How To Write a Letter of Interest
Writing a letter of interest can be an important step for anyone looking to make a career change, secure a new job, or set themselves apart from other people in their field. Whether you’re looking to secure an internship or a full-time role, a letter of interest can get your résumé to the top of the pile and create a solid foundation for a dialogue with an employer.
A letter of interest is a type of cover letter that’s sent in when you’re not applying for a specific job, but still want to connect with a company to be considered when something comes up. It introduces the sender to the potential employer and highlights relevant experience and qualifications, while expressing your interest in the position or organization.
Understanding what a letter of interest is can help you determine when to use it, and following the tips and tricks in this article can help you create a strong and impressive one.
What is a Letter of Interest?
A letter of interest (also known as a letter of inquiry or prospecting letter) introduces a job seeker to an employer that is not posting a job opening, but may be interested in the job seeker’s skills and experiences.
The letter of interest is meant to get the recipient’s attention and communicate your interest in potential employment. The letter should highlight your expertise and qualifications, discuss how your skills and experience fit what the employer is seeking, and should express your interest in further conversation.
When to Use a Letter of Interest
A letter of interest is meant to share the facts about yourself that are not included in a resume. It introduces you to the employer and often serves as the first contact with them. You should use a letter of interest when:
- You know of an employer or industry that you’d like to work for
- You are in a competitive field and want to get an employer’s attention
- You know of an ideal job that’s not currently listed
Importance of a Letter of Interest
A letter of interest is an important tool for anyone who is looking to make a career change or break into a new industry. It can be especially helpful for job seekers who are in a competitive field.
A well-crafted letter of interest can make the difference between getting an Interview and being passed up for someone else. It allows you to differentiate yourself from other job seekers and distinguish yourself from the rest of the crowd.
Tips for Writing a Letter of Interest
A carefully crafted letter of interest can set you apart from other job seekers. These tips can help you create an impressive letter that grabs the employer’s attention:
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Customize the Letter:
The letter should be personalized to fit the employer and the position. Research the company to make sure you’re familiar with the mission and goals. -
Highlight Your Expertise:
Your letter should demonstrate how your skills and experiences are a great fit for the role. It should also explain why you’re interested in the position and the company’s goals. -
Keep It Professional:
Make sure the letter is free of typos and grammatical mistakes. Use a formal tone throughout your letter. -
Include Relevant Details:
Don’t forget to include relevant details about your qualifications and experience. Include your educational background, work history, and any other related skills. -
Follow Up:
Follow up with the employer after sending in the letter. If you haven’t heard back from them within a week, send an email or call to check on the status. -
Make It Short:
Letters of interest should be kept to one page and should only include the most pertinent information. You don’t need to include too much details. -
End on a Positive Note:
End the letter with one final positive statement to show your enthusiasm and commitment.
Examples of a Letter of Interest
When you’re writing a letter of interest, it’s important to keep the recipient in mind. Here are two example letters that demonstrate how to customize your message depending on the intended recipient.
Example 1:
Dear [Employer Name],
I am writing to express my interest in the [Position Name] role at [Company Name]. I believe my experience and qualifications make me an ideal fit for the job.
I have a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, and I am currently working as a [Position Name] for [Current Company]. My experience includes [Express Your Experience], and I am have a strong background in [Express Your Background].
I believe that my expertise and accomplishments make me an ideal fit for the [Position Name] role. I am confident that I can make significant contributions to your team and your company as a whole.
Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to discussing my qualifications further.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 2:
Dear [Employer Name],
As a [Position], I am passionate about [Industry] and excited to explore the possibility of working with [Company Name]. I would like to express my interest in this role and share how my experience and expertise can be an asset to your team.
I have a Bachelor’s degree in [Degree], and I am currently working as a [Position Name] for [Current Company]. My experience includes [Experss Your Experience], and I have been praised for my work in [TYPE of Work].
I am confident that my expertise and qualifications will be an exemplary addition to your team and your organization as a whole.
Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to discussing my potential contributions to [Company Name] further.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Writing an effective letter of interest can help you stand out from other job seekers and get the attention of potential employers. It’s important to make sure your letter is tailored to the employer and highlights your qualifications and experience. Following the tips and tricks outlined in this article can help you create a strong and impressive letter of interest that will get you noticed.
