What Is a Letter of Interest? Sample & How to Write One
A letter of interest expresses your desire to work for a company, even when no specific job openings are listed. Learn how to craft a compelling letter of interest to stand out and create new career opportunities.
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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
Resources for Your Next Career Move
- Are Cover Letters Necessary
- Cover Letter Basics
- Cover Letter Length
- Dear Hiring Manager on a Cover Letter
- How to Write a Cover Letter
- How to Write a Cover Letter With No Experience
- How to Write a Follow-Up Email
- How to Write an Unemployed Cover Letter
- Killer Cover Letter
- Letter of Intent
- Letter of Intent vs. Cover Letter
- Letter of Interest vs Cover Letter
- Thank You Email After an Interview
- What Is a Cover Letter
- What Should a Cover Letter Say
- What to Include In a Cover Letter
Explore our complete resume examples selection for tips and resources tailored to every career path.
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.
Make an Impact with a Professional Cover Letter

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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FAQ: Letter of Interest
Have questions? We’re here to help.
How long should a letter of interest be?
An effective letter of interest should be a maximum of three paragraphs and not exceed a single page or more than 200 words.
What should I not include in a letter of interest?
A letter of interest should be about what you have to offer, not what you’re looking for in a company. Don’t make it seem like money is your primary motivator for working for the company.
When should I write a letter of interest?
Some great times to send a letter of interest include:
- If you read an article about the company that piqued your interest and you think you would be a good fit for them
- You see a job posting from the business and wish to find out more about any positions available
- A friend, coworker or professional connection tells you about a job opening at a company that isn’t officially announced yet
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