When replying to a job posting, you need first to send your resume together with a cover letter. The cover letter has to express your interest for the job and provide a comprehensive description of your skills and experiences which could be relevant to the position you are applying for. This will make the hiring manager or the human resource personnel to notice your application and call you for an interview.

One of the interview tips and technique which Interview Consulting would like to share with you is how to make a good cover letter. Since the cover letter is the first thing seen by the employer, its contents should present yourself in a good light, it should ideally encourage the prospective employer to read your enclosed resume and consider you for the job interview.

As part of our interview coaching we are pleased to share these best tips in writing cover letters:

• Address your cover letter to the specific person who is responsible for the job hiring. Make sure that you have the correct name and job title of the person whom you address in your cover letter.  If you do not know the name of the person to appropriately address your cover letter, do research or call the company and ask the HR department. You should only use generic addresses like “The Personnel in Charge” as a last resort.
•  In the opening paragraph state the specific job position you are applying and how did you know about the hiring.
• The second paragraph has to show how your qualifications and experiences are tailored fit for the job and how your working with them will be advantageous to the company. Highlight your skills, achievements and qualities that will make you stand out and make the employer grant you a job interview.
• In your third paragraph indicate that you are enclosing your resume. An important interview tip is to mention your interest to meet with the employer and specify your availability for the interview.

A job interview is your best opportunity to communicate to an employer why you are perfect for the position you are applying for, which is why getting a job interview is a step closer on landing that job. But before you will be granted an interview, your cover letter and resume must capture the attention of the hiring manager first. Thus, make sure that your cover letter is brief but highlights your skills and experiences so you will have a great chance of getting a job interview.