How to Reference a Past Conversation in Your Cover Letter

Referrals and connections matter in your job search. Getting to the next step in the hiring process often means including these conversations and relationships in your cover letter.

It can be tricky to figure out how to reference a past conversation in your cover letter - after all, you don't want to come across as presumptuous or overly familiar. But if you've already spoken with someone about the job you're applying for, it's definitely worth mentioning that conversation in your cover letter. Here's how to do it the right way.

When You've Spoken with the Hiring Manager

If you've spoken with the hiring manager (or anyone else at the company) about the job you're applying for, the best way to reference that conversation in your cover letter is to mention it in the opening paragraph. For example:

"I was very pleased to speak with you last week about the open Marketing Manager position at XYZ Company. After hearing more about the role and the team, I am confident that I would be a valuable asset to the organization."

Then, throughout the rest of your cover letter, emphasize why you're the best candidate for the job based on what you learned during that conversation. What key qualities or qualifications did they mention that you have? What kind of work environment are they looking for? Make sure to address those points in your cover letter.

When You Spoke with Someone Else

If you spoke with someone else at the company (perhaps a friend or acquaintance who works there), it's still worth mentioning that conversation in your cover letter. In this case, you'll want to mention it in the second paragraph, after your introduction. For example:

"A family friend of mine who works at XYZ Company suggested that I reach out about the open Marketing Manager position. After learning more about the role and speaking with her about her experience at XYZ Company, I am confident that I would be a valuable asset to the organization."

As before, throughout the rest of your cover letter, emphasize why you're the best candidate for the job based on what you learned during that conversation. What key qualities or qualifications did they mention that you have? What kind of work environment are they looking for? Make sure to address those points in your cover letter.

In short, if you've already spoken with someone at the company about the job you're applying for - whether it's the hiring manager or someone else - it's definitely worth mentioning that conversation in your cover letter. The key is to do it in a way that doesn't come across as presumptuous or overly familiar. Mentioning it in either the first or second paragraph is usually best, depending on who you spoke with, and then make sure to address key points from that conversation throughout the rest of your cover letter.

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