A letter of interest is a document you send to a company that you would like to work for, even when there is no advertised job opening. Its purpose is to introduce yourself and your qualifications to a potential employer. You can express your admiration for the company’s work, mission, or values, and inquire about any possible future opportunities that might align with your skills. This document serves as a way to get on a company’s radar before a formal hiring process begins.
Letter of Interest vs. Cover Letter
The primary difference between a letter of interest and a cover letter is their purpose and timing. A cover letter is a reactive document, written to apply for a known and advertised job opening. It directly responds to a job description, matching your skills and experiences to the listed requirements.
In contrast, a letter of interest is a proactive tool. You send it when a company you admire has no suitable positions posted, making it an exploratory gesture. This letter focuses on your general interest in the organization and how your abilities could contribute to their overall goals, rather than how you fit a predefined role. While a cover letter argues why you are the best candidate for a specific job, a letter of interest proposes how you could be a valuable asset to the company.
The content of these two documents also differs. A cover letter is highly targeted, referencing specific duties and qualifications from the job posting. A letter of interest is more speculative. It requires you to demonstrate a deep understanding of the company’s business and culture to make a compelling case for how you could contribute, even without a formal opening.
When to Send a Letter of Interest
This approach is effective when you have a “dream company” in mind that is not currently advertising roles that fit your profile. By sending a letter, you put yourself on their radar, demonstrating initiative and genuine enthusiasm for their work. It’s a way to make a connection before a need is formally recognized.
This correspondence is also a networking tool. After meeting a representative at a career fair or industry event, a follow-up letter of interest can solidify the connection and reiterate your value. It moves the conversation from a brief introduction to a more formal expression of your professional capabilities.
In highly specialized or competitive fields, many positions are filled through internal networks before being advertised publicly. Sending a letter of interest can be a way to tap into this hidden job market. It allows you to introduce yourself to decision-makers and be considered for opportunities that the general public may never see.
Components of a Letter of Interest
Contact Information and Salutation
The top of your letter should feature a professional header with your name, address, phone number, and email address. Below this, include the date and the recipient’s contact information. Find a specific person to address the letter to, such as a hiring manager or department head, as this is more impactful than a generic salutation.
Strong Opening
Your opening paragraph must clarify the letter’s purpose. State directly that you are writing to express interest in working for the company and to inquire about potential opportunities. This should be followed by a sentence that captures attention, perhaps by mentioning a recent company achievement or a project you admire to demonstrate your genuine interest.
Body Paragraphs Showcasing Your Value
The body of the letter is where you make your case. These paragraphs should connect your skills directly to the company’s operations, mission, or challenges. This requires thorough research into the organization’s recent activities and goals. For example, you might mention a new product launch and explain how your experience in marketing could support its growth.
Closing and Call to Action
Conclude your letter with a professional closing. Reiterate your interest in the company and its work. Your final paragraph should include a clear call to action, such as proposing a brief informational meeting or requesting they keep your resume on file. Thank the reader for their time and consideration, followed by a professional closing such as “Sincerely” and your typed name.
Tips for Writing an Effective Letter
Dedicate time to thoroughly researching the company. Go beyond their “About Us” page and look into recent news articles, press releases, and specific projects. This knowledge allows you to tailor your letter and demonstrate a level of interest that sets you apart.
Maintain a tone that is both professional and enthusiastic. You want to convey genuine excitement about working for the organization without sounding unprofessional. This balance shows you are a serious candidate who is also passionate about the potential opportunity.
Keep your letter concise and focused, limiting it to a single page. Hiring managers are busy, and a lengthy letter is unlikely to be read. After drafting your letter, meticulously proofread it for any spelling or grammatical errors to ensure you present a polished image.