writing a cover letter expression of interest

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

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

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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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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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A Step-by-Step Guide to Writing an Expression of Interest (EOI)

Last Updated: May 10, 2024 Fact Checked

Expression of Interest Template

Writing your eoi.

• Polishing an EOI
• Why Write an EOI
• EOI vs. Cover Letter

Expert Interview

This article was co-authored by James Pak and by wikiHow staff writer, Madeleine Flamiano . James Pak is a Career Coach and Founder of LA Career Coaching. With over eight years of industry experience, James specializes in career guidance, professional development, and graduate school and college admissions consulting for students. He offers one-on-one coaching services and works with students in college and high school. He received his MBA from Columbia Business School and a B.S. from Boston College. There are 13 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 957,812 times.

In business writing, an expression of interest (or EOI) is a document usually written by prospective job applicants. Like its name suggests, an expression of interest tells a prospective employer that you're highly interested in working for their company. Additionally, a well-written expression of interest shares why you'd be a great asset for their business' team. Here, we'll tell you everything you need to know to craft an amazingly convincing EOI that'll get you one step closer to getting hired.

Writing an Expression of Interest

Open with a formal salutation and briefly introduce yourself. Explain your work history and how your experience qualifies you for the job. Describe your relevant skills and explain why you’re the best person to work with the company’s team. Sign off with your full name and contact information.

• Remember, employers love hearing why their job is more attractive to you than other ones because it makes you seem loyal from the get-go.
• For instance, if you're applying for a government IT position, you might want to talk about how a job with the government gives you a chance to use your skills to serve the greater good of the community.

• For instance, you might whittle your EOI's purpose down to something like: "The purpose of this letter is to demonstrate how I can use my unique skills and experience in a high-demand veterinary aide role."

• If you don't know who this person is, you can either call the company to ask (which shows major initiative) or use a general greeting like " Dear Hiring Professional ,".
• Note that most business resources now recommend against using "To Whom it May Concern," since this opener can come across as a little stilted and impersonal.
• Whenever you can use someone's name, definitely include it—this extra step adds more warmth and personality to your letter while keeping it formal. [4] X Research source

• For instance, if you're applying for a role as a veterinary assistant, the following might be a perfectly fine introductory section — it tells who you are and why you're writing in under 3 sentences:
• " My name is Alex Lester, and I am very interested in working in your office as a veterinary assistant. Beyond my education and experience, my passion for this work and tending to people's pets make me a great addition for your practice. "

• It's okay if you're just starting out in your chosen field! For instance, if you're applying for your first-ever job as a line cook in a local restaurant, you might describe your culinary background (including any cooking classes) as well as non-cooking work you've done in restaurants (like serving, hosting, etc.).

• Personality . Are you friendly and honest? Have you generally gotten along with your coworkers in the past? Employers like hiring team players — people who will keep a positive attitude at work and keep company morale high.
• Social preferences . Are you a talkative, gregarious extrovert? Are you a quiet, focused introvert? Your habits for interacting with other people can have a serious effect on your job performance — some jobs demand great talkers while others don't.
• Goals and passions . Is this job something you love to do? Can it help you make achieve what you've always dreamed about? Employers like hiring people with intense personal motivations for taking the job.

• For instance, you might conclude with: Feel free to contact me via phone at (303) 555-4444 or email at [email protected]. I look forward to hearing from you! Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Alex Lester

Polishing an Expression of Interest

• If you have time, take a quick break between when you complete your EOI and when you start proofreading. Most writing experts recommend looking at your writing with a fresh pair of eyes so you can spot mistakes more easily. [9] X Research source
• Avoid using overly complicated language or jargon in an attempt to impress the recipient. Hiring professionals are not likely to appreciate having to wade through a lengthy EOI just to find your skills and qualifications.

• For example, if you're talking about your work history, the sentence "From 2002 to 2006, I worked as a freelance consultant for several personal contacts" sounds much more dignified than "From 2002 to 2006, I did a little freelance work for a couple of guys I know" , even though both statements have almost the same meaning.
• Headings : In the top left corner of the letter, provide your name, address, phone number, and email address (each on a separate line). Leave a space between your heading and salutation.
• Spacing : Keep the text in your paragraphs single-spaced. Leave a space between each new paragraph.
• Indents : Either indent the first sentence of each paragraph or leave them aligned with the left side of the page. Many sources recommend against indenting if you skip lines between paragraphs. [10] X Research source
• Closings : Leave 3 spaces between your closing (e.g., "Sincerely,") and your name.

• Work from a printed page, not a computer screen. Seeing your work in a different format lets you view how it appears on the page and can help cure a case of "glazed-over eyes" from looking at a computer screen for hours.
• Read out loud. Hearing your text with your ears in addition to seeing it with your eyes gives you a new and effective way to detect any errors. This is especially good for spotting run-on sentences that might otherwise escape you.
• Get a friend to help. Someone who's never seen the text before may be able to see errors that you can't. Often, spending a long time writing a document can make you overlook errors in it that you've gotten used to seeing.

Why should I write an Expression of Interest letter?

• An EOI also proves that you have your heart set on working for a specific organization (as opposed taking on a role anywhere else). This can really endear you to hiring managers.
• Even if a company doesn't have any job openings, they'll likely keep your EOI on file. They may even reach out to you as soon as they're ready to hire new people.

What’s the difference between an EOI and a cover letter?

Community Q&A

• Try to avoid starting every sentence with "I" (e.g., "I think that...", "I believe...", and so on). Constant first-person references can make your EOI feel a bit repetitive. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Note: for how to specifically write an expression of interest for a visa, see our article on visa EOIs. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• Avoid addressing the recipient as "you" (e.g., "You should hire me because...", "I'd be a great fit in your company because..."). This can seem informal and, in some cases, even demanding or even rude. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about finding a job, check out our in-depth interview with James Pak .

• ↑ https://www.cnbc.com/2019/01/30/10-email-templates-every-successful-job-hunter-needs.html
• ↑ https://opentextbc.ca/writingforsuccess/chapter/chapter-10-persuasion/
• ↑ https://site.uit.no/english/writing-style/letters/
• ↑ https://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/outside-voices-careers/articles/2017-06-20/7-mistakes-of-cover-letter-writing
• ↑ https://www.careerfaqs.com.au/news/news-and-views/how-to-write-an-expression-of-interest
• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/interview-question-tell-me-about-your-work-experience
• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/business-letter-closing-examples
• ↑ https://www.touro.edu/departments/writing-center/tutorials/seven-steps-to-effective-proofreading/
• ↑ https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/561/01/
• ↑ http://www.writingclasses.com/WritersResources/AskTheWriterDetail.php?ID=125
• ↑ http://writing.wisc.edu/Handbook/Proofreading.html
• ↑ https://www.monash.edu/__data/assets/pdf_file/0004/1531858/tips-on-writing-an-expression-of-interest-letter.pdf
• ↑ https://ca.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/letter-of-interest-vs-cover-letter

About This Article

To write an expression of interest, open with a formal salutation like, "Dear Hiring Professional," then introduce yourself and state the position you're interested in. Briefly explain your work history and how it qualifies you for the job before moving on to listing your applicable skills. Add a line about why you're the best candidate and conclude with "Sincerely" followed by your full name. Remember to keep a formal, professional tone throughout and proofread it carefully before submitting. To learn more, like how to properly format the letter, keep reading the article! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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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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How to Write a Letter of Interest (With Examples)

In This Guide:

What is a letter of interest, what makes a good letter of interest, how to write a good letter of interest, four good letter of interest examples, key takeaways.

Since graduation, you've been dreaming about working for that  company. Unfortunately, you can't find a single job advert.

Heard about the hidden job market? Rumor has it that 70 – 80 % of all job positions remain unadvertised .

How do you go about applying for a role that may or may not exist?

Write a letter of interest to make a statement and connect with recruiters in the company.

The letter of interest may not lead to an immediate job offer, but it will raise your career prospects, helping you remain on top of the application pile.

Have we won you over? Read on to get inspired by:

• What is a letter of interest, and when should you send one?
• Letter of interest vs cover letter : what is the difference?
• KISS (Keep It Short and Simple) and other ground rules to writing your letter of interest;
• The 10 must-have elements that make up the structure of your letter of interest.
• Real-life examples and templates to write your letter of interest in the blink of an eye.

A letter of interest goes under many names, like prospecting letter, expression (or statement) of intent (or inquiry).

Whatever the case, the letter of interest helps you get one foot through the door of your dream company – to see if you'd be a good fit for any potential job openings.

The letter of interest is a formal introduction, demonstrating initiative and enthusiasm, qualities hiring managers value.

When should you write a letter of interest?

Send a letter of intent, if you have recently:

• read an article about the company;
• found a social media post about a new business or expansion;
• seen that the organization accepts resumes for further consideration;
• heard about a job opening that hasn't been announced.

When you choose to write a letter of interest, you are setting yourself apart from the rest by taking the initiative in finding a job within a specific organization that brings you excitement.

I enjoy getting letters of interest, they show true enthusiasm, career focus and determination, and don't happen often.

Jessica Hinkle, state government worker, and hiring manager

Letter of interest versus cover letters

Here are the similarities between the letter of interest and the cover letter . Before writing either, you need to research the organization to add an element of personalization.

Within both letters, you'd need to introduce yourself and answer why your experience would be an asset to the company.

Now, let's look at how a letter of interest differs from a cover letter.

The letter of interest expresses your broader interest and flexibility to adapt to a potential role.

On the other hand, a cover letter highlights why you’re the best candidate  out there for the job.

The letter of interest is unsolicited – it is more general and may not be directed to a specific hiring manager or a particular job.

Some job openings require a cover letter – it should note the exact job title and company  you're applying for, as well as a greeting to the hiring manager.

The main focus of a letter of interest is to point out why you admire the company (its culture, mission, and values) and how you'd contribute to its future success.

A cover letter may contain similar elements but would be more centered on communicating your skills, experience, and achievements  that are relevant to the job.

A good letter of interest should excite the hiring manager or department head to meet you. Thus, leading to an informal, informational interview, or helping you to stay on top of everyone's mind when a new role becomes available.

So, before you start writing, here are the six things that benchmark all successful letters of intent.

Research the company

Dive into information about the company  and industry via press releases and news articles; the corporate website and mission statement; LinkedIn and other social media platforms.

Remember that the more specific, company-relevant details you can disclose in your letter of interest, the more likely you'd impress with your knowledge.

Personalize your greeting

Start your letter of interest with a personalized salutation  to a human resource specialist, currently recruiting in the company, or a department manager, you'd wish to work with.

Avoid generic greetings like “To whom it may concern” or “Dear sir/madam”.

Instead, take the time to find the relevant contact and note the department head’s or manager’s full name and job title.

Attention-grabbing hook from the get-go

Here's the cold, harsh truth about the letter of interest – no one is expecting your application or has any obligation to respond to your message.

Prove that your profile is worth the company's time by showing you've done your homework on the organization and the specific value you can deliver.

Refer to your research to look out for noteworthy, recent projects or business updates (e.g. opening a new store or entering a new market).

In your letter of interest, point out how you see yourself driving this enterprise ahead by showing your past track record of success.

Professional tone and language

When writing your letter of interest, double-check your grammar and spelling to show you pay attention to even the smallest details.

Use a polite tone to balance your enthusiasm and confidence, without sounding too cocky or pushy. Yet, avoid sounding too much like a robot, as the company may think you've written your letter of interest with AI.

Often humor helps you to stand out, but, in this case, we suggest you avoid cracking jokes, as they might not resonate with your readers.

Persuasive and specific offer

Aim to stay on target by explaining exactly why you'd fit the company culture.

Use LinkedIn to research current employees working in the role you wish to have and discover their key skills.

Select up to three of your strengths to tell the story of how your experience aligns  with the ideal candidate profile.

Remember to always include your achievements  by a tangible metric (e.g. percent increased) to be even more specific.

Keep your letter of interest to the point

How likely are you to read a letter of intent that just pops out of the blue in your mailbox one day and that goes on and on and on…

Not very likely.

Your persuasion letter should be up to a page long (around 200 – 300 words). That is around three paragraphs that should be single-spaced.

Follow the standard business letter format to highlight how you can contribute to the company.

Your resume should be attached to your letter of interest, painting the full picture of your experience.

Enhancv's resume builder  allows you to create a perfectly streamlined document that will further elevate the impact of your letter of interest. If you think your resume needs a refresh, follow our guidelines in the article, How to Write a Great Resume .

When sitting down to write your letter of intent, there are two rules of thumb you need to follow.

• Rule number one – you should focus on what you have to offer rather than what you're seeking in a new employer.
• Rule number two – the goal is to pique interest, not provide a detailed account of your career history.

Having that in mind, let's get down to writing your letter of interest!

The structure of your letter of interest

• Header  – include your name, and contact details (email, phone number, and address). Also, the contact's name, job title, and company name. Don't miss out on the date.
• Greeting  – take the time to find out who you're writing to and always personalize your salutation.
• Introduction  – to grab the reader's attention with relevant information.
• Body paragraph  – to show how you'd bring value to the organization.
• Closing paragraph  – aim to end with a call to action.

The introduction paragraph of your letter of intent

Kick off your letter of interest with a brief introduction of your current job title or relevant experience to the company.

After this first sentence, note the specific job or department you'd like to be a part of and briefly summarize why.

Next, highlight why you're drawn to the company (e.g. their big-picture vision, products or services, strategic growth, etc.). If you can identify any specific challenges they face, jot them down in this sentence.

End your introduction with a statement that highlights that you know there are no current openings, but you believe your expertise would be a valuable asset.

The body of your statement of interest

Use the body of your letter of interest to make a lasting impression so that the recruiters remember you when a role becomes available.

While it may be challenging to highlight why you'd be the perfect fit for a non-specific role, there are a few approaches you can take.

Identify two or three specific issues within the company or department.

Describe how your current job equips you to address these challenges,  by focusing on your accomplishments, paired with tangible metrics  (e.g. numbers of products sold in a month, etc.).

Show how your achievements and skills align with the company's needs.

• Emphasize hard skills (or the technologies  you can use) and soft skills (your people and communication talents ) that bring value to the company.
• Select notable accomplishments that set you apart from other industry professionals. Use bullets to draw attention to them, and add numbers to show the results of your success.
• Highlight your specific experience or qualifications in a niche, that the company values. If you are a recent graduate, with no experience, use your volunteer experience  or extracurricular activities to make your case.

The closing paragraph of your persuasion letter

Finish your letter of interest with a call to action, inviting the hiring manager to reach out to discuss potential opportunities.

Thank them for their time and consideration and suggest exploring ideas in a live meeting (e.g. an informational interview or a casual coffee chat).

Emphasize your flexibility to accommodate their schedule, and make it clear that you look forward to exploring the opportunities further.

Don't forget to add how they can get in touch (via email or telephone).

Ready for some real-life examples of writing your letter of interest? Let’s explore one that is completely wrong:

Notice how Mr Statham has focused solely on his experience and achievements? He hasn't pinpointed in any way the company he is applying to – its culture, unique problems, or goals.

The constant "I" comes across as a bit arrogant, creating an endless account of his success.

Here is how Mr. Statham can improve his letter of interest:

From the get-go Mr. Statham expresses his interest in a specific role, highlighting his unique skill set and why he chose the company.

The body of his letter of interest highlights two key achievements with tangible metrics.

The ending includes a call to action.

In the next part of this guide, we’ll present you with four real-life industry professionals’ letters of intent.

Take note of their initial mistakes and how to make their writing sound more specific to match the company.

Project manager letter of interest

What happens when you send out a generic-sounding letter of interest?

The candidate doesn’t build his case as to how he could contribute to the company. Mr. Allias’s letter of interest sounds generic and robotic, at best.

Here is how he edited it:

Mr. Allias’s letter of interest works now as it’s:

• Personalized and targeted to the reader.
• Shows exactly why he’s interested in the company.
• Highlights relevant experience , skills, and noteworthy accomplishments.
• There’s a clear call to action at the end.

Data scientist letter of interest

The letter of intent is where you should avoid being overconfident:

Notice how Ms. Tookes’ letter of intent:

• Comes across as overconfident and arrogant.
• Focuses too much on her individual achievements.
• Offers no insights as to how she succeeded.

Want to see how she fixed her persuasion letter?

Reading Ms. Tookes letter of interest you can see exactly why she’s interested in a role at the company and can immediately pinpoint the impact she has had in her past roles.

In the conclusion paragraph, the recruiter can immediately find her contact details and reach out, when a suitable job becomes available.

Lecturer letter of interest

You want your letter of intent to hint at your attention to detail, so double-check your spelling, before sending it across.

Apart from the spelling errors, due to potentially being pressed on time, Mr. Jonson’s letter is vague and doesn’t clearly state the role he is interested in.

Check out how Mr. Jonson improved his letter:

Recruiters can now understand Mr. Jonson’s specific academic background and expertise, and see the value his experience can offer.

QA Engineer (Intern) letter of interest

You may not have relevant experience, yet as a junior professional, you have other skills and qualities that would help you stand out.

For starters, don’t be too friendly in your letter of intent:

Marcie Darcy’s letter is too informal and doesn’t highlight her skills or achievements. It sounds like a chat, you’ve lifted off of Meta.

Here’s a more formal version of Ms. Darcy’s letter of interest:

Ms. Darcie shows enthusiasm to join the company - by pinpointing the company’s relevant niche service - and at the same time stays professional.

She refers to her education for key technologies and projects, showcasing the value she could potentially bring about.

• Send a letter of interest, when there are no open roles in the company you want to work for. Meanwhile, use the cover letter to answer a specific job advert.
• The letter of interest is based on plenty of research on the company so that you can personalize it (especially the greeting) and catch the readers' attention (with how you'd bring about value).
• Use your letter of intent's introduction to state why you're interested in the company.
• In the body paragraph, pinpoint either two to three company problems, you can fix, or two to three skills or accomplishments, that would be useful to the company.
• End with a call to action, where you provide your availability for an informational interview or a coffee chat.

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How to Write an Impressive Expression of Interest Letter: Tips and Tricks

An expression of interest letter is a powerful tool that can help you stand out from the competition when applying for a job, project, or business opportunity. It is essentially a cover letter that showcases your interest in a particular position or project and highlights your qualifications and skills. In this article, we will discuss some tips and tricks to help you write an impressive expression of interest letter.

Introduction

The first paragraph of your expression of interest letter should serve as an introduction. Start by stating the purpose of the letter and briefly explain why you are interested in the opportunity. This section should be concise yet captivating, grabbing the reader’s attention right from the start.

Highlight Your Qualifications

The body paragraphs of your expression of interest letter should focus on highlighting your qualifications and skills that make you a suitable candidate for the position or project. Start by researching the company or organization to understand their needs and requirements. Then, tailor your qualifications to match those needs.

In each paragraph, discuss specific experiences, achievements, or skills that demonstrate why you are a good fit for the opportunity. Use concrete examples to showcase your abilities and provide evidence to support your claims. Remember to keep it concise and relevant – focus on quality rather than quantity.

Show Your Enthusiasm

In addition to showcasing your qualifications, it is important to demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for the opportunity in your expression of interest letter. Employers want someone who is passionate about what they do and will bring energy and dedication to their work.

Use this section to explain why you are particularly interested in this specific position or project. Highlight any previous experiences related to the industry or field that have fueled your passion. Share personal anecdotes or stories that demonstrate how this opportunity aligns with your long-term goals or interests.

Call-to-Action

The final section of your expression of interest letter should include a call-to-action. This is where you encourage the reader to take the next step, such as scheduling an interview or requesting additional information. Be clear and concise in your request, and provide contact information for easy follow-up.

You can also express gratitude for the reader’s time and consideration in this section. A simple “thank you” can go a long way in leaving a positive impression.

Writing an impressive expression of interest letter is essential for grabbing the attention of potential employers or business partners. By following these tips and tricks, you can create a compelling letter that showcases your qualifications, enthusiasm, and professionalism. Remember to tailor your letter to each specific opportunity and proofread carefully before sending it out. Good luck.

This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.

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• Resume and Cover Letter
• Crafting Catchy Cover...

Crafting Catchy Cover Letters: A How-To Guide

10 min read · Updated on May 16, 2024

Today, more than ever, having a catchy cover letter in your job-search toolkit is a must.

A lot of job seekers ask, “Do I really need a cover letter?” The answer is a resounding “Yes!” More often than not, writing a catchy cover letter is something people simply don't do because the overwhelming thought is that employers don't read them. That couldn't be further from the truth. 

On top of that, adding a catchy cover letter to your application can enhance the skills, achievements, and qualifications you include on your resume. Most importantly, though, a great cover letter makes you more human, more real, to the hiring manager reading your application. 

What's most critical is that your cover letter be engaging. Avoid using the same old boring content that everyone else is using. Instead, craft a catchy cover letter that grabs their attention. This is your how-to guide for doing that!

Cookie-cutter isn't the way to go

Everyone has seen cover letters that start like this, 

To Whom It May Concern:

I am writing to express my interest in the [POSITION TITLE] that I saw advertised for [COMPANY NAME].

It's a complete yawn-fest. It's boring. It's overdone. 

Since your cover letter is the first chance you get to make a solid introduction to a new employer, spice it up a bit. Use some humor, indicate that you're passionate about the job you're pursuing, and inject some of your personality to entice hiring managers to actually read what you have to say. 

What is a good opening line for a cover letter?

The main idea behind a great, catchy cover letter is that you want to tell a story. This doesn't mean you should regurgitate what's contained in your resume – no one wants to read the same things twice. It all starts at the beginning. The way you start your cover letter can make or break you.

Do you want the hiring manager to have a “Bleh” moment and toss your cover letter to the side?

Wouldn't you rather they be caught off-guard by your creativity and keep reading?

The best way to shake things up is to go off-script and write something that actually catches their attention. Here are some examples:

Show your passion: “Not too long ago, I came to the realization that my life's goals included giving back to my community through story-telling. After a lot of research, I discovered that a great way to do that was to go into Public Relations and Marketing to help connect consumers with companies to meet needs.”

Show some love: “I recently read an article about how [COMPANY NAME] was involved in improving our community by engaging employees in outreach events that…”

Prove your worth: “When I read about the job opening for [POSITION TITLE] at [COMPANY NAME], I knew I had to apply because I'd already saved my current company over $100K in logistics costs and I knew that I could do that for you, too.”

Highlight your personality: “A few years ago, I was exploring the mountain roads outside of Denver, and a stranded chicken jumped in my car – it's a funny story, I even have pictures. From that moment, I knew working with rescue animals was where I wanted my future to go.”

Now that you have their attention – write the body of your catchy cover letter

One thing to remember is that the introduction of your cover letter isn't supposed to be a monologue – keep that old adage that less is more in mind. The first paragraph of your cover letter is only meant to be a couple of sentences – just enough to pique the hiring manager's interest so they keep reading. Let's face it; it's not every day that some random chicken jumps in your car. That may be just the thing that entices the interviewer to call you in – so they can hear the story. 

The second paragraph of your catchy cover letter

The next part of your catchy cover letter should be a paragraph that transitions into how your introduction will make you a great part of their team. Without repeating all the great things you've written in your cover letter, highlight some of the skills and achievements from your career thus far to prove to them you have what it takes to be a valuable part of their team. 

The third paragraph of your catchy cover letter

You can actually write this third part as a paragraph or use bulleted achievement statements (like you'll see in the template later in this article). The idea here is to showcase your most impressive career achievements and your primary strengths. 

It's a good call to opt for bullets for this part of your catchy cover letter because if the hiring manager is skimming through your cover letter, it'll be easy for them to see what you bring to the table. Don't go crazy, though, and add a bunch of bulleted achievement statements. Stick to between three and five because you don't want the cover letter to go over one page. 

The closing of your catchy cover letter

Your last paragraph should close out the cover letter by reiterating your passion for the job and requesting an interview; this is called a call to action. After all, the whole point of writing a catchy cover letter is to get them to call you for a face-to-face meeting so you can win the job. 

The end of your cover letter is also a great place to explain faux pas in your resume or give details about why you're changing careers . You can even use this part to detail your desire to travel for work or indicate that you're relocating for this job. 

Here's what a catchy cover letter looks like

We know, instructions on how to do something is one thing, but seeing it all come together in an example is something even better. So, with that, here is a catchy cover letter example:

Contact Information

[Name][Company][Address]

Dear [Name],

Would [COMPANY NAME] benefit from having someone on their team who has generated $30K in revenue, increased blog traffic by 14%, and tripled social media ROI – all in one year? Then, I'm your person. Given my background in [EXPERIENCE RELATED TO FIELD] and [EXPERIENCE RELATED TO FIELD], I know I can repeat those results for you and feel that I would make additional significant contributions to the [POSITION TITLE] you currently have available.

Throughout my entire career, I have demonstrated consistent success [SOMETHING YOU HAVE CONTRIBUTED TO] to achieve high-reaching standards and goals. During my time with [COMPANY YOU CURRENTLY WORK FOR], I've built a reputation for [MAJOR ACHIEVEMENT]. On top of that, people often come to me from different departments because I'm known as someone who can [PICK A SKILL FROM THE JOB DESCRIPTION TO INJECT HERE]. 

Additional career experience and achievements include:

Achievement/accomplishment

I think it's a great idea for us to get further acquainted, and would truly value a moment of your time to discuss how my background aligns with your needs. If you agree we may have the basis for a mutually beneficial partnership; please feel free to contact me at your earliest convenience. I'd love to learn more about your team and the [POSITION TITLE] opening.  

I appreciate the time you're taking to review my application, and until we meet, I hope you have a great day!

[Your Name]

Related reading: You can find some career-specific cover letter examples here .

Why this template works

This catchy cover letter starts by discussing quantifiable achievements , which hiring managers drool over. Whenever you can deliver tangible results, the new employer will immediately know what you have to offer. 

Also, the fact that this letter indicates the results are repeatable shows that the applicant has done their research, understands the market, and is confident in their abilities. It helps the employer get the sense that the writer is genuinely passionate about their job. 

There isn't a hiring manager alive who wants to hire someone who is simply interested in earning a paycheck. Employers want employees who are dedicated and care about doing a good job. 

The closing of the cover letter template is proactive, inviting further discussion and reinforcing the applicant's desire to work for the company. 

Tailor your cover letter

You've probably heard about applicant tracking systems , also known as ATS, that companies use to weed out job seekers. Did you know that the ATS also scans cover letters? 

These systems are programmed to search for the right keywords – relevant phrases from the job description – to ensure that you are a good match. So, your catchy cover letter has to get past the ATS before it can impress the hiring manager. 

Did you notice the placeholders in the template? They're there for a reason.

As you read the job description for the position you want to apply to, you'll need to update your catchy cover letter with language that resonates with the new job. Let's say the new company wants someone who can work as a member of a cross-functional team. The last sentence of the second paragraph of the template would be a great place to include that phraseology. 

“On top of that, people often come to me from different departments because I'm known as someone who can bring harmony to processes by working as a member of a cross-functional team.”  

Just like that, you've tailored a bit of your cover letter . 

Catchy cover letter final tips and advice

Since the goal of your cover letter is to work with your resume to land your dream job – one of the most important aspects of anyone's life – it's critical to get it right. Let's talk about a few more things you need to know to craft a catchy cover letter that makes a strong impression and helps you win interviews. 

Use a professional letter format. You're not writing a letter to Grandma to thank her for the gift she got you, so make sure it's professional. Avoid using slang or overly casual expressions. Also, don't pack your cover letter with a lot of jargon that may or may not be understood outside of your current work circle. 

Keep it Short and Simple (K.I.S.S.). Remember the one-page rule. You're not trying to tell the hiring manager everything you've ever done in your career, instead, you're trying to pique their interest so they have a reason to call you to ask you more questions. 

Revise, edit, and do it again. Did you know that the average typed document has an average error rate of 8% ? Proofread your work, then get a friend to proofread it. After that, read it out loud to make sure it all sounds good. Cover letters, and resumes, too, for that matter, should have a 0% error rate.

Follow up. Prove that you're really interested in the position by following up with the employer if you don't hear back from them. 

Learn more: Read 10 of the Worst Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid to round out your knowledge about having a stand-out cover letter.

Stand out from the crowd, win the interview

It may take a bit of time, but writing a catchy cover letter that lands you an interview is definitely worth the effort. When you follow the tips and strategies in this how-to guide, you'll be able to effectively highlight your skills and achievements in a way that gets the attention of a hiring manager and intrigues them to the point of calling you for an interview.

If you feel like your cover letter is falling short, or you're sending it out and not hearing back from companies, let TopResume check it out for you. While we're at it, we can give your resume a once-over, too. Upload them both for a free review from a resume-writing expert. 

Recommended reading: 

8 Tips to Stand Out in a Competitive Job Market

Perfect Cover Letter Salutations: Start Strong

Resume vs Cover Letter: How They're Different

Related Articles:

How to Maximize Your Resume Action Words to Wow the Employer

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Cashier Skills: Add to Improve Your Resume!

See how your resume stacks up.

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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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What’s a Letter of Interest and How’s It Different From a Cover Letter?

As if the job search needed more confusing terms and jargon, it turns out there are multiple kinds of letters you might need to write. There are cover letters and letters of interest?

Yes, yes there are. They’re both letters you’d send to companies you’re interested in working for, but otherwise there are some key differences.

Read on to learn what those differences are and how to write each kind—with examples.

Letter of interest vs. cover letter

So what’s the difference between a letter of interest and the probably-more-familiar cover letter?

Basically, a cover letter targets a specific job opening and a letter of interest (sometimes called a letter of intent ) expresses a desire to work for a specific company even though you haven’t seen a job posting that would be right for you.

A cover letter:

• Is written to apply to a known open position
• Expresses enthusiasm for the open job
• Focuses on what you’d bring to a specific role
• Talks about how your skills and experience line up with the job
• Usually accompanies a resume and/or other application materials

A letter of interest:

• Is not in response to a specific job posting or opening
• Expresses a desire to work for the company more broadly
• Focuses how you can contribute to the organization
• Talks about your skills and experiences and how you might be able to help the company
• Does not always include your resume

So if there’s a company you’d love to work for and you think your skills would be valuable to them, you don’t necessarily need to wait around for the perfect job opening. You can send a letter of interest. But if said company has posted a job that lines up with your qualifications, a cover letter is the way to go.

How to write a cover letter

If you’ve decided to go with a cover letter, here are a few basic steps:

• Write a strong, relevant-to-the-job, cover letter opening that will hook your reader and tell them why you’re applying for this position and/or are interested in this organization.
• Identify three to five key qualifications . Read over the job description and look for skills , experiences, or other qualifications that you possess. Choose the ones that most show that you’d be great at this job to highlight in your cover letter.
• Write about these qualifications . Demonstrate your abilities and knowledge with brief examples from your career. Don’t forget to include the results of your work and as many numbers as possible to show the reader what you can do for their company.
• Wrap up with a strong conclusion that reiterates your excitement for the role and key qualifications.

Read More: Your Complete Guide to Writing a Cover Letter (Plus Bonus Tips and Examples)

Cover letter example

Here’s a sample of what your cover letter might look like.

Hello Connie,

When I saw the posting for the Program Manager position at Vaxx America, I was immediately drawn to your mission of increasing vaccination rates and public health knowledge. Vaxx America’s two-pronged approach of combatting disinformation while creating easy opportunities to get vaccinated is exactly what our society needs right now. As someone from a small town with dismal COVID vaccination rates, I’ve seen many old friends and family members buy into disinformation and end up seriously ill. I’d love to bring my experience as an event coordinator for health-focused nonprofits and passion for this cause to your company.

For the past two years, I’ve worked as an event coordinator for SexEdU, where I booked spaces for events on over 100 college campuses; coordinated communications between the organization and different schools; and planned, managed, and coordinated all logistics for education, health screening, vaccination, and other events offered through the organization. I worked on a total of 130 events in two years that provided services for over 100,000 attendees.

Recently, I filled in for a program manager who oversees the org’s free on-campus health screening program while they were out for surgery, and successfully ran the marketing campaigns for their upcoming event and drew in over 200 students for free STD testing—and booked a follow-up event on the spot. Through these experiences, I worked closely with the program managers and saw what goes into their jobs day-to-day and I’d love to take the next step in my career at your organization.

We need Vaxx America right now, and I’d love to be part of the organization’s invaluable efforts. I’d be honored to bring my event coordination and program management experience to your team.

How to write a letter of interest

• Address your letter to the likely hiring manager for the department you’d most want to join.
• Open strong. Start with what stands out most to you about the company and why you’d like to work with them. Show that you’ve done your research by bringing in specific details about their story, their products, their strategies, or anything they’ve been in the news or on social media for.
• Briefly introduce yourself as a professional . Highlight the skills and experiences that would be most valuable to the company.
• Write about a few ways you can help the organization. Connect your skills to things that the company is working on or struggling with.
• Close with an invitation to talk more about what you can bring to their company.
• Include a link to your LinkedIn profile and/or a personal website or portfolio so they can learn more about you.

Read More: Ever Heard of a Letter of Interest? It Could Score You a Job at Your Dream Company

Letter of interest example

Dear Connie,

As an experienced nonprofit event coordinator and someone from a severely under-vaccinated hometown, I’ve been following Vaxx America from its beginnings. (I was even your Twitter account’s 200th follower!) Your founder’s heartbreaking story about losing a parent to COVID-19 when the vaccine was readily available hit close to home. I unfortunately lost several childhood and family friends the same way. What you all are doing to combat disinformation and make vaccination easy is exactly what the country needs right now—and I’d love to be part of it.

I’m Allan Peng, a versatile event planner for a public-health nonprofit who would love to make the transition into program management. I’ve coordinated more than a hundred health-related events, including some that offered on-site healthcare screenings and HPV vaccinations. I’ve also successfully marketed these events.

I know the ins and outs of pitching, coordinating, and running events on college campuses—which I saw was a key area of interest at Vaxx America. I have contacts in the student health, athletics, and other departments at over 100 schools from my previous work, and I can help you through the process of bringing healthcare providers to a college campus.

I’m also interested in contributing to your content and marketing team. I’ve spent a lot of time speaking with loved ones and acquaintances about vaccine hesitancy and I’m familiar with the underlying reasons and the sources of disinformation they turn to. I think my insight would be valuable as you create informational materials for this group of people—particularly those in religious communities.

I’d love to have an opportunity to learn more about your organization, as well as your short- and long-term goals and challenges. I can also share some more specifics on how I can help you branch out onto college campuses.

Thank you for your time, and please let me know if there’s any additional information I can provide for you.

Sample Expression of Interest Letter for a Job

A prospecting letter or an expression of interest is not much different from a standard cover letter.

The difference is perhaps in the circumstances in which the former is written.

Where cover letters are usually written in response to a job ad or a known vacancy, an expression of interest letter just tests the waters to determine if a position might be available.

Letters of interest need to have an enthusiastic tone. Since there isn’t a vacancy that you know of, it will take a whole lot more than standard content to get an employer to notice you.

By writing persuasive content, you can even convince the employer to make a place for you. It has been known to happen.

If an employer discovers that you can make processes within the company stronger or generate revenues, he will have a great excuse to hire you, even if he doesn’t really need to at that particular point in time.

An expression of interest letter should always be accompanied by a resume.

You may also choose to include other credentials such as reference letters.

By writing a prospecting/expression of interest letter, you are letting a prospective employer know that you are ready to contribute.

• How to Write Expression of Interest?

Below is a sample expression of interest letter that may be useful when you attempt to write one:

Sophia Olsen 653 Maple Street Bean Station, TN 21414 (000) 254-8502 s.olsen @ email . com

January 21, 2023

Mr. Walter Brooks Hiring Manager ABC Company 555 Meadow Branch Road Bean Station, TN 25343

Dear Mr. Brooks:

This letter and the attached resume are a strong expression of interest in the Assistant Marketing Manager position at ABC Company. I recently graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Tennessee State University. Possessing a strong affinity for marketing, I will be a great contributor to the success of ABC Company

Owing to hands-on experience in developing and implementing core marketing plans and generating substantial revenues in the process while working at Cooper’s Clothing line, you will find me providing constant and consistent benefits to your company in an assistant marketing manager role.

I believe I can explain my qualifications more thoroughly if we meet in person. I will be in touch with your office after one week to determine if an interview can be arranged at a time convenient for you. If needed, I can be contacted at (000) 254-8502.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sophia Olsen

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WTO / Letters and Emails / Cover Letters / How to Write a Letter of Interest (38 Samples)

How to Write a Letter of Interest (38 Samples)

Suppose you have your eye on a particular company. You have the skills and expertise to work in a position at the company; however, the only problem is that it is not hiring. Rather than waiting for the company to advertise an open position, which can take a long time, you can set yourself up to get the position using a letter of interest. This will give you an advantage as you are able to cut the line by applying in advance. However, to use it, you must first understand what it is and how to write it.

A letter of interest is a formal document to express your desire to work for a company, even if it has not advertised a specific job opening. It outlines your skills, experiences, and qualifications for a recruiter. The main aim is to introduce yourself and explain why you’re interested in working for the target company. It is also referred to as a letter of inquiry, prospecting letter, letter of intent, or statement of interest.

Templates and Examples

A letter of interest template is a fillable document that, after being filled out, serves the same purpose as a handwritten or typed LOI does. Below are free templates that can be edited as per your needs:

Letter of Interest Vs. Cover Letter

There are several apparent differences between a letter of interest and a cover letter. First, a letter of interest is an unsolicited document. In contrast, a cover letter is sent in response to an advertised job opening by the company and is therefore expected by the recruiter. The cover letter must be sent along with other application documents, such as your resume or CV, whereas a letter of interest can be sent as an independent document.

A cover letter is only used when applying for a specific position. It explains why you believe you’re the best candidate for the job advertised. On the other hand, the letter of interest is not tailored to any specific position within the company, as it mainly focuses on expressing interest in working for the organization. It can be written by anyone at any level, whereas a cover letter is usually written by individuals who have the experiences, skills, and qualifications required for the position.

LOI Template

Pre-Considerations

Before you can begin writing the letter, there are a few considerations you should make. The following pre-considerations will help ensure that you compose a compelling letter. They will also help ease the writing process:

Research the company

It would be best to start by researching the company using various means, such as visiting their website, reviewing their mission statement, social media, current press releases, or company news. Next, find out the company’s goals and values to help make your letter more relevant to the hiring manager. Finally, show how your core values tie into the reasons for your interest in working for the target company.

Find connections

Next, you should look for connections within the target company who can help you with an informational letter. This will help you learn more about the company and the position you may be interested in occupying. It will also help you tailor your letter to the target company, therefore ensuring that it stands out.

Learn your recipient’s name

Finally, learn the name of the recipient. Addressing the recipient by name is a clear sign that you have taken time to learn about the target company. You can find the name on the company website or even in your connections. You may address the recipient as ‘Dear Hiring Manager” if you are unsure or unable to find their name.

How to Write It

A well-written letter can lead to rewarding results, enabling the hiring manager to see your potential. Therefore, you must understand how to write a compelling letter. Each element plays a crucial role in ensuring that your interest is appropriately conveyed.

You can use the following guidelines when writing the letter:

The header should begin by outlining your full name and contact details, the date of writing, and the employer’s name and contact information. These details help ensure that it follows the appropriate business format. It also gives the letter a professional look.

The letter of interest should address the hiring manager by name and therefore avoid ineffective greetings like ‘To whom it may concern or ‘Dear Sir or Madam.’ The hiring manager’s name can be obtained from the company’s website, LinkedIn, or Google. You can also call the company to politely request the hiring manager’s name. 

Introduction

You should then begin it with a brief introduction. The introduction provides the hiring manager with basic information about who you are and the letter’s purpose.

The following elements should be highlighted in your introductory paragraph:

Introduce yourself

Start the introduction by outlining who you are. You should also state where and how you heard about the company. The self-introduction should be straightforward.

Why are you writing

Next, outline your reason for writing it. Express enthusiasm about the possibility of working for the target company. You can relate the reason to the company’s goals, products, and policies, among other qualities that have attracted you to it.

Find a hook

The hiring manager is not expecting your letter; therefore, it is crucial to grab their attention to ensure that they get your message across. You can hook the hiring manager by outlining how much you know about the company and the value you can contribute. These details help ensure that your introduction makes an excellent first impression.

Body of the letter

The body outlines the skills and experiences that the company may find valuable. It would help clarify what area you’re interested in pursuing within the company.

These details can be broken down into the following elements:

Include recent skills you’ve developed

The body should outline the skills you have developed from recently held positions. These skills should be broken down into both hard and soft skills. Indicate these details in a list to make them more noticeable and impactful.

Write about your strengths

Showcase your strengths by outlining your qualifications and key accomplishments. Provide quantifiable data when outlining your achievements. You should also combine the data indicated with a compelling story to help strengthen your message.

Describe your employment background

Briefly describe your employment history to show you have experience. While describing your background, you can highlight how your experience positively impacted past companies or projects you worked on. It would be best to include any experiences that may be of value to the company.

Explain why this job is the right fit

You should explain why you are the right fit for the job by linking relevant skills and values to the company. The statements used should convey your confidence in yourself. Be specific when demonstrating how you may fit into the organization.

The letter’s conclusion should include a call to action that highlights your interest in further discussion about the company and the possibility of having an informational interview. You can also indicate that you are willing to send your CV or resume upon request by the hiring manager. Finally, it would be best to express gratitude for the hiring manager’s time and consideration.

Sign it off with an appropriate word or phrase, such as ‘Sincerely’ or ‘Kind Regards.’ Below, it indicates your signature. Finally, end the letter by indicating your full name.

When Should I Write It?

Several occasions may warrant the need to write a letter of interest. For instance, if you read about a company that you believe can be a good fit for your skill set, then you should write about it. You can also write it if you see or hear about a new business opening or expansion that you would be interested in working at.

You may also consider writing it if your contact informs you of a job opening that is yet to be advertised to the public or if you’re looking to specialize in a particular area. Finally, you should consider writing it if you find a company with an appealing work culture, location, mission statement, or values that you admire.

[Your name] [Phone Number] [Email]

[Hiring manager’s name] [Job title] [Company name] [Address]

Dear Mr. Ms. Mrs. [ Hiring manager’s Last Name],

My name is [indicate your name]. I am a [state your line of work]. I want to inquire about working for [name of the company] one of the fastest-growing companies in the country. For the last [period], I have been following your company’s growth. The thought of working for a company that [outlines information about the company] fills me with joy.

I have acquired [ indicate time] experience in [name of the industry]. During this time, I have honed my [outline skills and relate them to the company]. In addition, [outline achievement or specific experience]

I admire the [outline of what I admire about the company]. I believe that my willingness to subject my work to open criticism from my superiors and team members makes me the right fit for a job in your company. I would be glad to have a one-on-one discussion about the company and what I have to offer your organization. I hope to hear from you soon. Thank you for your time and consideration.

[Your signature]

[Your Name] 

Sample Letters

Presented below are some‌ sample letters of interest written for various pistons and industries. These letters are tailored to show a strong and personalized interest in specific roles and companies.

Sample Letter of Interest 1

Dear Ms. Emily Thompson,

I am writing to express my keen interest in joining SolarTech Innovations, particularly in the Renewable Energy Analyst role. Your company’s groundbreaking work in sustainable energy has always inspired me, and I believe my expertise in data analysis and environmental policy would greatly contribute to your team. I have three years of experience at Green Solutions Inc., where I developed my skills in environmental impact assessment and policy implementation, contributing significantly to our sustainability initiatives.

What excites me most about the opportunity at SolarTech Innovations is your commitment to reducing carbon footprints through innovative technologies. At Green Solutions Inc., I led a project that developed a new model for predicting the environmental impact of urban development, which aligns well with SolarTech’s goals. I am particularly interested in how I could bring this experience to your team, contributing to your ongoing efforts in sustainable urban planning.

I am eager to bring my analytical skills and environmental policy knowledge to SolarTech Innovations and collaborate with your talented team to further your impressive work in sustainable energy solutions. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my application with you and exploring opportunities within your esteemed company.

Jordan Smith

Sample Letter of Interest 2

Dear Dr. Alan Grant,

I recently came across your groundbreaking work in machine learning applications at Quantum Computing Corp and was immediately captivated. As a dedicated software engineer with a passion for artificial intelligence, I am very interested in the opportunity to contribute to your team, particularly in the role of AI Developer. With a background in computer science and substantial experience in machine learning algorithms, I am confident in my ability to add value to your innovative projects.

During my tenure at TechFront Solutions, I played a key role in developing an AI-based predictive analysis tool, which mirrors the challenges faced in your current projects at Quantum Computing Corp. My approach to algorithm optimization has always been centered around efficiency and scalability, aligning closely with your company’s methods.

I am enthusiastic about the prospect of joining Quantum Computing Corp and am keen to explore how my expertise in machine learning can contribute to your ongoing and future projects. I would be delighted to discuss how my experience and skills could align with the ambitious goals of your dynamic team.

Best regards,

Lisa Fernandez

Sample Letter of Interest 3

Hello Mr. Marcus Johnson,

I am reaching out to express my strong interest in the Marketing Strategist role at Creative Edge Advertising. Your company’s reputation for innovative marketing campaigns and client success is well-known, and I am excited about the prospect of being part of such a dynamic and forward-thinking team. At my previous job at MarketMovers Inc., I honed my skills in strategic planning and digital marketing, playing a pivotal role in several successful product launches.

At MarketMovers Inc., one of my key achievements was leading a campaign that successfully introduced a new health product into a competitive market, gaining significant market share within the first six months. This experience, I believe, aligns perfectly with the challenges and opportunities at Creative Edge Advertising. I am particularly interested in bringing my strategic insight and creative thinking to your team, contributing to your renowned client projects.

Joining Creative Edge Advertising would be a significant step in my career, and I am eager to contribute my marketing expertise to your esteemed company. I look forward to the possibility of further discussing how my background and skills can help achieve the ambitious goals of your marketing team.

Warm regards,

Rebecca Turner

Absolutely, here are two more letters of interest with fictitious details:

Sample Letter of Interest 4

Dear Ms. Rachel Lee,

I am writing with great enthusiasm about the Project Manager position at Bright Innovations. Your firm’s cutting-edge approach in the tech industry is highly inspiring, and I am confident that my experience and skills in project coordination and team leadership would be an excellent fit. With over five years of experience at TechPioneers Ltd., I have mastered the intricacies of project lifecycle management and cross-functional team leadership, significantly enhancing project efficiency and team collaboration.

What particularly excites me about Bright Innovations is your dedication to fostering a culture of innovation and continuous learning. At TechPioneers Ltd., I led a cross-departmental project that integrated agile methodologies into our standard operating procedures, a change that led to a 30% increase in project delivery efficiency. I am eager to bring this experience and mindset to Bright Innovations, contributing to your renowned project management practices.

I am looking forward to the possibility of contributing to Bright Innovations’ growth and success. I am keen on discussing how my background in project management and passion for technology innovation can align with the exciting projects at your company.

Kind regards,

David Wilson

Sample Letter of Interest 5

Dear Mr. Henry Ford,

As an avid follower of the advancements in renewable energy, I was thrilled to learn about the opening for an Environmental Engineer at EcoSolutions. Your company’s commitment to sustainable environmental practices and innovative waste management solutions aligns perfectly with my professional aspirations and expertise. In my recent role at GreenTech Industries, I specialized in developing sustainable waste management systems and have led initiatives that reduced industrial waste by 40% over two years.

I am particularly impressed by EcoSolutions’ recent project on converting industrial waste into renewable energy. In a similar capacity at GreenTech Industries, I was part of a team that developed a groundbreaking process for converting agricultural waste into biofuel, an initiative that received the Green Tech Award in 2022. My experience in sustainable engineering and waste-to-energy conversion would be highly beneficial in advancing EcoSolutions’ ambitious projects in this field.

I am excited about the prospect of joining EcoSolutions and contributing my knowledge in environmental engineering to help achieve your company’s vision for a more sustainable future. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my expertise in waste management and renewable energy technologies can contribute to your innovative projects.

Best wishes,

Samantha Green

The sample letters are structured in a way that makes them useful as guides for writing a similar letter. They are crafted with a professional tone, which is essential in making a positive impression, and the language used is simple yet engaging, ensuring clarity and accessibility. What makes these letters particularly effective is their tailored content; each letter is specifically written for a particular company and role, demonstrating the writer’s thorough research and genuine interest. This personalization is key in making a letter stand out.

In terms of specific information, the letters excel in:

• Highlighting Relevant Skills and Experience: The writers mention specific roles and skills pertinent to the job and provide examples of past achievements relevant to the potential new role.
• Alignment with Company Values and Goals: The writers showcase an understanding of the company’s values and goals, aligning their interests and experiences with these aspects.

Furthermore, each letter concludes with a clear expression of the writer’s intent to join the company and a call to action, such as inviting further discussion or an interview. This direct approach is crucial in encouraging a potential employer to engage with the applicant. Overall, these letters serve as good samples, combining professional language, personalization, relevant skill and experience highlights, alignment with company values, and a clear call to action – all vital elements of an impactful job application letter.

Do’s and Don’ts

When writing a letter of interest, there are several do’s and don’ts that you should keep in mind. Knowing and understanding them will help you compose a more compelling letter.

The do’s and don’ts include:

Note down a list of considerations that you should make when writing it:

Include versatile skills

It should contain a versatile set of your skills, experiences, and qualifications because, unlike a cover letter, you are not responding to a specific job description. Instead, it provides an overview of what your abilities are. Indicating versatile skills also helps set you apart from other peers in the industry.

Be specific

It should contain specific experiences that help showcase your ability to use your skills. They help show what you have to offer. The hiring manager can also form a picture of how you would fit into the company.

Personalize it

Personalize the letter by directly addressing the individual responsible for receiving the letter in the organization. It enables you to establish a personal connection with the recipient. It also shows that you put effort into writing.

Keep it concise

Your letter should be concise so as not to deter the recipient. It also helps you stay focused on key attributes that the company may value. It should have at least three paragraphs.

There are a few mistakes that can render your letter ineffective. They include the following:

Generic letter

Avoid writing a generic one. The recruiter may think that you’re not taking the opportunity seriously. This can result in the letter being discarded.

Overly confident

Do not indicate statements that demonstrate overconfidence. They can sound demanding and unprofessional. You should instead show your confidence in your skills and abilities with a statement  such as, ‘I believe that my skills and experiences make me a good fit for your company.’

Use of humor to stand out

It is a formal document that should not contain humor. Though humor can help you stand out, it can make the letter seem unprofessional. It may also be offensive if thought is not put into the expression indicated.

No proofreading

You must proofread it upon completion. It helps you identify both grammatical and typographical errors. It also ensures that your letter is polished.

No follow up

If a significant period has passed without a response, you should be reaching out to the recipient. It will help show that you are proactive. For example, you can make a phone call to the company or write a follow-up letter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mention why you are interested, how you learned about the company, and how their new and innovative changes interest you.  Simply mention, “I came across your company, and upon researching, I noticed it matches my values. I would love to discuss this further in an informational interview.”

Mention your name, your education, your skills, and your employment background.

Minimally why you wrote the letter, who you are, your skills, your education, employment, how your skills assisted the company, and your interest in an informational interview or further discussing employment.

Always strongly. Mention you’d like to discuss how you can help the company, ask for an informational interview, and include links to your site and work.

While writing a letter of interest, make sure to add the following essential information: 1. Date 2. The Greeting, mentioning the person’s name if possible 3. Why you’re writing this (include maybe you found out about the company through an article or through reading their mission statement) 4. Tell them who you are and your skills, education, and employment, and why it could benefit their company 5. Ask for an informational interview or a chance to discuss this further 6. Closing 7. Your links to your LinkedIn, email, and pertinent websites

Final Thoughts

The letter of interest is a document that conveys your desire to work for a company even though it has not advertised an open job position. It aims to compel the hiring manager or employer that the company requires your skill set. Though some elements are similar to those of a cover letter, there are apparent differences, such as that a cover letter is written in response to a job posting, whereas the letter of interest is unsolicited. When writing this letter, ensure you introduce yourself, outline your skills and qualifications and explain why you are interested in the company.

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3 Keys to Writing Cover Letters That Stand Out

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3 Keys to Writing Cover Letters That Stand Out was originally published on Vault .

It's a myth that high quality job openings are few and far between thanks to Covid. The truth is, despite the economic uncertainty created by the pandemic, there are many great openings out there. And to get them—or, at least, have a chance at getting them—you first need to capture the attention of hiring managers. And the best way to do that is to write compelling cover letters. So here are the three keys to writing cover letters that stand out.

1. Convey your personality, quirks and all.

Showcasing your uniqueness and allowing your personality to shine through in your cover letters can magnetize hiring managers, sending instant messages that you might be the candidate they're looking for. The secret to achieving this is to use specific details, rather than vague ones.

For example, the following was recently used by an applicant when applying for a Head of Marketing position (shortly after sending this, the candidate was interviewed and then hired):

“I have a passion for data and analytics. I enjoy spending (a little too much time) geeking out in Google analytics, advertising platforms, and BI tools (Tableau and Looker), digging deep into data to identify opportunities that can be leveraged to drive growth and inform testing strategies for campaigns, websites, and products.”

Now compare the above to the below (which has less personality and fewer details, and thus would likely not stand out):

“I am well versed in data analytics, and I am experienced with Google analytics, BI Tools, and other advertising platforms. I have a proven ability to inform testing strategies for campaigns for websites and products.”

Here's another example of cover letter phrasing that captures the attention of hiring managers:

“I'm rather obsessed with personal organization. I read three organizational blogs on my own time, and I've organized my desktop folders into color-coded sub-categories. My friends laugh at me for saying things like, ‘An organized space equals an organized mind,' but I don't like wasting time looking for things.” 

Now compare that to this less specific phrasing:

“I have a proven track record of being organized, and I have a passion for it. I have a proven knack for keeping files organized on an ongoing basis, and I have put organizational processes and procedures in place for my department. The bottom line is organization is always my highest priority.” 

2. Prove your level of dedication to your profession.

Another way to stand out is to illustrate specific things about your dedication to your field. In the following example, a candidate showcases her dedication to her profession, proves that she spends a lot of time thinking about driving results in her field, and shows that she takes concrete steps in order to be a high quality contributor in her field. All of which goes a long way when it comes time for hiring managers to decide which candidates to interview. 

“I believe that a good marketing strategy requires seeking out the latest trends and staying one step ahead of the competition. I've attended the Traction conference two years in a row and completed the 2018 Reforge Growth Series, a highly credible and exclusive course that only accepts 10 percent of applicants and is built by leaders from Hubspot, Uber, and other firms. Through these professional developments, I've opened my mind to uncommon marketing methods, and I pride myself on thinking outside the box to develop strategies that create sustainable, low-cost customer acquisition loops that lead to long-term positive ROI.” 

Now compare the above to the below, which is less detailed and includes less specific phrasing:

“I have the skills and requirements for this position, and I believe I would complete every task asked of me to the highest standard expected. My background and experience make me an excellent fit for this position for many reasons. I am very interested in marketing, and I think I would be a great asset to the team.”

3. Include concrete, quantitative results that show your value.

In any written application, you'll need to showcase some form of quantitative results to stand out. Note that even if you don't have a lot of shiny results in your career yet (or even any relevant experience—which is okay!), you can still use words to capture someone's attention with what you have done. And if you do have a record of achieving quantifiable results, then by all means include them, like in the below:

“I developed several Google ad campaigns that were worth more than $500,000 and that resulted in high-level customers. Also, through testing and optimization, I increased newsletter sign-ups by more than 200 percent.”

Now compare that to this bland sentence:

“I have experience in Google ad campaigns, as well as experience in testing and optimization.”

A final note

When trying to convey your personality, get across your dedication, or communicate your value, there's a big difference between saying you're a good fit for the job and actually showing it.

So, when writing your cover letters, try to hold these words in mind: I know you (the hiring managers) don't know me, so let me show you exactly why I'm completely invested, committed, and passionate about doing this specific type of work. And let me show you the specific reasons why hiring me, over all other candidates, would be beneficial to you.

If you hold all this in mind, the right details and words will flow right out of you—and into your cover letters.

Natalie Fisher is best known for helping professionals land their ideal roles and achieve explosive salary growth (even with little experience). If you want to dive deeper on the topic of your career mindset and become a person who knows exactly how to land their dream job offer, listen to her on the podcast Get a Six Figure Job You Love .