Got your attention? Great. That was my intention. Who wouldn't want to read on when the title promises a 'killer secret.'

If I hadn't nabbed you in the first three seconds, however, I'd have lost you. People read and decide just like that. A job interviewer does the same thing. Read and toss.

Read and toss. But that doesn't have to happen to your cover letter. You can grab and keep his or her attention with a smashing title or headline. This technique is one of the best-kept secrets in the career industry. Most job-hunters focus on their credentials, instead of focusing on the hiring manager they want to meet in person.

Make him or her read your complete cover letter from start to finish without blinking.

How does this little secret separate your cover letter from all the others? Great question! The answer? Most people don't know about it, so they can't use it. But now you know, so by putting a powerful headline at the top of your cover letter, it will rise to the top of the pile on the interviewer's desk. In fact, he or she may stop right there, and ignore the other letters. It can lead to the appointment you're after and the job you want.

What happens if you skip it? Your cover letter might hit the trash can faster than you'd hear these dreadful words, "thanks, but no thanks." You can avoid this disaster by creating a hot headline that will assure your cover letter the attention it deserves. If you're trying to land a job interview, what could be more important than pinning the reader to your every word? He or she will want to shake your hand, discuss the job opening, and possibly make it yours. Anyone with your creativity will be a 'keeper.'

Convinced? I hope so. Here's what to do. Just above the greeting in your cover letter (Dear Mrs. Smith), place your 'killer' headline in bold-face print and center it on the page. (Two lines maximum).

Here are THREE examples of excellent cover letter headlines:

THE reason why I think I'm the right candidate for the job opening of [insert job opening title here] at [company name].

Why I believe I'm an excellent match for the position of [insert job opening title here] at [company name].

I would love the opportunity to be interviewed for the position of [insert job opening title here] at [company name].

With a headline like one of the above, what do you think the hiring manager will do? He or she will read, decide, and call you for an appointment. Exercise the 'muscle' of a strong headline at the beginning of your next job-search cover letter and watch your calendar fill up with interviews for the job that is just right for you.