How do you grab an employer’s attention? Simple. You hit them with an effective cover letter headline that entices them to find out more about you. By investing your time and creativity in a great cover letter headline you will maximize your chances of being picked for an interview.
You have only a few seconds to grab an employer’s attention when you’re hoping for a job interview. So why waste words? Nab him or her with this little known secret technique.
When used effectively, a compelling headline practically guarantees that he or she will keep reading until the very last word of your cover letter.
Notice headlines around you:
Check out any newspaper (especially a tabloid), the headlines are typically designed to stir up your interest. Now reread the headline in this article. The Secret Cover Letter Headline Formula. Notice how it sparks curiosity, and grabs interest – everyone wants to know a secret… Wouldn’t you like to fire up your reader in the same way? You can, with a great headline of your own.
The first impression will last:
Now think of the results you’ll experience when your job search cover letter starts with a strong and interesting statement. The hiring manager will actually be very keen to meet you, to discover your ability to do the job, and then to hire you, maybe even on the spot.
People scan first, read later:
Remember, busy people skim through a document first and then decide whether to read later. If you want them to keep reading your cover letter, hook them with a strong headline that practically jumps off the page.
Where should you place the headline?
This may seem obvious but put it the very the top of your next job-search cover letter. It will be the first thing the employer sees, commanding his or her full attention.
How to write a winning cover letter headline:
Just above the typical greeting in your cover letter (Dear Mr. Smith), place your ‘hot’ headline. To make it even more effective, use bold-face print and center it on the page. (Two lines maximum).
Examples of efficient headlines:
“I’m really excited about the job opening for (JOB TITLE)!”
“3 Reasons I’m An Excellent Fit For (JOB TITLE).”
“Are You Still Looking To Fill The Position Of (JOB TITLE)? Here’s Why I Sincerely Believe I Might Be Just What You’re Searching For…”
With a headline like one of the above, what do you think Mr. Smith will do? Scan and trash, or read on with interest and possibly call you for an interview? Using the magic of a strong headline at the beginning of your next job search cover letter can land you the perfect interview for the perfect job.
Conclusion:
Employees who are clear and passionate communicators will be an asset to any employer. By demonstrating your headline writing skills and grabbing the attention, you have taken the first step to impressing the hiring manager.
Just like any good candidate needs to stand out from the fierce competition, any resume and cover letter must do the same. Without a punchy headline, your cover letter risks get lost in the ‘slush pile’ of the ‘same old,’ ‘same old’ correspondence, and chucked in the bin.
Further reading at How To Write Your Bio Like a Pro. Image: Shutterstock.
