What Is a Letter of Interest? Sample & How to Write One

Job searching isn’t just about applying to posted job openings. Sometimes, the best opportunities come from taking the initiative and reaching out to companies you admire. This proactive approach often involves sending a letter of interest—also known as an expression of interest, statement of interest, letter of intent, letter of inquiry, or prospecting letter.

Regardless of its name, this business letter introduces you to a company, highlights your skills, and inquires about potential job openings. In this article, we’ll explain:

• What a letter of interest is
• How it differs from a cover letter
• How to craft a compelling letter that captures a hiring manager’s attention

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What Is a Letter of Interest?

A letter of interest (also called a statement of interest, letter of intent, letter of inquiry, or prospecting letter) is a professional letter you send to a company to express interest in potential job opportunities. Unlike a cover letter, which responds to a specific job posting, a letter of interest is sent proactively—even if no job openings are listed.

Why Write a Letter of Interest?

• Proactively explore job opportunities in companies that interest you.
• Get noticed by hiring managers before job openings are publicly listed.
• Showcase your skills and qualifications in a way that aligns with the company’s needs.

If your letter catches a hiring manager’s attention, they may contact you for an informational interview or consider you for future job openings.

Letter of Interest vs. Cover Letter: Key Differences

Many job seekers confuse a letter of interest with a cover letter, but they serve different purposes:

1. Purpose

• A letter of interest expresses your interest in working for a company, even when no job openings are listed.
• A cover letter responds to a specific job posting and is tailored to that role.

2. Target Audience

• A letter of interest is typically addressed to hiring managers or recruiters at a company you admire.
• A cover letter is sent directly to a hiring manager actively recruiting for a specific position.

3. Content Focus

• A letter of interest highlights your general skills, experience, and overall fit within the company.
• A cover letter is customized to align with a specific job description, showcasing the most relevant skills for that role.

4. Timing

• A letter of interest can be sent at any time to explore potential opportunities.
• A cover letter is submitted only when applying for a posted job opening.

5. Customization

• A letter of interest takes a broad approach, emphasizing your long-term value to the company.
• A cover letter is highly specific, ensuring it aligns with job requirements and responsibilities.

When Should You Send a Letter of Interest?

• You admire a company and want to explore potential opportunities.
• A friend or colleague mentions an unannounced job opening.
• You read about company growth or expansion and want to get ahead of hiring trends.

A well-crafted letter of interest can position you as a top candidate before jobs are publicly advertised.

How to Write a Letter of Interest (Step-by-Step Guide)

1. Introduction (First Paragraph)

• State your purpose: Explain why you’re reaching out.
• Personalize your introduction: Mention how you discovered the company.
• Show enthusiasm: Express your genuine motivation and interest in working there.

2. Body (Second Paragraph)

• Highlight relevant skills and experience.
• Show how you can add value to the company.
• Mention a common connection (if applicable).

3. Closing Statement (Third Paragraph)

• Request a meeting or conversation.
• Offer to provide more information and motivation and interest in workingreferences on request.
• Express appreciation for their time.

Best Practices for Writing a Letter of Interest

1. Personalize Your Letter

Research the company, mention relevant details, and address it to a specific hiring manager whenever possible.

2. Keep It Concise

A letter of interest has a precise cover letter design: should be one page and 200-250 words to maintain the reader’s interest.

3. Focus on the Company’s Needs

Instead of writing about what you want, emphasize how you can contribute to the company.

4. Use a Professional Tone

Maintain a formal and polite tone while showing enthusiasm for the company and its mission.

5. Proofread Before Sending

Typos and grammar mistakes can hurt your chances of making a good impression. Always double-check your letter before submitting it.

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