• Recent company news: Awards, expansions, new products

• Company values: Mission statements and cultural priorities

• Industry position: Market leadership, competitive advantages

• Challenges and opportunities: How you might contribute to solutions

• Key personnel: Who might be reading your application

Understanding how to make a cover letter stand out often comes down to demonstrating genuine knowledge of the organisation you are applying to.

Digital Considerations for UK Cover Letters

While traditional formatting remains important, modern UK job applications often involve digital submission. Understanding these considerations helps ensure your cover letter performs well across all formats.

Email Applications

When submitting via email, consider:

• Subject line: Clear reference to the position (Application: Marketing Manager - [Your Name])

• Email body: Brief introduction with cover letter attached

• File format: PDF preferred to preserve formatting

• File naming: FirstName_Surname_CoverLetter.pdf

Learn more about how to email a resume and cover letter to ensure your digital applications make the right impression.

Applicant Tracking Systems

Many UK employers use ATS software to screen applications. To ensure your cover letter opening is captured correctly:

• Use standard fonts: Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman

• Avoid tables and graphics: These may not parse correctly

• Include keywords: Mirror language from the job description

• Keep formatting simple: Clear paragraphs without complex layouts

Choosing what font to use for a cover letter that is both professional and ATS-friendly ensures your application is readable by both humans and software.

LinkedIn Applications

For LinkedIn Easy Apply and similar features:

• Attach a cover letter when possible: Even if marked optional

• Use the notes field: Include a brief personalised message

• Ensure profile alignment: Your LinkedIn should match your CV and cover letter

Frequently Asked Questions About Starting UK Cover Letters

Should I use Dear Sir or Madam in a UK cover letter?

Dear Sir or Madam is technically correct but increasingly considered outdated in the UK. Modern alternatives like Dear Hiring Manager are now widely preferred. However, for very traditional organisations or senior positions, Dear Sir or Madam remains acceptable. The key is researching to find a specific name whenever possible, as personalised salutations always make stronger impressions.

How do I address a cover letter to a woman in the UK when I do not know her marital status?

Use Ms as the default title for women in UK business correspondence when you are unsure of their preference. Ms is neutral regarding marital status and is widely accepted as the professional standard. Only use Mrs if you know the recipient specifically uses this title. Miss is rarely used in business contexts today. Understanding how to address hiring managers in cover letters helps navigate these situations professionally.

Is it acceptable to use contractions in a UK cover letter?

Traditional UK business writing avoids contractions in formal correspondence. Write I am rather than I m, do not rather than don t, and I have rather than I ve. This maintains the formal tone expected in British cover letters. However, some modern industries (particularly creative and tech sectors) may accept a slightly more relaxed approach.

How long should the opening paragraph of a UK cover letter be?

Your opening paragraph should be 3-4 sentences, roughly 50-75 words. This is enough to identify the position, state where you found it, and provide one compelling reason why you are a strong candidate. UK employers appreciate conciseness - detailed qualifications belong in subsequent paragraphs. Review how many paragraphs a cover letter should have for comprehensive structure guidance.

Should I mention where I saw the job advertised in UK applications?

Yes, this is standard practice in UK cover letters. Mention the specific source: the company website, LinkedIn, Indeed, a newspaper, or if someone referred you. This helps employers track their recruitment channels and shows you are responding to a specific vacancy rather than sending speculative applications.

How do I start a cover letter for a graduate scheme in the UK?

Graduate scheme cover letters should open by stating the specific programme you are applying for, your university and degree classification (or predicted grade), and one standout achievement or relevant experience. UK graduate recruiters receive thousands of applications, so your opening must immediately establish your academic credentials whilst hinting at practical experience or unique qualities.

Is it appropriate to mention salary expectations in a UK cover letter opening?

No, never mention salary in your opening paragraph or anywhere in a UK cover letter unless specifically requested in the job advertisement. British business culture considers salary discussions premature at the application stage. Wait for the employer to raise compensation during interviews or when making an offer.

How should I start a cover letter when making a speculative application in the UK?

For speculative applications, your opening must immediately explain why you are contacting this specific company. Reference recent company news, a specific department you are interested in, or industry developments that make this organisation attractive. Make clear you are making an unsolicited application whilst demonstrating genuine knowledge of and interest in the company.

What is the difference between a covering letter and a cover letter in the UK?

In the UK, covering letter and cover letter are used interchangeably and mean exactly the same thing. Covering letter is perhaps slightly more traditional British English, whilst cover letter reflects American influence. Both are correct and widely understood. Understanding what does cover letter mean provides full context for this essential application document.

Should I research company values and mention them in my UK cover letter opening?

Mentioning company values can strengthen your opening if done naturally and sincerely. Reference values that genuinely resonate with you and explain briefly why. However, avoid simply listing values without context - this appears superficial. Demonstrate understanding rather than recitation.

How do I start a cover letter for an internal position at a UK company?

Internal cover letters should acknowledge your current role whilst expressing interest in the new position. Open by stating your current position, department, and length of service, then explain why the new role interests you. Reference specific projects or achievements that demonstrate your readiness for the new position.

Is the UK cover letter format different for academic positions?

Academic cover letters in the UK follow slightly different conventions. They tend to be longer (1-2 pages), open with your research interests and current academic position, and reference the specific academic department. Mention relevant publications or research projects early. Academic applications also often require separate supporting statements.

How do I address a cover letter to multiple recipients in the UK?

If your cover letter will be read by multiple people, use Dear Hiring Committee or Dear Selection Panel. For small panels where you know the names, you might use Dear Mr Smith and Ms Jones. When writing to a department generally, Dear [Department Name] Team is acceptable.

Should I use British or American spelling for international UK companies?

Always use British spelling when applying to UK-based positions, even for international companies. Your cover letter is for a UK role, and British spelling demonstrates attention to local conventions. American spelling immediately marks your application as potentially non-UK sourced, which may raise questions about your right to work.

Expert Insights on UK Cover Letter Openings

Understanding what UK recruiters and hiring managers prioritise helps you craft openings that resonate with British employers.

The opening line tells me immediately whether this is a tailored application or a mass-send. When candidates reference specific aspects of our company or the role, I know they have invested time in their application. Generic openings go to the bottom of the pile. - Sarah Thompson, Head of Recruitment, London

British employers value understatement. I am far more impressed by confident but measured claims backed by evidence than by grandiose statements. Show me what you have done rather than telling me how brilliant you are. - James Wilson, Senior HR Manager

Spelling mistakes in the opening paragraph are fatal. If a candidate cannot be bothered to proofread their cover letter, why would I trust them with important work? And using American spelling for a UK role suggests lack of attention to detail. - Emma Richardson, Recruitment Consultant

UK Recruitment Statistics That Should Shape Your Cover Letter Opening

Understanding how UK employers process applications helps you optimise your cover letter opening for maximum impact.

These statistics underscore the importance of getting your opening right. With recruiters spending an average of just 30 seconds on initial review, your opening paragraph must immediately establish relevance and quality.

UK Cover Letter Opening Templates

Use these templates as starting points, adapting them to your specific situation and the role you are applying for.

Template 1: Standard Application

I am writing to apply for the [Position Title] role advertised on [Source] on [Date]. With [X years] of experience in [relevant field] and a proven track record of [key achievement], I am confident I can make an immediate contribution to [Company Name].

Template 2: Referral

I am applying for the [Position Title] position at [Company Name], having been encouraged to do so by [Referrer Name], who is [their relationship to company]. Having heard about [Company Name] s innovative approach to [relevant area] and with my background in [relevant experience], I am eager to explore how I might contribute to your team.

Template 3: Career Changer

I am writing to express my strong interest in the [Position Title] role advertised on [Source]. Whilst my background is in [current field], my experience of [transferable skill] and passion for [target industry] make me a compelling candidate for this position. Review guidance on writing cover letters for career change for more detailed advice.

Template 4: Graduate

As a recent graduate from [University] with a [Degree Class] in [Subject], I am excited to apply for the [Position/Graduate Scheme] at [Company Name]. My academic achievements, combined with [relevant experience or project], have prepared me to contribute effectively to your team from day one.

Final Tips for Starting Your UK Cover Letter

Before you begin writing, keep these essential points in mind:

Preparation Checklist

• Research thoroughly: Know the company, role, and if possible, the recipient

• Match the tone: Adapt formality to the industry and organisation

• Check conventions: Use British spelling, date formats, and salutations

• Be specific: Reference the exact position and where you found it

• Lead with value: Your opening should give the reader a reason to continue

Quality Assurance

• Proofread multiple times: Read aloud to catch errors

• Check spelling: Set spell-checker to British English

• Verify names: Double-check spelling of recipient and company names

• Review formatting: Ensure consistent alignment and spacing

• Get feedback: Have someone else review before sending

Understanding how to write a professional cover letter comprehensively ensures your entire application meets UK employer expectations, not just the opening.

Conclusion: Making Your UK Cover Letter Opening Count

Starting a cover letter for UK employers requires attention to specific conventions that distinguish British business communication. From proper formatting and salutations to crafting compelling opening paragraphs, every element contributes to the impression you make.

Remember that UK employers value formality balanced with personality, precision in language and detail, and evidence of genuine interest in their specific organisation. A strong opening sets the tone for everything that follows.

Whether you are a graduate entering the job market, an experienced professional seeking new opportunities, or an international candidate adapting to UK conventions, mastering the cover letter opening is essential for success in the British job market.

Take time to research, personalise, and proofread. The effort you invest in your cover letter opening demonstrates the attention to quality you will bring to the role itself. Learning how to write a perfect cover letter is an investment that pays dividends throughout your career.

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