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- How to write the best letter of interest for the job you want!
How to write the best letter of interest for the job you want!
Artwork by: Antonina Kasyanikova
- What is a letter of interest?
- What information should you include in a letter of interest?
- 1. Introduction
- 2. Main Body
- 3. Closing
- Top tips on how to write a letter of interest
- 2. Impress the reader with your experience
- 3. Be clear and concise
- Letter of interest examples
- Key takeaways
Looking for a unique approach in the job application process? A letter of interest could be the solution to bagging your dream job! Read our step-by-step guide to creating a winning letter of interest.
Looking for that perfect job opportunity to crop up can be a waiting game. You are probably busy searching job boards, arranging meetings with recruiters, and checking on a regular basis to see whether a target company has any job openings on their website.
But have you thought about approaching the job search from a different angle? Instead of playing the waiting game, maybe showing your hand first to an employer is one way to bag your dream job and get ahead of the competition.
Creating a letter of interest is an often overlooked strategy in the job application process, but it can be extremely powerful. Essentially, whenever you find an organization that you would love to work for, send them a letter that shows your interest in working for them. In this article we provide the tools to create the best letter of interest for the job you really want, including:
What is a letter of interest?
What information should you include in a letter of interest?
Top tips to creating a great letter of interest
Letter of interest examples
What is a letter of interest?
A letter of interest is a letter you write to express your interest in working for a company, even if they are not advertising a job opening. You may also hear this referred to as a statement of intent, an expression of interest, or similar versions of these labels.
Whatever the label, this letter is pretty different from a cover letter. When you write a cover letter you are targeting a specific job opening and addressing the criteria in the job description. In contrast, a letter of interest is a compelling letter that you send to a company prospectively. The key here is to stand out and impress the hiring manager so you can get a foot in the door and possibly an interview for an existing or upcoming job opening.
Letters of interest can be sent whatever your level of experience–from recent graduates excited to start their career journey with a thriving company to seasoned professionals who want to provide their industry insights to boost operational performance.
What information should you include in a letter of interest?
The focus of your letter of interest is to tell the employer why you are a perfect fit for their team.
Adopting a three-paragraph letter of interest template is the best format in terms of it being direct, succinct, and more impactful when read by a hiring manager.
1. Introduction
Start your letter of interest by introducing yourself to the hiring manager, including an outline of your experience level and why you felt compelled to write to the company. In a nutshell, you need to explain why you deserve to be considered for a job opening and why you want to work for this specific company.
2. Main Body
Highlight your skills and experience that are aligned with the company’s goals and objectives in the main body section, including specific examples to back up the skills and experience you are putting forward. For example, if you tell the company you are a top-level salesperson then outline what you have achieved to back up this statement.
- Do be clear about the role you are targeting. If you are too vague in your letter of interest, you may be contacted about a job that doesn’t suit your career goals or aspirations.
- Don’t forget to follow up on your letter of interest if you don’t hear anything back. Sending a polite email or making a brief phone call could just secure you an informational interview.
3. Closing
In your closing paragraph, include a call to action to explain what you would like the employer to do as a result of your letter. Thank them for their time in reviewing your letter and resume, being clear that you want to learn more about the organization and any potential job opportunities. Any contact information can be added at the end of that paragraph.
Top tips on how to write a letter of interest
Now you have the tools to structure your letter of interest, here are some top tips to ensure that your letter achieves results.
Research the company
Conducting some research on your target company is going to make your letter of interest more compelling and persuasive. What is their mission, vision, and ethos? Have they any exciting news in terms of recent wins, existing activities, and/or future plans? Do you have any mutual contacts on social media platforms such as LinkedIn? You can talk about these connections in your letter of interest to build rapport and common ground.
2. Impress the reader with your experience
Ensure you hook the reader of your letter of interest so they are compelled to read on. This can be achieved by telling them about unique experiences and how you can help them achieve and exceed their goals, making you truly stand out from the crowd. Any facts and figures will show the hiring manager that you really can do what you say you can.
3. Be clear and concise
Keep your letter of interest direct and succinct. If you write a long and winding tale that is a repetition of your accompanying resume then your letter won’t create much interest. If you stick to the three-paragraph format you won’t risk the hiring manager zoning out.
Letter of interest examples
Here are some letters of interest examples to give you some inspiration. If you are a recent graduate, focus on your achievements in your academic studies, any specific or transferable experience, your passion for your career path, and what you can offer the organization.
Example for a Graduate Dear Mr Smith, As a dedicated and compassionate newly qualified teacher, I was impressed to read about your recent outstanding student results in the Orlando Sentinel and your strong reputation in the district. As a result, I wanted to write to you to put myself forward for consideration as a teacher at your school. I completed my Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics at the University of Florida, securing a GPA of 4.0 and a place on the Dean’s List followed by certification as a state-approved teacher. I then decided to hone my teaching skills by securing a 12-month contract to teach Math in South Korea. Working at an international school in Seoul provided me with amazing practical experience and confirmed my passion for teaching. I introduced an after-school math club which greatly helped students to improve their grades and won Teacher of the Month on two occasions. I would love the opportunity to teach students at your school and help them achieve and exceed their goals. I enjoy working with young people and achieving that “light bulb” moment where they understand a math equation and experience a major confidence boost. I would really appreciate an opportunity to discuss how I can educate and fully support your students. Please don’t hesitate to contact me on (cell number) or via email at (email address) to arrange a meeting at your convenience. Sincerely Your Name |
Here is an example for a more experienced professional, with more focus on acquired experience and specific accomplishments.
Example for an Experienced Professional Dear Mr Smith, Across my 10-year career in sales and account management with Tech Star, I've always regarded your company highly in terms of your cutting-edge technical innovations and commitment to service excellence. I am confident my sales skills and technical capabilities would make me an ideal addition to your business development team. As Territory Sales Manager at Go Tech, I was a key sales leader and successfully drove vast improvements in B2B and B2C sales as well as motivating the 25-member sales team. Prior to this, I steered direct sales, business development, and key account management for a business start-up in the AI sector. Selected contributions included: Consistently achieved 60% above average sales target in current role and recognized as top ranking converter in the last 12 months. Delivered engaging and informative product training and education sessions to customers – thereby attracting clients and growing the client base by 15%. Established strong client relationships and partnerships, adopting a consultative approach that leads to long-lasting relationships based on trust, honesty, and integrity. I would appreciate an opportunity to meet with you and discuss how I can benefit your sales and account management team. I can be contacted at (cell number) or (email address) and look forward to hearing from you soon. Sincerely Your Name |
Key takeaways
Letters of interest are an underused tactic in the job application process. Being proactive in targeting a company you would love to work for is well worth the time and effort.
Do your research! This will show that you have a real interest in securing a role with the target company and will compel the hiring manager to read your enclosed resume.
Structure your letter of interest so it is direct, succinct, and impactful. A three-paragraph format is the best option in terms of telling the hiring manager who you are, your unique skills and experience, and why you are a perfect fit for their team.
