Pre Interview Letter

When you apply for a job, you will probably send in a resume and a cover letter. These documents will function as your first impression on the hiring manager. Naturally, these pieces of correspondence should be impeccable and cast you in a professional light. You want to make sure you align yourself with what the company is looking for, so it is probably helpful to do some research on the organization before you read over your final draft.

If you have the recommendation of an influential third party within the company, you can send a pre interview letter. It is very similar to the standard cover letter. It lets your prospective employer know that you are very interested in the company and you would like to arrange an interview. This message should be brief and professional. However, it is your choice to make it either specific to the position or more general in nature. The letter may be a smart move for you as a prospective candidate.

The Format of a Pre Interview Letter

The purpose of the pre interview letter is to get the hiring manager’s attention. In the message, you should show your connection to the enterprise. Because this letter is not usually requested, you must pay careful attention to the way you word it.

• First section or paragraph: Mention your interest in the company and give a brief synopsis of your most marketable qualities.
• Second section or paragraph: At this point, you should mention any direct connections you have with the business. This can include past internships or third party affiliations.
• Third section or paragraph: Talk about your career goals and reiterate you desire to work with the enterprise. Ask to schedule an interview at the hiring manager’s earliest convenience. Do not be overly aggressive or subtle.
• Fourth section or paragraph: Give your contact information. If possible include two forms of contact such as a phhoone number and email address. Thank the reader for his or her time and mention that your resume is attached.For your pre interview letter, follow this type of flow to ensure you inquire about an interview politely and professionally.
  

  Sample of a Pre Interview Letter

  Below is a sample of a pre interview letter. Notice that it is brief and direct. Remember, you are sending an extra document so you don’t want to take up too much of the hiring manager’s time. Make your point and inquire about the interview.

  Mr. Mallory Pineda
  123 Fake Street
  City, State Zip Code
  June 12, 2011

  Ms. Keyla Gallegos
  Human Resources Manager
  Company Name
  123 Fake Street
  City, State Zip Code

  Dear Ms. Keyla,

  At a recent recruiting seminar run through Company Name’s Human Resources Department, I spoke with your representative Brady Kline about your company’s vacancies. I am a recent graduate of Maine University with a degree in Marketing and Communications. I maintained a 4.0 GPA while in school and received honors distinctions.

  I am very familiar with your company and its success in the marketing industry. I worked as an intern on your 2009 animal shelter campaign. I operated under Mr. Jameson Gould in the photo department. I tremendously enjoyed the experience and learned how to hone my marketing talents.

  Mr. Johnson recommended I get in touch with OPL again after graduation. Remembering this encouragement and the information I learned at your recruiting seminar, I believe a have the skills to positively contribute to your marketing team and if possible, I would like to arrange an interview at your earliest convenience.

  I have attached my resume and you can reach me by phone at 000-000-0000 or email me at email@email.com . I would be happy to come down to the office at your request. Thank you for your time and consideration.

  Sincerely,
  Mallory Pineda

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