job application letter of interest example

How To Write A Letter Of Interest (Sample Templates Included)

Mike Simpson 0 Comments

By Mike Simpson

Updated 5/9/2022

We’ve all been there… You’ve combed all of the job boards in search of the perfect job but, alas, haven’t been able to find anything that’s a great fit. Fortunately, there’s still one more lifeline you have at your disposal, and if used properly, it can end up being one of the most rewarding things you do for your career.

So what is this secret weapon I speak of? A letter of interest, of course!

With a letter of interest, you can connect with more opportunities. Here’s how.

What Is a Letter of Interest?

A letter of interest is a letter you send to your target company, letting them know that you’re interested in working with them. It’s also a way to see if there are any potential job opportunities that match up with your skillset that aren’t openly advertised, allowing you to tap into the hidden job market . Since over 80 percent of jobs go unadvertised, that’s a big deal.

Generally speaking, a letter of interest can be sent at any time regardless of whether a company is actively hiring, as it isn’t sent in response to a specific job opening. Rather, it’s a way of introducing yourself to a company you’re interested in and seeing about the possibility of employment with them.

Letters of interest are sometimes also called letters of inquiry for just this reason. You’re inquiring if they might have a position for you. This is the part of the equation that can be very rewarding. Rather than applying to jobs that aren’t a stellar match, you get to handpick the companies that you contact. Pretty awesome, right? We think so.

Letter of Interest vs. Cover Letter

In many ways, a letter of interest is like a cover letter. However, when it comes to a letter of interest vs. cover letter, there are differences, too.

Generally speaking, cover letters typically target specific, open jobs. With a letter of interest, you’re reaching out even though there isn’t an advertised vacancy.

Since that’s the case, cover letters are more targeted. They speak to a specific position, referencing details from the job ad. Letters of interest are a touch more general, highlighting your strengths in a field and how you could benefit the company in a broad sense without connecting it to a particular role.

How To Write a Letter of Interest

Much like any correspondence you send any employer, you have to make sure that a letter of interest for a job is well crafted and appropriate. You’re introducing yourself to a potential employer, so you want to put your best foot forward.

A poorly written letter of inquiry can potentially make any possibility of working at your dream job with your target company a solid “NO” in the “Do you like me?” boxes. That means you need to ensure you take the time to do it right.

If you do it correctly, a letter of interest is a great way to demonstrate your ability to market yourself and highlight your best qualifications. Plus, it can lead to real opportunities.

Tailoring Your Letter of Interest

As you’ve no doubt seen in our other blog posts, we’re very big on tailoring. Your letter of interest is another opportunity (actually, the first opportunity!) for you to find out exactly what the company is looking for and present yourself as that person.

When applying for a specific position, you have the benefit of using the job description to comb through in search of the qualities that the company puts a lot of value in. But since this is a letter of interest, you are traditionally not applying to a specific position, so you need to be a little more creative. Since that’s the case, you need to do some hardcore research, taking the time to learn about the specific type of people the company likes to hire.

Researching a Company Through Their Online Presence

There is a virtual treasure trove of information available about a company when you peruse its various web properties. Since you’re looking to learn more about the people who get hired to work there, it’s wise to spend time digging into each web property in search of clues.

Quite often, there are “day in the life” videos featuring employee interviews that are incredibly useful. You can also go to the employee list on the company’s LinkedIn page and go through the profiles to see what experience and skills they have.

Putting the “Tailoring Method” To Work

Once you have figured out the types of people that your company hires, you want to do your best to emulate them in your letter of interest. Choose a few skills and abilities that you want to highlight that align with what your research revealed about the employees. Then, start thinking up a quick supporting statement for each one that you use. After all, if you can’t back it up, there is no point in even mentioning it.

Once you have done the research and have uncovered the qualities that you want to showcase, you are ready to begin writing your letter of interest.

Best Letter of Interest Format

Half of the battle is making sure that you nail your letter of interest format. After all, you won’t exactly be making the best first impression if your letter is a convoluted mess that is hard to read and makes no sense.

Here is the basic format for you to follow, which you can see in the three examples we use below:

Your Contact Info

No surprises here. Name, address, telephone number, email, and your website. If you’re not comfortable providing your address or any other information, don’t worry about it. Just make sure they can get in touch with you!

Use a traditional format for the date, writing out the month, followed by the day, and ending with the year.

Company Contact Info

Please don’t start the letter with “to whom it may concern.” Do the research and find a specific person to address the letter to. A good place to start would be a hiring manager, another person in HR, or even better, the manager or director of the department you envision yourself working in.

Opening Paragraph

Introduce yourself and your intentions.

Qualification/Experience Paragraph

Attack this paragraph with two purposes in mind:

• Showing how you add value
• Demonstrating you have the qualities they value

This is your time to shine. Keep it brief and succinct, picking two to three qualities and supporting them with facts.

Closing Paragraph

Thank them for their time and offer your availability for an “informational interview” at their earliest convenience.

What’s an informational interview? It’s both an opportunity for you to learn more about the company and the various positions within the company AND a great way for you to meet the right people in the organization you are interested in.

More importantly, it’s an opportunity for you to let your award-winning personality shine, and if executed properly, it can help you land a job at the company of your dreams!

Stick with “regards” or just “sincerely,” add your name, and you’ll be good to go.

Common Mistakes

Many people fall into the same traps and make some of these classic letter of interest mistakes. Do your best to avoid these if you want to get your foot in the door!

1. You don’t send a letter of interest at all

Too often, people find a company they’d like to work for and just blindly send in a resume with nothing else attached. Sure, it might be a super impressive resume, but if you don’t include a letter of interest discussing why you’re sending it in and who you are, you might as well just be throwing those resumes away.

On the flip side…DO NOT FORGET TO INCLUDE YOUR RESUME!

2. Sending your letter of interest out with a generic heading

As mentioned above, you need to take the time to do a little digging and find out to who you should address your letter. Sending out a generic “Dear HR Director” or “To Whom It May Concern” isn’t going to win you any brownie points.

3. Not saying what you can do for them, but what they can do for you

Regardless of why you’re interested, remember, it’s about what you can do for them, not what they can do for you! Tell them what you can do to help them achieve their goals.

4. Not tailoring your letter

If you’re going to show initiative by writing a letter of inquiry, make sure that initiative extends to your research as well! Supercharge your letter by highlighting qualities that align with the company values, increasing your odds of success.

5. Being boring

You’re shooting for your target company and your dream job, so don’t simply make a list of all of your skills and abilities. Instead, make sure to dazzle them with what you bring to the table, adding something extra to generate interest.

6. Being too long

Your goal is to catch their attention and leave them wanting more…which means short, sweet, and to the point. Keep your letter under a page.

7. Being sloppy

There is no excuse for typos or sloppy writing. You’re trying to get an informational (or even a full-on) interview, so get these basics right. Check. Double-check, and then check again!

8. Not following up

Yes, you should treat your letter of interest exactly like and job application and follow up.

Sending a letter of interest is a proactive step, so keep being proactive! Ask for a job interview, an informational interview, or a meeting HR director to talk about potential roles you might fill. Then, follow up on that request.

A Few Great Letter of Interest Sample Templates

Now that we have that out of the way, let’s take a look at a few examples so you can get your own started! Here are three different scenarios from which you might decide to write a letter of interest to a company.

Choose the best letter of interest sample that fits with your situation, but don’t simply copy the example word-for-word. You need to input your own experiences and personality, so think of this letter of interest sample as more of a template that will guide you to success!

Letter of interest for your target company following a positive encounter:

Your Address

Your City, State, Zip Code

Your Phone Number

City, State Zip

Dear (remember, make this specific!):

I recently had the opportunity to interact with a few members of your customer support team while conducting research for a project. My time with them was brief but memorable. Your team was friendly, poised, and professional, and I was impressed with their willingness to help and their quick responses to my questions.

It is clear customer satisfaction is an integral part of your company’s core values. It is for this reason that I am writing to you. I feel my own personal values and special talents might benefit your customer service department. I believe in personal accountability and integrity and have always made sure to act in a professional and ethical manner. Attention to detail is similarly a priority, ensuring that my work is nothing short of my best at all times.

If I were to be hired by your company, I would be dedicated to delivering the same kind of high-quality customer service I myself experienced. Both a motivated self-starter and an enthusiastic team player, I feel I’d be an exceptional fit.

In the hopes of scheduling an interview with you or answering any questions you might have, I will call you [upcoming date]. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions at any time at [phone number] or email, [email address].

Thank you for your time in considering my qualifications.

Letter of interest following a write up of the target company:

Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name,

While reading through a trade publication last week, I came across an article outlining why your company has been recognized as one of the best places to work in the country for tech professionals. Your entire focus has been on making sure that your company is not only a leader in the industry but also an innovator, pioneering new and emerging technology. For this reason, I am sending you my resume in the hopes that I might be able to join your team.

I have worked exclusively within the technology field for the past five years. During that time, I’ve worked in a variety of positions, giving me experience in accounting, including finance and budgeting. I was also responsible for inventory control and vendor relations. I have been instrumental in my past positions in bringing new and emerging technology into our business processes, and I am actively looking for opportunities with companies that would allow me to continue that practice. I believe strongly in always being at the forefront of technological development, a perspective I feel your company has, too.

As a team leader, I am proud of the fact that not only have we never missed a deadline but that we have come in under budget while delivering superior results every time. I firmly believe in the integrity and professionalism of my work, striving to ensure that every aspect of what I do also upholds the company’s core values.

I will call you on [date] to answer any questions about this letter or my resume in the hope of scheduling an interview. If you prefer, please contact me by phone [phone number] or email, [email address].

Letter of interest for a recent graduate looking for work:

I read about [company name]’s retail management training program in [publication name], and I would like to inquire about the possibility of openings. As a recent graduate from the University of California with a degree in Business Management, I am very interested in a career in retail management, and think your program is a perfect match for both my skills and my experiences. I have over five years of retail experience, including time as a Sales Associate and a Manager.

Along with this letter, I have included my resume, which contains additional information on my experience and skills. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss the training program with you and to provide further information on my candidacy. I can be reached anytime via my cell phone, [phone number], or by email at [email address].

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to speaking with you about this exciting opportunity.

Putting It All Together

Now, you should know all you need to about the amazing letter of interest! Remember, each sample letter of interest above is meant to serve as inspiration. When you create yours, remember to keep it targeted, short, and professional. That way, you increase your odds of getting a response.

And as always,

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Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com.

His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others.

Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

About The Author

Mike simpson.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com. His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

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10 Letter of Interest Examples + How to Write One in 2024

• Letter of Interest Examples by Profession
• Letter of Interest Examples by Circumstance
• What is a Letter of Interest?

How to Write a Letter of Interest

Letter of interest faqs.

If you’ve ever found yourself scrolling through a company’s website and thinking, “This is where I want to work,” but then found no jobs advertised or none that matched your skills , you may still be in luck. You don’t have to wait aimlessly until a fitting job listing pops up—you can just write up a letter of interest.

A letter of interest, also known as a prospecting letter or statement of interest, is what you send to companies, schools, or communities that you want to join, even if they’re not actively seeking new employees or students. This is how you can display that “proactive” attitude that everyone’s always talking about.

But how do you go about writing a letter of interest? No worries—we’ll help you. Check out our guide to get your foot in the door first and land the role of your dreams.

Letter of Interest for Teaching Position Example

Janine Lewis 123 Pretend Ave Anytown, CA 12345 [email protected] 123-456-7890

February 7, 2024

Mr. Alexander Rivera Director, Human Resources Roosevelt Elementary School 123 Pretend Rd. Anycity, NY 54321

Dear Mr. Rivera,

I am writing to express my interest in a teaching position at Roosevelt Elementary School. I was drawn by your Global Cultures project, where students explore different countries and traditions. As an educator with over 10 years of experience, I share the same unique student-centered approach that enables young children to thrive and discover themselves.

Following the completion of my master’s degree in Education, I joined the team at Sunnydale Elementary as a teaching assistant before being promoted to a full-time teaching position. I have been instrumental in developing an inclusive curriculum that supports diverse learning styles, enabling students with disabilities to excel and grow. My approach to education is to foster a creative, supportive learning environment that helps each child feel comfortable at all times.

Roosevelt Elementary School’s mission aligns with my core values as a teacher and I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss how I could contribute in a teaching role. Thank you for your consideration.

Janine Lewis

Why this letter of interest works

• Going the extra mile like this, in the very first paragraph, shows the employer that you genuinely care and took the time to learn more about the company or the institution.

Letter of Interest for Medical School Example

Prakhar Singh 123 Pretend Ave Anytown, CA 12345 [email protected] 123-456-7890

February 27, 2024

Dr. Helena Pendleton Director of Admissions Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine 123 Pretend Rd. Anycity, NY 54321

Dear Dr. Pendleton,

I am reaching out to express my desire to join the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine for the upcoming academic year. After reading about the groundbreaking study on personalized cancer therapy conducted by your institution, I became deeply fascinated by its innovative approach to medicine. As an aspiring physician who one day hopes to specialize in oncology, I cannot think of a better place to learn and grow.

During my undergraduate studies, I sought opportunities that aligned closely with Johns Hopkins’ ethos of integrating scientific inquiry with patient-centered care. One of my proudest achievements is the community health initiative that I spearheaded during an internship at a local clinic, increasing access to preventative care services in underserved areas.

Thank you for considering my letter of interest. I am eager to elaborate on my passion for medicine during an informational interview and how I can contribute to the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in the incoming class of 2025.

Prakhar Singh

• Mentioning anything that shows you’re a good fit in a letter of interest is a great idea. This includes volunteer work, school projects you’ve worked on, or papers you’ve read that inspired you.

Letter of Interest for Law School Example

Camilla Johansson 123 Pretend Ave Anytown, CA 12345 [email protected] 123-456-7890

March 29, 2024

Dr. Radimir Krupin Director of Admissions Harvard Law School 123 Pretend Rd. Anycity, NY 54321

Dear Dr. Krupin,

I am writing to apply for the upcoming class of 2025 at Harvard Law School. Having just completed my undergraduate degree in Political Science, bolstered by experience as a legal assistant, I am finally ready to fulfill my lifelong dream of studying at Harvard and contributing to your unparalleled commitment to legal excellence.

Following my mother’s career as a lawyer exposed me to the transformative power of the justice system at an early age. With a clear goal in mind, I refined my natural interest by involving myself in volunteer work for non-profit legal aid organizations. I am particularly inspired by Harvard Law School’s initiatives centered around public policy, which is an area where I hope to make a significant impact in my career.

I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to discuss how my experiences, drive, and aspirations align with the values and goals of Harvard Law School. Thank you for your consideration.

Camilla Johansson

• Those in charge of admissions will want to know why this school is your first choice, so if you can effectively highlight your personal journey, you’ll already be one step ahead!

Sorority Letter of Interest Example

Marina Thompson 123 Pretend Ave Anytown, CA 12345 [email protected] 123-456-7890

December 14, 2024

Ms. Angela Simmons Recruitment Chair Alpha Beta Gamma Sorority University of Southern California 123 Pretend Rd. Anycity, NY 54321

Dear Ms. Simmons,

I am reaching out to express my great enthusiasm for joining the Alpha Beta Gamma Sorority at the University of Southern California. I first learned of it through the yearly “Aid the Elderly” campaign, and I was immensely impressed by the sorority’s commitment to bettering the lives of seniors. As a freshman with a long-standing history of community service and a drive for personal growth, I would love to contribute to your mission.

My college journey is only just beginning, but have built a steady foundation of experience in various service projects and leadership positions during my high school years. I have been volunteering at the local animal shelter since I was 13, and this experience has instilled in me a sense of empathy for those less fortunate, which I know that your sorority shares in full.

I am excited about the opportunity to meet with you and discuss how I can contribute to the legacy and vibrant community of Alpha Beta Gamma. Thank you for your consideration.

Marina Thompson

• Make your letter of interest convey how much you care about that particular sorority, and don’t be afraid to express your excitement. Don’t forget to also use a resume builder and resume checker to create the perfect sorority application.

Letter of Interest for Coaching Position Example

Willem Van Buggenum 123 Pretend Ave Anytown, CA 12345 [email protected] 123-456-7890

January 23, 2024

Coach Denise Bowen Athletic Director University of California, Los Angeles Athletics Department 123 Pretend Rd. Anycity, NY 54321

Dear Coach Bowen,

I am thrilled to express my interest in being able to work with the track and field team at the University of California. The University’s rich history of producing Olympic athletes and fostering a culture of support and commitment has always been a source of inspiration for me. With a decade of coaching experience and a keen interest in performance analytics, I am ready to contribute to the Bruins’ legacy.

I honed my skills during a bachelor’s program in Physical Education followed by a master’s in Sports Science. During my career, I led the team to three consecutive regional championships and worked closely with my students on their athletic performance.

I would be immensely grateful for the opportunity to discuss how I could help further UCLA’s commitment to student-athlete success during an informational interview. Thank you for your consideration.

Willem Van Buggenum

• As a coach, discussing the success of your team and your approach to coaching is a good way to let the employer know what you’re made of.

Letter of Interest for Internal Position Example

Penelope Taylor Quality Assurance Department Google 123 Pretend Ave Anytown, CA 12345 [email protected] 123-456-7890

April 8, 2024

Mr. Colin Newman Director of Product Development Google 123 Pretend Rd. Anycity, NY 54321

Dear Mr. Newman,

I am writing to express my interest in the Product Manager position within the Product Development Department. When I heard of Ms. Lee’s upcoming retirement, I instantly knew that the role aligned with my extensive background in quality assurance. I am eager to contribute my knowledge of our products, customer needs, and technological challenges to further Google’s leadership in the industry.

In my current role, I’ve spearheaded cross-departmental initiatives to streamline testing processes, leading to a 20% reduction in product defects and a significant improvement in launch timelines. Having been promoted three times in the past six years, I have been recognized for my drive and experience in user design, product planning, and market positioning.

I am confident that my background in quality assurance and my in-depth understanding of Google’s vision will be an asset to the Product Development team. I look forward to discussing my candidacy during an informational interview. Thank you for your consideration.

Penelope Taylor

• Penelope highlighted her journey at this company throughout the entire letter, and this is the right approach. Talk about your climb up the ladder and the relevant work experience you’ve gathered that led you to where you are now.

Internship Letter of Interest Example

Laura Chen 123 Pretend Ave Anytown, CA 12345 [email protected] 123-456-7890

May 16, 2024

Ms. Elena Martinez Internship Coordinator Tesla 123 Pretend Rd. Anycity, NY 54321

Dear Ms. Martinez,

As a junior majoring in Environmental Science at New York University, I would like to express my keen interest in the summer internship program in Tesla’s Renewable Energy Projects division. Throughout my studies, I have always been motivated by the urgency of climate change and its global impacts. Tesla’s groundbreaking work in this field spurred me to offer my commitment to environmental stewardship.

I have participated in over a dozen local sustainability initiatives, including a university-led project that focused on implementing solar-powered charging stations across the campus. Spearheading this initiative taught me more about the importance of reducing our carbon footprint, but also helped me develop my skills in leadership and analytics.

I cannot think of a better team of environmental experts to learn from than those within Tesla’s Renewable Energy Projects division. I am eager to discuss how my enthusiasm and background in environmental science can contribute to Tesla’s mission this summer. Thank you so much for your consideration.

• Just like you should be adding some key resume skills to your application, don’t forget to mention them in your letter of interest. It gives the hiring manager a better idea of what you can contribute during the internship.

Letter of Interest for Promotion Example

Emanuel Kováč Senior Analyst Omnicom Group 123 Pretend Ave Anytown, CA 12345 [email protected] 123-456-7890

June 13, 2024

Ms. Eleni Antoniou Vice President of Operations Omnicom Group 123 Pretend Rd. Anycity, NY 54321

Dear Ms. Antoniou,

I am reaching out to express my interest in the recently announced position of Director of Operations. In the past seven years, I have worked in three different departments at Omnicom Group, giving me a unique perspective and a deep understanding of our operational processes and client needs. I am eager to contribute my vast background and skills in data analysis and strategic planning to the success of our team.

My journey with Omnicom began in the Marketing Analytics Department, then moved on to the Digital Media Department, only to finally settle in the Operations Department as a senior analyst. I became intimately familiar with our product stack and honed my skills in operational analytics, process optimization, and strategic planning.

I believe that my background in operations, along with my proven track record of improving processes, positions me well to step into this leadership role. I would love to discuss how my skills align with this position during an interview. Thank you for your consideration.

Emanuel Kováč

• Highlighting your career journey in the company, complete with what you’ve learned, shows the employer that you value the road you took to get to where you are now. It also shows growth, which is a key aspect of getting promoted!

Letter of Interest Residency Example

Dr. Philip Crane 123 Pretend Ave Anytown, CA 12345 [email protected] 123-456-7890

March 25, 2024

Dr. Gregory Jesse Residency Program Director Cleveland Clinic 123 Pretend Rd. Anycity, NY 54321

Dear Dr. Jesse,

I am writing to express my interest in the Internal Medicine Residency Program at the Cleveland Clinic for the upcoming 2024-2025 cycle. Your institution’s Heart Transplant Program has been a source of my fascination and inspiration. Having studied it extensively during my cardiology rotation at Columbia University, I believe I am well-positioned to contribute to your world-class team of physicians who share my commitment to innovative medicine.

During my clinical rotations, I had the privilege to work in diverse healthcare settings. My rotation in internal medicine, during which I worked with excellent, driven physicians, taught me the importance of proper patient care and having an inquisitive mindset to get to the bottom of every ailment.

I am eager to bring my enthusiasm, academic curiosity, and tireless mindset to Cleveland Clinic this year. Thank you for your consideration and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Dr. Philip Crane

• Philip’s short and quick “I look forward to hearing from you soon” works well as a closing line after a list of the qualities he’ll bring to the program, expressing eagerness and a dash of confidence.

Letter of Continued Interest Example

Jordan Michalski 123 Pretend Ave Anytown, CA 12345 [email protected] 123-456-7890

April 17, 2024

Ms. Valentina Newton Program Manager Stanford University 123 Pretend Rd. Anycity, NY 54321

Dear Ms. Newton,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am reaching out to reaffirm my unwavering interest in Stanford University. As an applicant currently on the waitlist for entering the class of 2024, I remain deeply committed to pursuing my dream of learning from Stanford’s esteemed legal community.

In addition to affirming my interest, I wish to provide an update on my accomplishments. I have recently completed an internship with the District Attorney’s Office, where I had the privilege of observing courtroom proceedings and gaining first-hand knowledge of the justice system.

My wish to pursue a legal career that champions equity is solidified by Stanford University’s excellent and diverse program. I am hopeful for the opportunity to join the class of 2024. Thank you so much for your continued consideration.

Jordan Michalski

• Providing an update on your relevant experiences and skills adds weight to your refresher, putting you at the top of the application pile.

What is a Letter of Interest ?

If you thought that a letter of interest was like a cover letter in disguise, we can’t blame you—but it’s really not. It serves a different purpose, and, as any good cover letter generator would show you, it follows an entirely different format.

A letter of interest is your way of showing true enthusiasm. You’re pulling ahead of the crowd and finding opportunities for yourself where there may be none. It’s the easiest way to say that you truly care about a given company, internship, community, or institution.

There are lots of different types of letters of interest, each with a different format and required information. For instance, when applying for a promotion, you’ll highlight your career at that company. On the other hand, applying for an internship calls for a focus on your education and skills.

Letter of interest vs cover letter

You write a cover letter in response to an existing opening, be it an internship or a job. A letter of interest, on the other hand, is kind of like throwing a dart at a board and hoping that it sticks.

Knowing how to write a cover letter is similar to knowing how to write a resume. You’ll discuss your skills and your background, and add some quantifiable metrics to make an impression. You know that the job exists, so all you need to do is to make the employer pick you for the opening.

In a letter of interest, you may not know whether the vacancy exists or if it’s open to you. Instead, you’re letting the recipient know something along the lines of, “Hey, I love this place, and I’m a great fit!”

It’s a targeted and proactive approach that shows you don’t want to work anywhere, you want to work there . That’s one way to cut the line!

Why & when do I write a letter of interest?

Writing a letter of interest, or a prospecting letter, is a good idea in many circumstances.

Here’s why a letter of interest might be a good idea:

• You found a company you love, but it’s not hiring for your position. Sure, you could wait and see if and when they do, but a letter of interest is a good first step that gets you on their radar before they’re flooded with resumes.
• You’re applying for a residency or an internship. A letter of interest is often required for residencies and internships. Sometimes, you may be asked to submit a longer version referred to as a “personal statement.”
• You’ve already applied and want to reaffirm your interest. Whether you’re waitlisted at your dream college or want to remind a company that you’re still out there, this can help.

The good thing is that it’s almost never a bad idea to send one. Worst case scenario, you won’t get hired. Best case? They’ll know how much you care and pay more attention!

Unlike a personal statement, a letter of interest needs to be brief. Its sole purpose is to be attention-grabbing, so it can’t go on for too long.

Keep it concise at three paragraphs. Be highly professional and enthusiastic, and make sure that you’re only communicating key details.

A good way to stand out is to make a connection with the company, such as by including a relevant personal story.

Write a professional letter of interest

This isn’t the right time to play a risky game—always use a professional, formal tone in your letter. Being eager is a huge plus, but joking or using colloquialisms is a no-no.

You’ll have to do some digging to familiarize yourself with the company’s culture, mission, and projects.

Find the right contact for your letter of interest

You’re already ahead of the curve by even sending this letter, so don’t lose that unique opportunity by not using the most powerful tool in your arsenal: opening with the recipient’s name. Try to find their name and address them directly.

Research your target company

You care about this company—that much is clear. Now, show this to the employer or admissions officer by researching their projects and what they might need. Even if your exact role isn’t currently open, perhaps there are other openings in the same department?

Demonstrate your value

Pure enthusiasm will only get you so far. Throughout your letter of interest, emphasize your skills and your background to express why you’re the right fit. Discuss your career highlights and key abilities that align with the job.

Write a powerful and concise letter of interest

It might be tricky, but make sure to stay on course throughout your cover letter. Keep it concise and reread every line to ensure that it sends the right message. Focus on just two or three of your greatest strengths—you can always list more skills in a resume.

Letter of interest format

Just like finding the right resume format is crucial, so is the way you format your letter of interest. You want it to be readable and follow a logical flow of information that drives the point home. The body of the letter should be no more than three paragraphs, so this is important!

Contact information & date

Start by including your contact information, such as your name, email, phone number, and address. Do the same for the recipient’s information, but also add their job title, company, and their name. Lastly, don’t forget the date.

Introduce yourself

Briefly introduce yourself to let the recipient know who they’re dealing with. This goes beyond your name; it’s more about your current job or your experience. You could say, “As an engineer with 10 years of experience…” to get the ball rolling.

Why you’re writing a letter of interest

Letters of interest often come as a surprise, so it’s a good idea to mention this in the first line of your letter. Include the position you’re interested in and state your enthusiasm for the role. If you have a personal reason for this, such as an interest spurred by a particular project, mention it here!

Matching your qualifications with the company’s needs

This is something you should do throughout the letter—yes, even in the first paragraph. Right off the bat, drop a couple of reasons why your qualifications align perfectly with the company’s needs.

Highlight your skills and experience

Use a paragraph or two to dive into your skills and experience . Talk about jobs, internships, or volunteer work, all depending on the type of letter of interest.

Call to action: requesting an informational interview

Seal the deal with a simple “I am eager to discuss how I can contribute to your company’s mission during an informational interview.”

Letter of interest tips

Even writing the perfect letter of interest and sending it in at the most opportune time doesn’t guarantee that you’ll get the job. There are a few things that you can do to improve your chances of success, though.

• Make it personal. There’s a reason why you chose this particular company, and even if it’s just “I need a job,” try to make a personal connection to show that there’s more to it.
• Do your homework. Grab the reader’s attention by mentioning relevant projects or products that the company has worked on recently.
• Identify what matters. Browse through the company website and available job openings to get a feel of what they need, then match up your skills against that.
• Stay on point. Highlight only a couple of your strengths that truly align with this role.

What to avoid when writing a letter of interest

There are some things that even the most perfect applicant cannot get away with. Steer clear of the following:

• Don’t be too generic. It’s important to keep it professional, but sending something that sounds robotic is the equivalent of sending an unedited ChatGPT resume, and no one wants that.
• Don’t make assumptions. Confidence is great, but don’t slip into the vicinity of rudeness. Express enthusiasm without being pushy.
• Don’t rush. Sending a letter of interest that has typos or is repetitive, is a surefire way to never get called. It’s sometimes hard to catch your own typos , so be thorough with your checks.
• Don’t give up. If you don’t hear back, it’s a good idea to follow up a week or two later to reaffirm your interest.

Start with deep research. Read up on the company or the school, find the name of the recipient, and identify what the role might demand. Next, express why your qualifications make you the perfect fit.

A letter of interest serves as an introduction to a potential employer except you’re not responding to any specific job posting. It’s similar to writing a cover letter to accompany a job application, but is sent when there are no fitting job openings and you’re interested in working for the company or institution regardless.

Begin by addressing the recipient by name. Follow that up with a strong introduction that tells them who you are and why you’re interested in working with them.

No, not at all. A cover letter is an important part of the job application process; you send it in when you know there’s a job that’s waiting for you. A letter of interest is something you send even if there are no job openings right now, but you like the company.

Your letter of interest needs to fit a single page, so keep it concise. Apart from the contact info, the greeting, and the signoff, you shouldn’t go over three paragraphs.

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• How to Write a Letter of...

How to Write a Letter of Interest (with Examples)

8 min read · Updated on December 08, 2023

If you dream of working for a particular company, you don't have to wait for them to post a job opening to let them know you're interested.

A letter of interest and a cover letter are not the same. You would only send a cover letter to complement your resume in response to a job opening. On the other hand, a letter of interest can be sent to a company when there's no job opening at all, yet you want the company to know you have a desire to work with them. 

It is possible that the company you want to work for doesn't advertise open positions or simply that they don't have an open position at the moment. Either way, how will they know you exist unless you let them know? This is where the letter of interest goes to work for you. You may be thinking, “Great! Now, how do I write a letter of interest?”

What is the proper format for a letter of interest?

That is a great question! You start a letter of interest by choosing the right format. You have to know what it looks like before you can start writing it. It will look similar to a cover letter , but remember, it is not the same as a cover letter. 

Use the three-paragraph letter format . This layout allows the reader to quickly ascertain your intent and it's what hiring managers and recruiters are used to seeing. Here's what the skeleton of your letter of intent will look like:

Your contact information - preferably with a header that matches your resume

Title (optional)

Contact name, company name, and location

A RE: line (optional)

Introduction paragraph

Body paragraph

End paragraph

Copyable example: letter of interest

____________________________________________________________________________

Washington, DC 20001 | 111-222-3333 | [email protected] 

Psychiatric Nurse Practioner

September 1, 2022

Hiring Manager

Company Name

City, ST Zip

RE: Job Code/Reference ID/Position Title

Dear Hiring Manager:

Use the first paragraph to introduce yourself to the employer. Let them know who you are, whether you were referred by someone currently employed there, and provide a blurb about your professional experience.

The second paragraph is where you dive further into your background. Talk about how your experience, education, and skills will help the company. Use numbers at every available opportunity. When you can demonstrate achievement, you set yourself apart from others. 

In order to make your letter more skimmable, set some of the important information off with bullets. Ideally, you want to use no more than 3 bullets. 

These bullets provide a great opportunity to add numbers. 

Use a strong mix of hard and soft skills to show not only the everyday work things you know how to do but also show that you have the right personality and characteristics to fit in with the company culture. 

The final paragraph is your call to action. This is what you want the hiring manager to do. Thank them for their time and kind consideration. Then, request that they call or email you, depending on what suits you best. That leaves the ball in their court for further interaction. Add a sentence about following up for a possible informational interview . Keep the letter of interest to one page.

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Customize your letter of interest as much as possible

Research the company to find out who to send the letter to and as much as you can about their products, services, and upcoming projects. The most important thing to find out is the name of the hiring manager. It's not as hard as you may think.

Finding the name of the hiring manager

The first place to look is LinkedIn. Type the name of the company in the search bar to find its page. Near the top, just beneath the name of the company, you'll see how many people work there. Click the number to pull up the list of employees. If you're applying to a company with thousands of staff members in multiple offices nationwide or globally, you can break down the list by location. 

Alternatively, you can always call the company. Be upfront and honest with the person answering the phone. Let them know you're interested in position “X” and want to send a letter of interest for the job to the right person. Word your request in a way that makes it sound like you don't want to waste the wrong person's time. Before you end the call, thank them for helping you. 

Contributing value to the organization

Taking time to customize your letter shows that you value a future position with the company. If you can add some details about how your experience aligns with what they have going on, then all the better. However, without a job description, this bit of customization can be difficult. 

You don't want to write a letter that is inward-focused. In other words, your letter shouldn't be all about you (i.e., “I did this.” “I know how to do that.”). Check out the company's website, specifically its “About” page and anything that talks about the products and services they offer. Use that information to align your skills and show what you offer. Being too vague about how your skills match their needs will be a waste of time.

Some common mistakes to avoid when writing your letter of interest for a job

Everything from being vague to overly confident and having typos in your letter can be a turn-off to the hiring manager.

Vagueness in your letter of interest

Your desire to work for a certain company may mean that you're willing to take any job they have available to get your foot in the door. While that is a popular tactic and can work in your favor, expressing that plan in your letter of interest can be your downfall. It's critical to let the hiring manager know exactly which position you're interested in and why. 

Proofread your letter of interest

It should go without saying that you need to perform a spelling and grammar check on your letter before sending it. However, the number of resumes, cover letters, thank you notes, and letters of intent received by hiring managers with errors is staggering. 

PRO TIP: Read your letter of interest out loud to make sure that it sounds right. 

Confidence is great; boasting is bad

Strut your stuff, show them how your skills align with their goals, but avoid making it sound like they won't make it if they don't hire you. Let them know that you're “confident you'll make a great addition to their team” but don't tell them that “they need to hire you to overcome” some hurdle they're facing. 

What do you do after you send your letter of interest?

At no time during any part of the hiring process should you sit around and wait for the phone to ring. The power of a follow-up can be the difference between getting nowhere in your job search and securing the information you seek to get your foot in the door. You can even mention that you'll follow up within a given number of days in the letter of interest that you send to the company.

Here's an example of a follow-up message:

Copyable example: follow-up letter

I hope this letter finds you doing well. Approximately one week ago, I sent a letter to you for the [NAME OF POSITION] at [NAME OF COMPANY]. 

I've had a desire to work for [NAME OF COMPANY] for more than a year and am confident that my expertise with [SKILL YOU CAN DO WITH YOUR EYES CLOSED] would benefit your team. I'll happily send my resume for your review if you like. 

When would be a good time to sit down with you to discuss my candidacy further? Please give me a call at your convenience so that we can schedule a time to get together. My phone number is 111-222-3333.

I hope you have a fantastic day! Thank you for your consideration.

Your dream company can be just a letter away – a letter of interest, that is. You don't have to sit around waiting for them to post a job opening, though. Go ahead and send a letter of interest for the job you want. Let them know that you're available and what you bring to the table. 

In the meantime, get your resume ready. If the hiring manager likes what he/she sees in your letter of interest, you may have an informational interview in the near future. Walking in there with a fully optimized and professional resume is a must. TopResume has professional resume writers with expertise in every industry. 

Extended reading:

How to Write a Catchy Cover Letter

What Are Soft Skills? Here's How to Showcase Them on Your Resume

How to Ask for An Information Interview

Related Articles:

Don't “Snowplow” Your Kids' Job Search — Set Them Up for Success Instead

What Kind of Job Candidate Are You?

Why December is the Best Time of Year to Look for a Job

See how your resume stacks up.

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Letter of Interest for a Job: How To Write [+ Samples]

Learn how to write a letter of interest for a job. Find letter of interest samples, tips, and a customizable template to show that you are the perfect candidate.

That awful feeling after going through countless job postings with no luck. Nothing fits. Nothing is available.

Sound familiar?

A lot of people have been there.

The job search can be stressful and exhausting and can feel fruitless. No matter how hard you try, there seems to be a closed-door in the way.

A letter of interest may prove to be the key that unlocks this door.

By the end of the article, you will have all the information that you need to write a great letter of interest on your own.

What is a Letter of Interest?

People may often mistake a letter of interest for a cover letter, but we will explain the distinctions.

A letter of interest (also known as a “letter of inquiry” or “prospecting letter”) can be sent to a company that may be hiring but just doesn’t have a specific job listing relevant to you yet.

It is an unsolicited attempt to get your foot in the door at an organization.

Sending a letter of interest is a fantastic way to at least get you on the radar of your potential employer, and can even lead to employment.

Applying for jobs that are not posted yet will involve a lot less competition.

If you write an effective letter of interest, you might be rewarded with a job that others didn’t even know existed.

Most employers are interested in locating strong candidates.

Even if there isn’t a job open at the time, you can get your foot in the door.

A letter of interest is one of the best ways for you to accomplish this when a job opening is not formally posted.

The worst that could happen is that the letter will get discarded.

However, if it lands you a job, that was definitely time well spent.

Letter of Interest vs. Cover Letter

A cover letter is a document that you send with your resume when applying to specific jobs.

Those specific jobs will have openings and an advertisement.

You explain why you are a good candidate for that specific job.

A letter of interest can be submitted at any time to any company. The organization does not need to have jobs open, or even to be hiring at the time.

You can see it as a means by which you can introduce yourself to a company.

As opposed to applying for a specific job, a letter of interest seeks to demonstrate that you would be an asset to the company in general.

(If you need information on how to write a cover letter, check out  How to Write An Amazing Cover Letter .)

How to Write a Letter of Interest

A poorly written letter of interest is not going to harm your future prospects, but it will be time wasted.

Invest your time wisely, make a good impression with your letter of interest, because a first impression is crucial in this case.

What You Need Before Writing

Obviously, you need to have the specific contact information of your recipient. An example of who to contact may be an executive in the department that you are interested in.

You can find this information through LinkedIn, the company website, their social media presence, or through networking.

Additionally, if you have a contact within the company, it will be very helpful for them to give you a recommendation on who to contact. Being informed about the company, its competitors, targets, ethos and similar will only prove to be useful.

Do your research!

How to Start a Letter of Interest

The best way to begin a letter of interest? With a hook.

Just getting in touch is not enough.

You have to show that you are worth the time.

If you submit a letter with a bland opening, it will be put to the side.

Remember that the recipient is not expecting to hear from you.

Catch the attention of your reader right away.

A short and powerful statement is more than enough.

As an accountant, the following sentence makes perfect sense:

I have worked as an accountant for 12 years. I am driven, a good team-player, detail-oriented, focused and hard-working.

But this is a lot more eye-catching:

I spearheaded a 60% raise in efficiency in my department.

As a teacher, it might be easy to say this:

Over the years, I have gained a better understanding of what works and what doesn’t work.

But it is a lot more appealing to just put a number out there, like this:

I improved the average exam grade of my students by 35%.

The rest of the letter doesn’t matter if it is not read.

Save fine details for when you have more words.

So it is crucial to make it obviously worth reading from the start.

Are you having a hard time thinking about a good hook? Look at your resume and see examples of your key achievements.

What to Include in Your Letter of Interest

The quality of your letter of interest will be the crucial difference between getting your foot in the door and remaining behind it.

Because of this, here is a list of things to remember when writing your letter of interest:

• Know the needs of where you are applying . By knowing the needs, you can show that you are the ideal fit to meet all of these needs. It does not help you to just give bland allusions to your skills. Show exactly how you are a great fit. Back up what your skills with specific proof.
• Always tailor your letter to the recipient. It may not be on the same level as a cover letter applying for a specific job. However, you have a recipient, so write with them in mind.
• Concentrate on value. Show that you add value, and show why they value the skills that you have. Show that you check the boxes.
• Ensure that the letter has a clear intro, body, and conclusion. If everything that you write is not arranged in a correct and tidy format, you make your letter less appealing and attractive.
• Quality over quantity. When choosing what to say, it is better to give highlights than an extensive list. Key accomplishments are preferred to a lot of smaller details.

These details are not complicated.

They make a huge difference, though.

Remember these, and you will certainly be in a great position to write a letter of interest that actually works.

What Not to Include in Your Letter of Interest

There are many ways in which you can make your letter of interest a bland read.

With a limited word count, every word has to matter.

You should avoid the following at all costs when creating your letter of interest:

• Too much text. For a note that is not expected, the recipient is incredibly unlikely to read what you write if you are very long-winded. Keep things clean and concise.
• Being vague about details. You are trying to convince the reader that you are the ideal fit for a position that may come up. Therefore it does you no favors to be vague. Say exactly how you are an ideal fit, say how you are exactly what they need.
• Irrelevant details. Your two years working as a barista when you were in your early twenties is great. But when you are in your late thirties, writing to the VP of Finance, you have no need to go into these details.
• Being vague about the recipient. Do not address the letter “to whom this may concern”. You are not getting any bonus points that way. Also do not address it to “Dear Mr/.Ms. Manager”.
• Being boring or lazy. Mistakes or bland content are not going to help your results at all.
• Not tailoring your letter of interest. It is a short letter. If it appears to the recipient that it is the same document that you sent to multiple companies, it will harm how it is received. Show that it is a letter written specifically to the one recipient.

Keep your letter of interest concise and to-the-point.

How Long Should a Letter of Interest Be?

You do not need to ramble for a long time. In fact, doing so would be detrimental. Find a balance between conveying the essential information, and keeping it brief.

However,  you still want to show that you would be a great addition.

It is not useful to sell yourself short, but a letter that is too long will put its reader off.

Consequently, it is advised to keep your word count to about 200 words.

How to Prepare If This Leads to an Interview

You should look to close your letter of interest with an invitation to talk.

If you are taken up on that, be prepared.

On the occasion that the company wants to know more about you, be ready to substantiate any claims that you have made.

Also, be ready to provide a more extensive background on yourself.

In addition to this, you definitely want to prove that you have done your research on the company.

It is a lot easier to look like you have done your homework in a 200-word document than in a conversation.

It may not be the same kind of interview as one for a specific job, but you can still expect your individual credentials to be explored.

(For more assistance on preparing for an interview, read our article Common Interview Questions: 50+ Questions and Answers .)

Letter of Interest Samples

Before we provide a number of letters of interest templates, we have a few last things for you to bear in mind.

Throughout your letter, consider if it would catch your interest.

If you don’t personally think it is engaging when proofreading it, you cannot expect the recipient to feel differently.

Ask friends and family for their opinions as well.

These letters of interest examples will help you prepare a document that is eye-catching.

Additionally, remember that this does not mean that you should end your hunt for a job.

Sending a couple of letters is not an acceptable reason to stop looking through postings.

In the section below, you will see an effective and an inadequate method of writing a letter of interest.

General Letter of Interest Sample

Here is a sample of an effective letter of interest:

In the above letter, all of the guidelines are followed.

The letter of interest immediately hooks the reader with a key achievement.

It backs up the achievement and shows an understanding of the employer’s needs.

It shows that the applicant can fulfill this need.

Towards the end, the applicant seeks to arrange for the conversation to continue.

There are clear guidelines to follow within your letter to boost your letter’s effectiveness. Check out this template:

Dear [Name of recipient],

[Insert your hook to catch attention.]

[Back up your hook and show an understanding of the needs of the employer.]

[Show that you can meet that need.]

• [Use bullet points to highlight accomplishments.]

I have worked for [current company] for [time] and have been pivotal in bringing the company forward in this time. I think that I would be an excellent fit to do the same with [Company]. Attached is my resume to give you a more complete idea of my aptitude.

I would love to have the opportunity to communicate with you further about myself and [Company]. If we could schedule a call or meeting to discuss [Company]’s goals going forward, I would be delighted to do so.

Many thanks for your time. I hope to hear back from you.

[Sincerely/Kind Regards],

[Your Name]

For comparison, here is an ineffective and inadequate letter of interest sample:

It just doesn’t work.

There is no hook. There is no proof.

When the claims are substantiated in this letter, it is with feeling rather than fact.

The company’s needs are not shown to be understood.

At the end of the document, saying “let me know” puts the power entirely in their hands.

Imagine the next step like a carrot on a stick. Show that you can meet their needs, and then say that you would love to have the opportunity to talk more.

Even though the inadequate example is shorter than the effective example, the effective example is more enticing to read by far.

White space, bullets, and an eye-catching hook make the effective example a far more attractive read.

Keep reading to see good letter of interest examples for some other positions or in some other contexts.

Teaching Letter of Interest Sample

Here is a sample letter of interest that a teacher can use:

As with the good example above, all the bases are covered.

For a school that wants to improve achievement, a teacher coming out and plainly saying that they have already accomplished that is a lot better than taking a chance on someone else.

Letter of Interest for a Promotion Sample

Now we get to letter of interest examples that are a bit different.

You are either already working in the company you are writing to, or have little to no previous work experience.

Do not fret. There are examples just for you as well.

Below is an example of what a letter of interest for a promotion might look like:

See how this is different?

More emphasis is placed on how you have already added value to the company.

Not just that, but the achievements listed are geared towards what they are applying for. In this case, these achievements are leadership-oriented.

You are not someone off the radar trying to catch this employer’s attention.

You aren’t just on the radar, you are already employed.

That is why it was said earlier that your letter of interest must be tailored to who will be reading it.

Letter of Interest for an Internship Sample

As a student, your work experience is likely quite limited.

However, you can still have key achievements.

From volunteering to university societies, remember to talk yourself up!

Below is an example of how you may do this:

Like the other samples, this example is flexible.

Are there potentially administrative apprenticeships at a certain company?

Then base your letter of interest on this example, and tailor it to your recipient.

Key Takeaways

To briefly sum up the key information that we have covered:

• Tailor your letter of interest specifically to who will be reading it.
• Include a hook to make your letter eye-catching.
• Substantiate every claim you make.
• Show a clear understanding of the company’s needs, and how you can fulfill it.
• Invite them to continue the conversation.

And that is it!

You are now informed as to how to submit a quality letter of interest that can lead to a potential employer wanting to see your resume.

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Tips and tricks for writing a letter of interest (with examples)

Jump to section

What is a letter of interest?

How to write a letter of interest

Letter of interest format

Common mistakes, letter of interest sample, hit send with confidence.

Learning how to write a letter of interest can be a game changer for your job search.

Most of us know what our dream job would be — we’ve spent enough time daydreaming about it and can describe it in detail. 

Maybe we have a specific position in mind, want to remain in the same role but move locations, or seek a better company culture. 

The more specific your dream job, the longer you may feel you’ll wait for it to open up. And while the most common job search tactic is to apply for open positions, not all roles are openly advertised. Many hiring managers fill roles internally through employee referral programs or job recruiters.

Before active recruitment starts, professional networking can help you discover positions. But much of the process is out of your control as you wait to hear from connections about upcoming postings. 

To gain control over your job search and inspire quicker results, send out letters of interest. 

A letter of interest is a call to action. It’s an opportunity to show initiative and let a hiring manager or potential employer know you want to work for them. A good letter of interest could lead to recruiters considering you ahead of other potential recruits when a job opportunity does arise.

We’ll review what a letter of interest is, why it’s important, and how to create one that helps recruiters notice you. We’ll also provide a letter of interest template to help you get started.

A letter of interest, also called a statement of interest or letter of inquiry, is a type of letter in which potential job candidates express their interest in working for a company, even if the company isn’t advertising open roles. 

While seemingly similar to a cover letter , this differs in the following ways:

• A cover letter targets a specific job opportunity and explains why you’re suitable for the position. It’s typically accompanying a resume and helps to complete a job application.
• A letter of interest introduces you to a specific company when they’re not actively hiring for a position you’re interested in. It explains why you’d like to work for them and how you’ll bring value to the company, and can specify the position you’re interested in if you know what it is. 

If you’re unhappy with your current job and have set a goal to find a new one in the coming year , you might have a running list of values and benefits you prefer, like a hybrid work environment , better compensation , or upskilling opportunities . 

Let’s say a friend tells you about their job, which checks off all your requirements — but their organization has no open positions.

Rather than moving on or waiting for something to open up, you can send a letter to let the company know about your interest, skill set, and years of experience. When an opening appears, they’ll be more likely to consider you amongst their list of recruits. 

Here are some specific reasons to consider writing a letter of interest:

• Initiative: Initiative and work motivation are excellent qualities to potential employers. Your resourcefulness and willingness to reach out show you value your professional growth and development, can make important decisions, and work well independently. 
• Personal branding: This is an opportunity to control your professional narrative. Rather than waiting for a recruiter or headhunter to define your profile, a letter of interest lets you express your talents and experience first-hand.
• Learning about opportunities first : When you reach out, a hiring manager might let you know that they’re going to open applications for that position at a certain point in the future. You’ll be able to prepare your application with extra notice to ensure you stand out from the crowd.

How to write a letter of interest 

The goal of this letter type is to stand out. Although you aren’t competing against a sea of other applicants responding to a job post, you’re fighting for a busy hiring manager’s attention in an inbox full of messages .

Here are four tips for writing a successful letter of interest:

1. Research the company

Similar to how you’d read a job description and highlight comparable skills when creating a resume , convincing the hiring manager you’re an excellent fit for their business is critical. Do your research by studying the company’s mission, values, and services, and align your letter to reflect this research.

Here are a few places to explore the target company:

• Company website
• Keynote speeches from CEOs
• Press releases
• Social media like Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn profiles

2. Find the right contact

It would be frustrating taking the time to craft a letter of interest only to send it to the wrong person.

Here are a few ways to find the appropriate human resources manager:

• Search for contact information by scrolling through team profiles on the company’s website
• Search the company’s LinkedIn for employees with the appropriate title
• Connect with a current employee and ask them
• Call the company and ask for the appropriate contact

3. Show your value

This letter doesn’t only convince the company you’re interested in working for them — it tells a hiring manager why they should be interested in working with you.

If you’re hoping for a specific role, align your skills and values with what you’d expect they’d ask for in a job posting. If you’re applying more generally, think about the overarching skills they’d likely want every employee on a certain team to have. 

4. Keep it short and specific

A letter of interest is correspondence that a hiring manager isn’t expecting. Stay brief and get to the point. It shows efficiency, good communication skills , and respect for the recipient’s time and energy — qualities employers want.

The company isn’t expecting your letter, nor are they actively advertising for roles you want. A hiring manager has no obligation to read or respond to your email. You’ll increase the chances of receiving a response by including the following: 

• Opening paragraph: Introduce yourself and explain why you’re writing, focusing on your interest in the company. To capture the recruiter’s interest, mention something company-specific to show you’ve done your research. This could be a value you relate with, an initiative that sparked your curiosity , or a quote from a CEO’s keynote speech.
• Body: After covering why you’re interested in the company, demonstrate what you have to offer. Briefly explain relevant skills and work experiences that prove you’d be a valuable asset.
• Closing paragraph: Encourage the recipient to respond by leaving additional contact information, such as a phone number or LinkedIn profile link. Include a call-to-action like suggesting an informational interview or follow-up phone call with your sign-off .

Like any business letter, your prospecting letter must be written professionally . You’ll leave a great first impression on the hiring manager by avoiding the following five mistakes:

1. Being too generic

An open position may not be in the company’s immediate future. In addition to listing any impressive career accomplishments, be creative when describing your skills so the hiring manager remembers you when the time comes to recruit new talent. Rather than listing general talents like “good communication skills,” explain specific results you’ve delivered at another job. Incorporate the company’s lingo into your message for added recognition.

2. Sounding arrogant

Being confident about your skills is excellent, but confidence can quickly become arrogance. While it’s great that you’re showing initiative by sending a letter of interest, avoid language that makes it sound like you expect and deserve a position. The power is in their hands, so give thanks for their time and remain humble when describing your achievements . 

3. Starting with “To whom it may concern”

“To whom it may concern” is overly formal and anonymous — it could be written to anybody. Demonstrate that you did your research by using the hiring manager’s name. Avoid gendered titles such as Mrs. and Mr. if you don’t know someone’s pronouns, instead opting for a general “Dear [First name].”

4. Missing grammatical errors

Typos demonstrate a lack of attention to detail, and detail-orientedness is a sought-after skill for most hiring managers. Try reading your letter aloud to catch mistakes or running it through a proofreading platform. 

5. Not following-up

You’ve been proactive until now — don’t stop after clicking “Send.” If they haven’t responded within seven days, send a follow-up email asking if they’ve read your message and if they’d like to take any next steps.

The following example can be modified to meet your job search needs.

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I hope you’re well. I recently watched a TEDx talk with [CEO’s Full Name] and immediately identified with the conversation about [company value]. I’d love to be a part of a company that values [insert value], and I wanted to formally introduce myself to express my interest in working with you.

I’ve been working in [industry] for the last [number of years] as a [job title and brief job description]. Over the years, I’ve developed my [skill 1] and [skill 2] and continue to bolster my knowledge of the [specify industry or qualification]. I’ve also been recognized by [recognition entity] in [year] for [explain career achievement].

I’d love to send my resume and a letter of recommendation over to you or meet for an informational interview, either online, in person, or on the phone. I’m available [list availability]. 

Thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to consider me as a future team member at [company name]. I very much look forward to speaking with you.

[Your Name]

Taking initiative is never a bad thing. It gives you a greater sense of power over your professional development and looks great to employers. 

You now have the skills and knowledge necessary to kick-start your job search with an attractive letter of interest. If there’s a company you’d like to work for, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain by reaching out.

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Melody Wilding, LMSW

Melody Wilding is a licensed social worker with a Master's degree from Columbia University and a former researcher at Rutgers University. Melody is a professor of Human Behavior at Hunter College and is a contributor to Harvard Business Review, Forbes, and Business Insider.

Key values in a relationship: Why are they important?

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Letter of Interest Writing Guide in 2024 [+Sample Included]

Most job seekers at least have a sense of their ‘dream position’. That, or a perfect company they would like to work for.

But monitoring career pages or LinkedIn in hopes that a posting for the right job will magically appear one day can mean a loooong wait.

So what to do? How do you take charge and angle yourself for getting hired into your ideal role with the ideal organization? Enter the letter of interest.

This brief guide gives you the run-down on this oft-overlooked piece of the job application puzzle. We’ll cover:

• What a letter of interest is and isn’t 
• What to include in your letter of interest
• Keys to a successful letter of interest
• Letter of interest example

With the advice below, you will come to realize that job searching isn’t only about reacting to job openings: forging your own opportunities is also an effective strategy.

Call it what you want: a letter of interest, expression of interest, prospecting letter, statement of interest…They’re all the talking about the same document. We’ve chosen the ‘letter of interest’ label in this article.

A letter of interest is a letter that expresses your interest in learning more about a particular organization’s employment opportunities and/or working for that organization.

It is NOT a cover letter ! The difference is that a cover letter is sent along with your resume or CV in response to a specific advertised position. Meanwhile, a letter of interest is not tailored to a specific job posting. It is sent unsolicited to employers to make it known that you are interested in learning about future opportunities.

As a job seeker, you’ll often run into the situation of an organization not having any current job openings listed on its website. But their career pages often include a message encouraging you to submit your resume or CV for future consideration. This is precisely when you want to use a letter of interest.

Of course, there are plenty of other scenarios when you should make use of a letter of interest. In fact, the point of this article is to help you realize that whenever you find an organization that you really want to work for, you should find a way to get on that organization’s radar using a letter of interest.

What Content to Include in a Letter of Interest?

Unlike a cover letter, when writing a letter of interest you don’t have an exact job description along with its list of requirements and qualifications to guide you.

However, the reason you are writing to the employer in the first place is because you think you are a good fit for their team. So, you need to show them why. 

In terms of the basic structure of letter of interest, a three-paragraph format is your best bet. Here’s how that looks:

1) Introduction

Introduce yourself, where/how you heard about the organization, and why you are contacting them (I.e. to inquire about job opportunities).

This is where you prove that you have skills and experience that are valuable to the employer. At the same time, you want to be clear about what types of work you are pursuing. You don’t just want any job with the organization, but rather a position that suits your background and interests.

3) Closing Statement 

Here’s where to include a call to action. You want to make it crystal clear that you are interested in speaking more about the organization and work opportunities. Keep in mind that the employer may not have any openings at the moment, so what you are asking for is essentially an informational interview.

Writing an Effective Letter of Interest

Besides a solid structure, there are several elements that make for an effective letter of interest. In other words, if you want your letter to get read and to actually make someone at your target organization excited to get to know you, be sure to follow the principles below.

Personalize it

Please, please do not send a letter of interest with a salutation like “To whom it may concern” or “Dear Human Resources Manager”. Put in the extra effort and find an actual person to whom you can address your letter, specifically someone who is in a position to actually help you get what you want. 

Your letter can be sent to someone in human resources who is responsible for recruiting, or a manager in the department that you see yourself working in. Either way, it’s much easier to persuade someone to give you the time of day by establishing a personal connection.

Find a Hook

You need to find a way to grab the attention of your recipient. Keep in mind that the person on the other end probably isn’t expecting to hear from you. And that same person is under no obligation to help you get what you want.

Your job is to convince your recipient that you are worth his/her time. And a great way to do that is to show off how much you know about the organization and the value you can contribute.

This is where in-depth research of your target organization comes in handy. Try to find a project, event, person, etc., that can connect you with the organization in some way. For example, you may have heard a news interview with CEO who mentioned plans to expand operations. Well this is a great entry point for you to articulate how your skills and experience might support those plans.  

Be Specific

Again, the letter of interest is about persuasion ( just like a cover letter ). So the more specific you can be about what you have to offer, the better your chances that a recruiter will be able to picture you working for his/her organization. 

Once you’ve done your research and identified the main attributes that your target organization want in their employees, focus on two or three of these and relate them to your work history or skill set. 

Qualify your statements as much as possible by pointing to specific examples of your achievements . For example, if you are interested in working for a sales team, highlight an example of how you’ve achieved exceptional sales results in the past. Use metrics to illustrate your point.  

Keep it Concise

You may feel the urge to share as much as possible about yourself in your letter of interest so the employer sees you as the total package. Here’s the problem with this strategy: 1) your reader isn’t expecting your email and may be deterred by large amounts of text 2) you risk losing focus on the most important attributes that the employer values 3) you are attaching a resume or CV along with your letter, which already offers a more complete story.

Like we said before, keep your letter of interest to a tight three paragraphs, and really home in on two or three points that convey the most relevant contributions you can make.

One final thought: Remember that there is a good chance that your letter doesn’t receive an immediate reply. So be ready to follow-up with a phone call to the employer, especially if you say you will in the contents of your letter. Now go find your ideal job or company, and then put your new letter of interest writing skills to the test.

Suggested reading:

• Strengths and Weaknesses for Job Interviews [Best Answers]
• How to Write a Resume | Beginner's Guide
• 150+ Must-Have Skills for Any Resume [With Tips + Tricks]

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Letter of Interest Tips, Templates & Examples [A 2023 Guide]

Published: September 12, 2023

In today's competitive job market, a carefully crafted letter of interest is a powerful tool for standing apart from the crowd.

In this post, you’ll learn how to write an outstanding letter of interest that gets you noticed, builds interest, and elicits positive responses.

What is a letter of interest?

Letter of interest vs. cover letter.

How To Write A Letter of Interest

Letter of Interest Example

Letter of interest template.

A letter of interest lets a company know you want to work for them in a role they're not currently or openly hiring for.

It focuses on communicating how your skillset might benefit the company so they keep you in mind when (and if) a specific role becomes available.

Sending a letter of interest is a great way to introduce yourself to a company, and it shows them you're willing to take the initiative to reach out proactively.

If done right, this can lead to a coffee chat or an informational interview with the hiring manager of the team you want to work with.

How to Write a Letter of Interest

Your letter of interest needs to be compelling enough to capture the attention of a busy manager and generate enough interest in you as a professional to elicit a response. While this may seem daunting, here's how to do this in 5 simple steps.

Please note that this structure assumes there is a specific team and role you want to be considered for.

1. Briefly introduce yourself.

You must provide context so the recipient understands why you’re reaching out. Failure to do so is a surefire way to end up in the trash or spam folder.

Here are some tips for writing your introduction :

• Keep it concise. You will likely be one of the thousands of emails in their inbox, so they won’t be particularly inclined to sit through a winding introduction.
• Provide context for your letter. The more specific and relevant, the better. If you have a mutual contact, learned of a recent development, or have simply been following them for a while, this is the place you want to highlight that.
• Clearly state why you’re reaching out. Finally, you want to explain why you’re reaching out as clearly and quickly as possible. Don’t dance around the topic; you want to move them to the next section of your letter as soon as possible.

2. Hook the hiring manager with proof that you understand their problems.

To immediately grab a hiring manager's attention after your introduction, you should show that you’ve done your homework and understand the problems they’re currently trying to solve.

A great way to do this is by referencing similar experiences at a current or prior job. This helps you establish a connection and show the hiring manager you can relate to the problem they’re addressing.

It also creates a hook that builds interest and prompts them to read the rest of the letter.

Note: If you don’t have this information, carefully considering the manager's responsibilities is one way to figure this out. What tasks do they own? What are the things that move the needle? Which metrics truly matter?

3. Show them how you’re a standout candidate.

How do you make a hiring manager realize the value you could bring to the team? By emphasizing any unique strengths, experience, and skillset valuable within your industry.

For example, if you have experience using advanced tools or can access hard-to-reach audiences, these can be standout selling points worth mentioning.

Doing this positions you as a candidate who won’t be on the market for long and creates a sense of urgency to respond to your letter.

4. Reinforce your competence with relevant numbers, examples, etc.

It‘s essential to show the hiring manager how you’ve used your skills to solve pain points they might be currently experiencing. This is where you need to use numbers that show how your skill set has driven results in your previous jobs.

By quantifying your results rather than just listing previous work experience, you give the hiring manager concrete data that helps them understand the real-world impact you could make on their team.

5. Confidently request to move on to the next step.

You should again express your interest in exploring upcoming opportunities at the end of your letter. A call-to-action is crucial because it lets the hiring manager know how to get the ball rolling if they’re interested.

Finally, as an additional tip to improve your chances of getting a response, consider connecting with the manager directly.

The ideal way to do this would be via an introduction from a mutual connection; however, if that’s not an option, consider connecting with the manager on LinkedIn.

Don't forget to share this post!

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How to Write a Letter of Interest [Sample Letter]

You have your heart set on working at a specific company… but they don't have any current job openings that coincide with your skills.

Has this ever happened to you?

A letter of interest could be just the thing you need! And the best part? With a little bit of effort and creativity, you can make your letter of interest stand out from the crowd and earn you the first spot in line when a position opens up.

In this article, we're going to walk you through the process of writing a letter of interest that's both professional and unique. Whether you're a seasoned job seeker or just starting out, we'll share tips and tricks to help you write a letter of interest that's sure to get noticed.

What is a letter of interest?

A letter of interest is a formal document that is sent to an organization or individual expressing interest in a particular job, position, or other opportunity. The letter is a way to introduce yourself and explain why you would be an ideal fit for the opportunity. It is a great way to make a good first impression, and it can be used to stand out from other applicants.

The prospecting letter should be professional and include information about your background and qualifications, as well as any relevant experience you may have. It should also include a clear and concise statement of your interest in the opportunity, and be sure to include any questions you may have.

By sending a letter of interest, you are demonstrating your initiative and enthusiasm to the employer.

Why should you send a letter of interest?

Why send a letter of interest? It allows the recipient to understand your career goals, qualifications, and how you would add value to the organization. When you send this letter of interest, you're asking if there are any job opportunities that match your skill set and experience. You can send a letter of interest whether the company is hiring or not.

Sending a letter of interest is a proactive approach to job searching and helps establish early communication with a potential employer, potentially opening up new job opportunities or making a positive impression for future openings. It's a great way to establish initial contact with a company and get you on their radar.

You might also send a letter of interest to request and schedule an informational interview with someone at the company who has experience in your desired field. In your letter of interest, express your interest in gathering information and advice from an experienced professional in order to gain a better understanding of the industry or career path you are interested in pursuing.

By writing a well-crafted letter of interest, you can demonstrate your professionalism and motivation to the recipient, which increases the chances of them agreeing to an informational interview and/or considering you for future opportunities.

What is the difference between a letter of interest and a cover letter?

‍While a letter of interest and a cover letter may include similar content, they are two very different documents, and each an independent document.

Letter of interest

A letter of interest is a document you might send to a company you're interested in working with. Unlike cover letters, a letter of interest is not necessarily tailored to a particular job posting and is sent unsolicited to employers to express your interest in opportunities with the organization. It is used to initiate a relationship with the company and position yourself for potential job opportunities in the future.

Sending a letter of interest is a type of cold outreach — meaning the company did not ask for your letter. You might also hear this referred to as a letter of intent, or simply an LOI, or an inquiry letter.

Cover letter

A cover letter is something you send during your job search. It is typically sent along with a resume when applying for a specific job opening. Its main purpose is to introduce yourself and explain why you are a good fit for the position. A cover letter should highlight your skills, experience, and achievements that are relevant to the job description and role you are applying for and demonstrate how you can contribute to the company.

While a cover letter and a letter of interest contain similar information, the intent and the timing are different.

What makes a good letter of interest?

A good letter of interest should have the following:

Demonstrated research

Make sure you thoroughly research any company you want to send a letter of interest to. The more information you can gather, the more details you'll have to help you draft your letter. Show that you have done your research on the company and the industry and explain why you are interested in learning more.

Here are some ways to research a company you're interested in:

• Read one or two recent press releases
• Read any relevant news articles you can find on the company
• Spend some time on the company's website to learn their values and goals
• Search for current employees on professional websites such as LinkedIn

Address your letter to the right person

Spend some time researching the company and looking on LinkedIn or the company's corporate website to figure out who to address your letter to. Since there isn't a specific job open yet, it may be hard to find a hiring manager. But it's important to find a name — employers will respond better to a letter that is personalized.

If possible through your research, find the name of someone in the department you're interested in. The company's “Our Team” page or something similar may list people that run different parts of their business. From there, you can look for a person that reports to them on LinkedIn.

You can call the company on the phone if an exhaustive Internet search doesn't turn anything up. Don't be afraid to introduce yourself and explain what you're looking for — this might actually leave a better impression, or you may get the opportunity to speak with a hiring manager on the phone.

When you find a name to address your note to, include their full name and job title. You want to acknowledge their role and that working with them or for them is a goal of yours.

If you have exhausted all options and you truly cannot find a name, use a generic address such as:

• To whom it may concern
• To the hiring manager of DEPARTMENT OF INTEREST
• To the human resources manager at COMPANY OF INTEREST

Since this is a type of cold outreach, and you don't personally know the recipient of your letter of interest, you need to find a way to grab their attention from the moment they begin reading your letter.

Your job is to convince the recipient that you are worth his/her time. A great way to do that is by showing off your knowledge about the organization and the value you can contribute. Maybe the company recently expanded, won an award, or launched a new product. That kind of hook will grab someone's attention and show you've done your research.

Professional tone

A letter of interest is a formal document that should be written in a professional and polite manner, using proper grammar and spelling. Using a professional tone conveys professionalism, attention to detail, and respect for the recipient. It sets the tone for further communication and can positively influence the recipient's perception of the writer.

Prove your skills

Ideally, your letter of interest should convince someone who has never met you or heard of you that you're the perfect fit for their company. That's a tall order! Sweeten the pot by including numbers that show how you've been an asset to other companies in your employment background.

Personalize your letters

It's okay to work from the same letter of interest template for each letter of interest you send, but make sure each one is personalized and tailored to that company and the specific recipient. If possible, mention the recipient's name and specific details about the company or industry that interest you. Explain specifically why you'd be a good fit for this company's culture and workplace.

Clear purpose

The intention of the letter should be very clear to the recipient. The clear purpose of a letter of interest is to express your interest in a particular company, organization, or position and to inquire about potential job opportunities or future prospects. It allows you to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the company or industry and make a request for an informational interview with an experienced professional.

The goal is to make a positive impression and establish a connection with the recipient, in the hopes of potentially securing a job interview or starting a dialogue for future opportunities.

Respect for the recipient's time

The letter of interest should show your respect for the recipient's time and indicate a willingness to arrange a meeting at their convenience.

Follow-up information

Include your contact information in the letter of interest and offer to follow up with the recipient if they are interested in scheduling an informational interview.

How long should a letter of interest be?

A letter of interest should typically be a few short paragraphs, or one page in length or less, usually around 200-300 words. It's important to keep the letter concise and focused while still being able to provide enough information to demonstrate your interest in the company or position and to highlight your relevant skills and qualifications.

The goal of a letter of interest is to generate interest and make a positive impression, not to provide a detailed account of your entire career history. Stick to the most relevant information, and keep the tone professional, concise, and to the point.

How to write a letter of interest

In a letter of interest, you want to outline your skills and show how you'd be a perfect fit for the job. However, you're writing this letter because there is not a specific position available for you at the moment. Therefore, you want to showcase how your overall skill set can be an asset to the company.

Highlight your relevant skills and qualifications and mention your area(s) of expertise. Make the company as excited about you as you are about the potential of working there. Use the following letter of interest format as a guide.

Opening paragraph

In the first paragraph, you want to briefly introduce yourself. Make it clear what kind of work you are interested in and why you're writing the interest letter. Share your enthusiasm for the company, and identify any specific ways you can contribute to the success of the organization.

Mention your awareness that there aren't currently any open positions aligned with your skill set, but outline your skills that they won't want to miss out on.

Paragraph two

In the second paragraph of your letter of interest, outline what you bring to the table. Impress the employer with your track record of previous work experience and your deep understanding of the value you would add to the team.

Highlight quantifiable data and statistics in your resume accomplishments that show how you've made a positive impact at other companies, and show your excitement about doing the same as a prospective employee at the company. You want them to be impressed with your skills, but they key to a successful letter of interest is by showing what you can do for the company.

Teal's free AI Resume Builder can help you write metric-driven achievements using our Achievement Assistant tool.

Closing paragraph

The final paragraph of your letter of interest is referred to as the call to action. You're calling on the reader to act. You're encouraging the hiring manager to connect with you and schedule an interview with you, so make sure you include your contact details.

In this paragraph, you may ask for an informational interview or a coffee chat to show your interest in learning more about the company. Make it clear that you are flexible with your availability and will make time that fits with their schedule.

Letter of interest examples

If you're looking for a letter of interest example, you're in the right place. Use these letter of interest samples to help you get started.

[Hiring manager's name], Congratulations on [target company name] recently winning XYZ award! I'm a big fan of what you do and how you do it. [Mention something specific about the company that you like (the company's goals or company's mission).] I'm currently in the process of advancing my career and I feel I would be a great fit for your team. I have a degree in marketing from ABC University. I have worked in marketing for the past 15 years, helping companies like [name previous employers] promote their products. [If possible, include brief statistics or case studies proving your relevant skills and past success.] You can reach me at [email address] or [phone number]. I know you aren't currently hiring for any positions that match my skill set, but I hope you'll keep me in mind for a future job opening. Would you be available sometime within the next few weeks for an informational interview or simply to get coffee? My resume is attached and feel free to contact me with any further questions. Thanks in advance for your time. [Your name, email address, and phone number]

Subject: Request for Informational Interview Dear [Name of the recipient], My name is [your name], and I have been following [company name]'s trajectory since it launched in XYZ year. I am reaching out to you today as I am extremely interested in learning more about the [industry/company] and the opportunities available in this field. I've been following [company name] for a while now, and I continue to be highly impressed by the work that you and your team are doing. Your work has motivated me to pursue a career in this field, and I would like to gain more insight and advice from someone who has extensive experience in this area. I am writing to request an informational interview with you. I understand that your time is valuable, and I would be honored if you could spare a few minutes to talk with me about your experiences and offer any guidance that you think might be helpful. I would be happy to arrange a time and place that is convenient for you. Thank you for taking the time to read my email, and I look forward to hearing from you soon. Best regards, [Your name, email address, and phone number]

Dear [Hiring manager's name], I recently read an article about [target company name]'s approach to XYZ, and my interest was instantly piqued. I am writing this letter to express my interest in the [industry/company]. After researching your company and the work it does, I am very impressed with its mission and the positive impact it has on the community. I am confident that my skills and experiences would positively contribute to the organization. I have [insert relevant experience and/or education], which has allowed me to develop strong [skill or quality related to the position]. For example, [provide a specific example or accomplishment that showcases the skill]. Additionally, I have a proven track record of [provide another example or accomplishment that demonstrates your abilities]. I am excited about the prospect to bring my skills and experience to your team and make a meaningful contribution to [company name]. I believe my passion for [field or industry related to the position] and my commitment to excellence would make me a valuable asset to your organization. Thank you in advance. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further. Sincerely, [Your name, email address, and phone number]

Final thoughts on letters of interest

When you write a letter of interest, it may not get you immediately hired, or even get a call from hiring managers or a specific person right away, but there are advantages to sending a great letter of interest to a potential employer. It shows the employer or hiring manager two valuable skills, interest and initiative.

This type of cold outreach might feel a little uncomfortable, especially since you don't have a personal connection with the recipient of your letter of interest. Keep in mind that you are reaching out to someone who has the ability to hire job candidates. Because cold outreach can be intimidating, use the communication templates located within Teal's Job Application Tracker as a place to start.

Sending a letter of interest can make a difference in your job search. And while sending a resume with your letter isn't required, it could get your resume into the hands of the hiring manager before a job posting of an open position goes public. So, make sure you know how to tailor your resume to a job , that it is optimized, and it represents you as the most qualified candidate for future opportunities.

Sending a letter of interest is just one part of what can be an exhausting job search process. If you're applying for multiple jobs or sending many letters of interest at the same time, keeping track of each company, position, contacts, follow up dates, etc. can be overwhelming. Teal can help you streamline this process and ease any job search frustration .

Use Teal's  Job Application Tracker  to help keep everything straight. This free Chrome extension lets you bookmark jobs, understand what information you should include when you reach out, and easily follow up with contacts you've made. Get started with Teal today and easily document your journey toward your dream job!

By following these tips and crafting a compelling letter of interest, you can increase your chances of securing an interview and advancing your career.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i find the right person to address my letter of interest to, should i follow up after sending a letter of interest, and if so, how long should i wait.

Becca Dershowitz

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Letter of Interest Samples and Writing Tips

Letters of Interest vs. Cover Letters

How to write a letter of interest.

• Letter of Interest Sample & Template
• More Letter of Interest Examples

Email Letter of Interest Example

A letter of interest, also known as a letter of inquiry or prospecting letter, is sent to companies that may be hiring but haven't listed a specific job opening to apply for.

Why send a letter of interest? You can use a letter of interest to see whether the company has any job openings that would be a good fit for you. If you are passionate about potentially working at a particular company, it's one way to get on its radar and get noticed. You might also use a letter to arrange an  informational interview  with someone at the company and learn more about the organization.

A letter of interest is a great way to get your foot in the door with a company you are interested in.

Read below for advice on how to write a letter of interest, get a template to download, and review sample letters of interest for a variety of circumstances.

What's the difference between a letter of interest and a cover letter? In a cover letter, you explain why you feel you are a strong candidate for a particular job, while in a letter of inquiry, you explain why you would be an asset to the company more generally. A cover letter is used when you are applying for a specific job opening with an employer.

Contact person . First, try to find someone specific at the company to send the letter to, such as an executive in a division you're interested in. Find out whether you have any  connections at the company  on LinkedIn or through family, friends, college alumni, or former colleagues. If you know someone at the company, write directly to them. You could also ask that  person for a referral to a hiring manager .

What to include in the letter.  Your letter of interest should contain information on why the company interests you and why your skills and experience would be valuable to the company. Use the letter to sell yourself, explaining how you would add value to the company. The letter should be about what you have to offer, not what you're looking for in your next employer.

Letter conclusion.  Conclude your letter by explaining that you would like to meet or talk with the employer to explore possible career opportunities.

You might even inquire about setting up an informational interview if there are no current vacancies at the company. It's a way to learn more about a company and to get noticed by an employer.

Include your contact information.  In the conclusion, specify how you can be contacted if the company is interested in following up with you. The easier you make it to connect, the better your chances of getting a response.

Keep your letter short and to the point.  You want to get your point across quickly and clearly, without taking up too much of the employer's time.

Take a look at these detailed tips and templates for  how to write a letter of interest  before you start writing your own letters.

Sample Letter of Interest

This is a sample letter of interest.  Download the letter template (compatible with Google Docs or Word Online), or read the example below.

Sample Letter of Interest (Text Version)

Joseph Q. Applicant 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345 josephq@email.com 555-212-1234

February 7, 2024

Jane Smith Director, Human Resources United International 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321

Dear Ms. Smith:

I recently read an article about United International’s new approach to digital marketing in Marketing Magazine Online, and I’m writing to inquire whether you have any marketing positions open.

I have five years of experience working as a Marketing Strategist for one of our local retail clothing stores. During my time in this role, I increased the number of website page views by 120% and reduced the cost of customer acquisition by 20%. In addition, our sales increased by 50% during that time.

My resume is enclosed with this letter so you can review my education, work experience, and achievements. I would appreciate an opportunity to talk with you or a member of the marketing team to see how my experience and skills could benefit your company. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to speaking with you in the near future.

Signature (hard copy letter)

Joseph Q. Applicant

More Letters of Interest, Letters of Inquiry, and Prospecting Letter Examples

Review these sample letters of interest, inquiry letters, and letters of introduction to get ideas for your own letters. 

You should tailor a letter to fit your work experience and the company you are contacting.

While examples, templates, and guidelines are a great starting point for your letter, you should always be flexible and carefully edit the letter to ensure you're making a strong pitch.

• Letter of Interest Sample
• Prospecting Letter Example
• Letter of Inquiry Example
• Sample Introduction Letter
• Sample Letter Ask for Job Search Help
• Referral Letter Example
• Value Proposition Letter Example

When you're writing a letter to inquire about opportunities, a printed letter can be an excellent way to capture the reader's attention. However, email is another option to try—especially if you're looking for a quick response. You can also use email to follow up on a mailed letter or a phone call.

• Sample Email Letter of Inquiry

Key Takeaways

Use a letter of interest to inquire about jobs. Send an inquiry letter or email when you're interested in a company that hasn't posted available jobs.

Try to find a contact person. Your correspondence will be more likely to read if you can find a specific individual to send it to.

Take the time to follow up. If you don't hear back, follow up with a phone call, LinkedIn message, or email.

CareerOneStop. " Inquiry Letters ."

CareerOneStop. " How Do I Write a Cover Letter? "

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• Write down your interest in applying to the job position.
• Mention where you saw or found the job post.
• Write down the things that make you qualified for the position.
• End on a positive tone.

SAMPLE LETTER

[Letter Date]

[Subject: Normally bold, summarizes the intention of the letter] -Optional-

Dear [Recipients Name],

I am currently writing to you to inform you that I am very much interested in applying for the Management Trainee position that is open in your esteemed company. I believe that I have the necessary skills and characteristics which are needed for the position. I am (list down the various positive qualities that you have here). Please find attached my resume to further support my application. I look forward to your positive response.

Sincerely, [Senders Name] [Senders Title] -Optional-

[Enclosures: number] - Optional - cc: [Name of copy recipient] - Optional -

Job application letter of interest. Sample letter.

Further things to consider when writing application letters to human resources

Application Letters

Application letters are letters that you write to formally request for something from authority, apply for a job, or join an institution. Effective application letters will give a detailed explanation for your interest in the specific item, company, or institution. They showcase your abilities and strengths and illustrate your experience. In most cases, people write application letters to express their interest in receiving a position, attending an institution, or when applying for a visa, for instance. In all scenarios, application letters must be accompanied by the relevant documents. Application letters are the perfect tool to demonstrate something of your personality. Therefore, you should write in a professional tone setting a clear outline that allows the reader to scan the primary data quickly. Introduce yourself and briefly explain your intent and reason for the application. Address the letter with a title or name of the recipient. If your application is for a job or to join an institution, for example, you need to highlight your experience and qualification; if you are applying for a travel visa, make sure to state a clear intention for your travel. End with a positive tone and invite the recipient to contact you.

Letters to Human Resources

Letters to human resources are letters written to the personnel or department that deals with administration, training, and hiring of employees in an organization. The role of human resources personnel is to handle everything from payroll to policy issues and legal grievances. If you have a policy or legal question, a personal issue that affects your work, or a serious problem with a colleague, the first person you may want to contact is a human resources representative. The best way to begin this conversation is by drafting a letter stating your specific problem. When writing letters to human resources, make sure to follow all the rules of a formal letter. Start by addressing your letter to the right person. Write a clear subject line communicating your problem and indicating that action is needed. Set a formal and professional tone early in the conversation. Keep your sentences short and clear and avoid providing more information than is necessary. Describe the issue precisely giving a timeline of when it started. Explain what you have done or think can be done to address the issue. Request for an in-person meeting. Close on a note of anticipation to seeing the issue resolved.

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